Cessation of Routine Jejunostomy Tube Placement at Time of Minimally Invasive Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy and Impact on Body Mass Index

Jejunostomy tubes are frequently placed at time of esophagectomy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate cessation of routine j-tube placement on postoperative body mass index (BMI), return to the emergency room, and time until adjuvant therapy. We performed a retrospective review of an institutional database for consecutive patients undergoing minimally invasive Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy from 2014-2021 (after January 2019, routine j-tube placement was abandoned). Data was analyzed using Pearson's Chi-squared tests and Student's t test with 2-sided significance level of P < 0.05. In total,179 patients were included, 95 underwent j-tube placement and 84 did not. Cohorts had comparable baseline BMI's (no j-tube: 30.48 vs j-tube: 28.64, P = 0.06) and anastomotic leak rates (2.4% vs 4.2%, P = 0.5). Patients with no jejunostomy tubes were more likely to receive total parenteral nutrition (14.3% vs 5.3%, P < 0.05), but were no more likely to require total parenteral nutrition at discharge and had comparable durations of TPN requirement (7 days vs 12 days, P = 0.53). There was no difference in mean BMI reduction at 2 weeks (2.54 vs 2.09, P = 0.49) and 3-6 months postoperatively (6.11 vs 4.45 P = 0.15). There was no difference in return to the emergency room (8.3% vs 8.4%, P = 0.98) or readmissions (13.1% vs 11.6%, P = 0.76). There was a no difference in mean time to adjuvant therapy (83.5 days vs 72.6 days, P = 0.67). At esophagectomy centers with low anastomotic leak rates, cessation of routine j-tube placement at time of minimally esophagectomy can be undertaken without increasing risk of readmission, time until initiation of adjuvant therapy, or significantly impacting postoperative BMI loss.

Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for Left-Sided Colorectal Anastomotic Leak Without Fecal Diversion

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic vacuum therapy for the treatment of rectal anastomotic leak has been shown to be effective and safe. The majority of patients are treated after fecal diversion to avoid further septic complications.

OBJECTIVE

To report the effectiveness of endoscopic vacuum therapy for rectal anastomotic leak without diversion compared to secondary stoma creation.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort analysis.

SETTINGS

University hospital, single-center.

PATIENTS

Patients undergoing sigmoid or rectal resection without fecal diversion during primary surgery who were treated with endoscopic vacuum therapy for clinically relevant anastomotic leak.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Treatment success (sepsis control, granulation and closure of the leak cavity, and no subsequent interventional or surgical procedure required); treatment duration; complications associated with endoscopic vacuum therapy; outpatient treatment; and restoration of intestinal continuity in diverted patients.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients were included. In 20 patients (35%), endoscopic vacuum therapy was initiated without secondary diversion since the leak was extraperitoneal, and the sponge could be placed into the leak cavity with an adequate seal toward the lumen. In 18 patients (90%), this approach was successful. None of these patients required subsequent diversion in the further course of their disease. In two patients, secondary diversion was necessary due to treatment failure. Balloon dilatation for luminal stenosis was required in two patients. When comparing patient and treatment characteristics of patients with and without a stoma, including treatment success and duration, no significant differences were found. Restoration of intestinal continuity was achieved in 69% of diverted patients.

LIMITATIONS

Unrandomized, retrospective study design; confounding factors of treatment assignment; low patient numbers and short follow-up of diverted patients; and low statistical power.

CONCLUSION

In this single-institution study, endoscopic vacuum therapy for rectal anastomotic leak was successful in 90% of patients without diversion with regard to sepsis control, granulation of the leak cavity, avoidance of surgery, and long-term stoma-free survival. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B737.TERAPIA ENDOSCÓPICA POR ASPIRACIÓN AL VACÍO EN CASOS DE FUGA ANASTOMÓTICA RECTO-CÓLICA IZQUIERDA SIN OSTOMÍA DE PROTECCIÓNANTECEDENTES:Se ha demostrado que la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío en casos de fuga anastomótica recto-cólica izquierda en el tratamiento de la fuga anastomótica rectal es eficaz y segura. La mayoría de los casos beneficiaron del tratamiento después de la confeción de un ostomía de protección para evitar más complicaciones sépticas.OBJETIVO:Demostrar la efectividad de la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío en casos de fuga anastomótica recto-cólica izquierda sin ostomía de protección comparada con los casos que tuvieron la creación de una ostomía secundaria.DISEÑO:Análisis de cohortes de tipo retrospectivo.AJUSTE:Hospital universitario, unicéntrico.PACIENTES:Aquellos pacientes sometidos a una resección sigmoidea o rectal sin ostomía de protección durante una cirugía primaria, y que fueron tratados con terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío en caso de fuga anastomótica clínicamente relevante.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Tratamiento exitoso (control de la sepsis, granulación y cierre de la cavidad de la fuga, sin requerir procedimiento quirúrgico o intervención ulteterior); duración del tratamiento; complicaciones asociadas con la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío; tratamiento ambulatorio; restablecimiento de la continuidad intestinal en los pacientes portadores de ostomía.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron 57 pacientes. En 20 pacientes (35%), se inició la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío sin derivación secundaria, ya que la fuga era extraperitoneal y la esponja podía colocarse en la cavidad de la fuga con un sellado adecuado hacia el lumen. En 18 pacientes (90%), este enfoque fue exitoso. Ninguno de estos pacientes requirió una derivación posterior durante la evolución de la enfermedad. En dos pacientes, fue necesaria una derivación secundaria debido al fracaso del tratamiento. Se requirió dilatación con balón por estenosis luminal en dos pacientes. Al comparar las características de los pacientes y del tratamiento con y sin ostomía, incluido el éxito y la duración del tratamiento, no se encontraron diferencias significativas. El restablecimiento de la continuidad intestinal se logró en el 69% de los pacientes derivados.LIMITACIONES:Diseño de estudio retrospectivo no aleatorio; factores de confusión en la asignación del tratamiento; escaso número de pacientes y seguimiento a corto plazo de los pacientes ostomizados; bajo poder estadístico.CONCLUSIÓN:En este estudio de una sola institución, la terapia al vacío por vía endoscópica en casos de fuga anastomótica rectal fue exitosa en el 90% de los pacientes sin derivación con respecto al control de la sepsis, granulación de la cavidad de la fuga, como se evitó la cirugía y la sobrevida sin ostomía a largo plazo. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B737. (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo).

Use of double-layered covered esophageal stents in post-surgical esophageal leaks and esophageal perforation: Our experience

INTRODUCTION

The use of esophageal stents for the endoscopic management of esophageal leaks and perforations has become a usual procedure. One of its limitations is its high migration rate. To solve this incovenience, the double-layered covered esophageal stents have become an option.

OBJECTIVES

To analyse our daily practice according to the usage of double-layered covered esophageal metal stents (DLCEMS) (Niti S™ DOUBLE™ Esophageal Metal Stent Model) among patients diagnosed of esophageal leak or perforation.

METHODS

Retrospective, descriptive and unicentric study, with inclusion of patients diagnosed of esophageal leak or perforation, from November 2010 until October 2018. The main aim is to evaluate the efficacy of DLCEMS, in terms of primary success and technical success. The secondary aim is to evaluate their (the DLCEMS) safety profile.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were firstly included. Among those, 8 were excluded due to mortality not related to the procedure. Following stent placement, technical success was reached in 100% of the cases, and primary success, in 75% (n=17). Among the complications, stent migration was present in 21.7% of the patients (n=5), in whom the incident was solved by endoscopic means.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our findings, DLCEMS represent an alternative for esophageal leak and perforation management, with a high success rate in leak and perforation resolutions and low complication rate, in contrast to the published data. The whole number of migrations were corrected by endoscopic replacement, without the need of a new stent or surgery.

Anastomotic leakage in colorectal cancer surgery

The safety of colorectal surgery for oncological disease is steadily improving, but anastomotic leakage is still the most feared and devastating complication from both a surgical and oncological point of view. Anastomotic leakage affects the outcome of the surgery, increases the times and costs of hospitalization, and worsens the prognosis in terms of short- and long-term outcomes. Anastomotic leakage has a wide range of clinical features ranging from radiological only finding to peritonitis and sepsis with multi-organ failure. C-reactive protein and procalcitonin have been identified as early predictors of anastomotic leakage starting from postoperative day 2-3, but abdominal-pelvic computed tomography scan is still the gold standard for the diagnosis. Several treatments can be adopted for anastomotic leakage. However, there is not a universally accepted flowchart for the management, which should be individualized based on patient's general condition, anastomotic defect size and location, indication for primary resection and presence of the proximal stoma. Non-operative management is usually preferred in patients who underwent proximal faecal diversion at the initial operation. Laparoscopy can be attempted after minimal invasive surgery and can reduce surgical stress in patients allowing a definitive treatment. Reoperation for sepsis control is rarely necessary in those patients who already have a diverting stoma at the time of the leak, especially in extraperitoneal anastomoses. In patients without a stoma who do not require abdominal reoperation for a contained pelvic leak, there are several treatment options, including laparoscopic diverting ileostomy combined with trans-anal anastomotic tube drainage, percutaneous drainage or recently developed endoscopic procedures, such as stent or clip placement or endoluminal vacuum-assisted therapy. We describe the current approaches to treat this complication, as well as the clinical tests necessary to diagnose and provide an effective therapy.

Rates of Anastomotic Complications and Their Management Following Esophagectomy: Results of the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA)

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to characterize rates and management of anastomotic leak (AL) and conduit necrosis (CN) after esophagectomy in an international cohort.

BACKGROUND

Outcomes in patients with anastomotic complications of esophagectomy are currently uncertain. Optimum strategies to manage AL/CN are unknown, and have not been assessed in an international cohort.

METHODS

This prospective multicenter cohort study included patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between April 2018 and December 2018 (with 90 days of follow-up). The primary outcomes were AL and CN, as defined by the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group. The secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality and successful AL/CN management, defined as patients being alive at 90 day postoperatively, and requiring no further AL/CN treatment.

RESULTS

This study included 2247 esophagectomies across 137 hospitals in 41 countries. The AL rate was 14.2% (n = 319) and CN rate was 2.7% (n = 60). The overall 90-day mortality rate for patients with AL was 11.3%, and increased significantly with severity of AL (Type 1: 3.2% vs. Type 2: 13.2% vs. Type 3: 24.7%, P < 0.001); a similar trend was observed for CN. Of the 329 patients with AL/CN, primary management was successful in 69.6% of cases. Subsequent rounds of management lead to an increase in the rate of successful treatment, with cumulative success rates of 85.4% and 88.1% after secondary and tertiary management, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patient outcomes worsen significantly with increasing AL and CN severity. Reintervention after failed primary anastomotic complication management can be successful, hence surgeons should not be deterred from trying alternative management strategies.

Evolution of endoscopic vacuum therapy for upper gastrointestinal leakage over a 10-year period: a quality improvement study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) is an effective treatment option for leakage of the upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical impact of quality improvements in EVT management on patients' outcome.

METHODS

All patients treated by EVT at our center during 2012-2021 were divided into two consecutive and equal-sized cohorts (period 1 vs. period 2). Over time several quality improvement strategies were implemented including the earlier diagnosis and EVT treatment and technical optimization of endoscopy. The primary endpoint was defined as the composite score MTL30 (mortality, transfer, length-of-stay > 30 days). Secondary endpoints included EVT efficacy, complications, in-hospital mortality, length-of-stay (LOS) and nutrition status at discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 156 patients were analyzed. During the latter period the primary endpoint MTL30 decreased from 60.8 to 39.0% (P = .006). EVT efficacy increased from 80 to 91% (P = .049). Further, the need for additional procedures for leakage management decreased from 49.9 to 29.9% (P = .013) and reoperations became less frequent (38.0% vs.15.6%; P = .001). The duration of leakage therapy and LOS were shortened from 25 to 14 days (P = .003) and 38 days to 25 days (P = .006), respectively. Morbidity (as determined by the comprehensive complication index) decreased from 54.6 to 46.5 (P = .034). More patients could be discharged on oral nutrition (70.9% vs. 84.4%, P = .043).

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience confirms the efficacy of EVT for the successful management of UGI leakage. Our quality improvement analysis demonstrates significant changes in EVT management resulting in accelerated recovery, fewer complications and improved functional outcome.

Treatment of Anastomotic Leaks With EndoVac After Low Anterior Resection in Colorectal Cancers

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic drainage should preferably be tried unless the abscess caused by the anastomotic leak is generalized and disseminated into the abdominal cavity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of patients treated with EndoVac.

PATIENT AND METHODS

The medical records of patients who underwent low anterior resection and were treated using the EndoVac therapy system due to the detection of an anastomotic leak were retrospectively evaluated.

RESULTS

Thirty-three of the patients with detection of anastomotic leaks were treated using EndoVac therapy system. The mean number of application of the EndoVac therapy system was 5.8 (1 to 12) for each patient. Mean duration of hospitalization of the patients was 24.5 (9 to 92) days. Five patients underwent a second operation during the follow-up period after application of the EndoVac therapy system. In our study, the number of patients recovering without the need for additional treatment is 30 (30/33). Our success rate was 90.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

The EndoVac therapy system is an alternative and helpful system in the treatment of colorectal anastomotic leaks without reoperation needed. It can also prevent permanent stoma.

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: definitions, diagnostics, and treatment

Anastomotic leakage is one of the most severe complications after esophagectomy and is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality. Several projects ranging from small retrospective studies to large collaborations have aimed to identify potential pre- and perioperative risk factors and to improve the diagnostic processes and management. Despite the increase in available literature, many aspects of anastomotic leakage are still debated, without the existence of widely accepted guidelines. The purpose of this review is to provide a cutting edge overview of the recent literature regarding the definition and classification of anastomotic leakage, risk factors, novel diagnostic modalities, and emerging therapeutic options for treatment and prevention of anastomotic leakage following esophagectomy.

Comparison Between Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy and Conventional Treatment for Leakage After Rectal Resection

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage after rectal resection represents a severe complication for the patient and requires an early and appropriate management. Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) has become the treatment of choice for anastomotic leakage after rectal resection in several institutions in Germany, and commercially available systems are currently distributed in approximately 30 countries worldwide. However, there is no evidence that EVT is superior to any other treatment for anastomotic leakage after rectal resection.

METHODS

Twenty-one patients treated with EVT for anastomotic leakage after rectal resection were retrospectively compared to a historical cohort of 41 patients that received conventional treatment. Primary endpoints were death, treatment success and long-term preservation of intestinal continuity. Secondary endpoints were length of hospital stay and duration of treatment.

RESULTS

There was no difference in mortality (p = 0.624). The intention-to-treat analysis showed a significantly higher success rate of EVT compared to conventional treatment (95.2% vs. 65.9%, p = 0.011). EVT was associated with preservation of intestinal continuity in a significant higher percentage of patients than patients undergoing conventional treatment (86.7% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.001). Conventional treatment tended to a shorter length of hospital stay (31.1 vs. 42.2 days, p = 0.066) but with no difference in overall duration of treatment. Time until closing of a diverting stoma did not differ between groups (10.2 months in the EVT group vs. 9.4 months in the conventional treatment group, p = 0.721).

CONCLUSION

According to this retrospective study, conventional therapy and EVT are both options for the treatment of anastomotic leakage after rectal resection. EVT might be more effective in terms of definite healing and preservation of intestinal continuity.

Critical Appraisal of the Impact of Oesophageal Stents in the Management of Oesophageal Anastomotic Leaks and Benign Oesophageal Perforations: An Updated Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic placement of oesophageal stents may be used in benign oesophageal perforation and oesophageal anastomotic leakage to control sepsis and reduce mortality and morbidity by avoiding thoracotomy. This updated systematic review aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of oesophageal stents in these two scenarios.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of all published studies reporting use of metallic and plastic stents in the management of post-operative anastomotic leaks, spontaneous and iatrogenic oesophageal perforations were identified. Primary outcomes were technical (deploying ≥ 1 stent to occlude site of leakage with no evidence of leakage of contrast within 24-48 h) and clinical success (complete healing of perforation or leakage by placement of single or multiple stents irrespective of whether the stent was left in situ or was removed). Secondary outcomes were stent migration, perforation and erosion, and mortality rates. Subgroup analysis was performed for plastic versus metallic stents and anastomotic leaks versus perforations separately.

RESULTS

A total of 66 studies (n = 1752 patients) were included. Technical and clinical success rates were 96% and 87%, respectively. Plastic stents had significantly higher migration rates (24% vs 16%, p = 0.001) and repositioning (11% vs 3%, p < 0.001) and lower technical success (91% vs 95%, p = 0.032) than metallic stents. In patients with anastomotic leaks, plastic stents were associated with higher stent migration (26% vs 15%, p = 0.034), perforation (2% vs 0%, p = 0.013), repositioning (10% vs 0%, p < 0.001), and lower technical success (95% vs 100%, p = p = 0.002). In patients with perforations only, plastic stents were associated with significantly lower technical success (85% vs 99%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Covered metallic oesophageal stents appear to be more effective than plastic stents in the management of oesophageal perforation and anastomotic leakage. However, quality of evidence of generally poor and high-quality randomised trial is needed to further evaluate best management option for oesophageal perforation and anastomotic leakage.

Management of Complications After Esophagectomy

Esophagectomy is a complex operation with many potential complications. Early recognition of postoperative complications allows for the best chance for patient survival. Diagnosis and management of conduit complications, including leak, necrosis, and conduit-airway fistulae, are reviewed. Other common complications, such as chylothorax and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, also are discussed.

Italian multi-society modified Delphi consensus on the definition and management of anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of anastomotic leak (AL) has not decreased over the past decades and some important grey areas remain in its definition, prevention, and management. The aim of this study was to reach a national consensus on the definition of AL and to identify key points to be applied in clinical practice.

METHODS

A 3-step modified Delphi method was used to establish consensus. Ten representative members of the major Italian surgical scientific societies with proven colorectal expertise were selected after a call to action. After a comprehensive literature search, each expert drew a list of evidence-based statements which were voted in round one by the scientific board. Panel members were asked to mark "totally disagree", "partially agree" or "totally agree" for each statement and provide comments. The same voting method was used for round 2. Round 3 consisted of a final face-to-face meeting.

RESULTS

Thirty-three statements (clustered into 14 topics) were included in round 1. Following the third voting round, a final list of 16 items was formulated, which encompass the following 9 topics: AL definition, patient- and operative-related risk factors, prevention measures, bowel preparation, surgical technique, intraoperative assessment, early diagnosis, radiological diagnosis and management of specific patterns of AL. The overall response rate was 100% for all items in all the three rounds.

CONCLUSIONS

This Delphi survey identified items that expert colorectal surgeons agreed were important to be applied in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of AL. This represents the first consensus involving all relevant national scientific societies, defining important and shared concepts in the diagnosis and management of AL.

Indocyanine Green Fluorescent Angiography During Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Preliminary Results

INTRODUCTION

Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent angiography has been routinely applied for various laparoscopic procedures to evaluate the tissue blood supply. A promising branch for this technology is represented by bariatric surgery, especially to estimate the risk of gastric leak after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), which seems mainly related to ischemia of the stomach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

43 consecutive patients from January 2018 to March 2019 underwent in our institution LSG with intravenous injection of 5 ml ICG after the realization of gastric tube to evaluate the blood supply of the gastric tube.

RESULTS

In all 43 cases, there have been no adverse events related to ICG. The vascular supply to stomach was estimated "satisfactory" along the stapled line in all cases. However, one patient showed signs and symptoms indicative of gastric leak in the fifth post-op day and diagnosis was confirmed by CT scan with Gastrografin.

CONCLUSIONS

From our preliminary data, the intraoperative view of the blood supply of the stomach does not seem to represent a prognostic factor for the risk of gastric leak, suggesting a complex multifactorial etiology (intragastric hypertension? Abnormal inflammatory response?) which needs further data to be established.

International Variation in Surgical Practices in Units Performing Oesophagectomy for Oesophageal Cancer: A Unit Survey from the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA)

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leaks are associated with significant risk of morbidity, mortality and treatment costs after oesophagectomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate international variation in unit-level clinical practice and resource availability for the prevention and management of anastomotic leak following oesophagectomy.

METHOD

The Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA) is an international research collaboration focussed on improving the care and outcomes of patients undergoing oesophagectomy. Any unit performing oesophagectomy worldwide can register to participate in OGAA studies. An online unit survey was developed and disseminated to lead surgeons at each unit registered to participate in OGAA. High-income country (HIC) and low/middle-income country (LMIC) were defined according to the World Bank whilst unit volume were defined as < 20 versus 20-59 versus ≥60 cases/year in the unit.

RESULTS

Responses were received from 141 units, a 77% (141/182) response rate. Median annual oesophagectomy caseload was reported to be 26 (inter-quartile range 12-50). Only 48% (68/141) and 22% (31/141) of units had an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program and ERAS nurse, respectively. HIC units had significantly higher rates of stapled anastomosis compared to LMIC units (66 vs 31%, p = 0.005). Routine post-operative contrast-swallow anastomotic assessment was performed in 52% (73/141) units. Stent placement and interventional radiology drainage for anastomotic leak management were more commonly available in HICs than LMICs (99 vs 59%, p < 0.001 and 99 vs 83%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This international survey highlighted variation in surgical technique and management of anastomotic leak based on case volume and country income level. Further research is needed to understand the impact of this variation on patient outcomes.

Postoperative Esophageal Leaks in Malignant Pathology - Optimal Management: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Postoperative esophageal leaks are one of the major causes of postoperative mortality and morbidity. The purpose of this study was to review current knowledge of current methods of diagnosis and management of postoperative esophageal leaks. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed/Medline database using the terms "postoperative esophageal leaks" and "postesophagectomy complications" to identify articles relevant to the current diagnostic and prophylactic and curative treatment of post-oesophagectomy anastomotic fistulas. Results: Several papers have shown that the incidence of fistulas varies and is dependent on several factors: the location of the anastomosis, the type of suture used, the biological condition of the patient. Due to the severity of the mediastinal anastomotic fistula, great importance is being given to the methods of preventing its occurrence by intraoperative testing or improving the gastric tube vascularity. The most recent articles present endoscopic methods of treating this complication by using coated esophageal stents and endoluminal vacuum therapy.

CONCLUSION

In patients with mediastinal postoperative esophageal fistulas, diagnosis and management represent a real challenge for the surgeon-endoscopist-therapist team. The early diagnosis and the establishment of an optimal therapy to address the parietal defect and the biological status of the patient are mandatory conditions for resolving this postoperative complication.

Endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure therapy for the treatment of oesophageal anastomotic leaks

Persisting suture dehiscence with oesophageal anastomotic leaks after thoracic surgery is a difficult complication, especially when a surgical repair fails. We report here endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure therapy as a novel endoscopic treatment for the management of oesophageal anastomotic leaks. Endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure therapy is a minimally invasive method to treat anastomotic leakage by positioning an open-pored polyurethane sponge and a suction tube connected to a wound drainage system into the opening of the wound cavity. This multidisciplinary endoscopic and surgical approach is a successful therapy for the management of suture dehiscence with oesophageal anastomotic leaks after thoracic surgery or oesophageal perforations.

Ileal-anal pouches: A review of its history, indications, and complications

The ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) has revolutionised the surgical management of ulcerative colitis (UC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Despite refinement in surgical technique(s) and patient selection, IPAA can be associated with significant morbidity. As the IPAA celebrated its 40^th anniversary in 2018, this review provides a timely outline of its history, indications, and complications. IPAA has undergone significant modification since 1978. For both UC and FAP, IPAA surgery aims to definitively cure disease and prevent malignant degeneration, while providing adequate continence and avoiding a permanent stoma. The majority of patients experience long-term success, but “early” and “late” complications are recognised. Pelvic sepsis is a common early complication with far-reaching consequences of long-term pouch dysfunction, but prompt intervention (either radiological or surgical) reduces the risk of pouch failure. Even in the absence of sepsis, pouch dysfunction is a long-term complication that may have a myriad of causes. Pouchitis is a common cause that remains incompletely understood and difficult to manage at times. 10% of patients succumb to the diagnosis of pouch failure, which is traditionally associated with the need for pouch excision. This review provides a timely outline of the history, indications, and complications associated with IPAA. Patient selection remains key, and contraindications exist for this surgery. A structured management plan is vital to the successful management of complications following pouch surgery.

Stem-Cell Therapy for Esophageal Anastomotic Leakage by Autografting Stromal Cells in Fibrin Scaffold

Esophageal anastomotic leakage (EAL) is a devastating complication for esophagectomy but the available therapies are unsatisfactory. Due to the healing effects of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and supporting capability of fibrin scaffold (FS), we evaluated the efficacy of a stem-cell therapy for EAL by engrafting adult and autologous MSCs (AAMSCs) in FS and investigated the potential mechanism. Twenty-one rabbits were assigned to AAMSC/FS group (n = 12) and control group (n = 9). After harvested, AAMSCs were identified and then labeled with lenti.GFP. To construct EAL model, a polyethylene tube was indwelled through the anastomosis for 1 week. A total of 2 × 106 AAMSCs in 0.2 ml FS were engrafted onto the EAL for the AAMSC/FS group, whereas FS was injected for control. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination was performed after 5 weeks. Esophageal tissues were harvested for macroscopic, histological analyses, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry at 8 weeks. The animal model of EAL was established successfully. MRI scanning revealed a decreased inflammation reaction in AAMSC/FS group. Accordingly, AAMSC/FS group presented a higher closure rate (83.3% vs. 11.1%, p = .02) and lower infection rate (33.3% vs. 88.9%, p = .02). Histological analyses showed the autografted MSCs resided in the injection site. Furthermore, milder inflammation responses and less collagen deposition were observed in AAMSC/FS group. Western blot and immunohistochemistry studies suggested that the therapeutic effect might be related to the secretions of IL-10 and MMP-9. Engrafting AAMSCs in FS could be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of EAL by suppressing inflammation response and alleviating fibrosis progression. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2019;8:548-556.

Incidence and treatment of mediastinal leakage after esophagectomy: Insights from the multicenter study on mediastinal leaks

BACKGROUND

Mediastinal leakage (ML) is one of the most feared complications of esophagectomy. A standard strategy for its diagnosis and treatment has been difficult to establish because of the great variability in their incidence and mortality rates reported in the existing series.

AIM

To assess the incidence, predictive factors, treatment, and associated mortality rate of mediastinal leakage using the standardized definition of mediastinal leaks recently proposed by the Esophagectomy Complications Consensus Group (ECCG).

METHODS

Seven Italian surgical centers (five high-volume, two low-volume) affiliated with the Italian Society for the Study of Esophageal Diseases designed and implemented a retrospective study including all esophagectomies (n = 501) with intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis performed from 2014 to 2017. Anastomotic MLs were defined according to the classification recently proposed by the ECCG.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine cases of ML were recorded, yielding an overall incidence of 11.8% (95%CI: 9.1%-14.9%). The surgical approach significantly influenced the occurrence of ML: the proportion of leakage was 10.5% and 9% after open and hybrid esophagectomy (HE), respectively, and doubled (20%) after totally minimally invasive esophagectomy (TMIE) (P = 0.016). No other predictive factors were found. The 30- and 90-d overall mortality rates were 1.4% and 3.2%, respectively; the 30- and 90-d leak-related mortality rates were 5.1% and 10.2%, respectively; the 90-d mortality rates for TMIE and HE were 5.9% and 1.8%, respectively. Endoscopy was the first-line treatment in 49% of ML cases, with the need for retreatment in 17.2% of cases. Surgery was needed in 44.1% of ML cases. Endoscopic treatment had the lowest mortality rate (6.9%). Removal of the gastric tube with stoma formation was necessary in 8 (13.6%) cases.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of ML after esophagectomy was high mainly in the TMIE group. However, the general and specific (leak-related) mortality rates were low. Early treatment (surgical or endoscopic) of severe leaks is mandatory to limit related mortality.

Novel abdominal negative pressure lavage-drainage system for anastomotic leakage after R0 resection for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a severe complication associated with high morbidity and mortality after radical gastrectomy (RG) for gastric cancer (GC). We hypothesized that a novel abdominal negative pressure lavage-drainage system (ANPLDS) can effectively reduce the failure-to-rescue (FTR) and the risk of reoperation, and it is a feasible management for AL.

AIM

To report our institution’s experience with a novel ANPLDS for AL after RG for GC.

METHODS

The study enrolled 4173 patients who underwent R0 resection for GC at our institution between June 2009 and December 2016. ANPLDS was routinely used for patients with AL after January 2014. Characterization of patients who underwent R0 resection was compared between different study periods. AL rates and postoperative outcome among patients with AL were compared before and after the ANPLDS therapy. We used multivariate analyses to evaluate clinicopathological and perioperative factors for associations with AL and FTR after AL.

RESULTS

AL occurred in 83 (83/4173, 2%) patients, leading to 7 deaths. The mean time of occurrence of AL was 5.6 days. The AL rate was similar before (2009-2013, period 1) and after (2014-2016, period 2) the implementation of the ANPLDS therapy (1.7% vs 2.3%, P = 0.121). Age and malnourishment were independently associated with AL. The FTR rate and abdominal bleeding rate after AL occurred were respectively 8.4% and 9.6% for the entire period; however, compared with period 1, this significantly decreased during period 2 (16.2% vs 2.2%, P = 0.041; 18.9% vs 2.2%, P = 0.020, respectively). Moreover, the reoperation rate was also reduced in period 2, although this result was not statistically significant (13.5% vs 2.2%, P = 0.084). Additionally, only ANPLDS therapy was an independent protective factor for FTR after AL (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Our experience demonstrates that ANPLDS is a feasible management for AL after RG for GC.

Self-Expanding Metal Stents Versus Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy in Anastomotic Leak Treatment After Oncologic Gastroesophageal Surgery

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak after gastroesophageal surgery is a life-threatening complication. Self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) implantation or endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) have been established as alternatives to reoperation. This study compares the outcome of both interventions for anastomotic leak clinical management.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we identified all patients who received SEMS or EVT for anastomotic leaks after oncological gastroesophageal surgery between January 2007 and December 2016. Only patients with type II leaks according to the Esophagectomy Complications Consensus Group were included. Sealing rates, intervention-related complications, demographic characteristics, clinical history, leak characteristics, therapy duration, and in-hospital mortality were analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred eleven patients who received SEMS (n = 76) or EVT (n = 35) were identified and categorized by primary and final treatment. The overall closure rate in the final treatment analysis was 85.7% for EVT and 72.4% for SEMS (p = 0.152). ICU stay ranged from 0 to 60 days (median 6 days) for EVT and from 0 to 295 days (median 9 days) for SEMS (p = 0.704). EVT patients were hospitalized for 19-119 days (median 39 days) and SEMS patients for 13-296 days (median 37 days; p = 0.812). Demographic factors, comorbidities, and surgical parameters did not correlate with treatment or treatment success.

CONCLUSIONS

SEMS and EVT show comparable results for anastomotic leak management after oncologic gastroesophageal surgery. No superior outcome could be found for either one of the two treatments options.

Esophagojejunal anastomotic leakage following gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Esophagojejunal anastomotic leakage (EJAL) is a serious complication of total or proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer, with a reported incidence of 2.1-14.6% and mortality of up to 50%. EJAL is an independent prognostic factor for the poor survival of gastric cancer patients. Meticulous surgical techniques, experience with anastomotic devices, and a thorough understanding of various risk factors and preventive measures are essential and early diagnosis is critical for preventing EJAL-related death. Patients with suspected EJAL must be evaluated promptly, but contrast swallow is not recommended. There is no standard treatment strategy for EJAL, although conservative treatment with drainage and nutritional support is the most common approach. Effective endoscopic treatments have been reported but need further validation. Surgical treatment is associated with high mortality but should be considered to prevent death from suboptimal EJAL management, for patients with severe sepsis or when conservative treatment has failed.

Regulating migration of esophageal stents - management using a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube: A case report and review of literature

Stent migration, which causes issues in stent therapy for esophageal perforations, can counteract the therapeutic effects and lead to complications. Therefore, techniques to regulate stent migration are important and lead to effective stent therapy. Here, in these cases, we placed a removable fully covered self-expandable metallic stent (FSEMS) in a 52-year-old man with suture failure after surgery to treat Boerhaave syndrome, and in a 53-year-old man with a perforation in the lower esophagus due to acute esophageal necrosis. At the same time, we nasally inserted a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube (SBT), passing it through the stent lumen. By inflating a gastric balloon, the lower end of the stent was supported. When the stent migration was confirmed, the gastric balloon was lifted slightly toward the oral side to correct the stent migration. In this manner, the therapy was completed for these two patients. Using a FSEMS and SBT is a therapeutic method for correcting stent migration and regulating the complete migration of the stent into the stomach without the patient undergoing endoscopic rearrangement of the stent. It was effective for positioning a stent crossing the esophagogastric junction.