Methodological issues in radiomics: impact on accuracy of MRI for predicting response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer

AIM

To investigate whether methodological aspects may influence the performance of MRI-radiomic models to predict response to neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) in breast cancer (BC) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic review until March 2023. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to combine the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's test and heterogeneity was estimated by I2. A meta-regression was conducted to investigate the impact of various factors, including scanner, features' number/transformation/type, pixel/voxel scaling, etc. RESULTS: Forty-two studies were included. The summary AUC was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.74-0.81). Substantial heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 81%) with no publication bias (p = 0.35). Radiomic model accuracy was influenced by the scanner vendor, with lower AUCs in studies using mixed scanner vendors (AUC; 95% CI: 0.70; 0.61-0.78) compared to studies including images obtained from the same scanner (AUC (95% CI): 0.83 (0.77-0.88), 0.74 (0.67-0.82), 0.83 (0.78-0.89) for three different vendors; vendors 1, 2, and 3, respectively; p-value = 0.03 for comparison with vendor 1). Feature type also seemed to have an impact on the AUC, with higher prediction accuracy observed for studies using 3D than 2D/2.5D images (AUC; 95% CI: 0.81; 0.78-0.85 and 0.73; 0.65-0.81, respectively, p-value = 0.03). Non-significant between-study heterogeneity was observed in the studies including 3D images (I2 = 33%) and Vendor 1 scanners (I2 = 40%).

CONCLUSION

MRI-radiomics has emerged as a potential method for predicting the response to NAT in BC patients, showing promising outcomes. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge the diversity among the methodological choices applied. Further investigations should prioritize achieving standardized protocols, and enhancing methodological rigor in MRI-radiomics.

KEY POINTS

Question Do methodological aspects influence the performance of MRI-radiomic models in predicting response to NAT in BC patients? Findings Radiomic model accuracy was influenced by the scanner vendor and feature type. Clinical relevance Methodological discrepancies affect the performance of MRI-radiomic models. Developing standardized protocols and enhancing methodological rigor in these studies should be prioritized.

Comparative outcomes of laparoscopic and open surgery in inflammatory bowel disease in pediatric and young adult patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and indeterminate colitis, often necessitates surgical intervention in cases of severe or refractory disease. Although biologic therapies have significantly reduced the need for surgery, operative management remains essential for certain patients. The choice between laparoscopic (laparoscopy group [LG]) and open conventional surgery (open group [OG]) continues to be a subject of debate. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes of LG and OG in pediatric patients with IBD.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies comparing LG and OG outcomes in pediatric patients with IBD. Key outcomes analyzed included major and minor postoperative complications, reoperations, readmissions, operative time, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, analyzing 3417 patients, with 1399 (41%) undergoing OG and 2018 (59%) undergoing LG. Our analysis revealed no significant differences in major postoperative complications, reoperation, and readmissions between LG and OG (P = .114, P = .082, and P = .641, respectively). However, LG was associated with shorter hospital stays (6.04 vs 8.35 days; P < .05). Conversions from LG to open surgery amounted to a total of 153 (7.57%). Open surgery had a significantly shorter operative time (173.8 vs 195.5 min; P = .005).

CONCLUSION

Both laparoscopic and open conventional surgeries are safe, effective, and reliable in managing pediatric IBD. Although open surgery offers shorter operative times, laparoscopy reduces hospital stay and minor postoperative complications. The choice of approach depends on the surgeon's experience and patient-specific factors.

Predictive model and prognostic insights into duodenal stump fistula following radical gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Duodenal stump fistula (DSF) is a rare yet serious complication following gastric cancer surgery. The risk factors associated with DSF, as well as the predictive models, remain insufficiently elucidated.

AIM

To identify DSF risk factors following radical gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis, develop a predictive model, and evaluate impact on prognosis.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients undergoing radical gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis for gastric cancer at Juntendo University from 2015 to 2021 (n = 325). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors associated with DSF. Based on the independent risk factors, a predictive nomogram was developed and subsequently evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were utilized to assess the impact of DSF on overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

Among the 325 patients analyzed, DSF was observed in 7 (2.2%) cases. No DSF was observed in 110 patients where the duodenal stump suturing fixation technique to the jejunal wall was used. Multivariate analysis confirmed that age [odds ratio (OR) = 1.17, P = 0.015] and obstructive ventilatory failure (OVF) (OR = 14.03, P = 0.001) were independent risk factors for DSF. The predictive nomogram was constructed based on age and OVF, which exhibited strong performance (area under the curve = 0.90, 95% confidence interval: 0.82-0.99). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in CSS for patients with DSF, whereas no significant differences were observed in OS or DFS.

CONCLUSION

Age and OVF are independent risk factors for DSF, which worsens CSS. A nomogram predicts DSF accurately, and innovative surgical techniques may reduce its occurrence.

Machine learning-based radiomic nomogram from unenhanced computed tomography and clinical data predicts bowel resection in incarcerated inguinal hernia

BACKGROUND

Early identification of bowel resection risks is crucial for patients with incarcerated inguinal hernia (IIH). However, the prompt detection of these risks remains a significant challenge. Advancements in radiomic feature extraction and machine learning algorithms have paved the way for innovative diagnostic approaches to assess IIH more effectively.

AIM

To devise a sophisticated radiomic-clinical model to evaluate bowel resection risks in IIH patients, thereby enhancing clinical decision-making processes.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study analyzed 214 IIH patients randomized into training (n = 161) and test (n = 53) sets (3:1). Radiologists segmented hernia sac-trapped bowel volumes of interest (VOIs) on computed tomography images. Radiomic features extracted from VOIs generated Rad-scores, which were combined with clinical data to construct a nomogram. The nomogram’s performance was evaluated against standalone clinical and radiomic models in both cohorts.

RESULTS

A total of 1561 radiomic features were extracted from the VOIs. After dimensionality reduction, 13 radiomic features were used with eight machine learning algorithms to develop the radiomic model. The logistic regression algorithm was ultimately selected for its effectiveness, showing an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.828 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.753-0.902] in the training set and 0.791 (95%CI: 0.668-0.915) in the test set. The comprehensive nomogram, incorporating clinical indicators showcased strong predictive capabilities for assessing bowel resection risks in IIH patients, with AUCs of 0.864 (95%CI: 0.800-0.929) and 0.800 (95%CI: 0.669-0.931) for the training and test sets, respectively. Decision curve analysis revealed the integrated model’s superior performance over standalone clinical and radiomic approaches.

CONCLUSION

This innovative radiomic-clinical nomogram has proven to be effective in predicting bowel resection risks in IIH patients and has substantially aided clinical decision-making.

Gastrointestinal symptoms in the journey of pancreatic cancer patients

INTRODUCTION

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal malignancy frequently arising with nonspecific and overlooked gastrointestinal symptoms. Gastroenterologists are typically the first specialists to encounter these patients, positioning them to play a pivotal role not only in early diagnosis, but also in the ongoing management of the disease's complex symptom burden.

AREAS COVERED

This review explored gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with PDAC (ranging from pain and diarrhea to anorexia, jaundice, and nausea) and outlined both tumor- and treatment-related causes. A literature review based on non-systematic PubMed search updated to April 2025 was conducted to summarize current diagnostic strategies, medical, endoscopic therapies, and multidisciplinary management approaches. In addition, we present original data from a single-center cohort, suggesting that the involvement of gastroenterologists leads to more comprehensive management of gastrointestinal symptom control and supportive care.

EXPERT OPINION

Collaboration among specialists is essential for optimizing patient outcomes in the multidisciplinary management of PDAC. Gastroenterologists' 'stewardship' significantly contributes to prompt diagnosis, symptom control, quality of life preservation, and prognosis. Future priorities should focus on strengthening integration within care pathways, fostering interdisciplinary coordination, and implementing shared clinical tools to enhance comprehensive patient care. A well-structured team-based approach is key to advancing holistic PDAC management.

Prophylactic drain placement after emergency general surgery procedures? A scoping review of the literature challenging common practice

BACKGROUND

This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on the use of prophylactic drainage (PD) after Emergency General Surgery procedures (EGS) and to change the current practice according to evidence.

METHODOLOGY

Data from an exhaustive literature search conducted across Embase (Ovid), Medline(R) ALL (Ovid), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was summarized. Literature published between January 2013 and December 2024 was included.

RESULTS

Most studies found better outcomes for the no-drain group. Implementing a drain after EGS procedures potentially increases hospital stays, postoperative pain, and surgical site infection rates. For conditions such as peritonitis and perforated ulcers, only a few studies were available, with some showing benefits of PD.

CONCLUSION

For some conditions, like colorectal emergencies, there is a scarcity of evidence. The outcomes suggest that PD is not recommended in most EGS cases. In high-risk cases, there are some reports on improved outcomes for PD use. Further research is imperative to create science-based clinical guidelines, especially for less-researched conditions.

Prognostic Validity of the Eighth Edition of the U.S. Joint Committee on Cancer TNM Staging System for Pancreatic Adenocarcinomas: An Analysis of 214 Patients at a Spanish Center

Introduction: Accurate staging is essential in pancreatic adenocarcinoma due to its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The 8th edition of the AJCC TNM staging system introduced changes in tumor size criteria and nodal classification. This study compares the prognostic performance of the 7th and 8th editions in resected patients. Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 214 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who underwent curative surgery. TNM staging was assigned according to both AJCC editions. Kaplan-Meier analysis and multivariate Cox regression, stratified by adjuvant therapy, were used to assess disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: The 8th edition TNM staging was significantly associated with lower risk of recurrence, with TNM stages I and II independently predicting better DFS (p < 0.05). In contrast, the 7th edition TNM stage I remained the only independent predictor of OS (HR = 0.376; p = 0.023). Reclassification between editions altered stage distribution, particularly within stage II. Conclusions: The 8th edition improves early recurrence stratification, while the 7th edition retains stronger prognostic value for overall survival. Both systems offer complementary insights, supporting outcome-specific staging use.

Lights and Shadows of Bariatric Surgery: Insights from a Nationwide Administrative Database of People Living with Type 1 Diabetes and Obesity

INTRODUCTION

The study aimed to describe the population of patients living with type 1 diabetes who had access to bariatric surgery (BS) in France, analyzing the changes in healthcare resource use and associated costs in the 3 years following this surgery.

METHODS

An observational longitudinal study based on the French national health insurance database was conducted on all adult patients that underwent a first BS from 2015 to 2020. Cost analyses were conducted on a sub-population who underwent BS from 2016 to 2017 for sufficient observation time using a pre-post methodology.

RESULTS

A total of 437 patients were identified as living with type 1 diabetes among the 234,077 patients who had undergone surgery over 6 years (2015-2020). The most frequently performed interventions were sleeve gastrectomy (n = 272; 62.2%) and gastric bypass (n = 154; 35.2%), with the majority of patients being women (77.8%) and an average age of 42.3 (± 12.0) years, consistent with the general population undergoing BS in France. While no significant differences were found in the overall healthcare costs when comparing the 3 years before and after BS, there was an increase in the frequency of biological measurements. Expenditures related to antidiabetic medications and insulin decreased significantly (p < 0.0001). The number of hospitalizations for severe hypoglycemia, coma, and ketoacidosis more than doubled in the 3 years following surgery compared with the period before (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The risks of severe hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis in patients with type 1 diabetes undergoing BS remains a real concern and emphasizes the importance of involving the diabetologist in the operative decision with joint follow-up with the nutritionist.

Reduced pancreatic fistula rates and comprehensive cost analysis of robotic versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has emerged as a promising surgical approach for the treatment of periampullary neoplasms, offering the potential benefits of minimally invasive surgery. However, the impact of RPD on clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (CR-PF) rates and overall costs compared to open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) remains unclear, limiting its widespread adoption.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a high-volume Japanese referral center from 2017 to 2023. A total of 193 patients diagnosed with periampullary neoplasms underwent either RPD (n = 81) or OPD (n = 112). To account for potential selection bias, propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance patient demographics and clinical characteristics, resulting in two well-matched groups of 60 patients each. Perioperative outcomes, CR-PF rates, and a comprehensive cost analysis were evaluated.

RESULTS

RPD resulted in a significantly lower rate of CR-PF (10%) compared to OPD (33.3%) (p = 0.003). Additionally, patients who underwent RPD experienced shorter hospital stays (15 days) compared to those in the OPD group (22.5 days) (p < 0.001). Despite longer operative times for RPD (633 vs. 395 min; p < 0.001), total hospital costs were comparable between the two groups. The higher operative costs associated with RPD were offset by reduced postoperative complications and shorter hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

RPD offers significant clinical advantages, including lower CR-PF rates and reduced hospital stays, without increasing overall hospital costs compared to OPD. These findings support the feasibility and potential benefits of adopting RPD for the management of periampullary neoplasms in clinical practice.

Biliary tract cancer

BACKGROUND

Biliary tract cancers comprise a heterogeneous collection of malignancies usually described as cholangiocarcinoma of the intra- or extrahepatic bile duct, including perihilar cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer.

METHODS

A review of pertinent parts of the ESSO core curriculum for the UEMS diploma targets (Fellowships exam, EBSQ), based on updated and available guidelines for diagnosis, surgical treatment and oncological management of cholangiocarcinoma.

RESULTS

Following the outline from the ESSO core curriculum we present the epidemiology and risk factors for cholangiocarcinoma, as well as the rationale for the current diagnosis, staging, (neo-)adjuvant treatment, surgical management, and short- and long-term outcomes. The available guidelines and consensus reports (i.e. NCCN, BGS and ESMO guidelines) are referred to. Recognition of biliary tract cancers as separate entities of the intrahepatic biliary ducts, the perihilar and distal bile duct as well as the gallbladder is important for proper management, as they each provide distinct clinical, molecular and treatment profiles to consider.

CONCLUSION

Core competencies in knowledge to the diagnosis, management and outcomes of biliary tract cancers are presented.

Wandering Accessory Spleen and Its Implications for Modern Clinical Practice

Background: A wandering accessory spleen (WAS) is defined as an ectopic accessory spleen with a long vascular pedicle characterized by marked anatomical mobility. "Wandering" can be congenital or acquired due to splenomegaly or pregnancy. The study aimed to analyze the clinical course of WAS and its symptoms. Methods: The desk research method and statistical analysis were used to assess the outcome. Results: In total, 12 cases of WAS managed operatively, including 11 women and 1 man, have been found. The correct WAS diagnosis was established before surgery in 3 of the 12 patients. One individual did not exhibit any symptoms and underwent surgery to avoid WAS torsion and infarction. Abdominal pain was the most commonly reported symptom in 11 patients. No mortality has been reported. Conclusions: WAS is a rare anomaly. It can be symptomatic or produce a spectrum of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, and may resemble abdominal neoplasms. Torsion is the most common pathology in the WAS study group and is most common in young people.

PErioperative respiratory care aNd outcomes for patients underGoing hIgh risk abdomiNal surgery (PENGUIN): a randomised international internal pilot trial

Background

Infections are a common complication of abdominal surgery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The role of a high fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) and chlorhexidine mouthwash in preventing post-operative infections is unconfirmed.

Methods

Internal pilot phase of an international outcome assessor-blinded, 2x2 factorial randomised trial of patients aged ≥10-years undergoing midline laparotomy in LMIC hospitals. The main trial objectives are to compare the clinical effectiveness of preoperative 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash in preventing pneumonia versus no mouthwash, and 80-100% perioperative FiO2 to prevent surgical site infection (SSI) versus 21-35% FiO2. This 12-month internal pilot assessed feasibility of hospital site opening, patient recruitment, intervention adherence, patient follow-up and safety. Patients were randomised in a 1:1:1:1 ratio to the four intervention group combinations and followed up for 30 days.

Results

We recruited 927 patients from seven hospitals in India and South Africa over 12 months from November 2020. There were 907 adults (97.8%) and 20 children aged ten or over (2.2%): 89/927 (9.6%) patients died. Site opening reached 70% of our target (7/10) hospitals, and patient recruitment 107% (927/870). 917/927 (99%) patients in the mouthwash arm, and 840/927 (91%) patients in the oxygen arm received the allocated intervention. Lower adherence to the oxygen intervention related mainly to clinically necessary FiO2 increases in the 21-35% FiO2 arm. 30-day follow-up was completed appropriately for 924/927 (99%) patients. and was performed by a masked assessor for all patients. There were no reported safety events.

Conclusion

This pilot showed the feasibility and safety of a major phase III trial in post-operative infection prevention in LMICs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04256798.

Bariatric surgery in Poland in 2017-2022: retrospective analysis of public health system open data

Background

There little known about bariatric surgeries performed in Poland. We aimed to analyze trends in bariatric surgery performed in public health system in Poland.

Methods

Data was obtained from the National Health Fund (NFZ) database of aggregated statistics for the years 2017-2022. We retrieved data about hospitalizations during which bariatric surgery was performed. We performed descriptive statistics.

Results

From 2017 to 2022, the number of bariatric surgeries in Poland's public healthcare system increased from 3,278 to 5,580, with a temporary decline in 2020. The number of procedures per 100,000 residents increased from 8.5 in 2017 to 14.7 in 2022. The majority of surgeries (73.3%) were performed on women. Sleeve gastrectomy was the most frequently reported procedure. The median duration of hospitalizations was 3 days. The in-hospital mortality rate was equal to 0.057.

Conclusions

Between 2017 and 2022, bariatric surgeries in the Polish public healthcare system increased by about 70%, with a temporary drop in 2020. Nevertheless, Poland still reports fewer procedures per 100,000 residents compared to other developed countries. A key limitation of this study is the absence of data from private sector.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-025-01600-0.

Fewer patients with insufficient weight loss after one anastomosis gastric bypass compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass after 5 years of follow-up

This study aims to give a comprehensive overview of the one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) during 5 years of follow-up in terms of weight loss, the remission of obesity-associated diseases and complications. We performed a retrospective cohort study, with a 1:1 propensity-score matched (PSM) comparison between all adult patients who underwent a primary OAGB or RYGB in 2016. Patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥50 kg/m2 were excluded. In total, 372 patients underwent OAGB and 113 patients RYGB. After performing a 1:1 PSM, we obtained two nearly identical cohorts of 113 patients. After OAGB, the percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) was significantly higher during 5 years of follow-up. Also, more patients after OAGB had a successful weight loss (TWL > 20%) after 5 years (86% vs. 72%; p = .019). The remission of obesity-associated diseases and short-term complications did not differ between both procedures. Persistent reflux was the reason for conversion to RYGB in 11.3% of the patients after OAGB. More internal herniations were seen after RYGB (10.4% vs. 1.9%; p = .010). Overall, the proportion of patients with major mid-term complications did not differ between both procedures. In conclusion, OAGB resulted in more weight reduction and especially fewer patients with insufficient weight loss during 5 years of follow-up, while remission of obesity-associated diseases remained the same.

Using Large Language Models in the Diagnosis of Acute Cholecystitis: Assessing Accuracy and Guidelines Compliance

BackgroundLarge language models (LLMs) are advanced tools capable of understanding and generating human-like text. This study evaluated the accuracy of several commercial LLMs in addressing clinical questions related to diagnosis and management of acute cholecystitis, as outlined in the Tokyo Guidelines 2018 (TG18). We assessed their congruence with the expert panel discussions presented in the guidelines.MethodsWe evaluated ChatGPT4.0, Gemini Advanced, and GPTo1-preview on ten clinical questions. Eight derived from TG18, and two were formulated by the authors. Two authors independently rated the accuracy of each LLM's responses on a four-point scale: (1) accurate and comprehensive, (2) accurate but not comprehensive, (3) partially accurate, partially inaccurate, and (4) entirely inaccurate. A third author resolved any scoring discrepancies. Then, we comparatively analyzed the performance of ChatGPT4.0 against newer large language models (LLMs), specifically Gemini Advanced and GPTo1-preview, on the same set of questions to delineate their respective strengths and limitations.ResultsChatGPT4.0 provided consistent responses for 90% of the questions. It delivered "accurate and comprehensive" answers for 4/10 (40%) questions and "accurate but not comprehensive" answers for 5/10 (50%). One response (10%) was rated as "partially accurate, partially inaccurate." Gemini Advanced demonstrated higher accuracy on some questions but yielded a similar percentage of "partially accurate, partially inaccurate" responses. Notably, neither model produced "entirely inaccurate" answers.DiscussionLLMs, such as ChatGPT and Gemini Advanced, demonstrate potential in accurately addressing clinical questions regarding acute cholecystitis. With awareness of their limitations, their careful implementation, and ongoing refinement, LLMs could serve as valuable resources for physician education and patient information, potentially improving clinical decision-making in the future.

The Effect of Sphincter Pressure and Anal Length on Surgical Decision in Chronic Anal Fissure

Background/Objectives: Chronic anal fissure, an anorectal condition, is characterized by internal anal sphincter fibers at the base of the fissure. The lifetime prevalence is 7-8%. Medical management and lifestyle modifications are the first-line treatments, whereas chemical or surgical internal anal sphincterectomy is an option for refractory cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of surgical anal canal length and sphincter pressure on postoperative symptom relief and continence outcomes. Methods: A total of 26 patients diagnosed with chronic anal fissures were selected for surgical treatment. Five patients voluntarily withdrew, leaving 21 cases for analysis. In patients undergoing open lateral internal sphincterotomy, anal canal length and sphincter pressure were assessed preoperatively and three months postoperatively using endoanal ultrasonography and high-resolution anal manometry. Results: Postoperatively, all patients experienced complete resolution of pain and bleeding. The expected decrease in resting pressure was not significantly associated with sex. A significant weight gain was observed postoperatively (p = 0.001). Although a significant decrease was observed in preoperative sphincter resting pressure and VAS scores, Wexner scores remained unchanged. Preoperatively and postoperatively, mean sphincter pressure was significantly lower in the spontaneous vaginal delivery group than that in the non-spontaneous vaginal delivery group (p < 0.05). Patients with short anal canal lengths had greater pressures reductions, though not statistically significant. Conclusions: Lateral internal sphincterotomy is an effective and safe treatment for chronic anal fistula when performed by experienced surgeons. Anal canal length may influence postoperative complications and surgical decisions. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Pentose phosphate recycling driven by Gli1 contributes to chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells

The Hedgehog Signaling Pathway plays an important role in cancer development and chemotherapy resistance. However, whether the pathway functions depend on the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells has not been well studied. In this study, we found that the expression level of Gli1, a key transcription factor downstream of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway, is significantly increased in patients with pancreatic cancer resistant to gemcitabine neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Through metabolomics analysis, we confirmed that Gli1 can promote the transformation of cancer cells from a glycolytic-dominated metabolic pattern to a unique metabolic pattern called "Pentose Phosphate Recycling". Transcriptome sequencing and in vitro experiments suggest that Gli1 promotes pentose phosphate recycling through transcriptional activation of key enzymes Phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (PGD) and Transketolase (TKT). The identified metabolic rerouting in oxidative and non-oxidative pentose phosphate pathway has important physiological roles in maximizing NADPH reduction and nucleotide synthesis. Therefore, the pentose phosphate cycle driven by Gli1 can resist gemcitabine-induced DNA damage by promoting pyrimidine synthesis and resist gemcitabine-induced ferroptosis by scavenging lipid Reactive Oxygen Species (Lipid ROS). Combining the Gli1 inhibitor GANT21 with gemcitabine exerts a maximal tumor suppressor effect by simultaneously promoting DNA damage and ferroptosis. Collectively, these results reveal that Gli1 drives chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells by inducing metabolic reprogramming, providing a novel target and therapeutic strategy for reversing chemotherapy resistance.

Liver transplantation for combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma: Current evidence, selection criteria, and therapeutic controversies

Combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA) is a rare and aggressive primary liver malignancy characterized by features of both HCC and CCA. Preoperative diagnosis remains challenging because of overlapping imaging and histopathological features, which often lead to misclassification. Although liver resection is the primary curative therapy, the efficacy of liver transplantation (LT) remains controversial. Historically, LT has been considered contraindicated owing to the poor prognosis, high recurrence rate of cHCC-CCA, and the potential for organ wastage. Recent studies have suggested that LT may benefit carefully selected patients, particularly those with early-stage tumors or cirrhosis. However, there is no consensus on the criteria for LT in patients with cHCC-CCA. Lymphadenectomy and vascular resection strategies were discussed along with locoregional and systemic therapies. This review synthesized the current evidence on surgical strategies for cHCC-CCA, focusing on evolving LT criteria and outcomes.

Addressing Anastomotic Leak After Esophagectomy: Insights from a Specialized Unit

Background/Objectives: Anastomotic leakage is one of the most frightening and potentially fatal complications after esophagectomy. The collaboration between the surgical team, interventional gastroenterologists, and radiologists has the potential to improve the hospital stay, as well as morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to present our experience and evaluate the results of the multimodal management of anastomotic leak following esophagectomy in our unit. Methods: This is a retrospective study analyzing a single referral center's prospectively maintained database of all patients diagnosed with anastomotic leak between March 2019 and March 2025 using the definition of the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group. The treatment pathways and the patient outcomes are presented. The primary endpoint was 90-day mortality and in-hospital mortality. Results: A total of 241 esophageal resections were performed between March 2019 and March 2025. Lymphadenectomy of the mediastinum was performed in 88.4% of the patients. Cervical and intrathoracic anastomosis were performed in 143 (59.3%) and 98 (40.7%) cases, respectively. Twenty-nine patients (12%) with a mean age of 59.1 years developed anastomotic leak. Anastomotic leak occurred in 14.3% of intrathoracic anastomoses and 10.5% of cervical anastomoses. The median day of leak diagnosis was the sixth postoperative day. Leak management involved conservative strategies, wound exploration, endoscopic stent placement or vacuum therapy, drainage of effusions under radiologic guidance, and reoperation. The 90-day and in-hospital mortality rate was 3.4%. No cases of conduit necrosis or mediastinitis were reported. Endoscopic management was employed in 18 patients (62.1%) as a first- or second-line treatment, while reoperation was required in 6 patients (20.7%). The median interval from diagnosis to anastomosis healing was 21 days and the median duration of hospital stay 32 days. The management was successful in 27 patients (93.1%) except for 1 who developed tracheoesophageal fistula and 1 who died due to hemorrhagic complication of anticoagulant treatment. Conclusions: Anastomotic leak after esophagectomy is considered a complex, diversified, and morbid clinical entity. The evolving potential of multidisciplinary management encompassing surgical and interventional radiological and endoscopic treatment addresses the mortality rates and heralds a new era of minimizing morbidity.

Development of an evaluation framework for robotic total mesorectal excision videos: a review and comparison of medical professional and public video resources

PURPOSE

This study aims to assess the quality of educational surgical videos for robotic total mesorectal excision (TME), across widely used open-source platforms, using a newly designed quality assessment checklist.

METHODS

The checklist was developed by using existing society guidelines, such as the European Academy of Robotic Colorectal Surgery, comprising four key sections: (i) usability of the platform, (ii) video component, (iii) intraoperative techniques and (iv) other information (including case presentation and outcomes). Videos were identified using the search terms 'Robotic TME' from surgical education platforms (WebSurg, C-SATS and Touch Surgery) and YouTube, between January 2016 and July 2024. All videos displaying robotic TME were reviewed and scored using the quality assessment tool (/12), and the videos across the platforms were subsequently compared.

RESULTS

A total of 113 videos were scored using the checklist: 63 surgical education platform (10 WebSurg and 53 C-SATS) and 50 YouTube videos. The total median checklist score achieved by WebSurg (9 [IQR 8-9] and YouTube videos (8 [IQR 7-10]) was significantly higher than CSAT-S videos (4 [IQR 4-5]; p < 0.001). The usability of platform scores for YouTube was significantly higher than WebSurg and C-SATS videos (p < 0.001). Scores for video components, intraoperative techniques and other information were higher across WebSurg and YouTube videos when compared to C-SATS (p < 0.001); however, there was no significant difference between WebSurg and YouTube for each domain.

CONCLUSION

The overall educational quality of online robotic TME videos was found to be generally heterogeneous, with WebSurg and YouTube videos demonstrating higher scores based on the checklist. A new quality assessment tool has been proposed for robotic TME videos, which has the potential to improve the reliability and value of published video research.

Management of chronic anal fissures: should fissurectomy be performed with botulinum toxin injection?

BACKGROUND

Despite the superior success rate of lateral internal sphincterotomy for managing chronic anal fissure (CAF), there is a trend towards sphincter-preserving treatment due to the increased risk of incontinence. Botulinum toxin (BT) and fissurectomy are two sphincter-preserving options for CAF. We aim to assess if combining fissurectomy with botox treatment is superior to botulinum toxin alone in the management of CAF.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted across two Sydney hospitals over 7 years. All patients with a CAF managed with either BT and fissurectomy (group 1) or BT only (group 2) were included. Primary outcome was healing rate defined as resolution or significant improvement of perianal symptoms at initial follow-up. Secondary outcomes were persistence, recurrence, re-intervention and faecal incontinence rate. Follow-up questionnaire was conducted to compare long-term outcomes between the two groups.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients met the inclusion criteria (group 1, 37; group 2, 20). Mean BT dose and injection location between the groups were similar (p = 0.259 and p = 0.427). There was a 65% response rate to the follow-up questionnaire. Median follow-up was 34.3 months (range 0.4-93). There was no difference in healing (56.7% vs. 50%, p = 0.561), recurrence (37.8% vs. 30%, p = 0.383) or re-intervention rate (13.5% vs. 20%, p = 0.888). Long-term incontinence rate was significantly higher in patients group 2 (0% vs. 10%, p = 0.010), with two patients reporting persistent flatus incontinence. Median overall satisfaction score was 3/4 (range 1-4), in both groups (p = 0.469).

CONCLUSION

Botulinum toxin with or without fissurectomy is a safe sphincter-sparing treatment option for CAF. However, the addition of fissurectomy to BT does not improve healing rates and we therefore recommend BT injection alone as a second-line treatment of CAF in patients who fail topical treatment.

Impact of Duodenal Stump Reinforcement in Preventing Duodenal Stump Fistula/Leakage After Distal or Total Gastrectomy for Malignant Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies

Background/Objectives: Duodenal stump fistula (DSF) is one of the most feared postoperative complications in gastric cancer surgery. It has a 1.6-5% incidence rate and correlates with potentially high rates of morbidity (75%) and mortality (16-20%). The absence of duodenal stump reinforcement is considered one of the main risk factors. Our meta-analysis aimed to provide updated evidence by comparing DSF rates among patients who underwent distal or total gastrectomy for malignant gastric disease with or without reinforcement of the duodenal stump. Methods: We performed a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were used to identify articles of interest. Meta-analysis was performed by using RevMan Version 5.4. Results: The six included comparative studies (19,527 patients: 11,545 reinforcement group versus 7982 control group) covered an approximately 20-year study period (2005-2023). All the studies included were observational in nature. Meta-analysis of pooled results showed that, compared to the control group, the reinforcement group recorded a statistically significant lower DSF rate (OR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.60, p = 0.0004). Considering secondary outcomes, no statistically significant differences were identified between the two groups in terms of operative time, EBL, overall postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay. Just major postoperative complications were considerably lower in the reinforcement group compared to the control group (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.43, 0.99, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Duodenal stump reinforcement appears to reduce the rate of DSF after distal or total gastrectomy for malignant gastric disease. Given the significant biases among meta-analyzed studies, our results require careful interpretation. Further randomized, possibly multicenter trials may turn out to be of paramount importance in confirming our results.

Developments in pancreatic cancer emerging therapies, diagnostic methods, and epidemiology

Pancreatic cancer is still one of the deadliest malignancies, characterised by late-stage diagnosis, aggressive biology, and considerable resistance to conventional treatments. Despite improvements in understanding the molecular mechanisms and innovations in treatment, the overall survival remains abysmal: fewer than 9 % of patients survive beyond 5 years. By 2030, PC is predicted to become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. owing to chemoresistance, rapid metastatic spread, and limited effective immunotherapeutic choices. This review highlights current progress in this field, including epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic tools, and emerging biomarkers. Recent progress in genetic and molecular profiling has provided important information about pancreatic cancer. It has identified key mutations in genes like KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4 that play a major role in driving the disease. Such revelations have provided the impetus to explore novel targeted therapies against these mutations. Furthermore, the advances in liquid biopsies incorporating circulating tumour cells, circulating tumour DNA, and exosomes hold substantial promise for early diagnosis, treatment response monitoring, and detection of minimal residual disease-any of which could radically transform PC management. While very limited options for the treatment of advanced-stage PC remain, the only potential curative treatment is surgery, yet only 10-15 % of patients are diagnosed with potentially resectable disease. Researchers are looking into new methods to help more patients qualify for surgery. This involves using chemotherapy and radiotherapy to reduce the size of the tumor before the operation. New chemotherapy treatments like FOLFIRINOX (which includes 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin) have improved results for some patients, but they can still cause significant side effects. Immunotherapy, though revolutionary in other cancers, has had limited success in PC due to the tumour's immunosuppressive microenvironment. Researchers are looking into using immune checkpoint inhibitors together with chemotherapy, radiation, and drugs that target the surrounding tissue to improve the body's immune response. There is also considerable excitement surrounding personalised approaches with adoptive cell therapies such as CAR-T cells and TILs, which are trialled with early evidence of potential efficacy. Attempts are also being made to address the dense desmoplastic stroma of the tumour that characterises PC. Drugs that can fight resistance or new medicines that might affect the tumor environment, stop changes in surrounding tissues, and improve how drugs are delivered have shown some potential in laboratory tests so far. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems are also being developed to improve the bioavailability and targeted delivery of chemotherapy.

A Comparison of Machine Learning-Based Models and a Simple Clinical Bedside Tool to Predict Morbidity and Mortality After Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery in the Elderly

Frailty in the elderly population is associated with increased vulnerability to stressors, including surgical interventions. This study compared machine learning (ML) models with a clinical bedside tool, the Gastrointestinal Surgery Frailty Index (GiS-FI), for predicting mortality and morbidity in elderly patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery. In a multicenter analysis of 937 patients aged ≥65 years, the performance of various predictive models including Random Forest (RF), Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), Stepwise Regression, K-Nearest Neighbors, Neural Network, and Support Vector Machine algorithms were evaluated. The overall 30-day mortality and morbidity rates were 6.1% and 35.7%, respectively. For mortality prediction, the RF model demonstrated superior performance with an AUC of 0.822 (95% CI 0.714-0.931), outperforming the GiS-FI score (AUC = 0.772, 95% CI 0.675-0.868). For morbidity prediction, all models showed more modest discrimination, with stepwise regression and LASSO regression achieving the highest performance (AUCs of 0.652 and 0.647, respectively). Our findings suggest that ML approaches, particularly RF algorithm, offer enhanced predictive accuracy compared to traditional clinical scores for mortality risk assessment in elderly cancer patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. These advanced analytical tools could provide valuable decision support for surgical risk stratification in this vulnerable population.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and alcohol use disorders: An emerging unexpected beneficial effect

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are increasingly used for the management of people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or obesity. Numerous concordant animal and human studies suggest that GLP-1RAs could reduce the risk of addiction, especially alcohol use disorders (AUD). This comprehensive review aims at summarising the known effects of GLP-1RAs on AUD. An extensive literature search detected clinical (either observational or controlled) studies that investigated the prevalence and severity of AUD in obese/T2DM patients treated with GLP-1RAs compared with a control group. In seven observational cohort studies (12 paired data for comparisons), the prevalence of AUD was reduced by 35% (hazard ratio 0.65; 95% confidence interval 0.56-0.74) with GLP-1RA therapy when compared to no-GLP-1 therapy. The protection by GLP-1RAs concerned both incidence and recurrence of AUD. These positive human findings confirm preclinical data in rodents and monkeys. Some genetic, experimental and functional neuroimaging human studies also supported a potential role of the GLP-1 system in the alcohol-related reward process. Only two randomised controlled trials are available yet with inconclusive results, but several are ongoing to confirm the protective effect of semaglutide on AUD. Different neuronal and psychological mechanisms involving the reward pathways are proposed to explain the favourable findings reported with GLP-1RAs. In conclusion, available data from observational cohort studies showed a concordant and significantly reduced risk of AUD and alcohol consumption habits with GLP-1RA therapy. However, further studies are required before considering any indication of GLP-1RAs for the prevention or management of AUD.

Minimally invasive versus open distal pancreatectomy for pancreatic Tumors: An updated meta-analysis and meta-regression

This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP) and open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) for pancreatic neoplasms. A meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines, registered on PROSPERO, included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and propensity-score matched studies. Data from Cochrane Central, PubMed, and Embase were analyzed, focusing on procedure efficacy (e.g., length of hospital stay and reoperations), oncologic outcomes (e.g., R0 resections), surgical outcomes (e.g., blood loss and operative time), and postoperative outcomes (e.g., 90-day mortality, severe complications, pancreatic fistula). Among 23 studies, MIDP showed significantly reduced 90-day mortality (OR: 0.57, p = 0.03), severe (CDC ≥ III) complications (OR: 0.81, p = 0.04), hospital stay (MD: 2.38 days, p < 0.01), reoperations (OR: 0.65, p < 0.01) and blood loss (MD: 137.66 mL, p < 0.01) compared to ODP. No significant differences were found in postoperative pancreatic fistula (OR: 1.06, p = 0.74) or operative time (MD: 1.95 min, p = 0.87). ODP showed a significantly lower incidence of R0 resections (OR: 1.57, p < 0.01). Subgroup analyses of RCTs favored MIDP for 90-day mortality, severe complications, and hospital stay, but found no differences in pancreatic fistula or operative time. Meta-regression identified age and tumor size as influential covariates. MIDP offers superior outcomes in procedure efficacy, surgical and postoperative outcomes compared to ODP. These findings highlight MIDP as a safe and effective alternative for pancreatic surgery, supported by robust subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

Complication of Internal Herniation-related Bowel Obstruction Post-Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) Bypass and Management: Series Case Sharing (Video Report)

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a global health concern associated with multiple comorbidities, and bariatric surgery remains one of the most effective interventions for sustained weight loss and metabolic improvement. The Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) bypass is a novel procedure that offers a simplified surgical approach while maintaining efficacy. However, despite its advantages, SASI bypass carries a risk of postoperative complications, including internal herniation-related bowel obstruction-a rare but potentially life-threatening condition requiring prompt recognition and intervention.

METHOD

We report 3 cases of internal herniation following SASI bypass, 2 performed robotically and 1 laparoscopically. Despite uneventful surgical procedures, all 3 patients developed postoperative internal herniation, with symptom onset ranging from 1 week to 16 months after surgery. A comparative summary of their clinical presentations and outcomes is provided in the accompanying table. Due to timely diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention, all patients had favorable outcomes. In addition, we compiled and edited a surgical video from the third case to illustrate the operative management of this complication.

RESULTS

Computed tomography (CT) emerged as the gold standard for diagnosis, although immediate surgical exploration was necessary in cases of peritonitis or hemodynamic instability. Notably, 1 patient (Case 2) experienced rapid weight loss, a factor previously implicated as a potential risk for internal herniation. Petersen's defect was the most common herniation site in SASI bypass, resembling the pattern seen in One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) but differing from Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), where multiple mesenteric defects increase the risk. While a longer biliopancreatic limb may predispose SASI and OAGB patients to herniation, consensus on routine defect closure remains lacking.

CONCLUSION

Internal herniation is a rare but serious complication of SASI bypass, with delayed diagnosis potentially leading to bowel ischemia or perforation. CT is essential for early detection, while timely surgical intervention is critical in symptomatic cases. The necessity of routine Petersen's defect closure remains debated, highlighting the need for further studies to determine the true incidence and optimal prevention strategies.

Post-Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Cirrhosis and the Role of Liver Transplantation: A Report from a Referral Transplant Center

BACKGROUND

Despite their benefits, metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) has been associated with rare but severe complications, including liver failure (LF) and the need for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). The exact mechanisms underlying MBS-related cirrhosis remain unclear, and comprehensive data on this topic are scarce.

METHOD

This retrospective study analyzed 10 patients who underwent OLT after MBS due to decompensated LF. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected and analyzed, including pre- and post-MBS body mass indexes (BMI), liver function tests, and MELD scores.

RESULTS

Mean age was 42.9 years with the female percentage of 40%. Except for two patients who had 110 and 120 months between the MBS and OLT, remaining eight cases had a mean 19.6 months interval between the MBS and OLT. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) being the most common procedures, two of them reported consumption of alcohol, one died afterwards. Four patients died due to different reasons through the study (Two sleeve (SG), and one for each RYGB and one-anastomosis gastric bypass). There were significant correlations between overall survival (OS) and age (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (r) = 0.85, p = 0.002), bilirubin (r = - 0.74, p = 0.013), and MELD score (r = - 0.69, p = 0.026). Survival with log rank test was only significant for MBS types (p = 0.035). COX regression was significant when compare RYGB vs. SG (Exp(B) = 0.069, p = 0.048).

CONCLUSION

MBS-related cirrhosis is rare but potentially life-threatening and OLT is the final step with a noticeable risk of mortality. Comprehensive preoperative liver assessment, careful selection of MBS procedures, and close postoperative monitoring are crucial for mitigating risks.

Assessing academic impact through a bibliometrics analysis: Gastroesophageal reflux disease in the context of obesity treatment and bariatric surgery

Aims

The global rise in obesity rates has led to increased use of bariatric surgery, which can potentially exacerbate or induce gastroesophageal reflux disease. This study aimed to assess the academic impact and trends in research on gastroesophageal reflux disease in the context of obesity treatment and bariatric surgery through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis.

Materials and methods

A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data from Web of Science and Scopus databases, covering publications from 1993 to 2024. The study utilized the Bibliometrix R package to analyze publication trends, collaborative networks, and research topics.

Results

The analysis encompassed 257 documents from 82 sources, with 6192 total citations and an 8.2% annual growth rate in publications. The United States emerged as the leading contributor with 90 publications. Key research topics included bariatric surgery, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, with increasing focus on complications and revisional bariatric surgery in recent years. Two main research clusters were identified: one focusing on general health aspects and demographics, and another on specialized bariatric procedures and outcomes. However, the analysis is constrained by its reliance on data from only two bibliographic databases, which may not encompass all pertinent studies, and by a geographic bias toward high-income countries. Moreover, our deep literature reviews highlighted that obesity is a known risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease, and while Roux-en-Y gastric bypass often reduces gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms, sleeve gastrectomy may exacerbate or cause de novo gastroesophageal reflux disease postoperatively.

Conclusions

This bibliometric study reveals a significant increase in research activity on gastroesophageal reflux disease in relation to obesity treatment and bariatric surgery, particularly since 2017. The findings highlight the growing importance of this field and the need for continued international research efforts to optimize surgical protocols and improve patient outcomes.

Unraveling the site-specific features in small intestinal stromal tumors: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are a rare and less well-characterized disease. There is limited information on the clinical features of small intestinal GISTs at different sites.

AIMS

To enhance the understanding of the clinical characteristics and disease behavior of small intestinal GISTs based on their sites.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of medical records for 317 patients diagnosed with primary small intestinal GISTs confirmed by surgical pathology, comparing their clinical features and tumor characteristics.

RESULTS

According to this cohort's data, duodenal GISTs presented with longer disease durations and higher prevalence of melena (44.6%), while jejunal GISTs manifested as abdominal masses (11.5%) and acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) (13.3%), with the highest rate of emergency surgeries (16.8%). Ileal GISTs were associated with an older age of onset and a higher prevalence of hematochezia (19.6%), with one-third of cases discovered incidentally during gynecological procedures. Notably, the biological behavior of small intestinal GISTs varied significantly by sites. Tumors demonstrated different immunochemical markers and a progressive increase in diameter, mitotic activity, T and M stages, and risk classification from the duodenum to the jejunum and ileum. These findings warrant further validation in prospective multicenter studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Small intestinal GISTs might exhibit distinct clinical presentations and oncological features depending on their sites.

Patterns of Survival and Recurrence in Poor Responders to Neoadjuvant Therapy for Gastric Cancer: A Real-World Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) is increasingly used in locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC), but a significant proportion of patients respond poorly, causing adverse outcomes. Few studies have specifically examined the prognosis of this subgroup. This study aimed to analyze survival and recurrence in poor responders to guide follow-up and treatment strategies.

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study included patients with LAGC who received NAT. Tumor regression was graded following the Becker system, defining TRG 2-3 as poor response. Outcomes were assessed for overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and recurrence patterns.

RESULTS

648 patients were included: 341 with TRG 2 and 307 with TRG 3. In the entire cohort, the 3-year OS and RFS were 54.6% and 55.2%, respectively. Recurrence occurred in 299 patients, with the following recurrence patterns: distant metastasis (26.1%, n = 78), peritoneal metastasis (21.1%, n = 63), locoregional recurrence (18.7%, n = 56), and multiple-site recurrence (18.4%, n = 55). Liver metastasis was significantly higher in the TRG 3 group than in the TRG 2 group (14.1% versus 5.3%, P = 0.010). ypN+ was the most significant independent risk factor for recurrence (OR = 2.73, 95% CI 1.83-4.08, P < 0.001); an increasing number of positive lymph nodes led to higher 3-year cumulative mortality in patients. Despite poor response to NAT, completing over four adjuvant chemotherapy cycles was associated with improved survival outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Poor NAT responders in LAGC have high recurrence rates, particularly in the first year post-surgery, with ypN+ status being the strongest predictor of recurrence. Completing over four cycles of AC was associated with survival improvement in this group.

[Relevance of frozen section diagnostics in pancreatic surgery]

Frozen sections are performed in pancreatic surgery for three reasons: histopathological confirmation of previously unclear space-occupying lesions, determination of the extent of surgical resection in an operative exploration and for possible follow-up resections after previously carried out surgical resections. Overall, in the literature there are heterogeneous data with respect to an improvement in the prognosis of a secondary R0 resection by a repeat resection in comparison to a R1 resection. Nowadays, extended pancreatic resections including vascular resections are technically feasible and safe. Nevertheless, with respect to the precise radicality in the surgical procedure, all patient characteristics should be taken into consideration in addition to the histopathological diagnosis of the frozen sections.

Predicting liver metastasis in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors with an interpretable machine learning algorithm: a SEER-based study

Background

Liver metastasis is the most common site of metastasis in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PaNETs), significantly affecting patient prognosis. This study aims to develop machine learning algorithms to predict liver metastasis in PaNETs patients, assisting clinicians in the personalized clinical decision-making for treatment.

Methods

We collected data on eligible PaNETs patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database for the period from 2010 to 2021. The Boruta algorithm and the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) were used for feature selection. We applied 10 different machine learning algorithms to develop models for predicting the risk of liver metastasis in PaNETs patients. The model's performance was assessed using a variety of metrics, including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the area under the precision-recall curve (AUPRC), decision curve analysis (DCA), calibration curves, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, and Kappa score. The SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were employed to interpret models, and the best-performing model was used to develop a web-based calculator.

Results

The study included a cohort of 7,463 PaNETs patients, of whom 1,356 (18.2%) were diagnosed with liver metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis. Through the combined use of the Boruta and LASSO methods, T-stage, N-stage, tumor size, grade, surgery, lymphadenectomy, chemotherapy, and bone metastasis were identified as independent risk factors for liver metastasis in PaNETs. Compared to other machine learning algorithms, the gradient boosting machine (GBM) model exhibited superior performance, achieving an AUC of 0.937 (95% CI: 0.931-0.943), an AUPRC of 0.94, and an accuracy of 0.87. DCA and calibration curve analyses demonstrate that the GBM model provides better clinical decision-making capabilities and predictive performance. Furthermore, the SHAP framework revealed that surgery, N-stage, and T-stage are the primary decision factors influencing the machine learning model's predictions. Finally, based on the GBM algorithm, we developed an accessible web-based calculator to predict the risk of liver metastasis in PaNETs.

Conclusion

The GBM model excels in predicting the risk of liver metastasis in PaNETs patients, outperforming other machine learning models and providing critical support for developing personalized medical strategies in clinical practice.

Left-sided portal hypertension: what an interventional radiologist can offer?

Left-sided portal hypertension (LPH) refers to increased splenic venous pressure caused by splenic vein stenosis or occlusion. Pancreatitis is the leading cause of LPH. Typically, LPH remains asymptomatic, but it can lead to life-threatening hemorrhage from ruptured fundal varices in about 10% of patients. Further, it may be complicated by hypersplenism. Interventional radiology plays an essential role in LPH patients with failed endoscopic treatment. Variceal embolization is an effective salvage measure in bleeding gastric varices, but it carries a risk of recurrence and worsening of hypersplenism. Considering the pathophysiology, splenic vein recanalization (SVR) appears to be the best treatment; nevertheless, its lower technical success rate limits its utility only to a subgroup of LPH patients. Partial splenic embolization (PSE), a non-surgical alternative to splenectomy, reduces the splenic volume and venous outflow, thereby lowering variceal pressure. PSE is technically easier, which may explain its widespread use. Nonetheless, PSE can be complicated by life-threatening sepsis and portal vein thrombosis. Despite all attempts, some LPH patients eventually require a splenectomy. Importantly, the choice of therapy requires multidisciplinary discussion and is often influenced by availability, expertise, and clinical context. This article discusses various interventional strategies for managing LPH with the available evidence. KEY POINTS: Question Pressure within the main portal vein is normal in left-sided portal hypertension; thus, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt is ineffective. Findings Splenic vein stent placement can restore hepatopetal splenic blood flow and decompress splenic venous pressure. Clinical relevance Partial splenic embolization (PSE) is the most widely used interventional approach to manage left-sided portal hypertension-related complications.

Use of textbook outcome as a quality metric in hepatopancreaticobiliary surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Textbook outcomes (TOs) represent the optimal course after surgery. To date, no meta-analysis has assessed the pooled TOs of patients undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery and the effect of TO achievement on patient outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess TO achievement across different studies and to characterize the effect of TO achievement on patient-related outcomes, including disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched (1990-2024). The criteria used to define TO and the median overall TO in HPB surgery were obtained. In addition, a random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effect of TO achievement on 5-year OS and DFS.

RESULTS

A total of 27 studies involving 517,304 patients met inclusion criteria. The main criteria used to define TO included absence of readmission and mortality within 30 days after discharge, severe postoperative complications, prolonged hospital stay, and negative surgical margin (R0). Of note, the main factors related to TO achievement were younger patient age and lower American Society of Anesthesiologists score. Overall, the median rates of TOs achieved across procedures were 62.0% (IQR, 48.0%-69.0%) for hepatic procedure, 54.0% (IQR, 41.0%-68.0%) for biliary procedure, 46.0% (IQR, 42.0%-46.5%) for combined hepatopancreatic procedure, 45.0% (IQR, 30.5%-59.0%) for pancreatic procedure, 33.0% (IQR, 32.2%-34.0%) for liver transplantation, and 19.5% (IQR, 16.8%-22.3%) for combined hepatobiliary procedure. TO achievement was associated with improved odds of 5-year OS (odds ratio [OR], 1.22 [95% CI, 1.20-1.24]) and 5-year DFS (OR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.16-1.37]).

CONCLUSION

Overall, hepatic and biliary operations had the highest TO achievement, followed by pancreatic procedures. In contrast, hepatobiliary surgery and liver transplantation had the lowest TO. There was a significant discrepancy in the definition of TO across different studies, highlighting the need for consensus on the definition of TO.

Development of a nomogram model to predict postoperative urinary retention risk after transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair

OBJECTIVE

To explore independent risk factors and to establish a predictive model for postoperative urinary retention (POUR) following transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TAPP).

METHODS

Between January 2017 and December 2023, 598 patients with inguinal hernia who underwent TAPP at the General Surgery Department of Zunyi Medical University Affiliated Liupanshui Hospital were enrolled in the study. Participants were randomly divided into training and validation sets (7:3 ratio). The training set was further divided into POUR and non-POUR groups (38 and 381 cases, respectively). Independent risk factors for POUR were screened by logistic regression analysis. A nomogram predictive model was established based on the independent risk factors. The model's predictive ability was evaluated.

RESULTS

Logistic regression revealed recurrent hernia (P = 0.013, OR = 0.279, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.105-0.805), BPH (P = 0.002, OR = 5.09, 95% CI: 2.658-96.282), preoperative catheterization (P = 0.004, OR = 0.087, 95% CI: 0.012-0.370), operation time (P < 0.001, OR = 0.015, 95% CI: 1.006-1.023), and use of narcotic analgesics (P = 0.042, OR = 2.224, 95% CI: 1.021-5.222) as independent risk factors for POUR after TAPP. Discriminant analysis showed the training set AUC was 0.763 (95% CI: 0.684-0.842, P < 0.001) while that for the validation set was 0.812 (95% CI: 0.677-0.947, P < 0.001). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test was performed to assess calibration of the training (P = 0.696) and validation (P = 0.194) sets.

CONCLUSION

Recurrent hernia, BPH, preoperative catheterization, operation time, and use of narcotic analgesics were identified as independent risk factors for POUR after TAPP. The nomogram model for risk prediction based on these factors has strong predictive performance and application prospect.

Frailty Status as a Predictor of Outcomes in Emergency Surgeries for Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The global aging population has brought increasing attention to frailty as a critical predictor of health outcomes. Defined by the British Geriatric Society as a state of diminished physiological reserve across multiple systems, frailty reflects a heightened vulnerability to adverse events. While the negative impact of frailty is well established in elective surgical settings, its influence on outcomes following emergency abdominal surgery remains less clear. This meta-analysis evaluates postoperative outcomes in frail versus non-frail elderly patients undergoing emergency abdominal surgery. A comprehensive search of eight electronic databases was conducted from inception to January 2024, with an additional search in June 2024. Eligible studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. The primary outcome was postoperative mortality, with secondary outcomes, including complications, length of hospital stay, discharge destination, readmission, and reoperation rates. Data were synthesized using RevMan5 (Cochrane Collaboration, London, UK) and R (R Development Core Team, Vienna, Austria), applying both fixed and random-effects models. Risk of bias in individual studies was assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) tool. Thirty-one studies involving 1,750,195 participants were included. Frail patients showed significantly increased 30-day (OR: 2.83, 95% CI: 2.45-3.27; p<0.00001) and 12-month (OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.32-2.93; p=0.0008) mortality. They also experienced higher overall morbidity, more severe complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥3: OR: 2.39, 95% CI: 1.82-3.13; p<0.00001), longer hospital stays (WMD: 3.74 days, 95% CI: 1.54-5.94; p=0.0008), and increased rates of readmission and reoperation (OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.25-1.75; p<0.00001). Discharge to rehabilitation or skilled nursing facilities was also more common among frail patients. These findings demonstrate that frailty significantly worsens postoperative outcomes in elderly patients undergoing emergency abdominal surgery. Further research is warranted to explore the integration of frailty assessment tools in emergency settings to support surgical decision-making for this vulnerable population.

Perioperative and oncologic outcomes after total pancreatectomy and pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic head adenocarcinoma-A propensity score-matched analysis from the German Cancer Registry Group

BACKGROUND

To compare perioperative morbidity and mortality in patients receiving pancreatoduodenectomy or total pancreatectomy for pancreatic head adenocarcinoma using German Cancer Registry data.

METHODS

Anonymized pooled data were retrieved from regional cancer registries participating in the German Cancer Registry Group of the Association of German Tumor Centers. Included were patients diagnosed with pancreatic head adenocarcinoma since 2016, receiving curative intent pancreatoduodenectomy or total pancreatectomy. Patients were propensity-score matched according to age, sex, and histopathology. Primary endpoints were 30- and 90-day postoperative mortality. Secondary endpoints were administration of adjuvant chemotherapy, long-term survival, and patterns of cancer recurrence. The data were analyzed using R.

RESULTS

In total, 756 patients per treatment group were matched for further analyses. R0-resection rate was comparable between pancreatoduodenectomy and total pancreatectomy (69.6 vs 73.4%, P = .154). The 30-day (9.5 vs 4.8%, P < .001) and 90-day postoperative mortality (18.0 vs 11.0%, P < .001) rates were significantly lower after pancreatoduodenectomy compared with total pancreatectomy. After pancreatoduodenectomy, more patients received adjuvant chemotherapy (43.6 vs 53.3%, P < .001) and time to adjuvant chemotherapy was shorter (60.1 vs 52.7 days, P = .002) compared with total pancreatectomy. Long-term overall survival was worse after total pancreatectomy (P < .001), also in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (P = .019). The sites of recurrence were comparable between both groups (P = .274).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study show greater perioperative morbidity and mortality after total pancreatectomy compared with pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic head malignancy. Also, long-term survival was worse after total pancreatectomy. These results emphasize the role of pancreatoduodenectomy as a standard surgical procedure for pancreatic head adenocarcinoma and suggest that total pancreatectomy should only be performed in selected patients.

Breastfeeding in metabolic and bariatric patients: a comprehensive guide for surgeons, patients, and the multidisciplinary team

Since nearly 40% of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) patients are individuals with the ability to bear children, many may seek to become pregnant or may be currently lactating when seeking surgery. While many patients plan to breastfeed, MBS patients are at high risk for premature cessation of breastfeeding. Limited literature exists on the impact of MBS on lactation and there are no established guidelines to help clinicians support and educate MBS patients about breastfeeding. Herein, we aim to fill that gap by providing a comprehensive guide for bariatric surgeons, obstetricians, women's health providers, lactation consultants, registered dietitians, bariatric nurse coordinators, and advanced practice providers to support breastfeeding in patients with a history of MBS or who are considering MBS. We review physician-patient discussion points on how MBS impacts lactation, the micronutrient and caloric needs for this unique population, and data to support successful breastfeeding in post-MBS patients who are lactating regarding practical, anesthetic, and imaging considerations.

The role of dulaglutide in the treatment of alcohol use disorder: a case report

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, medications commonly employed in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, have illustrated several additional benefits, including weight loss and potentially reduce addictive cravings. Several studies have indicated that GLP-1 receptor agonists may be effective in treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), for which current pharmacologic therapies are often inadequate. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of dopaminergic transmission and reduced gastric emptying, both of which reduce alcohol craving and tolerance. This case report discusses dulaglutide's ability to reduce alcohol consumption. During a visit to an outpatient behavioral health clinic, a 44-year-old male was evaluated for weight loss. His medical history revealed a BMI of 41.8, hypertension, major depressive disorder, and pre-diabetes. The individual also reported the consumption of approximately ninety beers per month and was in the pre-contemplation phase of change. As part of the treatment plan, the patient was prescribed dulaglutide to manage pre-diabetes and facilitate weight loss. During subsequent appointments, the individual not only experienced weight loss but also noted a substantial reduction in alcohol cravings and consumption. However, following a lapse in insurance coverage the following year, the individual had to discontinue his dulaglutide, resulting in a return to previous drinking patterns. Future research should focus on confirming existing animal study results in humans, with the hope that GLP-1 receptor agonists can become a mainstay treatment for AUD.

Arterial Resections in Pancreatic Cancer-An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Complete oncological resection of pancreatic cancer remains the cornerstone in treatment of pancreatic cancer. Anatomical relations to major vessels continue to play an ongoing important role in the decision-making regarding treatment options in pancreatic cancer. Despite concomitant venous resections being routinely performed in major centers, arterial resections remain controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the short- and long-term outcomes of pancreatic cancer surgery with concomitant arterial resections to standard non-arterial resections from modern studies. We included studies comparing pancreatic cancer surgery with arterial resections to standard non-arterial surgery for pancreatic cancer published from 2018 to 2024. A total of seven articles involving 5465 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included for analysis. Arterial resections are associated with a greater risk of mortality compared to standard resections (Risk ratio (RR): 3.28; 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.75-14.46]; p = 0.0365). There were no significant differences in overall morbidity (RR: 1.48; 95% CI [1.16-1.89]; p = 0.2923) or serious complications (Mean Difference (MD): 2.6; 95% CI: [-21.52-16.32]; p = 0.738). Arterial resections were associated with a 3.1-fold increased chance of R0 resection (RR: 3.11; 95% CI [1.65-5.86]; p < 0.0227). Arterial resection in pancreatic cancer continues to be associated with an increased risk of mortality; however, recent studies show no significant increase in morbidity whilst significantly increasing R0 resections.

Removing Barriers to Tumor 'Oxygenation': Depleting Glutathione Nanozymes in Cancer Therapy

Nanozymes are nanomaterials capable of mimicking natural enzyme catalysis in the complex biological environment of the human body. Due to their good stability and strong catalytic properties, nanozymes are widely used in various fields of biomedicine. Among them, nanozymes that trigger intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels for cancer therapy have gained significant attention. However, the 'explosion' of ROS in tumor cells was prevented by the high levels of glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). GSH, a prominent endogenous antioxidant, increases the resistance of tumor cells to oxidative stress by scavenging ROS. Certain nanozymes can deplete intracellular GSH levels by mimicking GSH oxidase (GSHOx), GSH peroxidase (GPx) or by interfering with the reduction of oxidized glutathione (GSSG). On the one hand, elevated the level of intracellular ROS and induced lipid peroxidation reaction leading to ferroptosis. On the other hand, it creates favorable conditions for the treatment of tumors with photodynamic therapy (PDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), chemodynamical therapy (CDT) and targeted therapy. In this paper, we present a comprehensive analysis of GSH-depleting nanozymes reported in recent years, including classification, mechanism, responsiveness to TME and their roles in cancer therapy, and look forward to future applications and developments.

How is 3D modeling in metabolic surgery utilized and what is its clinical benefit: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Three-dimensional (3D) modeling is an emerging technology in surgery, with applications in operative planning, surgical education, and patient engagement. Metabolic surgery, the most effective treatment for obesity, is increasingly prevalent leading to new complex clinical challenges. This systematic review aims to understand the use of 3D modeling in metabolic surgery and its impact on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Following a registered protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42024545311), a comprehensive search using MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL Cochrane Library was conducted. Eligible papers underwent screening and full-text review. A qualitative thematic analysis was performed alongside meta-analyses on available volumetric data. Results were reported as directed by the PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included, with most at Level II evidence ( n = 19, 66%). Studies focused on operative planning and surgical practice (90%, n = 26) and were subdivided into preoperative planning (14%, n = 4), postoperative diagnosis (31%, n = 9), and postoperative assessment and prediction (45%, n = 13). Only three papers addressed surgical education (10%). 3D modeling for patient education was unexplored. To assess 3D modeling's cross-study consistency, pooled meta-analyses on preoperative and postoperative 3D gastric volumetry and abdominal circumference were performed. Average preoperative stomach volume was 794.93 mL (95% confidence interval [CI]: 518.61-1071.26 mL). Postoperative LSG and RYGB/OAGB gastric volumes were 171.71 mL (95% CI: 113.37-288.58 mL) and 35.73 mL (95% CI: 29.32-42.14 mL) respectively. Average abdominal circumference was 120.04 cm (95% CI: 100.72-139.35 cm). All volumes were consistent with published data.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review highlighted the accuracy of 3D modeling for volumetric assessments and its developing role in surgical planning and training. However, its potential benefits in AR or 3DP models, in patient education or for answering bariatric surgical debates using 3D volumetric studies remain underutilized.

Is there consensus on diagnostics and treatment in colonic diverticulitis? Results of international survey

BACKGROUND

Clinical guidelines (CGs) developed by expert communities benefit both the patient and the clinician. Meanwhile a considerable proportion of specialists are not familiar with or follow them in their daily practice. Colonic diverticulitis (CD) is the third most common cause of hospitalization among patients with gastrointestinal diseases and common indication for colon resection. Actual tactics for diagnosis and treatment of CD, as well as data on what influences its choice and how the decisions made agree with the existing CGs can be identified by anonymous surveys.

METHODS

An anonymous internet survey of surgeons and coloproctologists was conducted. Groups of questions included demographics of the respondents; self-esteem score; sources of guidance in decision-making; classification systems for CD; preferable diagnostic tests; management of CD; indications for elective surgery; and outcomes of surgical treatment and others (n = 17). The study was conducted in accordance with the CHERRIES criteria. The required minimum sample size was calculated as 377 participants.

RESULTS

The study involved 401 respondents from 9 countries: 76.1% were general surgeons and 14.5% were colorectal surgeons. Excellent or good knowledge of the problem was claimed by 82.8% of the colorectal vs 66.2% of the general surgeons (p = 0.013). In decision-making respondents were largely guided by their professional experience, methods adopted in their clinic and domestic CGs. General Surgeons more often chose tactics inconsistent with CGs than coloproctologists. The largest differences between subgroups were noted for awareness of the reversal of Hartmann's procedure, most common postoperative complications and indications for elective surgery.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to the existing CGs was poor, which entails significant variation in the approaches practiced by the respondents from different cohorts. There is no consensus on the aspects that are not yet covered in the CGs. Further research is needed to elucidate these gaps and update the guidelines accordingly.

The far-reaching impact of robotic-assisted surgery on healthcare systems

The use of Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) in Canada continues to grow and evolve, demonstrating improvements in patient and clinical outcomes across a wide range of surgical procedures. Global studies show how implementing a RAS program can also increase hospital capacity, drive benefits in health human resources, and improve overall health system efficiency. Despite the evidence of these positive results, Canada lags behind other developed nations in adopting RAS. Drawing on the experience of surgeons and health leaders from across Canada, this article focuses on the benefits of adopting RAS and discusses the challenges organizations face in successfully funding and implementing RAS programs. This includes the innovative approaches health leaders are taking to support equitable access to RAS for patients and offers evidence-informed strategies that can help unlock the full potential of RAS-beyond the operating room-to improve overall quality of care and the sustainability of the Canadian healthcare system.

Effectiveness and Safety of Preoperative Nutritional Interventions on Surgical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Preoperative nutritional interventions, including low-calorie diets (LCDs) and very low-calorie diets (VLCDs), are commonly implemented in metabolic and bariatric surgery. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of preoperative dietary interventions in patients undergoing bariatric surgery, with primary outcomes including perioperative complications, operative time, and length of hospital stay. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, including studies that compared LCD and VLCD with regular diets in adults undergoing bariatric surgery. The primary outcomes assessed were perioperative complications, operative time, and length of hospital stay. Random- and fixed effects models were used for quantitative synthesis. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and ROBINS-I, while the certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Results: Eight trials comprising 1197 patients were included in the meta-analysis. VLCDs were associated with a significant reduction in perioperative complications (OR 0.59; 95% CI: 0.37-0.94; p = 0.03), whereas LCDs showed no significant effect on complications (OR 1.64; 95% CI: 0.71-3.78; p = 0.25). No significant reduction in operative time was observed (MD -2.64 min; 95% CI: -6.01 to 0.73; p = 0.12). Hospital stay was slightly reduced (MD -0.17 days; p = 0.0001), though the clinical significance remains uncertain. The certainty of evidence was low, primarily due to the risk of bias and small sample sizes. Conclusions: VLCDs may lower the risk of perioperative complications, while LCDs do not appear to provide this benefit. However, the evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity and low certainty. Further high-quality studies are needed to establish optimal preoperative nutritional protocols.

Education and Symptom Reporting in an mHealth App for Patients With Cancer: Mixed Methods Development and Validation Study

Background

The widespread prevalence of cancer across the globe demands cutting-edge solutions for its treatment. Current cancer therapies, notably chemotherapy, pose challenges due to their side effects. The early detection and management of the side effects are vital but complex. This study introduces a mobile health app designed to bridge the communication gaps between patients with cancer and health care providers. Hence, it allows patients to report symptoms immediately and also enables proactive symptom management by health care providers.

Objective

This study has 2 objectives: first, to design a cancer-focused mobile health app that integrates educational content and real-time symptom reporting for chemotherapy patients. Second, to validate and evaluate the app quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). The app seeks to foster health care communication, reduce hospital readmissions, and optimize symptom management, contributing to a more impactful patient experience.

Methods

This mixed-methods study details the development and validation of mobile health applications. The app was designed by a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, medical professionals, pharmaceutical chemists, computer engineers, and software developers, using agile methodologies. For validation, the app was assessed by 13 evaluators, including clinical professionals (nurses and physicians) and engineers. The evaluation included technical performance analysis using Google tools and quality assessment using the MARS, which measures engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information quality.

Results

Performance metrics highlighted areas for improvement, with loading times showing delays in displaying content. Meanwhile, the response time of the app was moderate, and visual stability remained excellent. The app achieved an overall MARS score of 3.75 (SD 0.42), indicating consistent quality, with functionality scoring the highest (4.35; SD 0.52) and engagement the lowest (3.31; SD 0.61). The reliability of the MARS was confirmed (interclass correlation coefficient: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.72-0.92). Evaluators unanimously praised the app's potential benefits for patients and clinical professionals while identifying areas for improvement such as customization, onboarding guidance, and navigation.

Conclusions

The CONTIGO app showed strengths in functionality, usability, and information quality, supported by robust security measures. However, areas such as user interactivity and engagement require improvement. Future refinements will integrate insights from patients with cancer to address user-specific needs and enhance the oncology care experience.