Crohn's disease diagnosis, treatment approach, and management paradigm: what the radiologist needs to know

Crohn's disease is one of the major subtypes of idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease and is characterized by chronic transmural intestinal inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract anywhere from mouth to the anus, with a predilection for the small bowel. Cross-sectional imaging with computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography plays a key role in confirming diagnosis, identifying and managing complications, assessing disease severity, and identifying response to medical therapy. This review will focus on the role of radiologists in the diagnosis and assessment of Crohn's disease. Additionally, a review of current medical therapy approaches, available medications, and side effects will be discussed. The review will also highlight key complications of medical therapy and associated diseases that should be evaluated by the radiologist with cross-sectional imaging.

NEGATIVE-PRESSURE WOUND THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF COMPLEX INJURIES AFTER TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

OBJECTIVE

To present an experience with negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the treatment of surgical wounds in patients treated for infections after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with or without dehiscence and prophylaxis in wounds considered at risk of healing problems.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated patients with TKA infection with or without surgical wound dehiscence and patients with risk factors for infection or surgical wound complications treated with Pico^(r) device for NPWT in addition to standard treatment of infection or dehiscence in our institution. We considered as an initial favorable outcome the resolution of the infectious process and the closure of the surgical wound dehiscences in the treated cases and the good progression of the wound without complicating events in the prophylactic cases.

RESULTS

We evaluated 10 patients who used Pico^(r) in our service. All patients had a favorable outcome according to established criteria. No complications were identified regarding the use of the NPWT device. The mean follow-up of the patients after the use of the device was 10.5 months.

CONCLUSION

The NPWT can be safely used in wound infections and complications following TKA with promising results. Long-term randomized prospective studies should be conducted to prove its effectiveness. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

Neurological Complications of Gastrointestinal Disease

There is a growing interest in the extraintestinal manifestations of common pediatric gastrointestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease. This article specifically focuses on the neurological symptoms that manifest because of these disorders and their treatments. Many neurological symptoms have been reported in association with these diseases, including neuropathy, myopathy, ataxia, headache, and seizures, among others. It is currently believed that these neurological symptoms are largely overlooked by practitioners and could be a red flag for earlier diagnosis. However, additional research, especially in the pediatric population, is warranted to further elaborate on the causality and pathophysiology of these neurological symptoms.

Phase II Randomized Trial of Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy to Decrease Surgical Site Infection in Patients Undergoing Laparotomy for Gastrointestinal, Pancreatic, and Peritoneal Surface Malignancies

BACKGROUND

Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a major source of morbidity and cost after resection of intra-abdominal malignancies. Negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been reported to significantly reduce SSIs when applied to the closed laparotomy incision. This article reports the results of a randomized clinical trial examining the effect of NPWT on SSI rates in surgical oncology patients with increased risk for infectious complications.

STUDY DESIGN

From 2012 to 2016, two hundred and sixty-five patients who underwent open resection of intra-abdominal neoplasms were stratified into 3 groups: gastrointestinal (n = 57), pancreas (n = 73), or peritoneal surface (n = 135) malignancy. They were randomized to receive NPWT or standard surgical dressing (SSD) applied to the incision from postoperative days 1 through 4. Primary outcomes of combined incisional (superficial and deep) SSI rates were assessed up to 30 days after surgery.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in superficial SSIs (12.8% vs 12.9%; p > 0.99) or deep SSI (3.0% vs 3.0%; p > 0.99) rates between the SSD and NPWT groups, respectively. When stratified by type of surgery, there were still no differences in combined incisional SSI rates for gastrointestinal (25% vs 24%; p > 0.99), pancreas (22% vs 22%; p > 0.99), and peritoneal surface malignancy (9% vs 9%; p > 0.99) patients. When performing univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis of demographic and operative factors for the development of combined incisional SSI, the only independent predictors were preoperative albumin (p = 0.0031) and type of operation (p = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of NPWT did not significantly reduce incisional SSI rates in patients having open resection of gastrointestinal, pancreatic, or peritoneal surface malignancies. Based on these results, at this time NPWT cannot be recommended as a therapeutic intervention to decrease infectious complications in these patient populations.

Gastrointestinal tract anastomoses with the biofragmentable anastomosis ring: is it still a valid technique for bowel anastomosis? Analysis of 203 cases and review of the literature

PURPOSE

Biofragmentable anastomosis ring (BAR) is an alternative to manual and stapled anastomoses performed within the upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of BAR utility for bowel anastomoses based on our own material.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed to a total of 203 patients who underwent bowel surgery with the use of BAR anastomosis within upper and lower gastrointestinal tract between 2004 and 2014. Data for the analysis was collected based on medical records, treatment protocols, and the results of histological examinations.

RESULTS

The study group consisted of 86 women and 117 men. The most common underlying pathology was a malignant disease (n = 165). Biofragmentable anastomosis ring (BAR) size 31 was the most commonly used (n = 87). A total of 169 colocolic or colorectal anastomoses and 28 ileocolic and 8 enteroenteric anastomoses were performed. The mortality rate was 0.5 % (n = 1) whereas re-surgery rate within 30 days was 8.4 % (n = 17). Twenty-eight patients developed perioperative complications with surgical site infection as the most common one (n = 11). Eight patients developed specific complications associated with BAR including an anastomotic leak (n = 6) and intestinal obstruction (n = 2). The mean time of hospital stay after surgery was 12.7 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of BAR for the GI tract anastomoses is simple and rapid method and it is characterized with an acceptable number of perioperative mortality and complication rates. Based on our experience, we recommend the use of BAR anastomosis in different types of intestinal anastomosis in varying clinical scenarios.

New WHO recommendations on intraoperative and postoperative measures for surgical site infection prevention: an evidence-based global perspective

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the most common health-care-associated infections in developing countries, but they also represent a substantial epidemiological burden in high-income countries. The prevention of these infections is complex and requires the integration of a range of preventive measures before, during, and after surgery. No international guidelines are available and inconsistencies in the interpretation of evidence and recommendations in national guidelines have been identified. Considering the prevention of SSIs as a priority for patient safety, WHO has developed evidence-based and expert consensus-based recommendations on the basis of an extensive list of preventive measures. We present in this Review 16 recommendations specific to the intraoperative and postoperative periods. The WHO recommendations were developed with a global perspective and they take into account the balance between benefits and harms, the evidence quality level, cost and resource use implications, and patient values and preferences.

Management of complex perianal Crohn's disease

Patients with Crohn's disease often develop perianal disease, successfully managed in most cases. However, its most aggressive form, complex perianal disease, is associated with high morbidity and a significant impairment in patients' quality of life. The aim of this review is to provide an updated approach to this condition, reviewing aspects of its epidemiology, diagnosis and therapeutic alternatives. Emerging treatment options are also discussed. A multidisciplinary assessment of these patients with a coordinated medical and surgical approach is crucial.

Application of carbon nanoparticles accelerates the rapid recovery of parathyroid function during thyroid carcinoma surgery with central lymph node dissection: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of carbon nanoparticles in identifying lymph nodes and promoting parathyroid gland function recovery after thyroid carcinoma surgery along with central lymph node dissection.

METHODS

A total of 231 patients who underwent thyroid carcinoma surgery combined with central lymph node dissection were divided into two groups: the CN group (intraoperative carbon nanoparticles injections) and the control group (no injection). Datas were collected respectively on the pre-operative, 1st, 7th and 30th postoperative days and monthly thereafter. While the pathological results (e.g. amount of incidental removed parathyroid glands and lymph nodes dissected), complications (e.g. rates of vocal cord paralysis, the neuromuscular symptoms, hypocalcemia and hypoparathyroidism), as well as follow-up outcomes of the serum Ca2+ and PTH levels were gathered and measured to be included in.

RESULTS

In regard to the results of the pathological tests, the control group had a relatively higher incidence of incidental parathyroidectomy when compared to the CN group (P < 0.05). The mean number of central lymph nodes dissected was rather higher in the CN group than that of the control group (P < 0.05).With respect to the follow-up results, the CN group had an earlier and faster recovery of serum PTH levels as compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The serum PTH levels of the CN group were apparently higher than that of the control group at the first week and month postoperatively (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found in rates of long-term postoperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Carbon nanoparticles play a key role in accurately identifying lymph nodes, reducing mistaken excision of parathyroid glands, accelerating rapid recovery of parathyroid function during thyroid carcinoma surgery with central lymph node dissection, without increasing the probability of postoperative complications.

Deconstructing negative pressure wound therapy

Since its introduction 20 years ago for the treatment of chronic wounds, negative pressure wound therapy use has expanded to a variety of other wound types. Various mechanisms of action for its efficacy in wound healing have been postulated, but no unifying theory exists. Proposed mechanisms include induction of perfusion changes, microdeformation, macrodeformation, exudate control and decreasing the bacterial load in the wound. We surmise that these different mechanisms have varying levels of dominance in each wound type. Specifically, negative pressure wound therapy is beneficial to acute open wounds because it induces perfusion changes and formation of granulation tissue. Post-surgical incisional wounds are positively affected by perfusion changes and exudate control. In the context of chronic wounds, negative pressure wound therapy removes harmful and corrosive substances within the wounds to affect healing. When skin grafts and dermal substitutes are used to close a wound, negative pressure wound therapy is effective in promoting granulation tissue formation, controlling exudate and decreasing the bacterial load in the wound. In this review, we elucidate some of the mechanisms behind the positive wound healing effects of negative pressure wound therapy, providing possible explanations for these effects in different wound types.

A systematic review and meta-analysis including GRADE qualification of the risk of surgical site infections after prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy compared with conventional dressings in clean and contaminated surgery

OBJECTIVE

Systematically review and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) studies on prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy (pNPWT) to prevent surgical site infections (SSIs).

INTRODUCTION

pNPWT has been suggested as a new method to prevent wound complications, specifically SSIs, by its application on closed incisional wounds.

METHODS

This review was conducted as part of the development of the Global Guidelines for prevention of SSIs commissioned by World Health Organization in Geneva. PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and the World Health Organization database between January 1, 1990 and October 7, 2015 were searched. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing pNPWT with conventional wound dressings and reporting on the incidence of SSI. Meta-analyses were performed with a random effect model. GRADE Pro software was used to qualify the evidence.

RESULTS

Nineteen articles describing 21 studies (6 randomized controlled trials and 15 observational) were included in the review. Summary estimate showed a significant benefit of pNPWT over conventional wound dressings in reducing SSIs in both randomized controlled trials and observational studies, odds ratio of 0.56 (95% confidence interval, 0.32-0.96; P = 0.04) and odds ratio of 0.30 (95% confidence interval, 0.22-0.42; P < 0.00001), respectively. This translates into lowering the SSI rate from 140 to 83 (49-135) per 1000 patients and from 106 to 34 (25-47) per 1000 patients, respectively. In stratified analyses, these results were consistent in both clean and clean-contaminated procedures and in different types of surgery, however results were no longer significant for orthopaedic/trauma surgery. The level of evidence as qualified with GRADE was however low.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-quality evidence indicates that prophylactic NPWT significantly reduces the risk of SSIs.

Anal Canal Adenocarcinoma in a Patient with Longstanding Crohn's Disease Arising From Rectal Mucosa that Migrated From a Previously Treated Rectovaginal Fistula

BACKGROUND This study reports the pathogenesis of anal canal adenocarcinoma in a patient with longstanding Crohn's disease (CD). CASE REPORT A 50-year-old woman with a 33-year history of CD presented with perianal pain of several months' duration. She had been treated surgically for a rectovaginal fistula 26 years earlier and had been treated with infliximab (IFX) for the previous 4 years. A biopsy under anesthesia revealed an anal canal adenocarcinoma, which was removed by abdominoperineal resection. Pathological examination showed that a large part of the tumor consisted of mucinous adenocarcinoma at the same location as the rectovaginal fistula had been removed 26 years earlier. There was no evidence of recurrent rectovaginal fistula, but thick fibers surrounded the tumor, likely representing part of the previous rectovaginal fistula. Immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies against cytokeratins (CK20 and CK7) revealed that the adenocarcinoma arose from the rectal mucosa, not the anal glands. CONCLUSIONS Mucinous adenocarcinoma can arise in patients with CD, even in the absence of longstanding perianal disease, and may be associated with adenomatous transformation of the epithelial lining in a former fistula tract.

Ten-year analyses of the German DRG data about negative pressure wound therapy

Exact data regarding the clinical role of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for wound care in a specific country are not available. Thus, we analysed the use of NPWT in hospitalised patients in Germany. Detailed lists of all hospitalised cases treated with NPWT in Germany for each of the years from 2005 to 2014 were obtained from the Federal Statistical Office, as well as lists of the 15 most frequent principal and additional diagnoses documented with NPWT in 2014. Within the 10-year time period of the study, the number of cases treated with NPWT increased by 349%, from 37 053 in 2005 to 129 269 in 2014. The rate of all hospitalised cases treated with NPWT increased form 0·22% to 0·66% in Germany. In 2014, wounds affecting skin and subcutaneous tissue (5-916.a0) are the most frequent documented indication for NPWT followed by deep wounds involving bones and joints at the limbs (5-916.a1). Open abdomens (5-916.a3) count for higher numbers than deep wounds of the thorax, mediastinum and sternum (5-916.a2). Fifty percent of all cases hospitalised for stage IV pressure ulcers at sacrum or ischium and around one third (32.2%) of cases with pyothorax received NPWT. Every fourth to fifth case hospitalised for disruption of surgical wounds or infections following a procedure (24·1%), as well as for infections and inflammations because of internal joint prosthesis or because of an internal fixation device was treated with NPWT (22·9%). In cases with diabetic foot syndrome, it is still every tenth case (10·1%). This analysis shows a substantial increase in the use of NPWT in the last decade for hospitalised patients. NPWT has a fixed role in the treatment of stage IV pressure ulcers at sacrum or ischium, pyothorax, infection and inflammation because of internal joint prosthesis or an internal fixation device and diabetic foot syndrome.

Closed incision negative pressure therapy: international multidisciplinary consensus recommendations

Surgical site occurrences (SSOs) affect up to or over 25% of patients undergoing operative procedures, with the subset of surgical site infections (SSIs) being the most common. Commercially available closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) may offer surgeons an additional option to manage clean, closed surgical incisions. We conducted an extensive literature search for studies describing ciNPT use and assembled a diverse panel of experts to create consensus recommendations for when using ciNPT may be appropriate. A literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using key words ‘prevention’, ‘negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)’, ‘active incisional management’, ‘incisional vacuum therapy’, ‘incisional NPWT’, ‘incisional wound VAC’, ‘closed incisional NPWT’, ‘wound infection’, and ‘SSIs’ identified peer‐reviewed studies published from 2000 to 2015. During a multidisciplinary consensus meeting, the 12 experts reviewed the literature, presented their own ciNPT experiences, identified risk factors for SSOs and developed comprehensive consensus recommendations. A total of 100 publications satisfied the search requirements for ciNPT use. A majority presented data supporting ciNPT use. Numerous publications reported SSI risk factors, with the most common including obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m²); diabetes mellitus; tobacco use; or prolonged surgical time. We recommend that the surgeon assess the individual patient's risk factors and surgical risks. Surgeons should consider using ciNPT for patients at high risk for developing SSOs or who are undergoing a high‐risk procedure or a procedure that would have highly morbid consequences if an SSI occurred.

Endoluminal vacuum therapy for gastrojejunal anastomotic leaks after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a pilot study in a swine model

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) consistently produces the most sustainable weight loss among common interventions for morbid obesity. Anastomotic leaks at the gastrojejunal (GJ) connection result in severe morbidity. We apply endoluminal negative pressure vacuum devices (EVD) to heal anastomotic leaks in a swine model.

METHODS

RYGB was performed in 10 pigs (3 control, 7 experimental). GJ anastomoses were fashioned, and a 2-cm defect was made across the staple line. In controls, the defects remained open. In experimental pigs, the EVD was placed across the defect and kept at continuous 50 mmHg suction. All pigs were euthanized on postoperative day seven unless they displayed signs of peritonitis or sepsis. Fluoroscopy and necropsy were performed to assess a persistent leak, and tissue specimens were sent to histology to evaluate for degree of inflammation and ischemia.

RESULTS

All three control pigs' GJ anastomoses demonstrated evidence of a persistent leak. All seven experimental pigs with the EVD in place showed evidence that their leak had sealed at time of fluoroscopy (p value 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoluminal vacuum therapy is well tolerated in a swine model. GJ anastomotic leaks were consistently sealed with our device in place compared to controls. This therapy shows promise as a method to address GJ leaks in the bariatric population, and thus, we believe additional evaluation is warranted.

Effect of Perioperative Probiotics and Synbiotics on Postoperative Infections After Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Bacterial infection following gastrointestinal surgery remains a common morbidity. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of the perioperative use of probiotics and synbiotics on postoperative infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to identify pertinent randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary outcome was postoperative infection rate. The secondary outcomes were length of hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) stay, length of antibiotic therapy, and mortality. The pooled outcomes were calculated using random effects models.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight RCTs involving 2511 patients were included in this systematic review. The incidence of infectious complications was lower among patients who received probiotics/synbiotics than among the controls (odds ratio [OR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.24-0.50), particularly regarding respiratory (OR = 0.44; 95% CI, 0.28-0.68), urinary tract (OR = 0.30; 95% CI, 0.16-0.55), and wound infections (OR = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.42-0.80). The lengths of hospital stay (mean difference [MD] = -3.20; 95% CI, -4.87 to -1.54) and duration of antibiotic therapy (MD = -3.40; 95% CI, -4.67 to -2.13) were shorter for patients who received probiotics/synbiotics than for controls. There were no significant differences in mortality (OR = 1.19; 95% CI, 0.52-2.74) or length of ICU stay (MD = -0.46; 95% CI, -1.07 to 0.14) between the compared groups.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics and synbiotics may prevent postoperative infections in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. However, the results need to be interpreted with caution due to the risk of bias in the included studies and the potential publication bias.

Risk and safety of probiotics

Probiotics have been used safely for years. Safety outcomes are inconsistently reported in published clinical trials. In 2011, a report released by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality concluded that, although the existing probiotic clinical trials reveal no evidence of increased risk, "the current literature is not well equipped to answer questions on the safety of probiotics in intervention studies with confidence." Critics point out that the preponderance of evidence, including the long history of safe probiotic use as well as data from clinical trials, and animal and in vitro studies all support the assumption that probiotics are generally safe for most populations. Theoretical risks have been described in case reports, clinical trial results and experimental models, include systemic infections, deleterious metabolic activities, excessive immune stimulation in susceptible individuals, gene transfer and gastrointestinal side effects. More research is needed to properly describe the incidence and severity of adverse events related to probiotics.

Thyroid surgery in the elderly: a comparative experience of 400 patients from an Italian university hospital

The aim of this study was to compare disease features and surgical complications of patients undergoing surgery under or over 65 years of age. We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing thyroidectomy or lobectomy from January 1990 through January 2012 in our Institution. Patients aged over 65 years of age were compared with younger patients on a 1:1 ratio. A total of 2012 patients were operated on during the study period. Two-hundred patients aged > 65 years were compared with 200 patients < 65 years old. In this series, no significant differences were observed concerning surgical complications between groups. At multivariate analysis, masses causing compression, extended approaches and malignant lesions were significant predictors of complications, irrespective of age. Due to longer life expectancy, elderly patients are being operated on more frequently. Safety of thyroid surgery in this population is still debated. We observed no difference in surgical outcomes between elderly and younger patients; however, some features of the diseases impair survival in the former. Age did not increase likeliness of worse outcomes in patients receiving thyroid surgery.

Functional outcomes following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) in older patients: a systematic review

AIM

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is performed in ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis with a view to restoration of GI continuity and prevention of permanent faecal diversion. Debate exists as to its safety in older patients. This review aims to assess functional outcomes and safety of restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) in older compared to younger patients.

METHODS

Literature search was performed for age-stratified studies which assessed functional outcomes of IPAA. Twelve papers were included overall. Patients were categorized into 'older' and 'younger' groups. Analysis was split into three separate parts: 1. Age cut-off of 50 ± 5 years (with sensitivity analysis); 2. Age cut-off of 65 ± years; 3. Long-term outcomes (>10 years).

RESULTS

With an age cut-off of 50 years (4327 versus 513 patients), complication rates were comparable with the exception of an increased rate of small-bowel obstruction in the younger patients (p = 0.034). At 1 year, 24-h stool frequency was significantly higher in the older patient group (p < 0.0001). Daytime (p < 0.0001) and night-time (p < 0.0001) incontinence rates were also significantly higher in older patients. Overall, function deteriorated with time across all ages; however, after 10 years, there was no significant difference in incontinence rates between age groups. Dehydration and electrolyte loss was a significant problem in patients over 65 (p < 0.0001). Despite differences in postoperative function, quality of life was comparable between groups; however, only a few studies reported quality of life data.

CONCLUSION

IPAA is safe in older patients, although treating clinicians should bear in mind the increased risk of dehydration. Postoperative function is worse in older patients, but seems to level out with time and does not appear to significantly impact on overall quality of life and patient satisfaction. Assessment for suitability for RPC should not be based on chronological age in isolation. It is imperative that the correct support is given to older patients with worsened postoperative function in order to maintain patient satisfaction and adequate quality of life.

Identification of Nonresponse to Treatment Using Narrative Data in an Electronic Health Record Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort

BACKGROUND

Electronic health records, increasingly a part of healthcare, provide a wealth of untapped narrative free text data that have the potential to accurately inform clinical outcomes.

METHODS

From a validated cohort of patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, we identified patients with ≥1 coded or narrative mention of monoclonal antibodies to tumor necrosis factor α. Chart review by ascertained true use of therapy, time of initiation, and cessation of treatment, and also clinical response stratified as nonresponse, partial, or complete response at 1 year. Internal consistency was assessed in an independent validation cohort.

RESULTS

A total of 3087 patients had a mention of an antibodies to tumor necrosis factor α. Actual therapy initiation was within 60 days of the first coded mention in 74% of patients. In the derivation cohort, 18% of antibodies to tumor necrosis factor α starts were classified as nonresponse at 1 year, 21% as partial, and 56% as complete response. On multivariate analysis, the number of narrative mentions of diarrhea (odds ratio 1.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.14) and fatigue (odds ratio 1.16; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.32) was independently associated with nonresponse at 1 year (area under the curve 0.82). A likelihood of nonresponse score comprising a weighted sum of both demonstrated a good dose-response relationship across nonresponders (2.18), partial (1.20), and complete (0.50) responders (P < 0.0001) and correlated well with need for surgery or hospitalizations.

CONCLUSIONS

Narrative data in an electronic health record offer considerable potential to define temporally evolving disease outcomes such as nonresponse to treatment.

3D-EAUS and MRI in the Activity of Anal Fistulas in Crohn's Disease

Aim. This study aspires to assess the role of 3D-Endoanal Ultrasound (3D-EAUS) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in preoperative evaluation of the primary tract and internal opening of perianal fistulas, of secondary extensions and abscess. Methods. During 2014, 51 Crohn's disease patients suspected for perianal fistula were enrolled. All patients underwent physical examination with both the methods and subsequent surgery. Results. In the evaluation of CD perianal fistulas, there are no significant differences between 3D-EAUS and MRI in the identification of abscess and secondary extension. Considering the location, 3D-EAUS was more accurate than MRI in the detection of intersphincteric fistulas (p value = 10(-6)); conversely, MRI was more accurate than 3D-EAUS in the detection of suprasphincteric fistulas (p value = 0.0327) and extrasphincteric fistulas (p  value = 4 ⊕ 10(-6)); there was no significant difference between MRI and 3D-EAUS in the detection of transsphincteric fistulas. Conclusions. Both 3D-EAUS and MRI have a crucial role in the evaluation and detection of CD perianal fistulas. 3D-EAUS was preferable to MRI in the detection of intersphincteric fistulas; conversely, in the evaluation of suprasphincteric and extrasphincteric fistulas the MRI was preferable to 3D-EAUS.

Prevalence, diagnosis and management of ectopic thyroid glands

Ectopic thyroid tissue (ETT) is an uncommon entity that may be found anywhere along the line of the obliterated thyroglossal duct, usually from the tongue to the diaphragm. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing surgical treatment for thyroid disease between January 2000 and December 2013, seeking for ETT All patients with prior neck surgery or trauma were excluded. The clinic-pathologic features, prevalence and diagnosis of the lesions were collected and analyzed. Out of 3092 included patients, 28 ETT were identified (0.9%). The anatomical site of ETT was as follows: lateral cervical in 6 (21.4%), along the thyroglossal duct in 6 (21.4%), mediastinal in 5 (17.9%), lingual in 5 (17.9%), sublingual in 3 (10.7%), and submandibular in 3 (10.7%). Histopathology revealed 27 benign lesions and 1 (3.6%) papillary carcinoma. ETT is found in less than 1% of patients receiving thyroid surgery. Diagnosis of ETT requires clinical imaging. Surgery is a prudent choice due to the potential of malignant evolution of ETT.

Hormonal contraceptives and venous thromboembolism: Are inflammatory bowel disease patients at increased risk? A retrospective study on a prospective database

Recent studies showed an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients receiving oral hormonal contraceptives. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) often affect young patients and represent a pro-coagulant condition. This could result from active inflammation, but a potential role for genetic and molecular factors has been suggested. Hormonal contraceptives have also been associated with increased risk of VTE and the risk may be greater in IBD patients that already are in a pro-coagulant status, but no definitive data are available in this population. The purpose of our study was to seek for differences of the risk of VTE in IBD patients receiving hormonal contraceptives compared with controls.

This is a retrospective study. We interrogated a prospectively maintained database of IBD patients observed at our outpatient clinic between 2000 and 2014. All female patients managed conservatively, with no active disease, who were taking oral hormone contraceptives in the study period, were included. Patients observed for other-than-IBD conditions at our Unit and at the Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, receiving contraceptives, served as controls (ratio 1:2). Patients with cancer, those receiving hormonal therapy, and those with known genetic predisposition to VTE were excluded.

We included 146 six IBD patients and 290 controls. One patient in each group developed VTE. Overall, the incidence of VTE associated with oral contraceptives was 0.5%. IBD was associated with increased risk of VTE (OR 1.9, 95% CI 0.12–32.12, p > 0.99). Active smokers since 10 years (17.2%) had higher risks of VTE (OR 8.6, 95% CI 1.16–19.25, p = 0.03).

Our data show that patients with IBD in remission are not at higher risk of VTE due to oral oestrogen-containing contraceptives compared with non-IBD controls. Smokers are at increased risk, irrespective of the baseline disease.

•

Contraceptives do not increase the risk of VTE in IBD patients in remission.

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Irrespective of baseline disease, smoking is associated with VTE.

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IBD patients receiving contraceptives should be encouraged to quit smoking.

PICO™ incision closure in oncoplastic breast surgery: a case series

Single-use negative pressure wound therapy (PICO™) has been used on high-risk surgically incised wounds with encouraging results, but there is no evidence for its use in oncoplastic breast surgery. This article reports a case series with closed incisions in oncoplastic breast procedures following the introduction of PICO™.

Postoperative negative-pressure incision therapy following open colorectal surgery (Poniy): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative surgical site infections cause substantial morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, costs and even mortality, and remain one of the most frequent surgical complications. In prospective trials with adequate follow-up, more than 20 % of patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery are affected and methods to reduce surgical site infections are urgently needed. Negative-pressure incision therapy is a novel intervention that holds promise to reduce postoperative wound infection rates, but has not yet been rigorously tested in a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS/DESIGN

The aim is to investigate whether the postoperative application of a negative-pressure incision therapy device for 5-7 days reduces the rate of surgical site infections following open elective colorectal surgery by 50 %. This is a randomized, controlled, observer-blinded multicentre clinical trial with two parallel study groups. The primary outcome measure will be the rate of surgical site infections within 30 days postoperatively. Surgical site infections are defined according to criteria of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Statistical analysis of the primary endpoint measure will be based on the intention-to-treat population. The global level of significance is set at 5 % (two-sided) and the sample size (n = 170 per group) is determined to assure a power of 80 %.

DISCUSSION

The Poniy trial will explore whether the rate of surgical site infections can be reduced by the application of a negative-pressure incision therapy device in patients undergoing open elective colorectal surgery. Its pragmatic design guarantees high external validity and clinical relevance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien DRKS00006199 .

Fatigue in chronic inflammation - a link to pain pathways

Fatigue is a frequent symptom in several inflammatory diseases, particularly in rheumatic diseases. Elements of disease activity and cognitive and behavior aspects have been reported as causes of fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Fatigue could be associated with activity of inflammatory rheumatism. Indeed, biologic agents targeting inflammatory cytokines are effective in fatigue. Fatigue is also associated with pain and depressive symptoms. Different pathways could be involved in fatigue and interact: the immune system with increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1 and -6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha), dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and neurological phenomena involving the central and autonomic nervous systems. A pro-inflammatory process could be involved in pain and behavioral symptoms. Inflammation could be a common link between fatigue, pain, and depression.

A think tank of the Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR) on the surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease using the Delphi method: Crohn's disease

The management of Crohn's disease (CD) requires extensive expertise. Many treatment options are available, and surgery still plays a crucial role. In recent years, many medical societies have provided surgeons and gastroenterologists dealing with CD with authoritative guidelines. However, a certain degree of variation can be observed in these papers, and application of guidelines in clinical practice should be improved. The Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a think tank of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of CD management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the surgical treatment of CD. The management of CD is, by necessity, patient-tailored, and it is based on clinical data and surgeon's preference, but the committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

A think tank of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) on the surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease using the Delphi method: ulcerative colitis

The majority of patients suffering from ulcerative colitis (UC) are managed successfully with medical treatment, but a relevant number of them will still need surgery at some point in their life. Medical treatments and surgical techniques have changed dramatically in recent years, and available guidelines from relevant societies are rapidly evolving, providing UC experts with updated and valid practical recommendations. However, some aspects of the management of UC patients are still debated, and the application of guidelines in clinical practice may be suboptimal. The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) sponsored the think tank in order to identify critical aspects of the surgical management of UC in Italy. The present paper reports the results of a think tank of Italian colorectal surgeons concerning surgery for UC and was not developed as an alternative to authoritative guidelines currently available. Members of the SICCR voted on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence from the literature. The results are presented, focusing on points to be implemented. UC management relies on evaluations that need to be individualized, but points of major disagreement reported in this paper should be considered in order to develop strategies to improve the quality of the evidence and the application of guidelines in a clinical setting.

Fatigue in Newly Diagnosed Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The present study investigated the prevalence and severity of fatigue in patients with newly diagnosed and untreated ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) and examined relevant disease variables that may influence the severity of fatigue.

METHODS

Eighty-one patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (60 with UC and 21 with CD) were assessed for fatigue using two fatigue instruments: the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and a fatigue visual analogue scale (fVAS). Cut-off for fatigue was defined as ≥4 for FSS and ≥50 for fVAS. Results were compared with fatigue scores from age-and gender-matched healthy individuals. Disease activity was assessed by symptom scores using the Mayo score in UC patients and the Harvey-Bradshaw index for CD patients, as well as C-reactive protein (CRP) and faecal calprotectin.

RESULTS

The prevalence of fatigue based on FSS and fVAS was 47 and 42%, respectively, in UC and 62 and 48% in CD. In multivariate regression models, disease activity markers were not associated with fatigue, while a significant relationship was found with age and depression for both fatigue measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Close to 50% of patients with IBD reported fatigue at the time of diagnosis. In newly diagnosed patients with active disease, the severity of fatigue was not associated with measures of disease activity.

Cone-like resection, fistulectomy and mucosal rectal sleeve partial endorectal pull-through in paediatric Crohn's disease with perianal complex fistula

BACKGROUND

Perianal abscesses and fistulae have been reported in approximately 15% of patients with paediatric Crohn's disease and they are associated with poor quality of life. Several surgical techniques were proposed for the treatment of perianal Crohn's disease, characterized by an elevated incidence of failure, incontinence, and relapse. Aim of our study was to present the technical details and results of our surgical technique in case of recurrent, persistent, complex perianal ano-rectal destroying Crohn's disease not responding to medical treatment.

METHODS

Data of patients who underwent surgical treatment (cone-like resection, fistulectomy, sphincter reconstruction, endorectal advancement sleeve flaps like in Soave endorectal pull-through) for complicated high-level trans, inter or suprasphincteric fistulae between January 2009 and June 2014 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

20 surgical procedures were performed in 11 patients (males 72.7%) with transsphincteric (n=5), intersphincteric (n=4) and suprasphincteric (n=2) fistulae. Three patients needed a second treatment. Two patients needed more than 2 surgeries and one temporary colostomy. No patient presented anal incontinence at 15 months' median follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Although several procedures may be required to obtain a complete remission of perianal lesions, in our series the proposed surgical technique seemed effective and safe, preserving anal continence in all treated cases and reducing the need of faecal diversion.

Symptom management in inflammatory bowel disease

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease can present with a wide variety of symptoms. Most are related to disease activity and should be managed with appropriate medical therapy for inflammatory bowel disease. However, some patients may develop symptoms due to the side effects of the medications, or due to immunosuppression. In these cases, the offending medications should be discontinued until resolution of the symptoms and a few may be able to restart therapy. Symptoms can also occur as an extraintestinal manifestation of the disease or due to concomitant autoimmune-mediated disorders. Regardless of the etiology, symptoms should be addressed promptly with immediate evaluation and appropriate therapy, as a delay may lead to permanent sequela.

Predictors of Venous Thromboembolism after Colorectal Surgery in a Single Unit

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing colorectal surgery are at risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Knowing predictors of VTE could help preventing this life-threatening complication.

METHODS

We collected data of patients undergoing colorectal surgery at our Unit between 2009 and 2014. Baseline characteristics, type of surgery, and postoperative complications were gathered. A univariate regression analysis was performed with symptomatic VTE as outcome. Pre-, intra- and postoperative clinical factors were separately tested. All variables significantly associated with VTE occurring within three months from the discharge were entered in the final multivariate regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 476 patients were included. Symptomatic VTE occurred in 13 patients (2.7%). Six (46.1%) occurred after hospital discharge. Preoperative variables associated with VTE were: advanced age at surgery (OR 2.3, 95%CI 1.8-5.6), smoking (OR 1.7, 95%CI 1.2-2.5), inflammatory bowel diseases (OR 2.1, 95%CI 1.5-4.3), advanced pelvic malignancies (OR 2.4, 95%CI 2.0-4.2), and obesity (OR 1.5, 95%CI 1.1-2.1). Prolonged pelvic manipulation (OR 1.8, 95%CI 1.1-4.3) and steep Trendelenburg position (OR 2.4, 95%CI 1.9-5.0) were intraoperative predictors of VTE, while stockings significantly reduced the risk (OR 0.8, 95%CI 0.4-0.9). Late mobilization (OR 2.5, 95%CI 2.0-4.6) and septic complications (OR 1.4, 95%CI 1.2-3.7) were postoperative predictors of VTE, whereas anticoagulants administered for at least 3 weeks after discharge were associated with lower VTE risk (OR 0.5, 95%CI 0.2-0.8).

CONCLUSIONS

We observed several modifiable predictors of VTE. Patients with ≥2 risk factors undergoing colorectal surgery could benefit from a more intensive VTE preventive pathway.

Gastrointestinal endoscopy biopsy derived proteomic patterns predict indeterminate colitis into ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s colitis

Patients with indeterminate colitis (IC) are significantly younger at diagnosis with onset of symptoms before the age of 18 years with significant morbidity in the interim. The successful care of IC is based on microscopic visual predict precision of eventual ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s colitis (CC) which is not offered in 15%-30% of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients even after a combined state-of-the-art classification system of clinical, visual endoscopic, radiologic and histologic examination. These figures have not changed over the past 3 decades despite the introduction of newer diagnostic modalities. The patient outcomes after restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis may be painstaking if IC turns into CC. Our approach is aiming at developing a single sensitive and absolute accurate diagnostic test tool during the first clinic visit through endoscopic biopsy derived proteomic patterns. Matrix-assisted-laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MS) and/or imaging MS technologies permit a histology-directed cellular test of endoscopy biopsy which identifies phenotype specific proteins, as biomarker that would assist clinicians more accurately delineate IC as being either a UC or CC or a non-IBD condition. These novel studies are underway on larger cohorts and are highly innovative with significances in differentiating a UC from CC in patients with IC and could lend mechanistic insights into IBD pathogenesis.

Prophylactic negative pressure wound therapy in colorectal surgery. Effects on surgical site events: current status and call to action

Surgical site events, including surgical site infections (SSI), represent a major problem in general surgery. SSI are responsible of nuisance for patients, and can lead to important complications and disability, often needing prolonged postoperative stay with specific treatment and recovery in Intensive Care Units. These justify the higher costs due to SSI. Despite the growing body of evidence concerning SSI in general surgery, literature dealing with SSI after colorectal surgery is scarce, reflecting in suboptimal perception of such a relevant issue by colorectal surgeons and health authorities in Italy, though colorectal surgery is associated with higher rates of SSI. The best strategy for reducing the impact of SSI on costs of care and patients quality of life would be the development of a preventive bundle, similar to that adopted in the US through the colorectal section of the National Surgery Quality Improvement Project of the American College of Surgeons (ACS-NSQIP). This policy has been showed to significantly reduce the rates of SSI. In this scenario, incisional negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is likely to play a pivotal role. We herein reviewed the literature to report on the current status of preventive NPWT on surgical wounds of patients undergoing colorectal procedures with primary wound closure, suggesting evidence-based measures to reduce the impact of SSI, and to contain the costs associated with conventional NPWT devices by means of newer available technologies. Some explicative real life cases are presented.

Gallstone ileus without bilioenteric fistula years after bypass surgery for Crohn's disease. Case report and clues to etiology of a neglected cause of obstruction

INTRODUCTION

Gallstone ileus is a very rare cause of bowel obstruction. Patients suffering from Crohn's disease are at increased risk of developing gallstone disease, especially when terminal ileum is involved. Gallstone ileus can occur, but etiology remains controversial. We report on a case of such a rare condition, illustrating etiology and treatments.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A patient with long-standing Crohn's disease, who had undergone ileotransverse bypass for ileocaecal involvement 40 years before, presented with cramp-like abdominal pain. Imaging was consistent with a gallstone ileus with no evidence of bilioenteric fistulae.

DISCUSSION

At surgery, we found gallstones stuck at the site of ileotransverse anastomosis. No bilioenteric fistulae were found. Due to disease progression, many enteric fistulae were found, requiring a massive bowel resection. The diverted segment may have been responsible of gallstone formation, and etiology is discussed. Recovery after surgery was uneventful, but the patient required continued nutritional support.

CONCLUSION

Physicians dealing with Crohn's disease patients with bypassed segments should keep in mind, the increased risk of gallstone formation, in order to not overlook gallstone ileus. Early suspect and diagnosis may allow for less aggressive approaches. A diverted segment should always be removed, and long-term follow-up encouraged.

Surgical treatment of perianal fistulizing Crohn's disease: from lay-open to cell-based therapy--an overview

Background. Perianal Crohn's disease (CD) can be challenging. Despite the high incidence of fistulizing CD, literature lacks clear guidelines. Several medical, surgical, and combined treatment modalities have been proposed, but evidences are scarce. Methods. We searched the literature to assess the facets of perianal CD, with particular focus on complex fistulae. Disease epidemiology, classification, diagnosis, activity scoring systems, and medical-surgical treatments were assessed. Results. Perianal fistulizing CD is common, frequently associated with upper gastrointestinal and colorectal CD. Complex fistulas often require repeated treatments. Continence is a major concern when dealing with repeated procedures. A prudent pathway is to resolve active sepsis and to limit damages, delaying a definitive treatment to the time when acute phase has been controlled. The improved diagnostic techniques allow better preoperative planning and are useful in monitoring the response to treatment. Besides newer devices, cell-based treatments are promising tools which have recently enriched the treatment portfolio. However, the need for proctectomy is still disturbingly high in CD patients with complex perianal fistulae. Conclusions. Perianal CD can impair quality of life and lead to need for proctectomy. A staged approach is reasonable. Treatment success can be improved by multimodal treatment and collaborative management by experienced gastroenterologists and surgeons.

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is safe and effective in selected very elderly patients suffering from ulcerative colitis

Restorative proctocolectomy (RP) with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the mainstay treatment for intractable or refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). Safety and effectiveness of RP in elderly patients are debated. Our aim was to compare surgical outcomes and function of patients undergoing RP over 80-year-of-age with those of younger controls. We retrospectively gathered data of patients receiving RP for UC aged >80 years between January 1990 and December 2012. A control group of younger patients was established for comparison (1:3 ratio). Functional outcomes and satisfaction with surgery 6 and 12 months after ileostomy closure were collected. Ten patients >80-year-old were included (median age 87.5, range 84-90 years). All patients had at least one comorbidity (mean 2.1 ± 1) and were receiving medications for concomitant diseases. Half of them received a 3-stage procedure. Neither death nor major perioperative complications were observed. One patient (10%) required readmission for dehydration 2 weeks after RP with loop-ileostomy. Thirty younger patients (median age 34.3, range 25-52 years) served as controls. All patients had their ileostomy closed within 3 months from RP. At 6 month follow-up, elderly patients had more nocturnal seepage, antidiarrhoeals intake, and a trend toward more frequent day-time incontinence. At 12-month follow-up differences were less apparent. Only nocturnal seepage was higher in elderly. All patients retained their pouch and would have undergone surgery again. RP is feasible in selected advanced age patients, and functional results are comparable to younger patients.