Altered microperfusion at the rectal stump is predictive for rectal anastomotic leak

Risk factors for postoperative anastomotic leakage in obstructive left colonic carcinoma

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most severe complications of colon carcinoma surgery. This study aims to investigate the related factors of AL and evaluate the independent risk factors in predicting AL after one-stage resection and primary anastomosis (RPA) for obstructive left colonic carcinoma (OLCC) patients. The demographic and clinical data, intra-operative indexes, pathologic characteristics, and ileocecal valve status shown on CT of the patients with OLCC who submitted to one-stage RPA were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into AL group and no AL group. All indexes of the two groups were compared and the independent risk factors for AL were investigated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to explore the ability of the statistically significant parameters to predict AL. A total of 141 patients (AL group, 15; no AL group, 126) were enrolled. There were no statistical differences in these indexes between the two groups except for BMI (P = 0.001), ALB (P = 0.020), lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.027), and ileocecal valve status (P < 0.001). BMI, ALB, and ileocecal valve status shown on CT were the independent risk factors for AL. A BMI and ALB cutoff value of 22.2 kg/m2 and 27.9 g/L showed the area under the curve (AUC 0.765; 95% CI 0.686-0.832 and 0.684; 95% CI 0.601-0.760) in predicting AL, separately. Higher BMI, lower ALB, and incontinent ileocecal valve shown on preoperative CT may indicate an increased risk of postoperative AL after one-stage RPA for OLCC patients.

Impact of indocyanine green angiography on anastomotic dehiscence rate in colorectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized studies

Anastomotic dehiscence, a feared complication in colorectal surgery, motivates the search for effective strategies to mitigate its risk. This meta-analysis encompasses all published randomized trials investigating and comparing the impact of indocyanine green (ICG) angiography on this complication. With four studies and 1,109 patients, the intraoperative ICG angiography group demonstrated a significant reduction in the overall rate of anastomotic dehiscence compared to the non-angiography group (7.3% vs. 11.5%; OR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4-0.9; p = 0.03). These differences were maintained in rectal surgery subgroup, with no prolongation of surgical time or increase in morbidity and mortality. There were no differences in the left colon surgery group. The evidence provided by this meta-analysis would support the effectiveness of ICG angiography in reducing the incidence of anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery, advocating for its integration into routine surgical practice.

Biophysical modeling and artificial intelligence for quantitative assessment of anastomotic blood supply in laparoscopic low anterior rectal resection

PURPOSE

Fluorescence imaging is critical for intraoperative intestinal perfusion assessment in colorectal surgery, yet its clinical adoption remains limited by subjective interpretation and lack of quantitative standards. This study introduces an integrated approach combining fluorescence curve analysis, biophysical modeling, and machine learning to improve intraoperative perfusion assessment.

METHODS

Laparoscopic fluorescence videos from 68 low rectal cancer patients were analyzed, with 1,263 measurement points (15-20 per case) selected along colonic bands. Fluorescence intensity dynamics were extracted via color space transformation, video stabilization and image registration, then modeled using the Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithm and nonlinear least squares fitting to derive biophysical parameters. Three clinicians independently scored perfusion quality (0-100 scale) using morphological features and biophysical metrics. An XGBoost model was trained on these parameters to automate scoring.

RESULTS

The model achieved superior test performance, with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.47, a mean absolute error (MAE) of 1.99, and an R2 of 97.2%, outperforming conventional time-factor analyses. It demonstrated robust generalizability, showing no statistically significant prediction differences across age, diabetes, or smoking subgroups (P > 0.05). Clinically, low perfusion scores in distal anastomotic regions were significantly associated with postoperative complications (P < 0.001), validating the scoring system's clinical relevance and discriminative capacity. The automated software we developed completed analyses within 2 min, enabling rapid intraoperative assessment.

CONCLUSION

This framework synergistically enhances surgical evaluation through three innovations: (1) Biophysical modeling quantifies perfusion dynamics beyond time-based parameters; (2) Machine learning integrates multimodal data for surgeon-level accuracy; (3) Automated workflow enables practical clinical translation. By addressing limitations of visual assessment through quantitative, rapid, and generalizable analysis, this method advances intraoperative perfusion monitoring and decision-making in colorectal surgery.

Possibility of preventing intra-abdominal infection by lymph node mapping with indocyanine green in robotic gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Intra-abdominal infection can be an onerous and fatal complication of radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer. High drain amylase levels are closely related to pancreatic damage and intra-abdominal infection. We aimed to investigate whether robotic radical gastrectomy with lymph node mapping by indocyanine green tracer reduces drain amylase levels.

METHODS

Between March 2019 and July 2024, patients at our institution with clinical tumor stage cT1-T4a, N0/+, M0, and possibly treatable gastric cancer were enrolled in this study and divided into the indocyanine green group or the non-indocyanine green group based on the use of indocyanine green. One day before surgery, the patients in the indocyanine green group underwent endoscopic peritumoral injection of indocyanine green into the submucosa. Drain amylase levels on postoperative days 1 and 3, postoperative intra-abdominal infection, and perioperative outcomes were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in patient background and pathologic factors between the 2 groups. Drain amylase levels on postoperative days 1 and 3 were significantly lower in the indocyanine green group than in the non-indocyanine green group, and postoperative hospital stay was shorter. The incidence of intra-abdominal infection was also significantly lower in the indocyanine green group than in the non-indocyanine green group. However, multivariate analysis of intra-abdominal infection showed a drain amylase level of 200 IU/L or higher on postoperative day 3 to be an independent risk factor for postoperative intra-abdominal infection, whereas indocyanine green use was not.

CONCLUSION

This study showed the clinical usefulness of robotic radical gastrectomy with lymph node mapping by indocyanine green. This procedure can reduce drain amylase levels and consequently may reduce the incidence of intra-abdominal infection.

Risk factors for anastomotic leakage and its impact on survival outcomes in radical multivisceral surgery for advanced ovarian cancer: an AGO-OVAR.OP3/LION exploratory analysis

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage is a significant complication following bowel resection in cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer. Previous studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of anastomotic leakage on patients' postoperative course. However, there is still a lack of precise identification of the high-risk population and established strategies for preventing its occurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent bowel resection within the surgical phase III trial AGO-OVAR.OP3/LION investigating the impact of systematic pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy in cytoreductive surgery for primary ovarian cancer were included in this analysis. All patients in the AGO-OVAR.OP3/LION trial had undergone complete cytoreduction with no macroscopic residual disease. We analyzed the occurrence of anastomotic leakage regarding surgical procedure (non-lymphadenectomy vs. lymphadenectomy and non-stoma vs. stoma) using the Fisher test. Risk factors for anastomotic leakage and its prognostic impact on survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

Overall rate of anastomotic leakage was 7.1%. Notably, the Non-lymphadenectomy subgroup had a lower anastomotic leakage rate of 3.0% compared to the lymphadenectomy subgroup (11.2%, P = 0.005). The use of protective stoma placement resulted in an anastomotic leakage rate of 5.5% regardless of lymphadenectomy compared to the Non-Stoma subgroup (7.5%, P = 0.78). Increased blood loss (odds ratio [OR] 1.04 per 100cc, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0001-1.09) and lymphadenectomy (OR 3.67, 95% CI 1.41-11.40) were associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leakage. Although anastomotic leakage demonstrated a numerical detrimental impact on median progression-free survival (PFS) (18 months with anastomotic leakage vs. 19 months with Non-anastomotic leakage, hazard ratio [HR] 0.86; 95% CI 0.5 to 1.4, P = 0.53) and median overall survival (OS) (31 months with anastomotic leakage vs. 58 months with Non-anastomotic leakage, HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.4 to 1.2, P = 0.17), the differences were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Anastomotic leakage rates were lower in the Non-lymphadenectomy arm, the current standard of care. Blood loss and lymphadenectomy, as surrogate markers for extensive surgery, were associated with increased risk for anastomotic leakage. These findings highlight the importance of strategies to reduce surgical complexity and perioperative risk to improve clinical outcomes.

The Impact of Aortic Calcification on Surgical Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Analysis Focused on Anastomotic Leakage

Background and Objectives: Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a major complication of colorectal surgery (CRS), increasing morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. While several AL risk factors have been identified, the role of aortic calcification (AC) remains unclear. As a marker of systemic atherosclerosis, AC may impair tissue perfusion and anastomotic healing. Additionally, tumor factors (TNM stage, histology, and localization) and patient comorbidities (hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and neoadjuvant therapy) may contribute to AL risk. This study evaluates the association between preoperative AC and AL incidence while considering additional risk factors. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 151 patients undergoing CRS from January 2020 to October 2023. Preoperative CT scans classified AC into Stage 0 (none), Stage 1 (<50%), and Stage 2 (>50%) of the aortic circumference. Data on demographics, tumor characteristics, neoadjuvant therapy, and comorbidities were collected. AL risk factors were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: AL occurred in 5.96% (9/151) of patients. AL incidence was significantly higher in patients with >50% AC (44.47% vs. 11.27%, p = 0.012). Multivariate analysis confirmed AC as an independent AL predictor (OR = 10.38, 95% CI: 1.243-92.118, p = 0.032). Rectal tumor localization (p = 0.038), hypertension (p = 0.027), cardiovascular disease (p = 0.014), and neoadjuvant therapy (p = 0.045) were also associated with increased AL risk. Conclusions: Severe AC is an independent predictor of AL in CRS. Additionally, rectal tumors, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and neoadjuvant therapy contribute to AL risk. Preoperative vascular assessments and comprehensive risk stratification models may help identify high-risk patients and guide perioperative management strategies to reduce AL incidence.

Implementation of intraoperative procedures to prevent anastomotic leak in low anterior rectal resections: a pilot study for a novel technique to evaluate anastomotic vascularization

INTRODUCTION

Altered vascular microcirculation is recognized as a risk factor for anastomotic leakage (AL) in colorectal surgery. However, few studies evaluated its impact on AL using different devices, with heterogeneous results. The present study reported the initial experience measuring gut microcirculatory density and flow with the aid of incidence dark-field (IDF) videomicroscopy (Cytocam, Braedius, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) comparing its operative outcome using a propensity score matching (PSM) model based on age, gender, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Videos from 5 different sites (at least 10 s/site) were recorded from both the mucosal and serosal site of the left colon end after the colonic resection. Total vessel density (TVD), Perfused Vessel Density (PVD), De Backer score, Proportion of Perfused Vessels (PPV), and Microvascular Flow Index (MFI) were analyzed. At each recording, noninvasive measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, use of vasoactive drugs, and peripheral oxygen saturation were simultaneously recorded. The association between postoperative outcomes and microcirculation evaluation was investigated using PSM analyses.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine patients were included in the Cytocam group. The mean TVD small was 8.9 ± 2.8 mm/mm2, the PPV small % was 100 in all patients but 1, while the MFI was 3 in all patients. The mean PVD small was 8.76 ± 2.8 mm/mm2 and the mean De Becker score was 4.4 ± 1.3. In 2 patients (10.5%), the finding of altered vascularization resulted in the change of the operative strategy with an extension of the resection point. AL occurred in 2 patients of the No Cytocam group (p = 0.811).

CONCLUSION

This type of anastomotic evaluation has shown to be feasible, safe, and useful in easily detecting any alteration of the resected colon before anastomotic construction. Moreover, this technology could offer a more cost-effective manner than other devices.

Fluorescence angiography with indocyanine green for low anterior resection in patients with rectal cancer: a prospective before and after study

BACKGROUND

Inadequate bowel perfusion is among risk factors for colorectal anastomotic leaks. Perfusion can be assessed with indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG) during colon resections. Possible benefits from its systematic use in high-risk patients with rectal cancer remain inconsistent. This study aimed to evaluate the surgical modifications induced by ICG assessment during rectal cancer surgery and associated anastomotic leaks.

METHODS

This prospective before and after cohort study was conducted in a single Canadian high-volume colorectal surgery center. Eligible patients were undergoing a low anterior resection for rectal cancer below 15 cm from the anal margin. Stapled and handsewn coloanal anastomoses were included. The experimental group was recruited prospectively, undergoing surgery using fluorescence angiography with ICG. The control group was built retrospectively from consecutive patients who had been operated on without ICG, prior to its implementation.

RESULTS

Each cohort included 113 patients. The use of ICG led to modifications from initial surgical plan in 10.6% of patients, with no occurrence of anastomotic leaks in this specific group. When comparing leak rates, using ICG seemed to be protective, but this could not be statistically proven, overall (13.3% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.07), nor for handsewn coloanal anastomoses (11.8% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.67). A lack of power could explain such non-significant results, especially with low overall anastomotic leak rates recorded.

CONCLUSION

ICG influenced ultimate proximal resection margin in a clinically relevant proportion of cases. It might be associated with reduced leak rates although not formally proven with this data. This technology is safe and easy to apply in high-volume colorectal centers.

Establishing reference curves for vital tissue perfusion using quantitative near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green

PURPOSE

Assessment of tissue perfusion using near-infrared fluorescence (NIR) with indocyanine green (ICG) is gaining popularity, however reliable and objective interpretation remains a challenge. Therefore, this study aimed to establish reference curves for vital tissue perfusion across target tissues using this imaging modality.

METHODS

Data from five prospective study cohorts conducted in three Dutch academic medical centres between December 2018 and June 2023 was included. Quantitative analysis using time-intensity curves was performed in ten target tissues, including the colon, ileum, gastric conduit, deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap, skin of the foot, trachea, sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM), carotid artery, parathyroid gland, and skin of the neck.

RESULTS

A total of 178 patients were included in this study, representing 303 target tissues. Three different patterns of reference curves were identified based on a subjective assessment. Seven out of ten tissues showed a reference curve with rapid inflow (median time-to-max (tmax): 13.0-17.8 s, median maximum-normalized-slope (slope norm): 10.6-12.6%/sec), short outflow (median area-under-the-curve of tmax + 60 s (AUC60): 65.0-85.1%) followed by a gradual/absent outflow. Secondly, the DIEP flap and SCM tissue showed a reference curve with longer inflow (median tmax: 24.0, 22.0 s, median slope norm: 9.3, 9.7%/sec respectively) and reduced outflow (median AUC60: 89.1, 89.0% respectively). Thirdly, the skin of the foot showed slow inflow (median tmax 141.1 s, median norm slope 2.1%/sec) without outflow.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates reference curves for vital tissue perfusion of multiple target tissues identified with ICG NIR fluorescence imaging, providing a critical step towards the clinical implementation of this technique.

Local Myoelectric Sensing During Human Colonic Tissue Perfusion

Objectives: Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most devastating complications after colorectal surgery. The verification of the adequate perfusion of the anastomosis is essential to ensuring anastomosis integrity following colonic resections. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of measuring the electrical activity of the colonic muscularis externa at an anastomosis site for perfusion analysis following colorectal surgery. Methods: Strips of human isolated colon were maintained in a horizontal tissue bath to record spontaneous contractions and myoelectric activity and spike potentials (using a bipolar electrode array for the wireless transmission of myoelectric data-the xBar system) from the circular muscle. Intraoperative myoelectric signal assessment was performed by placing the electrode array on the colon prior to and following mesenteric artery ligation, just prior to colonic resection. Results: In human isolated colon, the amplitude, duration, and frequency of contractions were inhibited during hypoxia by >80% for each measurement, compared to control values and time-matched oxygenated muscle. Intraoperative (N = 5; mean age, 64.8 years; range, 54-74 years; 60% females) myoelectric signal assessment revealed a decline in spike rate following arterial ligation, with a mean reduction of 112.64 to 51.13 spikes/min (p < 0.0008). No adverse events were observed during the study, and the device did not substantially alter the surgical procedure. Conclusions: The electrical and contraction force of the human colon was reduced by ischemia, both in vitro and in vivo. These preliminary findings also suggest the potential of the xBar system to measure such changes during intraoperative and possibly postoperative periods to predict the risk of anastomotic viability as a surrogate of evolving dehiscence.

Cardiac output-guided haemodynamic therapy for patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery: OPTIMISE II randomised clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of a perioperative algorithm for cardiac output-guided haemodynamic therapy in patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery.

DESIGN

Multicentre randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Surgical services of 55 hospitals worldwide.

PARTICIPANTS

2498 adults aged ≥65 years with an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification of II or greater and undergoing major elective gastrointestinal surgery, recruited between January 2017 and September 2022.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were assigned to minimally invasive cardiac output-guided intravenous fluid therapy with low dose inotrope infusion during and four hours after surgery, or to usual care without cardiac output monitoring.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was postoperative infection within 30 days of randomisation. Safety outcomes were acute cardiac events within 24 hours and 30 days. Secondary outcomes were acute kidney injury within 30 days and mortality within 180 days.

RESULTS

In 2498 patients (mean age 74 (standard deviation 6) years, 57% women), the primary outcome occurred in 289/1247 (23.2%) intervention patients and 283/1247 (22.7%) usual care patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.03 (95% confidence interval 0.84 to 1.25); P=0.81). Acute cardiac events within 24 hours occurred in 38/1250 (3.0%) intervention patients and 21/1247 (1.7%) usual care patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.82 (1.06 to 3.13); P=0.03). This difference was primarily due to an increased incidence of arrhythmias among intervention patients. Acute cardiac events within 30 days occurred in 85/1249 (6.8%) intervention patients and 79/1247 (6.3%) usual care patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.06 (0.77 to 1.47); P=0.71). Other secondary outcomes did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

This clinical effectiveness trial in patients undergoing major elective gastrointestinal surgery did not provide evidence that cardiac output-guided intravenous fluid therapy with low dose inotrope infusion could reduce the incidence of postoperative infections. The intervention was associated with an increased incidence of acute cardiac events within 24 hours, in particular tachyarrhythmias. Based on these findings, the routine use of this treatment approach in unselected patients is not recommended.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN39653756.

The use of near-infrared angiography in evaluating bowel anastomosis during a gynecologic oncology surgery

Reducing anastomotic leak rates after bowel resection is a priority among patients undergoing gynecologic oncology surgery. While near-infrared (NIR) angiography has been investigated in the colorectal literature, more recent work has demonstrated promising results when used in gynecologic cancer surgery. It has been repeatedly shown to be a safe intervention that can offer real time assessment of bowel perfusion, offering the surgeon the opportunity to act on the results in the hopes of decreasing the risk of complications.

Dye-less quantification of tissue perfusion by laser speckle contrast imaging is equivalent to quantified indocyanine green in a porcine model

INTRODUCTION

Subjective surgeon interpretation of near-infrared perfusion video is limited by low inter-observer agreement and poor correlation to clinical outcomes. In contrast, quantification of indocyanine green fluorescence video (Q-ICG) correlates with histologic level of perfusion as well as clinical outcomes. Measuring dye volume over time, however, has limitations, such as it is not on-demand, has poor spatial resolution, and is not easily repeatable. Laser speckle contrast imaging quantification (Q-LSCI) is a real-time, dye-free alternative, but further validation is needed. We hypothesize that Q-LSCI will distinguish ischemic tissue and correlate over a range of perfusion levels equivalent to Q-ICG.

METHODS

Nine sections of intestine in three swine were devascularized. Pairs of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging and laser speckle contrast imaging video were quantified within perfused, watershed, and ischemic regions. Q-ICG used normalized peak inflow slope. Q-LSCI methods were laser speckle perfusion units (LSPU), the base unit of laser speckle imaging, relative perfusion units (RPU), a previously described methodology which utilizes an internal control, and zero-lag normalized cross-correlation (X-Corr), to investigate if the signal deviations convey accurate perfusion information. We determine the ability to distinguish ischemic regions and correlation to Q-ICG over a perfusion gradient.

RESULTS

All modalities distinguished ischemic from perfused regions of interest; Q-ICG values of 0.028 and 0.155 (p < 0.001); RPU values of 0.15 and 0.68 (p < 0.001); and X-corr values of 0.73 and 0.24 (p < 0.001). Over a range of perfusion levels, RPU had the best correlation with Q-ICG (r = 0.79, p < 0.001) compared with LSPU (r = 0.74, p < 0.001) and X-Corr (r = 0.46, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that Q-LSCI discriminates ischemic from perfused tissue and represents similar perfusion information over a broad range of perfusion levels comparable to clinically validated Q-ICG. This suggests that Q-LSCI might offer clinically predictive real-time dye-free quantification of tissue perfusion. Further work should include validation in histologic studies and human clinical trials.

Anastomotic tension "Bridging": a risk factor for anastomotic leakage following low anterior resection

BACKGROUND

Excessive tension at the anastomosis contributes to anastomotic leakage (AL) in low anterior resection (LAR). However, the specific tension has not been measured. We assessed whether "Bridging," characterized by the proximal colon resembling a suspension bridge above the pelvic floor, is a significant risk factor for AL following LAR for rectal cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed the medical records and laparoscopic videos of 102 patients who underwent laparoscopic LAR using the double stapling technique at Yachiyo Hospital between January 2014 and December 2023. Patients were classified based on whether they had Bridging (tight or sagging) or were in a Resting state of the proximal colon, and the association between Bridging and AL was examined.

RESULTS

AL occurred in 31.3% of the Tight Bridging group, 20% of the Sagging Bridging group, and 2.2% of the Resting group (P = 0.002). The incidence of AL was significantly higher in patients with Bridging than in those without (23.2% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.003). Multivariate analysis revealed that Bridging is an independent risk factor for AL (odds ratio = 6.97; 95% confidence interval: 1.45-33.6; P = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of Bridging is a significant risk factor for AL following LAR for rectal cancer, suggesting the need for implementing preventive measures in patients with this condition.

The effect of cardiovascular disease on the perioperative period of radical surgery in elderly rectal cancer

AIM

To investigate the impact of preoperative cardiovascular disease on the perioperative period of rectal cancer patients over 75 years old.

METHODS

The clinicopathological data of 625 elderly patients aged ≥ 75 years who underwent radical rectal cancer surgery in the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and affiliated Heji Hospital of Changzhi Medical College from January 2011 to December 2022 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. According to preoperative comorbidities, all patients were divided into cardiovascular disease group (n = 361) and non-cardiovascular disease group (n = 264). One hundred and ninety-two pairs were selected from each group through Propensity score-matched to further analysis. Perioperative indexes and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in clinicopathological data between the two groups (P > 0.05). The proportion of elderly patients with cardiovascular disease who went to ICU after radical surgery was significantly higher than those without cardiovascular disease (19.3% vs. 10.4%, P = 0.015). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the time to first flatus (3.0 vs. 3.5 days, P = 0.332) and postoperative hospital stay (11.3 vs. 10.5 days, P = 0.297). One patient in the cardiovascular disease group died due to pulmonary embolism. A total of 100 patients (26.0%) developed postoperative complications, and the incidence of overall complications (30.7% vs. 21.4%, P = 0.036) and grade 3-5 complications (12.5% vs. 6.3%, P = 0.036) in the cardiovascular disease group was significantly higher than that in the non-cardiovascular disease group. In terms of gastrointestinal disorders, the incidence of anastomotic leakage (6.8% vs. 2.1%, P = 0.026) in elderly patients with cardiovascular diseases was significantly higher than that in patients without cardiovascular disease. In addition, the incidence of cardiac disorders (8.3% vs. 2.6%, P = 0.014) in elderly patients with cardiovascular disease was significantly higher.

CONCLUSION

Elderly rectal cancer patients over 75 years old with cardiovascular disease are more likely to develop severe complications after radical surgery, especially anastomotic leakage and cardiac disorders.

Intraoperative near infrared functional imaging of rectal cancer using artificial intelligence methods - now and near future state of the art

Colorectal cancer remains a major cause of cancer death and morbidity worldwide. Surgery is a major treatment modality for primary and, increasingly, secondary curative therapy. However, with more patients being diagnosed with early stage and premalignant disease manifesting as large polyps, greater accuracy in diagnostic and therapeutic precision is needed right from the time of first endoscopic encounter. Rapid advancements in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), coupled with widespread availability of near infrared imaging (currently based around indocyanine green (ICG)) can enable colonoscopic tissue classification and prognostic stratification for significant polyps, in a similar manner to contemporary dynamic radiological perfusion imaging but with the advantage of being able to do so directly within interventional procedural time frames. It can provide an explainable method for immediate digital biopsies that could guide or even replace traditional forceps biopsies and provide guidance re margins (both areas where current practice is only approximately 80% accurate prior to definitive excision). Here, we discuss the concept and practice of AI enhanced ICG perfusion analysis for rectal cancer surgery while highlighting recent and essential near-future advancements. These include breakthrough developments in computer vision and time series analysis that allow for real-time quantification and classification of fluorescent perfusion signals of rectal cancer tissue intraoperatively that accurately distinguish between normal, benign, and malignant tissues in situ endoscopically, which are now undergoing international prospective validation (the Horizon Europe CLASSICA study). Next stage advancements may include detailed digital characterisation of small rectal malignancy based on intraoperative assessment of specific intratumoral fluorescent signal pattern. This could include T staging and intratumoral molecular process profiling (e.g. regarding angiogenesis, differentiation, inflammatory component, and tumour to stroma ratio) with the potential to accurately predict the microscopic local response to nonsurgical treatment enabling personalised therapy via decision support tools. Such advancements are also applicable to the next generation fluorophores and imaging agents currently emerging from clinical trials. In addition, by providing an understandable, applicable method for detailed tissue characterisation visually, such technology paves the way for acceptance of other AI methodology during surgery including, potentially, deep learning methods based on whole screen/video detailing.

Intraluminal oxygen can keep small bowel mucosa intact in a segmental ischemia model

Intestinal preservation for transplantation is accompanied by hypoperfusion with long periods of ischemia with total blood cessation and absolute withdrawal of oxygen leading to structural damage. The application of intraluminal oxygen has been successfully tested in small-animal series during storage and transport of the organ but have been so far clinically unrelatable. In this study, we tested whether a simple and clinically approachable method of intraluminal oxygen application could prevent ischemic damage in a large animal model, during warm ischemia time. We utilised a local no-flow ischemia model of the small intestine in pigs. A low-flow and high-pressure intraluminal oxygen deliverance system was applied in 6 pigs and 6 pigs served as a control group. Mucosal histopathology, hypoxia and barrier markers were evaluated after two hours of no-flow conditions, in both treatment and sham groups, and in healthy tissue. Macro- and microscopically, the luminal oxygen delivered treatment group showed preserved small bowel's appearance, viability, and mucosal integrity. A gradual deterioration of histopathology and barrier markers and increase in hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α expression towards the sites most distant from the oxygen application was observed. Intraluminal low-flow, high oxygen delivery can preserve the intestinal mucosa during total ischemia of the small intestine. This finding can be incorporated in methods to overcome small bowel ischemia and improve intestinal preservation for transplantation.

Clinical Utility of Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging and Real-Time Quantification of Bowel Perfusion in Minimally Invasive Left-Sided Colorectal Resections

BACKGROUND

Left-sided colorectal surgery demonstrates high anastomotic leak rates, with tissue ischemia thought to influence outcomes. Indocyanine green is commonly used for perfusion assessment, but evidence remains mixed for whether it reduces colorectal anastomotic leaks. Laser speckle contrast imaging provides dye-free perfusion assessment in real-time through perfusion heat maps and quantification.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the efficacy of advanced visualization (indocyanine green versus laser speckle contrast imaging), perfusion assessment, and utility of laser speckle perfusion quantification in determining ischemic margins.

DESIGN

Prospective intervention group using advanced visualization with case-matched, retrospective control group.

SETTINGS

Single academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Forty adult patients undergoing elective, minimally invasive, left-sided colorectal surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

Intraoperative perfusion assessment using white light imaging and advanced visualization at 3 time points: T1-proximal colon after devascularization, before transection, T2-proximal/distal colon before anastomosis, and T3-completed anastomosis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Intraoperative indication of ischemic line of demarcation before resection under each visualization method, surgical decision change using advanced visualization, post hoc laser speckle perfusion quantification of colorectal tissue, and 30-day postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Advanced visualization changed surgical decision-making in 17.5% of cases. For cases in which surgeons changed a decision, the average discordance between the line of demarcation in white light imaging and advanced visualization was 3.7 cm, compared to 0.41 cm ( p  = 0.01) for cases without decision changes. There was no statistical difference between the line of ischemic demarcation using laser speckle versus indocyanine green ( p  = 0.16). Laser speckle quantified lower perfusion values for tissues beyond the line of ischemic demarcation while suggesting an additional 1 cm of perfused tissue beyond this line. One (2.5%) anastomotic leak occurred in the intervention group.

LIMITATIONS

This study was not powered to detect differences in anastomotic leak rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced visualization using laser speckle and indocyanine green provides valuable perfusion information that impacts surgical decision-making in minimally invasive left-sided colorectal surgeries. See Video Abstract .

UTILIDAD CLNICA DE LAS IMGENES DE CONTRASTE MOTEADO CON LSER Y LA CUANTIFICACIN EN TIEMPO REAL DE LA PERFUSIN INTESTINAL EN RESECCIONES COLORRECTALES DEL LADO IZQUIERDO MNIMAMENTE INVASIVAS

ANTECEDENTES:La cirugía colorrectal del lado izquierdo demuestra altas tasas de fuga anastomótica, y se cree que la isquemia tisular influye en los resultados. El verde de indocianina se utiliza habitualmente para evaluar la perfusión, pero la evidencia sobre si reduce las fugas anastomóticas colorrectales sigue siendo contradictoria. Las imágenes de contraste moteado con láser proporcionan una evaluación de la perfusión sin colorantes en tiempo real a través de mapas de calor de perfusión y cuantificación.OBJETIVO:Este estudio investiga la eficacia de la evaluación de la perfusión mediante visualización avanzada (verde de indocianina versus imágenes de contraste moteado con láser) y la utilidad de la cuantificación de la perfusión con moteado láser para determinar los márgenes isquémicos.DISEÑO:Grupo de intervención prospectivo que utiliza visualización avanzada con un grupo de control retrospectivo de casos emparejados.LUGARES:Centro médico académico único.PACIENTES:Cuarenta pacientes adultos sometidos a cirugía colorrectal electiva, mínimamente invasiva, del lado izquierdo.INTERVENCIONES:Evaluación de la perfusión intraoperatoria mediante imágenes con luz blanca y visualización avanzada en tres puntos temporales: T1-colon proximal después de la devascularización, antes de la transección; T2-colon proximal/distal antes de la anastomosis; y T3-anastomosis completa.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACIÓN:Indicación intraoperatoria de la línea de demarcación isquémica antes de la resección bajo cada método de visualización, cambio de decisión quirúrgica mediante visualización avanzada, cuantificación post-hoc de la perfusión con láser moteado del tejido colorrectal y resultados posoperatorios a los 30 días.RESULTADOS:La visualización avanzada cambió la toma de decisiones quirúrgicas en el 17,5% de los casos. Para los casos en los que los cirujanos cambiaron una decisión, la discordancia promedio entre la línea de demarcación en las imágenes con luz blanca y la visualización avanzada fue de 3,7 cm, en comparación con 0,41 cm (p = 0,01) para los casos sin cambios de decisión. No hubo diferencias estadísticas entre la línea de demarcación isquémica utilizando láser moteado versus verde de indocianina (p = 0,16). El moteado con láser cuantificó valores de perfusión más bajos para los tejidos más allá de la línea de demarcación isquémica y al mismo tiempo sugirió 1 cm adicional de tejido perfundido más allá de esta línea. Se produjo una fuga anastomótica (2,5%) en el grupo de intervención.LIMITACIONES:Este estudio no tuvo el poder estadístico suficiente para detectar diferencias en las tasas de fuga anastomótica.CONCLUSIONES:La visualización avanzada utilizando moteado láser y verde de indocianina proporciona información valiosa sobre la perfusión que impacta la toma de decisiones quirúrgicas en cirugías colorrectales mínimamente invasivas del lado izquierdo. (Traducción-Dr. Ingrid Melo).

Real-time near infrared artificial intelligence using scalable non-expert crowdsourcing in colorectal surgery

Surgical artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve patient safety and clinical outcomes. To date, training such AI models to identify tissue anatomy requires annotations by expensive and rate-limiting surgical domain experts. Herein, we demonstrate and validate a methodology to obtain high quality surgical tissue annotations through crowdsourcing of non-experts, and real-time deployment of multimodal surgical anatomy AI model in colorectal surgery.

Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography in colorectal surgery: A retrospective case-control analysis in Mexico

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

An anastomotic leak is one of the most dreaded complications in colorectal surgery because it increases postoperative morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to identify whether indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICGFA) reduced the anastomotic dehiscence rate in colorectal surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study on patients that underwent colorectal surgery with colonic resection or low anterior resection and primary anastomosis, within the time frame of January 2019 and September 2021, was conducted. The patients were divided into the case group, in which ICGFA was performed for the intraoperative evaluation of blood perfusion at the anastomosis site, and the control group, in which ICGFA was not utilized.

RESULTS

A total of 168 medical records were reviewed, resulting in 83 cases and 85 controls. Inadequate perfusion that required changing the surgical site of the anastomosis was identified in 4.8% of the case group (n = 4). A trend toward reducing the leak rate with ICGFA was identified (6% [n = 5] in the cases vs 7.1% in the controls [n = 6] [p = 0.999]). The patients that underwent anastomosis site change due to inadequate perfusion had a 0% leak rate.

CONCLUSIONS

ICGFA as a method to evaluate intraoperative blood perfusion showed a trend toward reducing the incidence of anastomotic leak in colorectal surgery.

Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography could reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage in rectal cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIM

Several papers have shown that use of indocyanine green (ICG) decreases incidence of anastomotic leakage (AL) during colonic surgery, but no clear evidence has been found for rectal cancer surgery. Therefore, with this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) we aimed to assess if ICG could also reduce risk of AL in rectal cancer surgery.

METHOD

PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL and Cochrane databases were searched for RCTs assessing the effect of intraoperative ICG on the incidence of AL of the colorectal anastomosis. Pooled relative risk (RR) and pooled risk difference (RD) were obtained using models with random effects. Risk of bias was evaluated with the Rob2 tool and the quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE Pro tool.

RESULTS

Four RCTs were included for analysis, with a total of 1510 patients (743 controls and 767 ICG patients). The rate of AL was 9% in the ICG group (69/767) and 13.9% (103/743) in the control group (p = 0.003, RR -0.5, 95% CI -0.827 to -0.172, heterogeneity test 0%, p = 0.460). The RD in terms of incidence of AL was significantly decreased by 4.51% (p = 0.031, 95% CI -0.086 to -0.004, heterogeneity test 28%, p = 0.182) when using ICG.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis suggested that use of ICG during rectal cancer surgery could reduce the rate of AL.

Applications of indocyanine greenenhanced fluorescence in the laparoscopic treatment of colonic stricture after necrotizing enterocolitis

BACKGROUND

The status of anastomotic blood perfusion is associated with the occurrence of anastomotic leakage after intestinal anastomosis. Fluorescence angiography (FA) with indocyanine green (ICG) can objectively assess intestinal blood perfusion. This study aims to investigate whether anastomotic perfusion assessment with ICG influences surgical decision-making during laparoscopic intestinal resection and primary anastomosis for colonic stricture after necrotizing enterocolitis.

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic intestinal resection and primary anastomosis between January 2022 and December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Before intestinal anastomosis, the ICG fluorescence technology was used to evaluate the blood perfusion of intestinal tubes on both sides of the anastomosis. After the completion of primary anastomosis, the anastomotic blood perfusion was assessed again.

RESULTS

Of the 13 cases, laparoscopy was used to determine the extent of the diseased bowel to be excised, and the normal bowel was preserved for anastomosis. The anastomosis was established under the guidance of ICG fluorescence technology, and FA was performed after anastomosis to confirm good blood flow in the proximal bowel. The anastomotic intestinal tube was changed in one case because FA showed a difference between the normal range of intestinal blood flow and the macroscopic prediction. There was no evidence of ICG allergy, anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, or other complications. The median follow-up was 6 months, and all patients recovered well.

CONCLUSIONS

The ICG fluorescence technology is helpful in precisely and efficiently determining the anastomotic intestinal blood flow during stricture resection and in avoiding anastomotic leakage caused by poor anastomotic intestinal blood flow to some extent, with satisfactory short-term efficacy.

Splenic flexure mobilization and anastomotic leakage in anterior resection for rectal cancer: A multicentre cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Some colorectal surgeons advocate routine splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) when performing anterior resection for rectal cancer to ensure a tension-free anastomosis. Meta-analyses of smaller studies suggest that this approach does not influence anastomotic leakage rates, but larger multicentre studies are needed to confirm the safety of a selective strategy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of SFM on anastomotic leakage.

METHODS

This is a retrospective multicentre cohort study, comprising 1109 patients operated with anterior resection for rectal cancer in 2014-2018. Exposure was SFM, while anastomotic leakage within a year constituted the outcome. Stratified analyses were performed for type of mesorectal excision and surgical approach, as well as sensitivity analysis considering vascular tie placement. Multivariable Cox regression with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was employed to adjust for confounding, while multiple imputation was used for missing data.

RESULTS

SFM was performed in 381 patients (34.4%). Anastomotic leakage occurred in 83 (21.8%) and 123 (20.3%) patients operated with and without SFM, respectively. SFM was neither clearly detrimental nor beneficial regarding anastomotic leakage (adjusted HR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.59-1.15), with no apparent differences for total or partial mesorectal excision and minimally invasive or open surgery. Concurrent high vascular ligation did not impact these results, and there was no evidence of interaction from centers with a more common use of SFM.

CONCLUSIONS

SFM did not seem to influence the risk of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer, regardless of type of mesorectal excision, use of minimally invasive surgery, or high vascular ligation.

Blood Perfusion Assessment by Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging for Minimally Invasive Rectal Cancer Surgery (EssentiAL trial): A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the superiority of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging (ICG-FI) in reducing the rate of anastomotic leakage in minimally invasive rectal cancer surgery.

BACKGROUND

The role of ICG-FI in anastomotic leakage in minimally invasive rectal cancer surgery is controversial according to the published literature.

METHODS

This randomized, open-label, phase 3, trial was performed at 41 hospitals in Japan. Patients with clinically stage 0-III rectal carcinoma less than 12 cm from the anal verge, scheduled for minimally invasive sphincter-preserving surgery were preoperatively randomly assigned to receive a blood flow evaluation by ICG-FI (ICG+ group) or no blood flow evaluation by ICG-FI (ICG- group). The primary endpoint was the anastomotic leakage rate (grade A+B+C, expected reduction rate of 6%) analyzed in the modified intention-to-treat population.

RESULTS

Between December 2018 and February 2021, a total of 850 patients were enrolled and randomized. After the exclusion of 11 patients, 839 were subject to the modified intention-to-treat population (422 in the ICG+ group and 417 in the ICG- group). The rate of anastomotic leakage (grade A+B+C) was significantly lower in the ICG+ group (7.6%) than in the ICG- group (11.8%) (relative risk, 0.645; 95% confidence interval 0.422-0.987; P =0.041). The rate of anastomotic leakage (grade B+C) was 4.7% in the ICG+ group and 8.2% in the ICG- group ( P =0.044), and the respective reoperation rates were 0.5% and 2.4% ( P =0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the actual reduction rate of anastomotic leakage in the ICG+ group was lower than the expected reduction rate and ICG-FI was not superior to white light, ICG-FI significantly reduced the anastomotic leakage rate by 4.2%.

The aortic calcification is a risk factor for colorectal anastomotic leakage

PURPOSE

The current pooling up analysis aimed to evaluate whether aortic calcification (AC) was a potential risk factor for anastomotic leakage (AL) after colorectal surgery.

METHODS

In this study, we searched studies in three databases including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library on April 20, 2022. In order to investigate the association between AC and AL, the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of AC were pooled up. Our study was performed with RevMan 5.3 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

RESULTS

We finally enrolled eight studies involving 1955 patients for statistical analysis. As for all patients, we found that AC could significantly increase the risk of AL after surgery (HR = 2.31, I2 = 0%, 95%CI = 1.58 to 3.38, P < 0.01). In five studies including patients undergoing colorectal surgery (benign diseases and cancers), AC was also a risk factor for AL (HR = 3.30, I2 = 2%; 95%CI = 1.83 to 5.95, P < 0.01). In terms of the other three studies that only included CRC patients, there was still a correction between AC and AL (HR = 1.80, I2 = 0%, 95%CI = 1.10 to 2.96, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Patients with AC were more likely to develop AL after colorectal surgery. Moreover, subgroup analysis suggested that AC was a predictor for AL after CRC surgery.

Effect of perioperative goal-directed fluid therapy on postoperative complications after thoracic surgery with one-lung ventilation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

An understanding of the impact of goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) on the outcomes of patients undergoing one-lung ventilation (OLV) for thoracic surgery remains incomplete and controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of GDFT compared to other fluid therapy strategies on the incidence of postoperative complications in patients with OLV.

METHODS

The Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and MEDLINE via PubMed databases were searched from their inception to November 30, 2022. Forest plots were constructed to present the results of the meta-analysis. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool and Risk Of Bias In Non-Randomized Study of Interventions (ROBINS-I). The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative complications. Secondary outcomes were the length of hospital stay, PaO2/FiO2 ratio, total fluid infusion, inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6), and postoperative bowel function recovery time.

RESULTS

A total of 1318 patients from 11 studies were included in this review. The GDFT group had a lower incidence of postoperative complications [odds ratio (OR), 0.47; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.29-0.75; P = 0.002; I 2, 67%], postoperative pulmonary complications (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.27-0.83; P = 0.009), and postoperative anastomotic leakage (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.27-0.97; P = 0.04). The GDFT strategy reduces total fluid infusion.

CONCLUSIONS

GDFT is associated with lower postoperative complications and better survival outcomes after thoracic surgery for OLV.

Real-time quantification of bowel perfusion using Laparoscopic Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI) in a porcine model

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Real-time quantification of tissue perfusion can improve intraoperative surgical decision making. Here we demonstrate the utility of Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging as an intra-operative tool that quantifies real-time regional differences in intestinal perfusion and distinguishes ischemic changes resulting from arterial/venous obstruction.

METHODS

Porcine models (n = 3) consisted of selectively devascularized small bowel loops that were used to measure the perfusion responses under conditions of control/no vascular occlusion, arterial inflow occlusion, and venous outflow occlusion using laser speckle imaging and indocyanine green fluoroscopy. Laser Speckle was also used to assess perfusion differences between small bowel antimesenteric-antimesenteric and mesenteric-mesenteric anastomoses. Perfusion quantification was measured in relative perfusion units calculated from the laser speckle perfusion heatmap.

RESULTS

Laser Speckle distinguished between visually identified perfused, watershed, and ischemic intestinal segments with both color heatmap and quantification (p < .00001). It detected a continuous gradient of relative intestinal perfusion as a function of distance from the stapled ischemic bowel edge. Strong positive linear correlation between relative perfusion units and changes in mean arterial pressure resulting from both arterial (R2 = .96/.79) and venous pressure changes (R2 = .86/.96) was observed. Furthermore, Laser Speckle showed that the antimesenteric anastomosis had a higher perfusion than mesenteric anastomosis (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging provides objective, quantifiable tissue perfusion information in both color heatmap and relative numerical units. Laser Speckle can detect spatial/temporal differences in perfusion between antimesenteric and mesenteric borders of a bowel segment and precisely detect perfusion changes induced by progressive arterial/venous occlusions in real-time.

Impact of powered circular stapler on anastomotic leak after anastomosis to the rectum: a propensity score matched study

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study is to assess the impact of Echelon Circular™ powered stapler (PCS) on left-sided colorectal anastomotic leaks and to compare results to conventional circular staplers (CCS).

METHODS

A single center cohort study was carried out on 552 consecutive patients, who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection and anastomosis to the rectum between December 2017 and September 2022. Patients who underwent powered circular anastomosis to the rectum were matched to those who had a conventional stapled anastomosis using a propensity score matching. Main outcomes were anastomotic leak (AL) rate, anastomotic bleeding, and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

After adjusting cases with propensity score matching, two new groups of patients were generated: 145 patients in the PCS and 145 in the CCS. The two groups were homogeneous with respect to demographics and comorbidities on admission. Overall, AL occurred in 21 (7.3%) patients. No significant differences were observed with respect to AL (5.5% in PCS vs 9% in CCS; p = 0.66), fistula severity (p = 0.60) or reoperation rate (p = 0.65) in the two groups in study. A higher rate of anastomotic bleeding was observed in the CCS vs PCS (5.5% vs 0.7%, p = 0.03). At univariate analysis performed after propensity score matching, stapler diameter ≥ 31mm and age ≥ 70 years were the only variable significantly associated with anastomotic leak (p = 0.001 and p = 0.031; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The powered circular stapler has no impact on AL, while it could affect bleeding rate at the anastomotic site.

Impact of Anastomotic Leak on Long-term Oncological Outcomes After Restorative Surgery for Rectal Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak after restorative surgery for rectal cancer is a major complication and may lead to worse long-term oncological and survival outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors associated with anastomotic leak and to assess the perioperative and long-term oncological impact of anastomotic leak in our cohort of patients with rectal cancer.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis was performed on data from the prospectively maintained Cabrini Monash colorectal neoplasia database. Patients who had undergone rectal cancer resection and subsequently received anastomosis between November 2009 and May 2020 were included in this study. Patient and tumor characteristics, technical risk factors, and short-term and perioperative as well as long-term oncological and survival outcomes were assessed.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted in 3 tertiary hospitals.

PATIENTS

A total of 693 patients met the inclusion criteria for this study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Univariate analyses were performed to assess the relationship between anastomotic leak and patient and technical risk factors, as well as perioperative and long-term outcomes. Univariate and multivariate proportional HR models of overall and disease-free survival were calculated. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses assessed disease-free and overall survival.

RESULTS

Anastomotic leak rate was 3.75%. Males had an increased risk of anastomotic leak, as did patients with hypertension and ischemic heart disease. Patients who experience an anastomotic leak were more likely to require reoperation and hospital readmission and were more likely to experience an inpatient death. Disease-free and overall survival were also negatively impacted by anastomotic leaks.

LIMITATIONS

This is a retrospective analysis of data from only 3 centers with the usual limitations. However, these effects have been minimized because of the high quality and completeness of the prospective data collection.

CONCLUSIONS

Anastomotic leaks after restorative surgery negatively affect long-term oncological and survival outcomes for patients with rectal cancer. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C81 .

IMPACTO DE LA FUGA ANASTOMTICA EN LOS RESULTADOS ONCOLGICOS A LARGO PLAZO TRAS CIRUGA RESTAURADORA PARA EL CNCER DE RECTO UN ESTUDIO DE COHORTE RETROSPECTIVO

ANTECEDENTES:La fuga anastomótica tras una cirugía restauradora para el cáncer de recto es una complicación mayor y puede conducir a peores resultados oncológicos y de supervivencia a largo plazo.OBJETIVO:El propósito de este estudio fue identificar los factores de riesgo asociados con la fuga anastomótica y evaluar el impacto oncológico perioperatorio y a largo plazo de la fuga anastomótica en nuestra cohorte de pacientes con cáncer de recto.DISEÑO:Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de datos obtenidos de la base de datos Cabrini Monash sobre neoplasia colorrectal la cual es mantenida prospectivamente. Se incluyeron en este estudio pacientes que fueron sometidos a una resección del cáncer de recto y que posteriormente recibieron una anastomosis entre noviembre de 2009 y mayo de 2020. Se evaluaron las características del paciente y del tumor, los factores de riesgo relacionados a la técnica, los resultados oncológicos y de supervivencia perioperatorio, así como los resultados a corto y largo plazo.AJUSTES:El estudio se realizó en tres hospitales terciarios.PACIENTES:Un total de 693 pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión para este estudio.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se realizaron análisis univariados para evaluar la relación entre la fuga anastomótica y aquellos factores relacionados al paciente, a la técnica, así como los resultados perioperatorios y a largo plazo. Se calcularon modelos de razón de riesgo proporcional univariante y multivariante de supervivencia global y libre de enfermedad. Los análisis de supervivencia de Kaplan-Meier evaluaron la supervivencia libre de enfermedad y la supervivencia global.RESULTADOS:La tasa de fuga anastomótica fue del 3,75%. Los hombres tenían un mayor riesgo de fuga anastomótica al igual que aquellos pacientes con hipertensión y cardiopatía isquémica. Los pacientes que sufrieron una fuga anastomótica tuvieron mayores probabilidades de requerir una reintervención y reingreso hospitalario, así como también tuvieron mayores probabilidades de sufrir una muerte hospitalaria. La supervivencia libre de enfermedad y general también se vio afectada negativamente por las fugas anastomóticas.LIMITACIONES:Este es un análisis retrospectivo de datos de solo tres centros con las limitaciones habituales. Sin embargo, estos efectos han sido minimizados debido a la alta calidad y la exhaustividad de la recopilación prospectiva de datos.CONCLUSIONES:Las fugas anastomóticas después de una cirugía restauradora afectan negativamente los resultados oncológicos y de supervivencia a largo plazo para los pacientes con cáncer de recto. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C81 . (Traducción-Dr. Osvaldo Gauto ).

Preoperative assessment of blood supply and its role in predicting anastomotic leak

BACKGROUND

Anastomosis leak is one of the significant postoperative complications after colorectal surgery. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the evidence relative to the preoperative assessment of the colon and rectum blood supply and to investigate its role in predicting anastomosis leak.

METHOD

This systematic review was conducted according to the recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook for Reviews of Interventions and reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify eligible studies. The main outcome variable was the preoperative assessment of patterns of blood supply to the colon and the impact of these patterns on anastomosis leak. The quality of bias control in the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Due to the heterogeneous nature of the included studies, no meta-analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies were included. The study covered a period from 1978 to 2021. A significant degree of variation in the arterial and/or venous supply of the colon and rectum might influence anastomosis leak rates. Calcification in great blood vessels can be assessed with a preoperative computed tomography scan, which may predict anastomosis leak rates. This is supported by many experimental studies that showed increased rates of anastomosis leak after preoperative ischemia, but the extent of this impact is not well established.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative assessment of blood supply to the colon and rectum might help in planning the surgical intervention to reduce anastomosis leak rates. Calcium scoring of major arteries might predict anastomosis leak and thus play a crucial role in intraoperative decision-making.

Indocyanine green angiography for lower incidence of anastomotic leakage after transanal total mesorectal excision: a propensity score-matched cohort study

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is the most serious complication that can arise during colorectal surgery. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography offers an intraoperative assessment of colonic vascular perfusion in real time. We aimed to assess ICG's effects on the AL rate in patients who have undergone transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for rectal cancer.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at our center from October 2018 to March 2022 to analyze the clinical data of patients with rectal cancer who have undergone TaTME after propensity score matching (PSM). The primary outcome was the proximal colonic transection line modification and clinical AL rate.

Results

A total of 143 patients in the non-ICG group and 143 patients in the ICG group were included after PSM. The proximal colonic transection line of seven patients in the non-ICG group was modified, while 18 were in the ICG group (4.9% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.023). Twenty-three patients (16.1%) in the non-ICG group and five patients (3.5%) in the ICG group were diagnosed with AL (p < 0.001). The ICG group had a less hospital readmission rate than the non-ICG group (0.7% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.003). The between-group differences in basic line and other outcomes were not significant.

Conclusions

ICG angiography is a safe and feasible method to help surgeons identify potentially poor colonic vascular perfusion and modify the proximal colonic transection line, resulting in a significant reduction in AL and hospital readmission rates.

Assessment of gastric pouch blood supply with indocyanine green fluorescence in conversional and revisional bariatric surgery: a prospective comparative study

Our study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of indocyanine green (ICG) angiography during conversional or revisional bariatric surgery. We prospectively enrolled all patients scheduled for reoperative bariatric surgery with gastric pouch resizing and ICG assessment and we compared them with a retrospective series of similar patients who did not receive ICG. The primary outcome was the rate of intraoperative change in the surgical strategy due to the ICG test. We included 32 prospective patients receiving intraoperatively an ICG perfusion test and 48 propensity score-matched controls. The mean age was 50.7 ± 9.7 years, 67 (83.7%) patients were female, and the mean BMI was 36.8 ± 5.3 kg/m2. The patient characteristics were similar in both groups. The ICG angiography was successfully conducted in all patients, and no change of the surgical strategy was necessary. Postoperative complications were similar in both groups (6.2% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.846), as well as operative time (125 ± 43 vs. 133 ± 47 min, p = 0.454) and length of hospital stay (2.8 ± 1.0 vs. 3.3 ± 2.2 days, p = 0.213). Our study suggested that ICG fluorescence angiography might not have been useful for assessing the blood supply of the gastric pouch in patients who underwent reoperative bariatric surgery. Therefore, it remains uncertain whether the application of this technique is indicated.

Application of indocyanine green in surgery: A review of current evidence and implementation in trauma patients

Background: Modern surgical medicine strives to manage trauma while improving outcomes using functional imaging. Identification of viable tissues is crucial for the surgical management of polytrauma and burn patients presenting with soft tissue and hollow viscus injuries. Bowel anastomosis after trauma-related resection is associated with a high rate of leakage. The ability of the surgeon’s bare eye to determine bowel viability remains limited, and the need for a more standardized objective assessment has not yet been fulfilled. Hence, there is a need for more precise diagnostic tools to enhance surgical evaluation and visualization to aid early diagnosis and timely management to minimize trauma-associated complications. Indocyanine green (ICG) coupled with fluorescence angiography is a potential solution for this problem. ICG is a fluorescent dye that responds to near-infrared irradiation. Methods: We conducted a narrative review to address the utility of ICG in the surgical management of patients with trauma as well as elective surgery. Discussion: ICG has many applications in different medical fields and has recently become an important clinical indicator for surgical guidance. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the use of this technology to treat traumas. Recently, angiography with ICG has been introduced in clinical practice to visualize and quantify organ perfusion under several conditions, leading to fewer cases of anastomotic insufficiency. This has great potential to bridge this gap and enhance the clinical outcomes of surgery and patient safety. However, there is no consensus on the ideal dose, time, and manner of administration nor the indications that ICG provides a genuine advantage through greater safety in trauma surgical settings. Conclusions: There is a scarcity of publications describing the use of ICG in trauma patients as a potentially useful strategy to facilitate intraoperative decisions and to limit the extent of surgical resection. This review will improve our understanding of the utility of intraoperative ICG fluorescence in guiding and assisting trauma surgeons to deal with the intraoperative challenges and thus improve the patients’ operative care and safety in the field of trauma surgery.

Transanal drainage tube for the prevention of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a serious complication of anterior resection for rectal cancer. The use of transanal drainage tubes (TDT) during surgery to prevent AL remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the efficacy of TDT in reducing AL.

Methods

Relevant data and studies published from inception until November 1, 2022, were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases to compare the incidence of AL after anterior resection for rectal cancer with and without TDT.

Results

This meta-analysis included 5 RCTs comprising 1385 patients. The results showed that the intraoperative use of TDT could not reduce the incidence of AL after rectal cancer surgery (risk ratio [RR], 0.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52-1.59; p = 0.75). A subgroup analysis of different degrees of AL revealed that TDT did not reduce the incidence of postoperative grade B AL (RR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.67-2.09; p = 0.56) but decreased the incidence of grade C AL (RR, 0.28; 95% CI: 0.12-0.64; p = 0.003). Further, TDT did not reduce the incidence of AL in patients with rectal cancer and a stoma (RR, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.01-5.71; p = 0.05).

Conclusion

TDT were ineffective in reducing the overall incidence of AL, but they might be beneficial in reducing the incidence of grade C AL in patients who underwent anterior resection. However, additional multicenter RCTs with larger sample sizes based on unified control standards and TDT indications are warranted to validate these findings.

Real-time Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Technique Reduces Anastomotic Leakage in Bilioenteric Anastomosis: A Case Report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage is a serious complication that can occur in bilioenteric anastomosis surgery, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, practitioners rely on subjective measures to determine anastomotic perfusion and mechanical integrity, which have limitations. The use of indocyanine green fluorescence technology has become increasingly widespread in clinical practice, especially in gastrointestinal-related surgery. This technique has a unique role in evaluating the blood perfusion of anastomoses and reducing the incidence of anastomotic leakage. However, there have been no reports of its use in bilioenteric anastomosis surgery. Further research is needed to investigate the potential benefits of indocyanine green fluorescence technology in improving outcomes and reducing complications in this type of surgery.

CASE SUMMARY

a 50-year-old female patient underwent total laparoscopic radical resection of cholangiocarcinoma. During the surgery, indocyanine green fluorescence technology was used to complete the biliary intestinal anastomosis under full visual and dynamic monitoring. The patient recovered well after the operation without experiencing biliary leakage or other complications.

CONCLUSION

The present case study underscores the potential advantages associated with the incorporation of intraoperative real-time indocyanine green (ICG) technology in bilioenteric anastomosis surgery. By facilitating enhanced visualization and assessment of anastomotic perfusion and mechanical stability, this state-of-the-art technique may help mitigate the occurrence of anastomotic leaks while simultaneously improving patient outcomes. Notably, intravenous administration of ICG at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg, administered 24 hours prior to surgery, has been found to yield optimal visualization outcomes.

Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography decreases the risk of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Anastomotic leakage is a serious complication after rectal cancer resection. Intraoperative use of indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICGFA) can help prevent anastomotic leakage, but its use is controversial. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of ICGFA in reducing anastomotic leakage.

Methods

Relevant data and research published until September 30, 2022, was retrieved from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases, and the difference in the incidence of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer resection between ICGFA and standard treatment was compared.

Results

This meta-analysis included 22 studies with a total of 4,738 patients. The results showed that ICGFA use during surgery decreased the incidence of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery [risk ratio (RR) = 0.46; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.39-0.56; p < 0.001]. Simultaneously, in subgroup analyses for different regions, ICGFA was found to be used to reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery in Asia (RR = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.23-0.48; p < 0.00001) and Europe (RR = 0.38; 95% CI, 0.27-0.53; p < 0.00001) but not in North America (RR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.40-1.29; p = 0.27). Regarding different levels of anastomotic leakage, ICGFA reduced the incidence of postoperative type A anastomotic leakage (RR = 0.25; 95% CI, 0.14-0.44; p < 0.00001) but did not reduce the incidence of type B (RR = 0.70; 95% CI, 0.38-1.31; p = 0.27) and type C (RR = 0.97; 95% CI, 0.51-1.97; p = 0.93) anastomotic leakages.

Conclusion

ICGFA has been linked to a reduction in anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer resection. However, multicenter randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are required for further validation.

Real-time semi-quantitative assessment of anastomotic blood perfusion in mini‑invasive rectal resections by Sidestream Dark Field (SDF) imaging technology: a prospective in vivo pilot study

PURPOSE

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the severe complications after rectal surgery, and anastomotic ischemia is one of the main factors. This prospective in vivo pilot study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Sidestream Dark Field (SDF) imaging in quantitative assessment of anastomotic microcirculation and to analyze its correlation with AL.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients with rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection from 2019 to 2020 were enrolled. Microcirculation was measured by SDF imaging at the descending colon, the mesocolon transection line (MTL), and 1 cm and 2 cm distal to the MTL. Anastomotic microcirculation was measured at the stapler anvil edge before anastomosis. Quantitative perfusion-related parameters were as follows: microcirculation flow index (MFI), perfused vessel density (PVD), proportion of perfused vessels (PPV), and total vessel density (TVD).

RESULTS

All patients obtained stable microcirculation images. Functional microcirculation parameters (MFI, PPV, PVD) decreased successively from the descending colon, the colon at MTL, and 1 cm and 2 cm distal to the MTL (all P < 0.01). Extremely poor microcirculation was found at the intestinal segment 2 cm distal to the MTL. Micro-perfusion was significantly lower at the colonic limb of the anastomosis compared with the descending colon (all P < 0.001). Anastomotic leakage occurred in 3 patients (9.1%) whose anastomotic microcirculation was significantly lower than those without AL (all P < 0.01). Blood perfusion at the colonic limb of the anastomosis was significantly higher in patients with left colic artery preservation than in controls.

CONCLUSION

SDF imaging is a promising technique for evaluating anastomotic microcirculation and has potential clinical significance for risk stratification of AL.

Anastomotic perfusion assessment with indocyanine green in robot-assisted low-anterior resection, a multicenter study of interobserver variation

BACKGROUND

Securing sufficient blood perfusion to the anastomotic area after low-anterior resection is a crucial factor in preventing anastomotic leakage (AL). Intra-operative indocyanine green fluorescent imaging (ICG-FI) has been suggested as a tool to assess perfusion. However, knowledge of inter-observer variation among surgeons in the interpretation of ICG-FI is sparse. Our primary objective was to evaluate inter-observer variation among surgeons in the interpretation of bowel blood-perfusion assessed visually by ICG-FI. Our secondary objective was to compare the results both from the visual assessment of ICG and from computer-based quantitative analyses of ICG-FI between patients with and without the development of AL.

METHOD

A multicenter study, including patients undergoing robot-assisted low anterior resection with stapled anastomosis. ICG-FI was evaluated visually by the surgeon intra-operatively. Postoperatively, recorded videos were anonymized and exchanged between centers for inter-observer evaluation. Time to visibility (TTV), time to maximum visibility (TMV), and time to wash-out (TWO) were visually assessed. In addition, the ICG-FI video-recordings were analyzed using validated pixel analysis software to quantify blood perfusion.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients were included, and five developed clinical AL. Bland-Altman plots (BA plots) demonstrated wide inter-observer variation for visually assessed fluorescence on all parameters (TTV, TMV, and TWO). Comparing leak-group with no-leak group, we found no significant differences for TTV: Hazard Ratio; HR = 0.82 (CI 0.32; 2.08), TMV: HR = 0.62 (CI 0.24; 1.59), or TWO: HR = 1.11 (CI 0.40; 3.11). In the quantitative pixel analysis, a lower slope of the fluorescence time-curve was found in patients with a subsequent leak: median 0.08 (0.07;0.10) compared with non-leak patients: median 0.13 (0.10;0.17) (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

The surgeon's visual assessment of the ICG-FI demonstrated wide inter-observer variation, there were no differences between patients with and without AL. However, quantitative pixel analysis showed a significant difference between groups.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04766060.

Predictive Factors for Anastomotic Leakage Following Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?

Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains one of the most severe complications following colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. Indeed, leaks that may occur after any type of intestinal anastomosis are commonly associated with a higher reoperation rate and an increased risk of postoperative morbidity and mortality. At first, our review aims to identify specific preoperative, intraoperative and perioperative factors that eventually lead to the development of anastomotic dehiscence based on the current literature. We will also investigate the role of several biomarkers in predicting the presence of ALs following colorectal surgery. Despite significant improvements in perioperative care, advances in surgical techniques, and a high index of suspicion of this complication, the incidence of AL remained stable during the last decades. Thus, gaining a better knowledge of the risk factors that influence the AL rates may help identify high-risk surgical patients requiring more intensive perioperative surveillance. Furthermore, prompt diagnosis of this severe complication may help improve patient survival. To date, several studies have identified predictive biomarkers of ALs, which are most commonly associated with the inflammatory response to colorectal surgery. Interestingly, early diagnosis and evaluation of the severity of this complication may offer a significant opportunity to guide clinical judgement and decision-making.

Laparoscopic D3 lymph node dissection with left colic artery and first sigmoid artery preservation in rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

D3 lymph node dissection with left colic artery (LCA) preservation in rectal cancer surgery seems to have little effect on reducing postoperative anastomotic leakage. So we first propose D3 lymph node dissection with LCA and first sigmoid artery (SA) preservation. This novel procedure deserves further study.

METHODS

Rectal cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic D3 lymph node dissection with LCA preservation or with LCA and first SA preservation between January 2017 and January 2020 were retrospectively assessed. The patients were categorized into two groups: the preservation of the LCA group and the preservation of the LCA and first SA group. A 1:1 propensity score-matched analysis was performed to decrease confounding.

RESULTS

Propensity score matching yielded 56 patients in each group from the eligible patients. The rate of postoperative anastomotic leakage in the preservation of the LCA and first SA group was significantly lower than that in the LCA preservation group (7.1% vs. 0%, P=0.040). No significant differences were observed in operation time, length of hospital stay, estimated blood loss, length of distal margin, lymph node retrieval, apical lymph node retrieval, and complications. A survival analysis showed patients' 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rates of group 1 and group 2 were 81.8% and 83.5% (P=0.595), respectively.

CONCLUSION

D3 lymph node dissection with LCA and first SA preservation for rectal cancer may help reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage without compromising oncological outcomes compare with D3 lymph node dissection with LCA preservation alone.

Imaging Photoplethysmography for Noninvasive Anastomotic Perfusion Assessment in Intestinal Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Anastomotic leakage after gastrointestinal surgery has a high impact on patient's quality of life and its origin is associated with inadequate perfusion. Imaging photoplethysmography (iPPG) is a noninvasive imaging technique that measures blood-volume changes in the microvascular tissue bed and detects changes in tissue perfusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Intraoperative iPPG imaging was performed in 29 patients undergoing an open segment resection of the small intestine or colon. During each surgery, imaging was performed on fully perfused (true positives) and ischemic intestines (true negatives) and the anastomosis (unknowns). Imaging consisted of a 30-s video from which perfusion maps were extracted, providing detailed information about blood flow within the intestine microvasculature. To detect the predictive capabilities of iPPG, true positive and true negative perfusion conditions were used to develop two different perfusion classification methods.

RESULTS

iPPG-derived perfusion parameters were highly correlated with perfusion-perfused or ischemic-in intestinal tissues. A perfusion confidence map distinguished perfused and ischemic intestinal tissues with 96% sensitivity and 86% specificity. Anastomosis images were scored as adequately perfused in 86% of cases and 14% inconclusive. The cubic-Support Vector Machine achieved 90.9% accuracy and an area under the curve of 96%. No anastomosis-related postoperative complications were encountered in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that noninvasive intraoperative iPPG is suitable for the objective assessment of small intestine and colon anastomotic perfusion. In addition, two perfusion classification methods were developed, providing the first step in an intestinal perfusion prediction model.

Intraluminal Anastomotic Assessment Using Indocyanine Green Near-Infrared Imaging for Left-Sided Colonic and Rectal Resections: a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA) has been used in colorectal surgery to assess anastomotic perfusion and reduce the risks of anastomotic leaks. The main objective of this paper is to review the data on the transanal application of ICG-FA for the intraluminal assessment of colorectal anastomosis.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted for articles published between 2011 and 2021 using PubMed and Cochrane databases, related to the application of ICG for the intraluminal assessment of colorectal anastomosis. Original scientific manuscripts, review articles, meta-analyses, and case reports were considered eligible.

RESULTS

A total of 305 studies have been identified. After abstract screening for duplicates, 285 articles remained. Of those, 271 were not related to the topic of interest, 4 were written in a language other than English, and 4 had incomplete data. Six articles remained for the final analysis. The intraluminal assessment of colorectal anastomosis with ICG-FA is feasible, safe, and may reduce the incidence of leaks.

CONCLUSION

The intraluminal assessment of anastomotic perfusion via ICG-FA may be a promising novel application of ICG technology. More data is needed to support this application further to reduce leak rates after colorectal surgery, and future randomized clinical trials are awaited.

Techniques for Diagnosing Anastomotic Leaks Intraoperatively in Colorectal Surgeries: A Review

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common surgically curable malignancies worldwide, having a good prognosis even with liver metastasis. This improved patient outcome is marred by anastomotic leaks (AL) in operated patients of colorectal cancer despite a microscopically margin-negative resection (R0). Various risk factors have been attributed to causing this. Preoperative non-modifiable factors are age, male sex, cancer cachexia, and neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy, and modifiable factors are comorbidities, peripheral vascular disease, anemia, and malnutrition. Intraoperative risk factors include intraoperative surgical duration, blood loss and transfusions, fluid management, oxygen saturation, surgical technique (stapled, handsewn, or compression devices), and approach (open, laparoscopic, or robotic). Postoperative factors like anemia, infection, fluid management, and blood transfusions also have an effect. With the advent of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, many modifiable factors can be optimized to reduce the risk. Prevention is better than cure as the morbidity and mortality of AL are very high. There is still a need for an intraoperative technique to detect the viability of anastomotic ends to predict and prevent AL. Prompt diagnosis of an AL is the key. Many surgeons have proposed using methods like air leak tests, intraoperative endoscopy, Doppler ultrasound, and near-infrared fluorescence imaging to decrease the incidence of AL. All these methods can minimize AL, resulting in significant intraoperative alterations to surgical tactics. This narrative review covers the methods of assessing of integrity of anastomosis during the surgery, which can help prevent anastomotic leakage.

[ICG angiography in prevention of colorectal anastomotic leakage]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of indocyanine green fluorescence angiography in assessment of colorectal anastomosis perfusion.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective single-center non-randomized comparative study included 85 patients with rectum and sigmoid colon cancer between September 2019 and March 2023. In the main group (n=41), we intraoperatively injected indocyanine green (ICG) IV to assess perfusion in the near infrared spectrum. In the control group (n=44), the same interventions were performed without ICG.

RESULTS

In the main group, anterior resection of the rectum was performed in 23 (56.1%) patients with neoplasms of distal sigmoid colon and rectosigmoid tumors. Low anterior resection was performed in 18 (43.9%) cases. In the control group, the same procedures were carried out in 24 (54.5%) and 20 (45.5%) patients, respectively. After mobilization of the colon and ICG injection, we corrected resection line in 4 cases. As soon as anastomosis was formed and blood supply was controlled by ICG fluorescence angiography, we performed a water-bubble test to detect anastomotic leakage. Positive tests were detected in 4 (9.8%) and 5 (11.4%) patients of both groups, respectively. Postoperative complications occurred in 10 (24.4%) and 11 (27.3%) patients, respectively (p=0.94). Anastomosis failure was found in 1 and 7 patients, respectively. Anastomotic leakage grade «B» was significantly more common in the control group (2.4 and 13.6%, respectively, p=0.06). Anastomotic leaks were absent in all 4 patients who underwent resection level adjustment after intraoperative ICG angiography.

CONCLUSION

Fluorescent luminescence will qualitatively improve intraoperative diagnosis of hypoperfusion of resection edges. Undoubtedly, this will reduce the incidence of colorectal anastomotic leaks caused by ischemia of large bowel wall.

Indocyanine green fluorescence imaging during laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery could reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage: a single institutional retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

There is insufficient evidence on whether indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography can reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage (AL). This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the effect of ICG fluorescence angiography on AL rates in laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery at a single institution.

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection or intersphincteric resection with ICG fluorescence angiography (ICG group; n = 73) and patients who underwent a similar surgical procedure for rectal cancer without ICG fluorescence (non-ICG group; n = 114) were enrolled consecutively in this study. ICG fluorescence angiography was performed prior to transection of the proximal colon, and anastomosis was performed with sufficient perfusion using ICG fluorescence imaging. AL incidence was compared between both groups, and the risk factors for AL were analyzed.

RESULTS

AL occurred in 3 (4.1%) and 14 (12.3%) patients in the ICG and non-ICG groups, respectively. In the ICG group, the median perfusion time from ICG injection was 34 s, and 5 patients (6.8%) required revision of the proximal transection line. None of the patients requiring revision of the proximal transection line developed AL. In univariate analysis, longer operating time (odds ratio: 2.758; 95% confidence interval: 1.023-7.624) and no implementation of ICG fluorescence angiography (odds ratio: 3.266; 95% confidence interval: 1.038-11.793) were significant factors associated with AL incidence, although the creation of a diverting stoma or insertion of a transanal tube was insignificant.

CONCLUSION

ICG fluorescence angiography was associated with a significant reduction in AL during laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery. Changes in the surgical plan due to ICG fluorescence visibility may help improve the short-term outcomes of patients with rectal cancer.

The Colorectal Anastomosis: A Timeless Challenge

Colorectal anastomosis is a sophisticated problem that demands an elaborate discussion and an elegant solution. "Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it." George Santayana, Life of Reason , 1905.

When should indocyanine green be assessed in colorectal surgery, and at what distance from the tissue? Quantitative measurement using the SERGREEN program

BACKGROUND

Suture dehiscence is one of the most feared postoperative complications. Correct intestinal vascularization is essential for its prevention. Indocyanine green (ICG) is one of the methods used to assess vascularization, but this assessment is usually subjective. Our group designed the SERGREEN program to obtain an objective measurement of the degree of vascularization. We do not know how long after ICG administration the fluorescence of the tissues should be evaluated, or how far away the measurement should be performed. The aim of this study is to establish the optimal moment and distance for analyzing the fluorescence saturation of ICG.

METHODS

Prospective observational study in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The optimal time for ICG analysis was tested in a sample of 20 patients (10 right colon and 10 left colon), and the optimal distance in a sample of ten patients. ICG was administered intravenously, and colon vascularization was quantified using SERGREEN; RGB (Red, Green, Blue) encoding was used. The intensity curve of the ICG was analyzed for ten minutes after its administration. Distances of 1, 3, and 5 cm were tested.

RESULTS

The intensity of fluorescence increased until 1.5 min after ICG administration (reaching figures of 112.49 in the right colon and 93.95 in the left). It then remained fairly stable until 3.5 min (98.49 in the right and 83.35 in the left), at which point it began to decrease gradually. ICG saturation was inversely proportional to the distance between the camera and the tissue. The best distance was 5 cm, where the confidence interval was narrower [CI 86.66-87.53].

CONCLUSION

The optimal time for determining ICG in the colon is between 1.5 and 3.5 min, in both right and left colon. The optimal distance is 5 cm. This information will help to establish parameters of comparison in normal and pathological situations.