Risk factors for anastomotic leak and postoperative morbidity and mortality after elective right colectomy for cancer: results from a prospective, multicentric study of 1102 patients

Gastrointestinal Surgical Patient and Multidisciplinary Healthcare Provider Beliefs and Practices Around Perioperative Nutrition: A Mixed-Methods Study

INTRODUCTION

Nutrition is critical to gastrointestinal (GI) disease prevention and treatment, including operations, yet perioperative nutrition practices vary widely. We aimed to understand GI surgical patient and health care provider's perioperative nutrition beliefs and practices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used a mixed-methods approach, including a patient survey (n = 19), provider survey (n = 26), and semistructured interviews with a subset of providers (n = 15). Providers included surgeons, gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, advanced practice providers, and dietitians. Provider interviews were transcribed, iteratively coded, and thematically analyzed. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated.

RESULTS

94.7% of patients and 100% of providers surveyed believe that nutrition affects outcomes. Patients seek nutrition information from diverse resources (73.7% from websites or blogs, 42.1% from documentaries, and 36.8% from books or /magazines) and people (52.6% from family members, 42.1% from a significant other, partner, or spouse, and 36.8% from a dietitian or nutritionist). Providers cited a lack of quality information, misinformation, and inconsistency among health care providers as barriers to high-quality nutrition care. Both patients and providers noted that nutritional supplements have drawbacks, with 100% of patients and 96.2% of providers expressing interest in house- made plant-based protein smoothie or soup alternatives.

CONCLUSIONS

This study led to the development of a multidisciplinary task force, which has collaborated on multiple interventions to improve inpatient perioperative surgical nutrition (e.g., smoothie pilot and postoperative menu revisions).

Risk Factors for Postoperative Complications of Laparoscopic Right Colectomy: A Post Hoc Analysis of the RELARC Trial

BACKGROUND

There is concern regarding the possibility of postoperative complications for laparoscopic right colectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the risk factors for postoperative complications for patients undergoing laparoscopic right colectomy.

DESIGN

This was an observational study.

SETTINGS

This was a post hoc analysis of a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial (RELARC trial, NCT02619942).

PATIENTS

Patients included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis in the RELARC trial were all enrolled in this study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Risk factors for postoperative complications were identified using univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 995 patients, 206 (20.7%) had postoperative complications. Comorbidity ( p = 0.02; OR: 1.544; 95% CI, 1.077-2.212) and operative time >180 minutes ( p = 0.03; OR: 1.453; 95% CI, 1.032-2.044) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications, whereas female sex ( p = 0.04; OR: 0.704; 95% CI, 0.506-0.980) and extracorporeal anastomosis ( p < 0.001; OR: 0.251; 95% CI, 0.166-0.378) were protective factors. Eighty patients (8.0%) had overall surgical site infection, 53 (5.3%) had incisional surgical site infection, and 33 (3.3%) had organ/space surgical site infection. Side-to-side anastomosis was a risk factor for overall surgical site infection ( p < 0.001; OR: 1.912; 95% CI, 1.118-3.268) and organ/space surgical site infection ( p = 0.005; OR: 3.579; 95% CI, 1.455-8.805). The extracorporeal anastomosis was associated with a reduced risk of overall surgical site infection ( p < 0.001; OR: 0.239; 95% CI, 0.138-0.413), organ/space surgical site infection ( p = 0.002; OR: 0.296; 95% CI, 0.136-0.646), and incisional surgical site infection ( p < 0.001; OR: 0.179; 95% CI, 0.099-0.322). Diabetes ( p = 0.039; OR: 2.090; 95% CI, 1.039-4.205) and conversion to open surgery ( p = 0.013; OR: 5.403; 95% CI, 1.437-20.319) were risk factors for incisional surgical site infection.

LIMITATIONS

Due to the retrospective nature, the key limitation is the lack of prospective documentation and standardization regarding the perioperative management of these patients, such as preoperative optimization, bowel preparation regimens, and antibiotic regimens, which may be confounder factors of complications. All surgeries were performed by experienced surgeons, and the patients enrolled were relatively young, generally healthy, and without obesity. It is unclear whether the results will be generalizable to obese and other populations worldwide.

CONCLUSIONS

Male sex, comorbidity, prolonged operative time, and intracorporeal anastomosis were independent risk factors for postoperative complications of laparoscopic right colectomy. Side-to-side anastomosis was associated with an increased risk of organ/space surgical site infection. Extracorporeal anastomosis could reduce the incidence of overall surgical site infection. Diabetes and conversion to open surgery were associated with an increased risk of incisional surgical site infection. See Video Abstract .

CLINICALTRIALSGOV IDENTIFIER

NCT02619942.

FACTORES DE RIESGO DE COMPLICACIONES POSOPERATORIAS EN COLECTOMA DERECHA LAPAROSCPICA UN ANLISIS POST HOC DEL ENSAYO RELARC

ANTECEDENTES:Existe preocupación con respecto a la posibilidad de complicaciones postoperatorias en colectomía derecha laparoscópica.OBJETIVO:Evaluar los factores de riesgo de complicaciones postoperatorias en pacientes sometidos a colectomía derecha laparoscópica.DISEÑO:Este fue un estudio observacional.ENTORNO CLINICO:Este fue un análisis post hoc de un ensayo controlado aleatorio, multicéntrico y prospectivo: ensayo RELARC (NCT02619942).PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes incluidos en el análisis de intención de tratar modificado en el ensayo RELARC fueron inscritos en este estudio.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los factores de riesgo de complicaciones posoperatorias se identificaron mediante análisis de regresión logística univariante y multivariable.RESULTADOS:De 995 pacientes, 206 (20,7%) tuvieron complicaciones postoperatorias. La comorbilidad ( p = 0,02, OR: 1,544, IC 95%: 1,077-2,212) y el tiempo operatorio >180 min ( p = 0,03, OR: 1,453, IC 95%: 1,032-2,044) fueron factores de riesgo independientes de complicaciones postoperatorias. Mientras que el sexo femenino ( p = 0,04, OR: 0,704, IC 95%: 0,506-0,980) y la anastomosis extracorpórea ( p < 0,001, OR: 0,251, IC 95%: 0,166-0,378) fueron factores protectores. 80 (8,0%) tenían infección general del sitio quirúrgico (ISQ), 53 (5,3%) tenían ISQ incisional y 33 (3,3%) tenían ISQ de órgano/espacio. Anastomosis latero-lateral fue un factor de riesgo para la ISQ general ( p < 0,001, OR: 1,912, IC 95%: 1,118-3,268) y ISQ órgano/espacio ( p = 0,005, OR: 3,579, IC 95%: 1,455-8.805). La anastomosis extracorpórea se asoció con un riesgo reducido de ISQ general ( p < 0,001, OR: 0,239, IC 95%: 0,138-0,413), ISQ órgano/espacio ( p = 0,002, OR: 0,296, IC 95%: 0,136-0,646), e ISQ incisional ( p < 0,001, OR: 0,179, IC 95%: 0,099-0,322). Diabetes ( p = 0,039, OR: 2,090, IC 95%: 1,039-4,205) y la conversión a cirugía abierta ( p = 0,013, OR: 5,403, IC 95%: 1,437-20,319) fueron factores de riesgo para ISQ incisional.LIMITACIONES:Debido a la naturaleza retrospectiva, la limitación clave es la falta de documentación prospectiva y estandarización sobre el manejo perioperatorio de estos pacientes, como la optimización preoperatoria, los regímenes de preparación intestinal y los regímenes de antibióticos, que pueden ser factores de confusión de las complicaciones. Todas las cirugías fueron realizadas por cirujanos experimentados y los pacientes inscritos eran relativamente jóvenes, generalmente sanos y no obesos. No está claro si los resultados serán generalizables a las poblaciones obesas y de otro tipo en todo el mundo.CONCLUSIONES:Sexo masculino, comorbilidad, el tiempo operatorio prolongado y anastomosis intracorpórea fueron factores de riesgo independientes de complicaciones postoperatorias de la colectomía derecha laparoscópica. Anastomosis latero-lateral se asoció con un mayor riesgo de SSI de órgano/espacio. La anastomosis extracorpórea podría reducir la incidencia de ISQ general. La diabetes y la conversión a cirugía abierta se asociaron con un mayor riesgo de ISQ incisional. (Traducción- Dr. Francisco M. Abarca-Rendon ).

The effect of ileal resection length on postoperative complications and prognosis in right colon cancer

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of literature on the length of the terminal ileum to be resected in right hemicolectomy for colon cancer. Therefore, we aimed to determine the mean ileal loop length and the effect of this variation on postoperative complications and long-term oncological outcomes in patients who underwent right hemicolectomy.

METHODS

Right hemicolectomy surgeries performed for colon cancer in a tertiary care hospital between January 2011 and December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed from a prospective database. Two patient groups were established based on the mean length of the resected ileum above and below 7 cm. The two groups were compared for clinicopathological data, postoperative complications, mortality, long-term overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). The factors contributing to OS and DFS were analyzed.

RESULTS

The study included 217 patients. Body mass index (BMI) values were significantly higher in the ileum resection length > 7 cm group (p = 0.009). Pathological N stage, tumor diameter, and number of metastatic lymph nodes were significantly higher in the ileum resection length > 7 cm group (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.026, respectively). There was no significant difference for postoperative complication and mortality rates between the two groups. The mean follow-up period was 61.2 months (2-120) in all patients. The total number of deaths was 29 (11.7%) while the 60-month OS was 83.5% and 50-month DFS was 81.8%. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of OS and DFS rates (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive resection of the distal ileum in right hemicolectomy does not provide any benefit in terms of prognosis and complications.The ileum resection length and values close to it in our study appear to be sufficient.

Comparison of Post-Operative Outcomes of Right Colectomy between Crohn's Disease and Adenocarcinoma of the Right Colon: A Retrospective Cohort Study

(1) Background: Crohn's disease (CD) and right-sided colorectal-carcinoma (CRC) are two common indications for right colectomies. Many studies have tried to identify risk factors associated with post-operative complications for both CD and CRC. However, data directly comparing the outcomes of the two are sparse. This study aims to compare the 30-day post-operative outcome after a right colectomy for CD versus CRC. Its secondary aim is to identify the factors associated with these outcomes for each group. (2) Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 123 patients who underwent a right colectomy for CD or CRC in a single institution between March 2011 and March 2016. (3) Results: There were no significant differences between the groups when comparing the overall complication rate, the median Clavien-Dindo score, reoperation rates and the length of hospitalization. The leak rate was higher in the Crohn's group (13.95% (6/43) vs. 3.75% (3/80)), p = 0.049), although the stoma rate was the same (4/43 9.5%; 7/80 9.9%). (4) Conclusions: This study has shown that post-operative complication rate is similar for right colectomy in CD and CRC. However, Crohn's disease patients did have a higher leak rate.

Perioperative Blood Transfusions and Anastomotic Leak After Colorectal Surgery for Cancer in an Australian Hospital

PURPOSE

Peri-operative blood transfusion has been identified as a risk factor for anastomotic leak in recent studies, but little is known about which patients are at risk for blood transfusion. This study aims to assess the relationship between blood transfusion and anastomotic leak and factors predisposing to leak in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Brisbane, Australia, between 2010 and 2019. A total of 522 patients underwent resection of colorectal cancer with primary anastomosis with no covering stoma and the prevalence of anastomotic leak was compared between those who had had perioperative blood transfusion(s) and those who had not.

RESULTS

A total of 19 of 522 patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer had developed an anastomotic leak (3.64%). 11.3% of patients who had had a perioperative blood transfusion developed an anastomotic leak whereas 2.2% of patients who had not had a blood transfusion developed an anastomotic leak (p = 0.0002). Patients undergoing procedure on their right colon had proportionally more blood transfusions and this approached statistical significance (p = 0.06). Patients who received a greater quantity of units of blood transfusion prior to their diagnosis of anastomotic leak were more likely to develop an anastomotic leak (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Perioperative blood transfusions are associated with a significantly increased risk of an anastomotic leak following bowel resection with primary anastomosis for colorectal cancer.

Added value of positive intraluminal contrast CT over fluoroscopic examination for detecting gastrointestinal leakage after gastrointestinal surgery

We aimed to evaluate the added value of positive intraluminal contrast computed tomography (CT) over fluoroscopy in detecting anastomotic leakage after gastrointestinal (GI) surgery. A total of 141 GI surgery patients who underwent fluoroscopic examination and CT were included. Two radiologists reviewed the fluoroscopic images with and without CT to determine anastomotic leakage on a 5-point confidence scale and graded the leakage on a 4-point grading system. The hospital stay duration and treatment type were recorded. The radiologists' diagnostic performance in determining leakage was compared using the receiver operating characteristics analysis, and interobserver agreement was analyzed. Fifty-three patients developed GI leakage. When CT was added to the fluoroscopic images, the area under the curve (AUC) values significantly increased for both reviewers. The interobserver agreement for leakage between the two reviewers was excellent and improved with the addition of CT (weighted kappa value, 0.869 versus 0.805). Postoperative intervention was more frequently performed (P < 0.001), and patients with leakage had a significantly longer mean postoperative hospital stay (45 days vs. 27 days) (P = 0.003). Thus, positive intraluminal contrast CT provides added value over fluoroscopic examination for detecting GI leakage in patients undergoing GI tract surgery, increasing AUC values, and improving interobserver agreement.

Risk of anastomotic leakage with two-row versus three-row manual circular staplers in colorectal anastomosis: a U.S. cohort study

PURPOSES

To compare the risk of anastomotic leak (AL) between Ethicon manual circular staplers (two-row) versus Medtronic EEA™ circular stapler with Tri-Staple™ technology (three-row) and between Medtronic EEA™ circular stapler with DST™ Series technology (two-row) versus Tri-Staple™ technology.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in adult patients who underwent a left-sided colorectal surgery 2019-2022 in U.S. Premier Healthcare Database to assess the risk of AL within 30 days post-index procedure. The study devices were Ethicon manual circular staplers, Medtronic EEA™ circular stapler with DST™ technology, and Medtronic EEA™ circular stapler with Tri-Staple™ technology.

RESULTS

Across 447 hospitals, the cumulative incidences (95% confidence intervals [CI]) of AL within 30 days post-index procedure were 7.78% (6.91-8.74%) among 8337 patients in the Ethicon manual circular stapler cohort, 7.54% (6.87-8.27%) among 7928 patients in the Medtronic EEA™ circular stapler with DST™ technology cohort, and 8.19% (6.57-10.07%) among 1306 patients in the Medtronic EEA™ circular stapler with Tri-Staple™ technology cohort. Comparative analyses revealed no difference comparing Ethicon manual circular staplers with Medtronic EEA™ circular staplers with Tri-Staple™ technology (risk ratio [RR], 0.72; 95% CI, 0.52-1.01) or comparing Medtronic EEA™ circular staplers with DST™ technology to Tri-Staple™ technology (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.53-1.06).

CONCLUSION

In this analysis of a large cohort of patients undergoing a left-sided colorectal surgery from a U.S. hospital database, the risk of AL observed with manual two-row circular staplers was similar to that seen with three-row devices. This study affirms the safety of manual two-row circular staplers in colorectal anastomosis.

Intracorporeal Anastomosis and ERAS Program: The Winning Combination of Optimized Postoperative Outcomes After Laparoscopic Right Colectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic technique and the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol have become the standard of care in patients undergoing right colon cancer surgery, reducing hospital stay and postoperative morbidity. However, the optimal anastomosis technique [intracorporeal anastomosis (ICA) or extracorporeal anastomosis (ECA)] remains debated. This study aimed to determine the optimal perioperative approach (ICA vs. ECA combined with the ERAS program vs. standard care) for patients undergoing laparoscopic right colectomy for cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-center, retrospective study evaluated all consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for cancer between January 2012 and June 2021. Patient data were analyzed in 4 treatment groups according to the type of anastomosis and the care protocol. The primary endpoint was total postoperative hospital stay (THS). The secondary endpoints were recovery time and overall morbidity rate.

RESULTS

The baseline characteristics of the 373 included patients were comparable between the 4 groups. THS was significantly shorter in the ICA/ERAS group than in the ECA/standard and ICA/standard groups ( P <0.01), but there was no significant difference between the ICA/ERAS and ECA/ERAS groups (5.7 vs. 6.4 d; P =0.17). Recovery time was significantly shorter in the ICA/ERAS group ( P <0.01). The overall morbidity rate, including anastomotic morbidity, was comparable among the 4 groups. Regression analysis showed that ICA and the ERAS program were both predictive factors to reduce the THS and recovery time.

CONCLUSIONS

ICA combined with the ERAS program achieves the best outcomes and thus seems to be the optimal approach for the management of patients undergoing laparoscopic right colectomy for cancer.

Features and outcomes of rectal cancer patients treated in a hospital in Bogotá, Colombia: a retrospective cohort study

Rectal cancer is an increasing disease worldwide. The outcomes of its treatment are related to the preoperative characteristics of the patient. The objective of this study was to describe sociodemographic, clinical and surgical characteristics and outcomes of patients operated on for rectal cancer at Hospital Universitario Mayor Méderi (HUM) during the period within 2013-2017.A retrospective descriptive cohort-type study was carried out by consulting the clinical records of patients above the age of 18 years with a clinical/histopathological diagnosis of rectal cancer and an institutional follow-up in those who underwent surgery with laparoscopic anterior resection of the rectum carried out by the coloproctology service of the HUM between 2013 and 2017. For statistical analysis, the SPSS V22 program was used.Data from 133 patients were collected during the study period, most of them male, with more frequent involvement of the lower rectum. Complications occurred in 25% of the patients. Conversion rate to open surgery was 8.6%, in-hospital death was associated with cardiovascular comorbidity, corticosteroid uses and with the presence of complications. Sociodemographic characteristics of the patients were similar to the world population. The institution has a low prevalence of anastomotic dehiscence, global complications are comparable with international statistics.

Effect of obesity on perioperative outcomes following gastrointestinal surgery: meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Obesity can pose perioperative challenges related to obesity-associated co-morbidities and technical factors. However, the true impact of obesity on postoperative outcomes is not well established and reports are conflicting. The aim was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the effect of obesity on perioperative outcomes for general surgery procedures in distinct obesity subtypes.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed for studies reporting postoperative outcomes in relation to BMI in upper gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary and colorectal based on an electronic search using the Cochrane Library, Science Direct, PubMed and Embase up to January 2022. The primary outcome was the incidence of 30-day postoperative mortality among patients with obesity undergoing general surgical procedures in comparison to patients with normal range BMI.

RESULTS

Sixty-two studies, including 1 886 326 patients, were eligible for inclusion. Overall, patients with obesity (including class I/II/II) had lower 30-day mortality rates in comparison to patients with a normal BMI (odds ratio (OR) 0.75, 95 per cent c.i. 0.66 to 0.86, P < 0.0001, I2 = 71 per cent); this was also observed specifically in emergency general surgery (OR 0.83, 95 per cent c.i. 0.79 to 0.87, P < 0.0000001, I2 = 7 per cent). Compared with normal BMI, obesity was positively associated with an increased risk of 30-day postoperative morbidity (OR 1.11, 95 per cent c.i. 1.04 to 1.19, P = 0.002, I2 = 85 per cent). However, there was no significant difference in postoperative morbidity rates between the cohorts of patients with a normal BMI and class I/II obesity (OR 0.98, 95 per cent c.i. 0.92 to 1.04, P = 0.542, I2 = 92 per cent). Overall, the cohort with obesity had a higher rate of postoperative wound infections compared with the non-obese group (OR 1.40, 95 per cent c.i. 1.24 to 1.59, P < 0.0001, I2 = 82 per cent).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest a possible 'obesity paradox' and challenge the assumption that patients with obesity have higher postoperative mortality compared with patients with normal range BMI. Increased BMI alone is not associated with increased perioperative mortality in general surgery, highlighting the importance of more accurate body composition assessment, such as computed tomography anthropometrics, to support perioperative risk stratification and decision-making.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022337442 (PROSPERO https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/).

Experience in colorectal surgery at a quaternary care hospital in Bogotá, Colombia

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

Colorectal cancer is among the three most common cancers worldwide. Knowledge and identification of suboptimal outcome-associated factors enable comprehensive patient management. The aim of the present study was to present the results of the surgical management of colorectal cancer at a quaternary care university hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An observational, analytic, cross-sectional study was conducted. Information was collected on a retrospective cohort of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer from 2013 to 2017 at the Hospital Universitario Mayor Méderi, Bogotá, Colombia.

RESULTS

Data on 452 patients, within the study period, were collected. A total of 48.5% of the patients were men, the overall complication rate was 24%, the surgical site infection (SSI) rate was 15.38%, anastomotic dehiscence occurred in 4.18% of the patients, bleeding required reoperation in 1.32%, and the intrahospital mortality rate was 7.47%.

CONCLUSION

Colorectal cancer management at a university hospital was as beneficial as that provided by other types of hospitals, showing a direct association with complete R0 dissections; low complication rates, according to international reports; and reduced overall morbidity.

Anastomotic leak risk factors following colon cancer resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite improved surgical techniques, anastomotic leakage is still a serious complication that can occur after colon cancer resection, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for anastomotic leakage after colon cancer surgery, provide a theoretical basis for reducing its occurrence, and guide the practice of clinicians.

METHODS

A systematic review of PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases was conducted by using a combination of subject terms and free words for online searches. The databases were searched from their inception to 31 March 2022, and all cross-sectional, cohort or case‒control studies examining the risk factors for the development of anastomotic fistula after surgery for colon cancer were identified.

RESULT

A total of 2133 articles were searched for this study, and 16 publications were ultimately included, all of which were cohort studies. A total of 115,462 subjects were included, and a total of 3959 cases of anastomotic leakage occurred postoperatively, with an incidence of 3.4%. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used for evaluation. Male sex (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.29-1.46, P < 0.00001), BMI (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.00-1.08, P = 0.03), diabetes (OR = 2.80, 95% CI: 1.81-4.33, P < 0.00001), combined lung disease (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.15-1.42, P < 0.00001), anaesthesia ASA score (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.24-1.46, P < 0.00001), ASA class ≥ III (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.22-1.47, P < 0.00001), emergency surgery (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.11-1.55, P = 0.001), open surgery (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.69-2.24, P < 0.00001) and type of surgical resection (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.12-1.61, P = 0.002) are risk factors for anastomotic leakage after colon cancer surgery. There is still a lack of strong evidence on whether age (OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.99-1.01, P = 0.36) and cardiovascular disease (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 0.94-1.47, P = 0.16) are factors influencing the occurrence of anastomotic leakage after colon cancer surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Male sex, BMI, obesity, coexisting pulmonary disease, anaesthesia ASA score, emergency surgery, open surgery and type of resection were risk factors for anastomotic leakage after colon cancer surgery. The effect of age and cardiovascular disease on postoperative anastomotic leakage in patients with colon cancer needs further study.

Is preoperative hypoalbuminemia or hypoproteinemia a reliable marker for anastomotic leakage risk in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery in an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program?

PURPOSE

Preoperative hypoalbuminemia has traditionally been used as a marker of nutritional status and is considered a significant risk factor for anastomotic leak (AL).

METHODS

The Westmead Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (WERAS) prospectively collected database, consisting of 361 patients who underwent colorectal surgery with primary anastomosis, was interrogated. Preoperative serum albumin and protein levels (measured within 1 week of surgery) were plotted on receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC curves) and statistically analyzed for cutoff values, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values (PPV), and negative predictive values (NPV).

RESULTS

The incidence of AL was 4.4% (16/361). Overall mortality was 1.4% (5/361), 6.3% (1/16) in the AL group, and 1.2% (4/345) in the no AL group. The median preoperative albumin and protein level in the AL group were 39 g/L and 75 g/L, respectively. The median preoperative albumin and protein level in the no AL group were 38 g/L and 74 g/L, respectively. The Mann-Whitney U test showed no statistically significant difference in albumin levels (p = 0.4457) nor protein levels (p = 0.6245) in the AL and no AL groups. ROC curves demonstrated that preoperative albumin and protein levels were not good predictors of anastomotic leak. Cutoff values for albumin (38 g/L) and protein (75 g/L) both had poor PPV for AL (4.8% and 3.8% respectively).

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery as part of an ERAS program, preoperative serum albumin and protein levels are not reliable in predicting AL. This may be because of nutritional supplementation provided as part of an ERAS program may correct nutritional deficits to protect against AL or that low albumin/protein is not as robust a marker of AL as previously reported.

Obesity, cancer, and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors: Could the gut microbiota be the mechanistic link?

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have deeply changed the therapeutic management of a broad spectrum of solid tumors. Recent observations showed that obese patients receiving ICIs might have better outcomes than those with normal weight, while obesity was historically associated with a worse prognosis in cancer patients. Of note, obesity is associated with alterations in the gut microbiome profile, which interacts with immune and inflammatory pathways, both at the systemic and intratumoral levels. As the influence of the gut microbiota on the response to ICI has been repeatedly reported, a specific gut microbiome profile in obese cancer patients may be involved in their better response to ICI. This review summarizes recent data on the interactions between obesity, gut microbiota, and ICIs. In addition, we highlight possible pathophysiological mechanisms supporting the hypothesis that gut microbiota could be one of the links between obesity and poor response to ICIs.

Risk Factors for Readmission and Mortality Following Colonic Surgery: A Consecutive Retrospective Series of More Than 2500 Cases

Introduction: The optimal strategy to reduce short-term readmission rates following colectomy remains unclear. Identifying possible risk factors can minimize the burden associated with surgical complications leading to readmissions. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of all adult patients who underwent colectomies between January 2008 and December 2020 in a large tertiary medical center was conducted. Data were collected from patient's medical charts and analyzed. Results: Overall, 2547 patients were included in the study (53% females; mean age 68.3 years). The majority of patients (83%, n = 2112) were operated in an elective setting, whereas 435 patients (17%) underwent emergency colonic resection. Overall, the 30-day readmission rate was 8.3% (n = 218) with an overall 30-day mortality rate of 1.65% (n = 42). Multivariable analysis of possible risk factors for 30-day readmission demonstrated that patient age (odds ratio [OR] 0.98; P = .002), length of stay before surgery (OR 1.01; P = .003), and blood transfusion rate during hospitalization (OR 2.09; P < .001) were all independently associated with an increased risk. Laparoscopic colectomy (OR 0.53; P = .001) was associated with a reduced risk for readmission. Multivariable analysis of risk factors for mortality showed that age (OR 1.10; P < .001), cognitive decline (OR 12.35; P < .001), diabetes (OR 1.00; P = .004), and primary ostomy formation (OR 2.80; P = .006) were all associated with higher mortality. Conclusion: Patient age, history of cognitive decline, and blood transfusion along with a longer hospital stay were all correlated with an increased risk for 30-day patient readmission following colectomy.

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.

A meta-analysis of the effect of different body mass index on surgical wound infection after colorectal surgery

We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the effect of different body mass index on surgical wound infection after colorectal surgery. A systematic literature search up to November 2022 was performed and 2349 related studies were evaluated. The chosen studies comprised 15 595 colorectal surgery subjects participated in the selected studies' baseline trials; 4390 of them were obese according to the selected body mass index cut-off used to measure obesity in the selected studies, while 11 205 were nonobese. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the effect of different body mass index on wound infection after colorectal surgery by the dichotomous methods with a random or fixed effect model. The body mass index ≥30 kg/m² resulted in significantly higher surgical wound infection after colorectal surgery (OR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.46-2.11, P < .001) compared with the body mass index <30 kg/m² . The body mass index ≥25 kg/m² resulted in significantly higher surgical wound infection after colorectal surgery (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.40-1.92, P < .001) compared with the body mass index <25 kg/m² . The subjects with higher body mass index had a significantly higher surgical wound infection after colorectal surgery compared with the subjects with normal body mass index.

Right hemicolectomy anastomotic leak study: a review of right hemicolectomy in the binational clinical outcomes registry (BCOR)

BACKGROUNDS

Surgery remains mainstay management for colon cancer. Post-operative anastomotic leak (AL) carries significant morbidity and mortality. Rates of, and risk factors associated with AL following right hemicolectomy remain poorly documented across Australia and New Zealand. This study examines the Bowel Cancer Outcomes Registry (BCOR) to address this.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken of consecutive BCOR-registered right hemicolectomy patients undergoing resection for colon cancer (2007-2021). The primary outcome measure was AL incidence. Clinicopathological data were extracted from the BCOR. Factors associated with AL and primary anastomosis were identified using logistic regression. AL-rate trends were assessed by linear regression.

RESULTS

Of 13 512 patients who had a right hemicolectomy (45.2% male, mean age 72.5 years, SD 12.1), 258 (2.0%) had an AL. On multivariate analysis, male sex (OR 1.33; 95% CI 1.03-1.71) and emergency surgery (OR 1.41; 95% CI 1.04-1.92) were associated with AL. Private health insurance status (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.50-0.88) and minimally-invasive surgery (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.47-0.79) were protective for AL. Anastomotic technique (handsewn versus stapled) was not associated with AL (P = 0.84). Patients with higher ASA status (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.39-0.58), advanced tumour stage (OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.50-0.63), and emergency surgery (OR 0.16; 95% CI 0.13-0.20) were less likely to have a primary anastomosis. AL-rate and year of surgery showed no association (P = 0.521).

CONCLUSION

The AL rate in Australia and New Zealand following right hemicolectomy is consistent with the published literature and was stable throughout the study period. Sex, emergency surgery, insurance status, and minimally invasive surgery are associated with AL incidence.

Surgical approaches to colonic and rectal anastomosis: systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Postoperative complications after a colonic and rectal surgery are of significant concern to the surgical community. Although there are different techniques to perform anastomosis (i.e., handsewn, stapled, or compression), there is still no consensus on which technique provides the least number of postoperative problems. The objective of this study is to compare the different anastomotic techniques regarding the occurrence or duration of postoperative outcomes such as anastomotic dehiscence, mortality, reoperation, bleeding and stricture (as primary outcomes), and wound infection, intra-abdominal abscess, duration of surgery, and hospital stay (as secondary outcomes).

METHODS

Clinical trials published between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2021, reporting anastomotic complications with any of the anastomotic technique were identified using the MEDLINE database. Only articles that clearly defined the anastomotic technique used, and report at least two of the outcomes defined were included.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 16 studies whose differences were related to the need of reoperation (p < 0.01) and the duration of surgery (p = 0.02), while for the anastomotic dehiscence, mortality, bleeding, stricture, wound infection, intra-abdominal abscess, and hospital stay, no significant differences were found. Compression anastomosis reported the lowest reoperation rate (3.64%) and the handsewn anastomosis the highest (9.49%). Despite this, more time to perform the surgery was required in compression anastomosis (183.47 min), with the handsewn being the fastest technique (139.92 min).

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence found was not sufficient to demonstrate which technique is most suitable to perform colonic and rectal anastomosis, since the postoperative complications were similar between the handsewn, stapled, or compression techniques.

Postoperative outcomes of right hemicolectomy for cancer in 11 countries of Latin America: A multicentre retrospective study

AIM

There is scant evidence regarding surgical outcomes of patients with colon cancer in Latin America. The aim of this work was to compare perioperative (30 day) outcomes of patients undergoing surgery for right colon cancer in Latin America based on centre volume.

METHOD

This is a multi-institutional retrospective cohort study. Individuals operated on for right colon cancer with curative intent in an urgent or elective setting between 2016 and 2021 were eligible for inclusion in the study. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they were operated on in low-volume or high-volume centres (defined as more than 30 cases/year).

RESULTS

A total of 2676 patients from 46 hospitals in 11 countries of Latin America were included, with 389 (14.5%) in the low-volume group. The median age was 67.37 years. The high-volume group presented higher rates of laparoscopic procedures (56.8 vs. 35.7%, p < 0.001, OR 2.36), with lower conversion rates, fewer intraoperative complications and a shorter operating time. The high-volume group had a shorter length of hospital stay. The overall complication rate for the whole group was 15.9%, with a lower incidence of these events in the high-volume group (13.7 vs. 28.7%, p < 0.001, OR 0.40). Overall, anastomotic leakage, reoperation and mortality rates were 5.6%, 9.2% and 6.1%, respectively, with differences favouring high-volume centres. On multivariate analysis, low-volume group, history of cardiac disease, emergency surgery, operation performed by a general surgeon, open approach and intraoperative complications were independent predictors of major postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study in Latin America to show better postoperative outcomes at a regional scale when surgery for right colon cancer is performed in high-volume centres. Further studies are needed to validate these data and to identify which of the factors can explain the present results.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy with right hemicolectomy for advanced malignancy: a single UK hepatopancreaticobiliary centre experience

AIM

Locally advanced intestinal neoplasms including colon cancer may require radical en bloc pancreaticoduodenectomy and right hemicolectomy (PD-RC) to achieve curative, margin-negative resection, but the safety and benefit of this uncommon procedure has not been established. The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland IMPACT initiative has also highlighted a lack of awareness about current services available within the UK for patients with advanced colorectal cancer and concerns about low-volume centres managing complex cases. Thus, we aimed to review the feasibility, safety and long-term outcomes of this procedure at a single high-volume hepatopancreaticobiliary surgery unit in the UK.

METHOD

A retrospective cohort study was performed using a database of all consecutive patients with intestinal cancer who had been referred to our regional advanced multidisciplinary team and undergone PD-RC in a 7-year period (2013-2020). Clinico-pathological and outcome data were reviewed.

RESULTS

Ten patients (mean age 54 ± 13, 8/10 men) were identified. Final histology revealed the primary tumour sites were colon (n = 7) and duodenum (n = 3). R0 resection was achieved in all cases. The major complication rate (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3) was 10% (1/10) with no deaths within 90 days of surgery. The Kaplan-Meier estimated 5-year overall survival was 83.3% (95% CI 58.3%-100%). Univariate survival analysis identified perineural invasion and extra-colonic origin as predictors of poor survival (log-rank P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

En bloc PD-RC for locally advanced intestinal cancer can be performed safely with a high proportion of margin-negative resections and resultant long-term survival in carefully selected patients.

C-REACTIVE PROTEIN AS POSTOPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS PREDICTOR OF COLORECTAL SURGERIES

BACKGROUND

The use of inflammatory markers in order to accurate the diagnosis, decrease the reoperation rate and enable earlier interventions during the postoperative period of a colorectal surgery is increasingly necessary, with the purpose of reducing morbimortality, nosocomial infections, costs and time of a readmission.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze C-reactive protein level on the third postoperative day of an elective colorectal surgery and compare the marks between reoperated and non-reoperated patients and to establish a cutoff value to predict or avoid surgical reoperations.

METHODS

Retrospective study based on the analysis of electronic charts of over 18-year-old patients who underwent an elective colorectal surgery with primary anastomoses during the period from January 2019 to May 2021 by the proctology team of Santa Marcelina Hospital Department of General Surgery with C-reactive protein (CRP) dosage taken on the third postoperative day.

RESULTS

We assessed 128 patients with a mean age of 59.22 years old and need of reoperation of 20.3% of patients, half of these due to dehiscence of colorectal anastomosis. Comparing CRP rates on the third postoperative day between non-reoperated and reoperated patients, it was noted that in the former group the average was of 153.8±76.2 mg/dL, whereas in reoperated patients it was 198.7±77.4 mg/dL (P<0.0001) and the best CRP cutoff value to predict or investigate reoperation risk was 184.8 mg/L with an accuracy of 68% and negative predictive value of 87.6%.

CONCLUSION

CRP levels assessed on the third postoperative day of elective colorectal surgery were higher in patients who were reoperated and the cutoff value for intra-abdominal complication of 184.8mg/L presented a high negative predictive value.

Anastomotic leakage after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) after colorectal surgery is well-researched, yet the effect of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) after Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) is unclear. Assessment of risk factors in these patients may assist surgeons during perioperative decision making.

METHODS

This was a single-center, retrospective study of patients who underwent CRS-HIPEC for colorectal peritoneal metastases. Main outcome measures were anastomotic leakage and associated morbidity.

RESULTS

AL was observed in 17 of the 234 (7.3%) anastomoses in 17 of the total of 165 (10.3%) of patients. No association was observed between the number and location of anastomoses and AL, although only one in 87 small bowel anastomoses showed leakage. The only factor associated with AL was administration of bevacizumab within 60 days prior to surgery with an odds ratio (OR) of 6.13 (1.32-28.39), P = 0.03. Deviating stomata were not statistically protective of increased morbidity, although more AL occurred in the patients with colocolic and colorectal anastomoses when no concomitant deviating stoma was created. Deviation stomata were reversed in 52.6%, and no AL was observed after stoma reversal.

CONCLUSION

The overall AL rate of CRS-HIPEC is comparable to colorectal surgery, and there is no cumulative risk of multiple anastomoses - especially in the case of small bowel anastomoses. Deviating stomata should be considered in patients with colocolic or colorectal anastomosis, although there is a significant chance that the stoma will not be reversed in these patients. Due to increased AL-risk surgeons should be aware of previous bevacizumab treatment, and plan the CRS-HIPEC at least 60 days after the treatment-day.

Risk Factors for Severe Postoperative Complications after Oncologic Right Colectomy: Unicenter Analysis

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the potential risk factors for severe postoperative complications after oncologic right colectomy. Materials and Methods: All consecutive patients with right colon cancer who underwent right colectomy in our department between 2016 and 2021 were retrospectively included in this study. The Clavien-Dindo grading system was used to evaluate postoperative complications. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate risk factors for postoperative severe complications. Results: Of the 144 patients, there were 69 males and 75 females, with a median age of 69 (IQR 60-78). Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 41.7% (60 patients) and 11.1% (16 patients), respectively. The anastomotic leak rate was 5.3% (7 patients). Severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grades III-V) were present in 20 patients (13.9%). Univariate analysis showed the following as risk factors for postoperative severe complications: Charlson score, lack of mechanical bowel preparation, level of preoperative proteins, blood transfusions, and degree of urgency (elective/emergency right colectomy). In the logistic binary regression, the Charlson score (OR = 1.931, 95% CI = 1.077-3.463, p = 0.025) and preoperative protein level (OR = 0.049, 95% CI = 0.006-0.433, p = 0.007) were found to be independent risk factors for postoperative severe complications. Conclusions: Severe complications after oncologic right colectomy are associated with a low preoperative protein level and a higher Charlson comorbidity index.

Significantly different roles of economic affluence in sex-specific obesity prevalence rates: understanding more modifications within female body weight management

Socioeconomic status has been associated with obesity prevalence increase in both males and females worldwide. We examined the magnitude of the difference between the two relationships and explored the independence of both relationships. Country specific data on gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, sex-specific obesity prevalence rates, urbanisation, total calories availability and level of obesity, genetic background accumulation (measured by the Biological State Index, I_bs) were obtained for 191 countries. Curvilinear regressions, bivariate and partial correlations, linear mixed models and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between GDP and obesity prevalence rates in males and females respectively. Fisher’s r-to-z transformation, F-test and R² increment in multivariate regression were used to compare results for males and females. GDP significantly correlated with sex-specific obesity prevalence rates, but significantly more strongly with male obesity prevalence in bivariate correlation analyses. These relationships remained independent of calories availability, I_bs and urbanization in partial correlation model. Stepwise multiple regression identified that GDP was a significant predictor of obesity prevalence in both sexes. Multivariate stepwise regression showed that, when adding GDP as an obesity prevalence predictor, the absolute increment of R² in male fit model (0.046) was almost four (4) times greater than the absolute increment in female model fit (0.012). The Stepwise analyses also revealed that 68.0% of male but only 37.4% of female obesity prevalence rates were explained by the total contributing effects of GDP, I_bs, urbanization and calories availability. In both Pearson’s r and nonparametric analyses, GDP contributes significantly more to male obesity than to female obesity in both developed and developing countries. GDP also determined the significant regional variation in male, but not female obesity prevalence. GDP may contribute to obesity prevalence significantly more in males than in females regardless of the confounding effects of I_bs, urbanization and calories. This may suggest that aetiologies for female obesity are much more complex than for males and more confounders should be included in the future studies when data are available.

Effect of body mass index on surgical site wound infection, mortality, and postoperative hospital stay in subjects undergoing possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer: A meta-analysis

We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of body mass index on surgical site wound infection, mortality, and postoperative hospital stay in subjects undergoing possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer. A systematic literature search up to March 2022 was performed and 2247 subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer at the baseline of the studies; 2889 of them were obese, and 9358 were non-obese. Odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the effect of body mass index on surgical site wound infection, mortality, and postoperative hospital stay in subjects undergoing possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer using the dichotomous or contentious methods with a random or fixed-effect model. The obese subjects had a significantly higher surgical site wound infection after colorectal surgery (OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.62-2.15, P < .001), and higher mortality (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.07-2.32, P = .02) in subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer compared with non-obese. However, obese did not show any significant difference in postoperative hospital stay (MD, 0.81; 95% CI, -0.030 to 1.92, P = .15) compared with non-obese in subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer. The obese subjects had a significantly higher surgical site wound infection after colorectal surgery, higher mortality, and no significant difference in postoperative hospital stay compared with non-obese in subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer. The analysis of outcomes should be with caution because of the low number of studies in certain comparisons.

Training prediction models for individual risk assessment of postoperative complications after surgery for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of postoperative complications and anastomotic leakage are major drivers of mortality in the immediate phase after colorectal cancer surgery. We trained prediction models for calculating patients' individual risk of complications based only on preoperatively available data in a multidisciplinary team setting. Knowing prior to surgery the probability of developing a complication could aid in improving informed decision-making by surgeon and patient and individualize surgical treatment trajectories.

METHODS

All patients over 18 years of age undergoing any resection for colorectal cancer between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2019 from the nationwide Danish Colorectal Cancer Group database were included. Data from the database were converted into Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership Common Data Model maintained by the Observation Health Data Science and Informatics initiative. Multiple machine learning models were trained to predict postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3B and anastomotic leakage within 30 days after surgery.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2019, 23,907 patients underwent resection for colorectal cancer in Denmark. A Clavien-Dindo complication grade ≥ 3B occurred in 2,958 patients (12.4%). Of 17,190 patients that received an anastomosis, 929 experienced anastomotic leakage (5.4%). Among the compared machine learning models, Lasso Logistic Regression performed best. The predictive model for complications had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.704 (95%CI 0.683-0.724) and an AUROC of 0.690 (95%CI 0.655-0.724) for anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

The prediction of postoperative complications based only on preoperative variables using a national quality assurance colorectal cancer database shows promise for calculating patient's individual risk. Future work will focus on assessing the value of adding laboratory parameters and drug exposure as candidate predictors. Furthermore, we plan to assess the external validity of our proposed model.

Impact of preoperative smoking on patients undergoing right hemicolectomies for colon cancer

Purpose

The tobacco epidemic is one of the biggest global public health issues impacting quality of life and surgical outcomes. Although 30% of colon cancers warrant a right hemicolectomy (RH), there is no specific data on the influence of smoking on postoperative complications following RH for cancer. The aim of this study was to determine its effect on post-surgical outcomes.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective RH for colon cancer between 2016 and 2019 were identified from the ACS-NSQIP database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used with a maximum absolute difference of 0.05 between propensity scores. Primary outcome was to assess the 30-day complication risk profile between smokers and non-smokers. Secondary outcomes included smoking impact on wound and major medico-surgical complication rates, as well as risk of anastomotic leak (AL) using multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Following PSM, 5652 patients underwent RH for colon cancer with 1,884 (33.3%) identified as smokers. Smokers demonstrated a higher rate of organ space infection (4.1% vs 3.1%, p = 0.034), unplanned return to theatre (4.8% vs 3.7%, p = 0.045) and risk of AL (3.5% vs 2.1%, p = 0.005). Smoking was found to be an independent risk factor for wound complications (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.03–1.71, p = 0.032), primary pulmonary complications (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.06–2.13, p = 0.024) and AL (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.19–2.31, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Smokers have increased risk of developing major post-operative complications compared to non-smokers. Clinicians and surgeons must inform smokers of these surgical risks and potential benefit of smoking cessation prior to undergoing major colonic resection.

Anastomosis technique and leakage rates in minimally invasive surgery for right-sided colon cancer. A retrospective national cohort study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to describe the different techniques currently used in Denmark to construct right-sided ileocolic anastomoses in minimally invasive surgery, and investigate, compare and analyse the anastomotic configurations and their anastomotic leakage (AL) rates.

METHODS

This was a retrospective register-based, study design using prospectively collected data from the Danish Colorectal Cancer Group (DCCG) database. All patients aged 18 years or older with a malignant colorectal tumour in Denmark in the period of 1 February 2015 until 31 December 2019, and who had an elective, curative, minimally invasive right hemicolectomy (MIRH) with ileocolic anastomosis, were included.

RESULTS

Three thousand three hundred ninety-eight patients were included. The most commonly used anastomotic approach was the extracorporeal (EC) hand-sewn anastomosis (HA) with end-to-end configuration (59%) and the second most used was the EC stapled anastomosis (SA) side-to-side configuration (20%). The latter had a higher AL rate compared with the hand-sewn technique (3.8% vs. 1.3%), and had significantly higher odds ratio (OR) (OR: 2.85, 95% CI: 1.56-4.92, p < 0.0001) for AL in the adjusted regression model. The least used technique was the end-to-side HA which also had a significantly higher OR (OR: 3.05, 95% CI: 1.30-7.15, p = 0.010) compared with the end-to-end HA. Smoking was an independent factor associated with higher OR for AL.

CONCLUSION

The ileocolic end-to-end HA was the most commonly used technique and had the lowest AL rate in MIRH for colon cancer. The EC SA technique and tobacco smoking were independent risk factors for leakage of the ileocolic anastomosis.

Feasibility of quantitative analysis of colonic perfusion using indocyanine green to prevent anastomotic leak in colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to quantify Fluorescence angiography with indocyanine green (ICG) in colorectal cancer anastomosis, determine influential factors in its temporary intensity and pattern, assessing the ability to predict the AL, and setting the cut-off levels to establish high- or low-risk groups.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of prospectively managed database, including 70 patients who underwent elective surgery for colorectal cancer in which performing a primary anastomosis was in primary plan. In all of them, ICG fluorescence angiography was performed as usual clinical practice with VisionSense™ VS Iridium (Medtronic, Mansfield, MA, USA), in Elevision™ IR Platform (Medtronic, Mansfield, MA, USA). Parameters measured at real time or calculated were T₀, T_max, ∆T, F_max, %_pos, F_pos, and Slope.

RESULTS

70 patients were included, 69 anastomosis were performed and one end colostomy. Arterial hypertension demonstrated higher F_max, as well as the location of the anastomosis (the nearest to rectum, the most intensity detected). A statistical relationship was found between AL and the lower F_pos and Slope. The decision of changing the subjectively decided point of division did not demonstrate statistical difference on the further development of AL. All parameters were analyzed to detect the cut-off related with AL. Only in case of F_pos lower than 158.3 U and Slope lower than 13.1 U/s p-value were significant. The most valuable diagnostic parameter after risk stratification was the Negative Predictive Value.

CONCLUSION

Quantitative analysis of ICG fluorescence in colorectal surgery is safe and feasible to stratify risk of AL. Hypertension and location of anastomosis influence the intensity of fluorescence at the point of section. A change of division place should be considered to avoid AL related to vascular reasons when intensities of fluorescence at the point of section is lower than 169 U or slopes lower than 14.4 U/s.

Postoperative CRP Levels Can Rule out Anastomotic Leaks in Crohn’s Disease Patients

Background: In colorectal cancer, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels on postoperative days 3–4 have a strong negative predictive value for an anastomotic leak, with threshold values of ~15 on post-operative day (POD) 3 and ~13 on POD 4. In Crohn’s disease, CRP levels are perceived as unreliable in the postoperative period because of the underlying inflammatory process. The aim of this study was to determine whether postoperative CRP levels can be used to rule out anastomotic leaks in patients with Crohn’s disease and to set CRP threshold values for this population. Methods: This was a retrospective study of a population of Crohn’s disease patients who underwent surgery with bowel anastomoses at a single high-volume center between 1/2012 and 12/2017. The operations were performed by a single colorectal consultant who is an inflammatory bowel disease specialist. Results: Ninety-two operations were performed. A CRP level of 19.56 mg/dL on postoperative day 3 had an area under the curve of 0.865 (sensitivity 88%, specificity 73%) and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 98% for an anastomotic leak. Patients with an anastomotic leak showed a trend towards decreased postoperative albumin levels (p = 0.06). Conclusions: Mean CRP levels and CRP threshold values were indeed higher in the study population compared with those in colorectal cancer patients. Threshold values were set at 20.3 mg/dL on POD 3, 19.5 mg/dL on POD 4 and 16.7 mg/dL on POD 5. These values had high NPVs and can be used to rule out anastomotic leaks in patients with Crohn’s disease after surgery with bowel anastomosis.

An evaluation of short-term outcomes after reoperations for anastomotic leakage in colon cancer patients

PURPOSE

Scarce data are available on differences among index colectomies for colon cancer regarding reoperation for anastomotic leakage (AL) and clinical consequences. Therefore, this nationwide observational study aimed to evaluate reoperations for AL after colon cancer surgery and short-term postoperative outcomes for the different index colectomies.

METHODS

Patients who underwent resection with anastomosis for a first primary colon carcinoma between 2013 and 2019 and were registered in the Dutch ColoRectal Audit were included. Primary outcomes were mortality, ICU admission, and stoma creation.

RESULTS

Among 39,565 patients, the overall AL rate was 4.8% and ranged between 4.0% (right hemicolectomy) and 15.4% (subtotal colectomy). AL was predominantly managed with reoperation, ranging from 81.2% after transversectomy to 92.4% after sigmoid resection (p < 0.001). Median time to reoperation differed significantly between index colectomies (range 4-8 days, p < 0.001), with longer and comparable intervals for non-surgical reinterventions (range 13-18 days, p = 0.747). After reoperation, the highest mortality rates were observed for index transversectomy (15.4%) and right hemicolectomy (14.4%) and lowest for index sigmoid resection (5.6%) and subtotal colectomy (5.9%) (p < 0.001). Reoperation with stoma construction was associated with a higher mortality risk than without stoma construction after index right hemicolectomy (17.7% vs. 8.5%, p = 0.001). ICU admission rate was 62.6% overall (range 56.7-69.2%), and stoma construction rate ranged between 65.5% (right hemicolectomy) and 93.0% (sigmoid resection).

CONCLUSION

Significant differences in AL rate, reoperation rate, time to reoperation, postoperative mortality after reoperation, and stoma construction for AL were found among the different index colectomies for colon cancer, with relevance for patient counseling and perioperative management.

Intracorporeal versus Extracorporeal Anastomosis for Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy: Short-Term Outcomes

Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy represents an effective therapeutic approach for right colon cancer (RCC). The primary aim of this study was to evaluate bowel function recovery, length of hospital stay, operative time, and the number of general and anastomosis-related postoperative complications from intracorporeal anastomosis (ICA) vs. extracorporeal anastomosis (ECA); the secondary outcome was the number of lymph nodes retrieved. This observational study was conducted on 108 patients who underwent right hemicolectomy for RCC; after surgical resection, 64 patients underwent ICA and 44 underwent ECA. The operative time was slightly longer in the ICA group than in the ECA group, even though the difference was not significant (199.31 ± 48.90 min vs. 183.64 ± 35.80 min; p = 0.109). The length of hospital stay (7.53 ± 1.91 days vs. 8.77 ± 3.66 days; p = 0.036) and bowel function recovery (2.21 ± 1.01 days vs. 3.45 ± 1.82 days; p < 0.0001) were significantly lower in the ICA group. There were no significant differences in postoperative complications (12% in ICA group vs. 9% in ECA group), wound infection (6% in ICA group vs. 7% in ECA group), or anastomotic leakage (6% in ICA group vs. 9% in ECA group). We did not observe a significant difference between the two groups in the number of lymph nodes collected (19.46 ± 7.06 in ICA group vs. 22.68 ± 8.79 in ECA group; p = 0.086). ICA following laparoscopic right hemicolectomy, compared to ECA, could lead to a significant improvement in bowel function recovery and a reduction in the length of hospital stay in RCC patients.

Management of obstructive colon cancer: Current status, obstacles, and future directions

Approximately 10%–18% of patients with colon cancer present with obstruction at the initial diagnosis. Despite active screening efforts, the incidence of obstructive colon cancer remains stable. Traditionally, emergency surgery has been indicated to treat patients with obstructive colon cancer. However, compared to patients undergoing elective surgery, the morbidity and mortality rates of patients requiring emergency surgery for obstructive colon cancer are high. With the advancement of colonoscopic techniques and equipment, a self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) was introduced to relieve obstructive symptoms, allowing the patient’s general condition to be restored and for them undergo elective surgery. As the use of SEMS placement is growing, controversies about its application in potentially curable diseases have been raised. In this review, the short- and long-term outcomes of different treatment strategies, particularly emergency surgery vs SEMS placement followed by elective surgery in resectable, locally advanced obstructive colon cancer, are described based on the location of the obstructive cancer lesion. Controversies regarding each treatment strategy are discussed. To overcome current obstacles, a potential diagnostic method using circulating tumor DNA and further research directions incorporating neoadjuvant chemotherapy are introduced.

Anastomotic Technique-How to Optimize Success and Minimize Leak Rates

Determining when to perform a bowel anastomosis and whether to divert can be difficult, as an anastomosis made in a high-risk patient or setting has potential for disastrous consequences. While the surgeon has limited control over patient-specific characteristics, the surgeon can control the technique used for creating anastomoses. Protecting and ensuring a vigorous blood supply is fundamental, as is mobilizing bowel completely, and employing adjunctive techniques to attain reach without tension. There are numerous ways to create anastomoses, with variations on the segment and configuration of bowel used, as well as the materials used and surgical approach. Despite numerous studies on the optimal techniques for anastomoses, no one method has prevailed. Without clear evidence on the best anastomotic technique, surgeons should focus on adhering to good technique and being comfortable with several configurations for a variety of conditions.

Evaluating the Effect of Intraoperative Near-Infrared Observation on Anastomotic Leakage After Stapled Side-to-Side Anastomosis in Colon Cancer Surgery Using Propensity Score Matching

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have clarified that near-infrared observation using indocyanine green has the advantage of evaluating perfusion of the anastomotic site, especially in rectal cancer surgery, resulting in a reduction in anastomotic leak.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of near-infrared observation for reducing the anastomotic leak after stapled side-to-side anastomosis in colon cancer surgery.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective propensity score case-matched study.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at 3 institutions in the Yokohama Clinical Oncology Group.

PATIENTS

From January 2011 to December 2019, patients who underwent colon cancer surgery with stapled side-to-side anastomosis were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome was the percentage of anastomotic leak within 30 days after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 1034 patients were collected. There were 532 patients who underwent near-infrared observation and 502 who did not. A total of 370 patients were matched to the near-infrared and non-near-infrared groups. In the near-infrared group, 12 patients (3.2%) were judged to have poor perfusion (4 patients) and no perfusion (8 patients), so the planned transection point was changed. There were no cases of anastomotic leak among these 12 patients. The anastomotic leak rates were 3.5% (13/370) in the non-near-infrared group and 0.8% (3/370) in the near-infrared group. The anastomotic leak and reoperation rates were significantly lower in the near-infrared group than in the non-near-infrared group (OR, 0.224; 95% CI, 0.063-0.794, p = 0.001; OR, 0.348; 95% CI, 0.124-0.977, p = 0.036).

LIMITATIONS

Although we reduced selection bias by performing propensity score matching, this was a retrospective study and was not randomized.

CONCLUSION

This large-scale case-matched study showed that assessing perfusion by near-infrared observation significantly reduced the anastomotic leak and reoperation rates after stapled side-to-side anastomosis in colon cancer surgery and may be better suited to colo-colonic anastomosis. Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B513.Japanese Clinical Trials Registry: UMIN-CTR000039977.

EVALUACIN DEL EFECTO DE LA OBSERVACIN INTRAOPERATORIA CON INFRARROJO CERCANO SOBRE LA FUGA ANASTOMTICA DESPUS DE UNA ANASTOMOSIS LATEROLATERAL CON ENGRAPADORA EN LA CIRUGA DE CNCER DE COLON MEDIANTE EL EMPAREJAMIENTO POR PUNTAJES DE PROPENSIN

ANTECEDENTES:Estudios recientes han aclarado que la observación con infrarrojo cercano con verde de indocianina tiene la ventaja de evaluar la perfusión del sitio anastomótico, especialmente en la cirugía de cáncer de recto, lo que resulta en una reducción de la fuga anastomótica.OBJETIVO:El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la eficacia de la observación con infrarrojo cercano para reducir la fuga anastomótica después de una anastomosis latero-lateral con engrapadora en la cirugía de cáncer de colon.DISEÑO:Este fue un estudio retrospectivo emparejado con puntaje de propensión.AJUSTE:El estudio se llevó a cabo en tres instituciones del Grupo de Oncología Clínica de Yokohama.PACIENTES:Desde enero de 2011 hasta diciembre de 2019, se incluyeron pacientes que se sometieron a cirugía de cáncer de colon con anastomosis latero-lateral con engrapadora.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El resultado principal fue el porcentaje de fuga anastomótica dentro de los 30 días posteriores a la cirugía.RESULTADOS:Se recogió un total de 1034 pacientes. Hubo 532 pacientes que se sometieron a observación con infrarrojo cercano y 502 que no. Un total de 370 pacientes fueron emparejados con los grupos de infrarrojo cercano y no infrarrojo cercano. En el grupo de infrarrojo cercano, se consideró que 12 casos (3,2%) tenían mala perfusión (4 casos) y ninguna perfusión (8 casos), por lo que se cambió el punto de transección planificado. No hubo casos de fuga anastomótica entre estos 12 casos. Las tasas de fuga anastomótica fueron del 3,5% (13/370) en el grupo sin infrarrojo cercano y del 0,8% (3/370) en el grupo con infrarrojo cercano. Las tasas de fuga anastomótica y de reintervención fueron significativamente menores en el grupo con infrarrojo cercano que en el grupo sin infrarrojo cercano (razón de posibilidades 0,224, intervalo de confianza del 95% 0,063-0,794, p = 0,001; razón de posibilidades 0,348, intervalo de confianza del 95% 0,124 -0,977, p = 0,036, respectivamente).LIMITACIONES:Aunque se redujo el sesgo de selección al realizar el emparejamiento por puntaje de propensión, este fue un estudio retrospectivo y no fue aleatorio.CONCLUSIÓN:Este estudio de casos emparejados a gran escala demostró que la evaluación de la perfusión mediante la observación con infrarrojo cercano redujo significativamente la fuga anastomótica y las tasas de reintervención después de la anastomosis latero-lateral con engrapadora en la cirugía de cáncer de colon y puede ser más adecuada para la anastomosis colo-colónica. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B513.Registro japonés de ensayos clínicos: UMIN-CTR000039977.

Trends in risk factors of anastomotic leakage after colorectal cancer surgery (2011-2019): A Dutch population-based study

AIM

Anastomotic leakage (AL) after colon cancer (CC) and rectal cancer (RC) surgery often requires reintervention. Prevalence and morbidity may change over time with evolutions in treatment strategies and changes in patient characteristics. This nationwide study aimed to evaluate changes in the incidence, risk factors and mortality from AL during the past nine years.

METHODS

Data of CC and RC resections with primary anastomosis were extracted from the Dutch Colorectal Audit (2011-2019). AL was registered if requiring reintervention. Three consecutive cohorts were compared using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Incidence of AL after CC surgery decreased from 6.6% in 2011-2013 to 4.8% in 2017-2019 and increased from 8.6% to 11.9% after RC surgery. In 2011-2013, male sex, ASA ≥3, (y)pT3-4, neoadjuvant therapy, emergency surgery and multivisceral resection were identified as risk factors for AL after CC surgery. In 2017-2019, only male sex and ASA ≥3 were risk factors for AL. For RC patients, male sex and neoadjuvant therapy were a risk factor for AL in 2011-2013. In 2017-2019, transanal approach was also a risk factor for AL. Postoperative mortality rate after AL was 12% (CC) and 2% (RC) in 2017-2019, without significant changes over time.

CONCLUSION

Contradictory trends in incidence and mortality for AL were observed among CC and RC surgery with changing risk factors over the past 9 years. High mortality after AL is only observed after CC surgery and remains unchanged. Continued efforts should be made to improve early detection and treatment of AL for these patients.

In-hospital economic burden of anastomotic leakage after colorectal anastomosis surgery: a real-world cost analysis in Italy

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a severe complication of colorectal surgery. We aimed to quantify inpatient costs and key cost contributors associated with AL in a single Italian center.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Electronic records for adults who had undergone colorectal surgery with anastomosis (January 2015 - December 2016), were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with AL were identified using clinical signs and/or imaging findings and/or intraoperative findings. Available data included patient, clinical, and procedural characteristics, healthcare resource utilization, and inpatient costs. Multivariate models were used to adjust for potential confounders.

RESULTS

AL occurred in 12.3% of patients (N = 317). Mean adjusted inpatient cost was 108% higher (p < 0.001) for patients with AL versus no AL (€14,711; 95% CI: 12,113; 17,866 versus €7,089; 95% CI: 6,623; 7,587). Key cost contributors were ward stay, disposables, operating room, and hospital consultations. Mean losses (reimbursement minus costs) were €2,041/patient with AL. AL extended mean length of stay by 9 days and increased odds of reoperation and ICU stay (all p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AL place considerable economic and resource burden on healthcare systems and hospital reimbursement rates do not cover treatment costs. This study highlights an unmet need for novel techniques to reduce the burden of AL.

The Impact of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography on Intraoperative Decision Making in Right Hemicolectomy: A Case-Control Study

INTRODUCTION

Anastomotic leak (AL) after right hemicolectomy remains a significant clinical challenge with an incidence of 4.2% to 8.2% in European series. Near infrared imaging with indocyanine green (NIR-ICG) allows real-time assessment of bowel perfusion. However, there is a lack of published data assessing the clinical utility of this new technology in right sided colonic resection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from electronic records were retrospectively analyzed for consecutive patients undergoing right hemicolectomy in a single center between March 1, 2016 and October 31, 2019. Primary outcomes were the incidence of AL and the frequency with which ICG-NIR imaging altered the intraoperative course.

RESULTS

Our study included 127 patients, with 65 in the NIR-ICG group and 62 in the control group. Median length of follow-up was 24 months. There was no significant difference in demographic or pathologic characteristics between the 2 cohorts. There was no significant difference in operation length between the NIR-ICG and control groups (164.7 vs. 162.9 min, P=0.88). The use of NIR-ICG altered the intraoperative course in 4/65 (6.2%) patients. The rate of AL was lower in the NIR-ICG group (1.5% vs. 4.8%), although this did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

The use of NIR-ICG altered the intraoperative course for notable subset of patients undergoing right hemicolectomy without prolonging operative time. Larger prospective studies are required to evaluate the potential for the routine use of this technology to reduce AL rate in right hemicolectomy.

The Association of Gut Microbiota and Complications in Gastrointestinal-Cancer Therapies

The therapy of gastrointestinal carcinomas includes surgery, chemo- or immunotherapy, and radiation with diverse complications such as surgical-site infection and enteritis. In recent years, the microbiome’s influence on different diseases and complications has been studied in more detail using methods such as next-generation sequencing. Due to the relatively simple collectivisation, the gut microbiome is the best-studied so far. While certain bacteria are sometimes associated with one particular complication, it is often just the loss of alpha diversity linked together. Among others, a strong influence of Fusobacterium nucleatum on the effectiveness of chemotherapies is demonstrated. External factors such as diet or specific medications can also predispose to dysbiosis and lead to complications. In addition, there are attempts to treat developed dysbiosis, such as faecal microbiota transplant or probiotics. In the future, the underlying microbiome should be investigated in more detail for a better understanding of the precipitating factors of a complication with specific therapeutic options.

Assessment of Body Composition as an Indicator of Early Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition Therapy in Patients Undergoing Colorectal Cancer Surgery in an Enhanced Recovery Program

BACKGROUND

A poor body composition (BC) has been identified as a risk factor for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). This study was performed to assess the effect of early peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) on BC in patients undergoing CCR surgery within an enhanced recovery program.

METHODS

Patients with normal nutritional status were prospectively included between October 2016 and September 2019, randomized into two groups (PPN with periOlimel N4-E versus conventional fluid therapy) and subsequently classified according to their preoperative CT scan into high- or low-risk BC groups. Postoperative complications and length of hospital stay (LOS) were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 156 patients analyzed, 88 patients (56.4%) were classified as having high-risk BC according to CT measurements. PPN led to a 15.4% reduction in postoperative complications in high-risk vs. 1.7% in low-risk BC patients. In the multivariate analysis, high-risk BC was related to an OR (95% CI) of 2 (p = 0.044) of presenting complications and of 1.9 (p = 0.066) for major complications, and was associated with an increase in LOS of 3.6 days (p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

The measurement of patients' BC can allow for the identification of target patients where PPN has been proven to be an effective tool to improve postoperative outcomes.

Increased mortality and altered local immune response in secondary peritonitis after previous visceral operations in mice

Postoperative peritonitis is characterized by a more severe clinical course than other forms of secondary peritonitis. The pathophysiological mechanisms behind this phenomenon are incompletely understood. This study used an innovative model to investigate these mechanisms, combining the models of murine Colon Ascendens Stent Peritonitis (CASP) and Surgically induced Immune Dysfunction (SID). Moreover, the influence of the previously described anti-inflammatory reflex transmitted by the vagal nerve was characterized. SID alone, or 3 days before CASP were performed in female C57BL/6 N mice. Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy was performed six days before SID with following CASP. The immune status was assessed by FACS analysis and measurement of cytokines. Local intestinal inflammatory changes were characterized by immunohistochemistry. Mortality was increased in CASP animals previously subjected to SID. Subclinical bacteremia occurred after SID, and an immunosuppressive milieu occurred secondary to SID just before the induction of CASP. Previous SID modified the pattern of intestinal inflammation induced by CASP. Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy had no influence on sepsis mortality in our model of postoperative peritonitis. Our results indicate a surgery-induced inflammation of the small intestine and the peritoneal cavity with bacterial translocation, which led to immune dysfunction and consequently to a more severe peritonitis.

C-reactive protein level on postoperative day 3 as a predictor of anastomotic leakage after elective right-sided colectomy

PURPOSE

To investigate the factors predictive of anastomotic leakage in patients undergoing elective right-sided colectomy.

METHODS

The subjects of this retrospective study were 247 patients who underwent elective right hemicolectomy or ileocecal resection with ileocolic anastomosis between April 2012 and March 2019, at our institution.

RESULTS

Anastomotic leakage occurred in 9 of the 247 patients (3.6%) and was diagnosed on median postoperative day (POD) 7 (range POD 3-12). There were no significant differences in the background factors or preoperative laboratory data between the patients with anastomotic leakage (anastomotic leakage group) and those without anastomotic leakage (no anastomotic leakage group). Open surgery was significantly more common than laparoscopic surgery (P = 0.027), and end-to-side anastomosis was less common (P = 0.025) in the anastomotic leakage group. The C-reactive protein (CRP) level in the anastomotic leakage group was higher than that in the no anastomotic leakage group on PODs 3 (P < 0.001) and 5 (P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis revealed that anastomotic leakage was significantly more frequent in patients with a serum CRP level ≥ 11.8 mg/dL [area under the curve (AUC) 0.83].

CONCLUSION

A serum CRP level ≥ 11.8 mg/dL on POD 3 was predictive of anastomotic leakage being detected on median POD 7.

Ex vivo comparison of hand-sutured versus circular stapled anastomosis in canine large intestine

OBJECTIVE

To compare leakage pressures of colonic anastomoses performed with circular staplers to conventional hand-sewn techniques in dogs.

STUDY DESIGN

Ex-vivo study.

ANIMALS

Colon from 11 canine cadavers.

METHODS

Thirty-two colonic anastomoses were performed. Four segments from each colon were randomly assigned to one of four techniques: hand-sewn colonic anastomoses performed with 4-0 glycomer 631 (G) and 4-0 barbed glycomer 631 (BG), and circular stapled colonic anastomoses using 4.8 mm End-to-End Anastomosis (EEA C4.8mm) and 3.5 mm End-to-End Anastomosis (EEA C3.5mm), 21 mm diameter circular staples in cadaveric canine colon. Leakage pressure was defined as the pressure at which dye-containing solution was first observed to leak from the anastomosis site.

RESULTS

Leakage pressures were 49.5 mmHg (range:16-72) in group G, 45.5 mmHg (range:19-80) in group BG, 5.3 mmHg (range:0-31) in group C3.5mm, and 29.5 mmHg (range:23-50.3) in group C4.8mm. Anastomoses leaked at lower pressures when stapled rather than hand-sewn (C4.8mm-G p = .0313, C4.8mm-BG p = .0131, C3.5mm-G p = .0469, C3.5mm-BG p = .0313). Two of the C3.5mm constructs leaked immediately after saline infusion with 4/6 leaking at <5.3 mmHg.

CONCLUSION

End-to-end colonic anastomoses closed with circular stapler leaked at lower pressures than hand-sutured anastomoses. Use of the EEA stapler with a staple height of 3.5 mm did not result in safe colonic anastomoses.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

These results provide evidence to support hand-suturing colonic anatomoses with G and BG in dogs. The 4.8 mm staples may be considered in anatomical locations difficult to reach.

Malignant Large Bowel Obstruction

Large bowel obstruction is a serious and potentially life-threatening surgical emergency which is associated with high morbidity and mortality rate. The most common etiology is colorectal cancer which accounts for over 60% of all large bowel obstructions. Proper assessment, thoughtful decision-making and prompt treatment is necessary to decrease the high morbidity and mortality which is associated with this entity. Knowledge of the key elements regarding the presentation of a patient with a large bowel obstruction will help the surgeon in formulating an appropriate treatment plan for the patient. Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the various treatment options available is necessary when caring for these patients. This chapter will review the presentation of patients with malignant large bowel obstruction, discuss the various diagnostic modalities available, as well as discuss treatment options and the various clinical scenarios in which they are most appropriately utilized.

Safe Anastomoses without Ostomies in Cytoreductive Surgery with Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Technical Considerations and Modifications

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal complications, predominantly anastomotic leak (AL), are the most frequent source of severe morbidity after cytoreductive surgery (CRS).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to present the technical standards for colorectal anastomoses developed and systematically applied to all patients undergoing CRS in a high-volume tertiary center, and the associated AL rates.

METHODS

This was a descriptive study reporting the technical characteristics of a standardized protocol for three types of colorectal anastomoses (colorectal, ileorectal, and ileocolic) in CRS with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), and a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on anastomotic outcomes. All patients (1172) undergoing CRS with HIPEC from September 2006 to September 2020 were included. The anastomotic complications were classified according to the International Study Group of Rectal Cancer Surgery (ISGRCS) classification.

RESULTS

Overall, 1172 patients underwent 1300 procedures and 1359 gastrointestinal anastomoses. An ileocolic anastomosis was performed in 408 patients, colorectal anastomosis in 469 patients, and ileorectal anastomosis in 16 patients, none with diverting ileostomy; 345 other gastrointestinal reconstructions and 82 urinary reconstructions were performed in these patients. The AL rate was 1% (4/408) for the ileocolic anastomosis, 0.85% (4/469) for the colorectal anastomosis, and 0% (0/16) for the ileorectal anastomosis. One patient died postoperatively due to AL.

CONCLUSIONS

Systematic application of standardized techniques adapted to ensure optimal tissue healing (stapled anastomoses avoiding overlap, accurate staple deployment, and hand-sewn reinforcement) are associated with a very high level of anastomotic safety in a large cohort of patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC.