Is length of the rectal stump predictive for postoperative outcome in Hartmann's reversal surgery? A multicenter experience of 105 consecutive cases

Rectal stump leakage: A neglected complication after Hartmann's procedure for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Hartmann's procedure is widely used in large bowel obstruction caused by colorectal cancer. However, rectal stump leakage, one of its serious complications, has not been well investigated in the literature.

METHODS

Patients with colorectal cancer who underwent Hartmann's procedure between January 2015 and January 2022 were retrospectively assessed. Rectal stump leakage was diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms, nature of drainage fluid, and computed tomography characteristics. The patients were categorized into the following 2 groups: non-rectal stump leakage group and rectal stump leakage group. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify independent risk factors for rectal stump leakage.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of postoperative rectal stump leakage was 11.6% in our patients. Univariate analysis revealed that male sex, body mass index (underweight), and tumor location (below the peritoneal reflection) were risk factors for rectal stump leakage (P < .05). Multivariate regression analysis confirmed these 3 factors were independent risk factors for rectal stump leakage (P < .05). Computed tomography imaging characteristics of patients with rectal stump leakage usually included inflammatory exudate and edema of the rectal stump, fluid, or gas-containing abscess around the rectal stump. The computed tomography imaging characteristics of a gas-containing abscess around the rectal stump and an abdominal drainage tube advanced into the rectum via the rectal stump could confirm the diagnosis of rectal stump leakage. The incidence rate of small bowel obstruction in group 2 (69.2%) was significantly higher than that in group 1 (15.7%) (P = .000).

CONCLUSION

Male sex, body mass index (underweight), and tumor location (below the peritoneal reflection) were independent risk factors for rectal stump leakage after Hartmann's procedure. We suggested that rectal stump leakage be classified into inflammatory exudation and abscess stages on computed tomography imaging. Unexplained small bowel obstruction after Hartmann's procedure may be an important clue to the early diagnosis of rectal stump leakage.

Functional outcome after Hartmann's reversal surgery using LARS, COREFO & QoL scores

BACKGROUND

Functional complaints after colorectal surgery have a profound effect on quality of life (QoL). Our goal was to investigate the prevalence of functional complaints and quality of life after Hartmann's reversal surgery.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was performed where one hundred nineteen patients were included. All patients underwent Hartmann's reversal procedure between 2007 and 2019. All patients were asked to complete 3 validated questionnaires related to bowel function in benign and colorectal cancer surgery as well as general QoL.

RESULTS

The response rate was 67%. Among responders, 32.8% reported LARS-like symptoms whereas 25% had significant COREFO Scores (>15). Higher LARS and COREFO scores were significantly associated with worse global QoL and several QoL domain scores (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the prevalence of bowel dysfunction after Hartmann's reversal surgery. Patients undergoing this procedure show similar functional complaints compared to those in literature who had a resection without colostomy.

Anastomotic Considerations in Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a common indication for colorectal surgery, both in the acute and the elective setting. The anastomosis between the colon and rectum is a critical component of colectomy for diverticular disease and should be approached thoughtfully. This article reviews important surgical considerations when creating a colorectal anastomosis in the setting of diverticular disease, whether following the reversal of an end colostomy, during an acute episode of diverticulitis, or electively for chronic or complicated disease. Timing of surgery and preoperative assessment, minimally invasive approaches, and intraoperative maneuvers and considerations are discussed.