Does laparoscopy reduce splenic injuries during colorectal resections? An assessment from the ACS-NSQIP database

Predictors of iatrogenic splenic injury in radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Background

Iatrogenic splenic injury (ISI) is a recognized complication in radical gastrectomy that may result in incidental splenectomy (IS). However, the predictors of such events remain largely unknown.

Methods

Medical records of the patients who underwent radical gastrectomy at our institution between January 2015 and December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Potential predictors of ISI and IS were collected and analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. Results were reported as an odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

A total of 2916 patients were included, of whom 211 patients (7.2%) suffered from ISI and 75 patients (2.6%) underwent IS. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that BMI≥25 (OR: 3.198 (2.356-4.326), p<0.001), total gastrectomy (OR: 2.201 (1.601-3.025), p<0.001), and the existence of "criminal fold" (OR: 13.899 (2.824-251.597), p=0.011) were independent predictive risk factors for ISI; whereas laparoscopic surgical approach (OR: 0.048 (0.007-0.172), p<0.001) was a protective factor for ISI. Moreover, the existence of "criminal fold" (OR: 15.745 (3.106-288.470), p=0.008) and BMI≥25 (OR: 2.498 (1.002-6.046), p=0.044) were identified as independent risk factors of ISI under laparoscopic gastrectomy. There was no association between sex, age, previous abdominal surgery, neoadjuvant therapy, outlet obstruction, tumor stage, nodal stage, and total lymph node retrieved and ISI.

Conclusions

BMI≥25 and total gastrectomy can predict high risk of ISI during radical gastrectomy. Laparoscopic surgery is superior to open gastrectomy in lowing the risk of ISI.

Evaluation of Operative Notes for Splenic Flexure Mobilization: Are the Key Aspects Being Reported?

Background: Given the importance of operative documentation, we reviewed operative notes for surgeries that required splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) to determine their accuracy. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 51 operative notes for complete SFMs performed at a single institution from January 2015 to June 2020. Results: None of the operative notes reported a rationale for performing SFM, use of preoperative imaging to guide technical approach, reasoning for the operative method and mobilization approach used, or specific steps taken to ensure that SFM was done safely. Most reports did not include technical details, with one-third of the notes merely reporting that "the splenic flexure was mobilized." Conclusions: Increased awareness about the lack of operative documentation of the critical aspects of the SFM could stimulate initiatives to standardize the SFM method and improve the quality of operative notes for SFM.

Development and Implementation of a Novel Computer-Based Training Module for the Standardization of Splenic Flexure Mobilization

BACKGROUND

Computer-based training modules use various multimedia components such as text, graphics, animation, and videos that can theoretically facilitate the learning process. Splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) is a crucial step for tension-free colorectal/anal anastomosis that can be a technically demanding step. This study is designed to demonstrate our novel training module for SFM with high-vessel ligation during surgery and present the anatomical landmarks and embryological plans for SFM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A step-by-step educational video was prepared to standardize and teach the technical steps of the SFM. 3D animation was prepared and cadaveric dissection was performed in a step-by-step manner similar to minimally invasive surgery. This is followed by the laparoscopic technique. Since we have started this modular training program in our department, a consecutive of 100 patients underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection and coloanal anastomosis with covering stoma. Demographics, characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Surgical anatomical planes and important vascular structures/variations are both shown by 3D animation, cadaveric dissection, and laparoscopic surgery. Out of 100 consecutive cases, there were no mortality, 5 anastomotic leakages 1 of which necessitates reoperation, and 2 splenic injuries which were managed conservatively.

CONCLUSION

This unique educational video module for SFM demonstrates surgical anatomical planes and important vascular structures/variations. The employment and implementation of time-independent multimedia components lead to effective training and can theoretically facilitate the learning process.

Classification of the colonic splenic flexure based on three-dimensional CT analysis

Background

Mobilization of the splenic flexure can be a challenging surgical step in colorectal surgery. This study aimed to classify the splenic flexure based on the three-dimensional (3D) coordinates of the splenic hilum and left renal hilum. This classification was used to compare splenic flexure mobilization during colorectal resection.

Methods

CT images of patients with colorectal cancer treated between April 2018 and December 2019 were analysed retrospectively. 3D mutual positioning of the splenic flexure from the ligament of Treitz to the splenic hilum or the left renal hilum was used to classify patients into three groups using cluster analysis. The difference in the procedure time between groups was also analysed in a subset of patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy with complete splenic flexure mobilization.

Results

Of 515 patients reviewed, 319 with colorectal cancers were included in the study and categorized based on the 3D coordinates of the splenic hilum and left renal hilum as caudal (100 patients), cranial (118) and lateral (101) positions. Male sex (P < 0.001), older age (P = 0.004) and increased bodyweight (P = 0.043) were independent characteristics of the lateral group in multiple logistic regression analysis. Thirty-four patients underwent complete splenic flexure mobilization during the study period; this took significantly longer (mean 78.7 min) in the lateral group than in the caudal and cranial groups (41.8 and 43.2 min respectively; P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Locating the splenic flexure using 3D coordinates could be helpful in predicting a longer duration for mobilization of the splenic flexure.

Intermittent Splenic Artery Occlusion Plus Gauze Compression Is a Simple and Effective Treatment for Iatrogenic Splenic Injury

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of intermittent splenic artery occlusion plus gauze compression in treating iatrogenic splenic injury.

Material/Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 12 iatrogenic splenic injury cases (grade I to III) treated with intermittent splenic artery occlusion plus gauze compression. The hemostatic effect was then observed after unblocking and decompression. The total operation time, gauze compression time, total blood loss, blood loss from the injured spleen, and platelet counts of each patient before and 1 week after surgery were noted.

Results

The average operation time was 209.58±57.11 min, and the average gauze compression time after spleen artery occlusion was 23.75±4.33 min. The average total blood loss and blood loss due to iatrogenic spleen injury were 468.33±138.22 ml and 264.17±165.72 ml, respectively. Two cases (both grade I) had successful hemostasis after 15 min of splenic artery occlusion and wound compression. Another 9 cases (all grade II) and 1 case (grade III) attained hemostasis after 25 min and 30 min, respectively, of splenic artery occlusion and wound compression. The platelet counts of all patients were within the normal range before and 1 week after surgery. No postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusions

Intermittent splenic artery occlusion plus gauze compression is a simple and effective treatment for iatrogenic splenic injury.

Splenic flexure mobilization in sigmoid and rectal cancer resections: a meta-analysis of surgical outcomes

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the influence of the splenic flexure mobilization for the main surgical outcomes of patients submitted to resection of sigmoid and rectal cancer.

METHODS

we searched the MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and LILACS, using the terms "splenic flexure mobilization", "colorectal surgery", "rectal cancer", "anterior resection", "sigmoid colon cancer", and "sigmoid resection". The main outcome was anastomotic dehiscence. Other outcomes analyzed were mortality, bleeding, infection and general complications. We estimated the effect sizes by grouping data from six case-control studies (1,433 patients) published until January 2018.

RESULTS

our meta-analysis showed that patients undergoing complete mobilization of the splenic flexure had a higher risk of anastomotic dehiscence (RR=2.27, 95%CI: 1.22-4.23) compared with those not submitted to this procedure. There was no difference between the groups in terms of mortality, bleeding, infection and general complications.

CONCLUSION

splenic flexure mobilization is associated with a higher risk of anastomotic dehiscence in resections of sigmoid and rectal cancer. This surgical maneuver should be used with caution in the surgical management of sigmoid or rectal cancers.

Sustained positive impact of ACS-NSQIP program on outcomes after colorectal surgery over the last decade

BACKGROUND

We evaluate trends in outcomes after colorectal resection over the decade of the introduction of ACS-NSQIP as well as of targeted-colectomy information.

STUDY DESIGN

From 2007 to 2016, patients undergoing non-emergent colorectal procedures were included. Demographics, operative complexity (American Society of Anesthesiologists and wound classes); complications, early (<5 days) discharge and mortality were plotted over years. Outcomes after introduction of colectomy-targeted datasets (2013-2016) were compared to those prior (2007-2012). Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of colectomy-targeted data on outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 310,632 included procedures, 131,122(42.2%) and 179,510(57.8%) were performed before and after the introduction of colectomy-targeted variables respectively. Most complications including surgical site and urinary tract infections, sepsis, septic shock, venous thromboembolism, respiratory complications, reoperation and mortality reduced over time with increased early discharge. On multivariable analysis, introduction of colectomy-targeted data was associated with lower surgical site (OR = 0.78,95%CI = [0.77-0.80]); systemic (OR = 0.94,95%CI = [0.91-0.98]) and urinary tract (OR = 0.70,95%CI = [0.67-0.74]) infections; reoperation (OR = 0.88,95%CI = [0.85-0.91]) and early discharge (OR = 1.60,95%CI = [1.57-1.63]).

CONCLUSION

Over its first decade of introduction, ACS-NSQIP has been associated with improved outcomes after colorectal surgery. The introduction of colectomy-targeted data has further improved outcomes.

Effect of splenic flexure mobilization performed via medial-to-lateral and superior-to-inferior approach on early clinical outcomes in elective laparoscopic resection of rectal cancer

Introduction

Whether complete splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) is required remains a controversial issue and there are numerous approaches regarding the performance of this procedure.

Aim

To investigate the effect of SFM performed with a medial-to-lateral and superior-to-inferior approach on early clinical outcomes in laparoscopic resection of rectal cancer.

Material and methods

The SFM procedure was initiated by the ligation of the inferior mesenteric vein followed by dissection extending from the upper border of the pancreas to the splenic hilum through the gastrocolic space. The mesocolon was dissected in a superior-to-inferior and medial-to-lateral fashion and the presacral space was entered by dividing the inferior mesenteric artery. The procedure was completed by dividing all the splenocolic, phrenicocolic, gastrocolic, and pancreaticomesocolic ligaments.

Results

A total of 43 patients were included in the study, comprising 26 (60.5%) men and 17 (39.5%) women with a mean age of 58.2 ±13.9 (range: 30–87) years. Of the 43 patients, 21 (48.8%) underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and a diversion stoma was performed in 37 (86%) patients. No adjacent organ injury occurred intraoperatively. Mean operative time was 271 ±50 min and mean blood loss was 144 ±83 ml. One (2.3%) patient might have developed anastomotic leakage secondary to bevacizumab therapy postoperatively and developed no anastomotic stenosis in the follow-up period. Mean length of hospital stay was 9.3 ±4.3 days and no mortality occurred in any patient.

Conclusions

Splenic flexure mobilization performed via the superior-to-inferior and medial-to-lateral approach appears to be a safe and feasible procedure.

Laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy and splenectomy for diverticulitis and splenic sarcoidosis

Splenectomy together with colectomy is most commonly performed as a result of iatrogenic injury and not as an additional elective procedure. A 50-year-old African American female presented with recurrent episodes of diverticulitis. She had mediastinal, and porta hepatis lymphadenopathy and subcutaneous nodules, but multiple biopsies were unable to establish the diagnosis. On computed tomography scan, innumerable hypodense splenic lesions were noted. The patient underwent combined laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy and splenectomy. First, the severely inflamed sigmoid colon was mobilised followed by descending colon and splenic flexure. The spleen, which showed multiple granulomas, was dissected out and the hilum secured with a stapler. The rectum was now stapled, the Pfannenstiel incision was reopened, the spleen was removed in a retrieval bag and the colon was pulled out. The colorectal anastomosis was created with an end-to-end anastomotic (circular) stapler. Pathology demonstrated multiple non-caseating granulomas indicative for sarcoidosis and acute/chronic diverticulitis. The patient developed a superficial surgical site infection but no other complications. Prednisone and methotrexate were started and her sarcoidosis improved. She was well at her 2 years of follow-up. Only few patients have an indication for elective splenectomy together with segmental colectomy. The procedure can be safely performed using a laparoscopic approach.

Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (NSQIP) to Perform Clinical Research in Colon and Rectal Surgery

The American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (ACS-NSQIP) is probably the most well-known surgical database in North American and worldwide. This clinical database was first proposed by Dr. Clifford Ko, a colorectal surgeon, to the ACS, and NSQIP first started collecting data ca. 2005 with the intent of comparing hospitals (benchmarking) and for hospital-level quality improvement projects. Since then, its popularity has grown from just a few participating hospitals in the United States to more than 708 participating hospitals worldwide, and collaboration allows regional or disease-specific data sharing. Importantly, from a methodological perspective, as the number of hospitals has grown so has the hospital heterogeneity and thus generalizability of the results and conclusions of the individual studies. In this article, we will first briefly present the structure of the database (aka the Participant User File) and other important methodological considerations specific to performing clinical research. We will then briefly review and summarize the approximately 60 published colectomy articles and 30 published articles on proctectomy. We will conclude with future directions relevant to colorectal clinical research.

What have we learned in minimally invasive colorectal surgery from NSQIP and NIS large databases? A systematic review

BACKGROUND

"Big data" refers to large amount of dataset. Those large databases are useful in many areas, including healthcare. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) and the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) are big databases that were developed in the USA in order to record surgical outcomes. The aim of the present systematic review is to evaluate the type and clinical impact of the information retrieved through NISQP and NIS big database articles focused on laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using The Meta-Analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. The research was carried out on PubMed database and revealed 350 published papers. Outcomes of articles in which laparoscopic colorectal surgery was the primary aim were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty-five studies, published between 2007 and February 2017, were included. Articles included were categorized in groups according to the main topic as: outcomes related to surgical technique comparisons, morbidity and perioperatory results, specific disease-related outcomes, sociodemographic disparities, and academic training impact.

CONCLUSIONS

NSQIP and NIS databases are just the tip of the iceberg for the potential application of Big Data technology and analysis in MIS. Information obtained through big data is useful and could be considered as external validation in those situations where a significant evidence-based medicine exists; also, those databases establish benchmarks to measure the quality of patient care. Data retrieved helps to inform decision-making and improve healthcare delivery.

Iatrogenic spleen injury risk during robotic left colonic and rectal resections by routine left flexure mobilization technique: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The routine mobilization of the left colonic flexure as a standard procedure during left colonic/rectal resection is a controversial topic in open and minimally invasive surgery. According to some authors, this maneuver may increase the risk of iatrogenic spleen damage; for others this does not change the odds. Ligaments over-traction is the most frequent injury mechanism. Some documented risk factors are reported: laparotomic approach, male gender, vascular disease, cancer, diverticulitis, surgery performed in emergency-setting. The type of procedure influences the associated risk: transverse colectomy is the riskiest, followed by left colonic resection and pancolectomy.

METHODS

Retrospective original paper. Sample size - a total of 125 patients have been considered. 75 robotic left colonic resections (60%), 40 robotic rectal resections (32%) and 10 robotic pancolectomy (8%). Primary outcomes - 1) percentage of iatrogenic splenic injuries; 2) conversion rate. Secondary outcomes - 1) intra-/postoperative complications; 2) anastomotic leakage rate; 3) mortality. In order to avoid potential confounding factors and technical/expertise heterogeneity, all the procedures included have been performed using the same standardized operative technique and by the same experienced surgeon (P.C.G.).

RESULTS

We retrospectively analyzed 125 procedures. Primary outcomes - 1) iatrogenic splenic injuries: 0%; 2) conversion rate: 1.6%. Secondary outcomes - 1) intraoperative complications: 0%; 2) anastomotic leakage rate: 1 case of leakage out of 125 cases (1.3% of the left colectomy sub-sample); in this case the leakage was probably due to an infectious process rather than a vascular deficit; 3) mortality: 0%; 4) miscellanea postoperatory complications (small bowel obstructions, wound infection, pelvic collections, pneumonia and acute kidney injury) are detailed in the manuscript.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, and according to some of the literature data as well, during robotic left colonic/rectal resections the routine mobilization of the left flexure as a standard procedure is not a risk factor in terms of iatrogenic spleen injury rate. Conversely, this technique may be beneficial as it does not excessively extend the operative time, increases the surgical skills acquirement, and reduces the tension-related anastomotic ischemia. It also allows a better oncological dissection. Standard laparoscopic approach reduces the rate of spleen by almost 3.5 times in comparison to open surgery. The improved technical accuracy provided by the robotic platform may decrease the rate of splenic injury. More studies are needed on the topic to confirm our findings.

Location is everything: The role of splenic flexure mobilization during colon resection for diverticulitis

INTRODUCTION

Routine splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) has been previously recommended to ensure an adequate length for a tension free anastomosis during resection for diverticulitis. We sought to evaluate the role of selective SFM for diverticulitis, and its impact on outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of elective colectomies at a tertiary care center (2007-2015) for left-sided diverticulitis were identified from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Demographics and perioperative characteristics were compared; and 30-day risk-adjusted outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

We identified 208 sigmoid/left colectomy cases. A laparoscopic approach predominated (71%), and SFM was performed in 54% of cases (n = 113). Demographics and comorbidities were similar. Median operative time was greater in the SFM group [226; interquartile range (IQR): (190-267) minutes] compared to no mobilization [180; IQR: (153-209) minutes] (p < 0.01). After risk adjustment, SFM was associated with a trend towards an increased rate of a minor morbidity (OR: 2.8; p = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Splenic flexure mobilization was performed selectively in half of colectomies evaluated. This technique was associated with a trend towards an increased rate of minor complications, with no difference in major adverse events, including organ space infections. These findings suggest that for patient with diverticulitis, SFM should be performed in an individualized fashion.

A novel approach for robotic mobilization of the splenic flexure

BACKGROUND

The techniques of robotic splenic flexure mobilization in the colorectal surgery setting are not well defined and have been challenging due to limited range of motion of the second-generation robotic platform in multiple quadrants.

METHODS

This report describes a novel technique for robotic splenic flexure mobilization with medial-to-lateral approach without a need for robotic cart repositioning during left-sided colon and rectal surgery. The dissection is started with ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery and vein. Unique in this approach, entering the lesser sac is accomplished by extension of the dissection cranially by lifting up the mesocolon from the anterior surface of the pancreatic body toward the stomach.

RESULTS

This technique presented in the video allows the mobilization of the splenic flexure without excessive tractions and avoidance of potential splenic injuries.

CONCLUSIONS

The described novel approach demonstrates total robotic splenic flexure takedown without excessive traction, with improved visualization, and reduction of potential risk of splenic injury. This approach provides totally robotic mobilization of the splenic flexure at single docking without changing the patient's position.

Inadvertent Splenectomy During Resection for Colorectal Cancer Does Not Increase Long-term Mortality in a Propensity Score Model: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies suggest that long-term mortality is increased in patients who undergo splenectomy during surgery for colorectal cancer. The reason for this association remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between inadvertent splenectomy attributed to iatrogenic lesion to the spleen during colorectal cancer resections and long-term mortality in a national cohort of unselected patients.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective, nationwide cohort study.

SETTINGS

Data were collected from the database of the Danish Colorectal Cancer Group and merged with data from the National Patient Registry and the National Pathology Databank.

PATIENTS

Danish patients with colorectal cancer undergoing curatively intended resection between 2001 and 2011 were included in the study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was long-term mortality for patients surviving 30 days after surgery. Secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality and risk factors for inadvertent splenectomy. Multivariable and propensity-score matched Cox regression analyses were used to adjust for potential confounding.

RESULTS

In total, 23,727 patients were included, of which 277 (1.2%) underwent inadvertent splenectomy. There was no association between inadvertent splenectomy and long-term mortality (adjusted HR = 1.15 (95% CI, 0.95-1.40); p = 0.16) in the propensity score-matched model, whereas 30-day mortality was significantly increased (adjusted HR = 2.31 (95% CI, 1.71-3.11); p < 0.001). Inadvertent splenectomy was most often seen during left hemicolectomy (left hemicolectomy vs right hemicolectomy: OR = 24.76 (95% CI, 15.30-40.06); p < 0.001).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective study design and lack of detailed information on postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Inadvertent splenectomy during resection for colorectal cancer does not seem to increase long-term mortality. The previously reported reduced overall survival after inadvertent splenectomy may be explained by excess mortality in the immediate postoperative period.

Iatrogenic splenic injury: review of the literature and medico-legal issues

INTRODUCTION

Iatrogenic splenic injury is a recognized complication in abdominal surgery. The aim of this paper is to understand the medico-legal issues of iatrogenic splenic injuries. We performed a literature review on PubMed and Scopus using iatrogenic splenic or spleen injury and iatrogenic splenic rupture as keywords. Iatrogenic splenic injury cases were identified. Most cases were related to colonoscopy, but we also identified cases related to upper gastrointestinal procedures, colonic surgery, ERCP, left nephrectomy and/or adrenalectomy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy, vascular operations involving the abdominal aorta, gynecological operation, left lung biopsy, chest drain, very rarely spinal surgery and even cardiopulmonary resuscitation. There are several surgical procedures that can lead to a splenic injury. However, from a medico-legal point of view, it is important to assess whether the cause can be attributed to a technical error of the operator rather than being an unpredictable and unpreventable complication. It is important for the medico-legal expert to have great knowledge on iatrogenic splenic injuries because it is important to evaluate every step of the first procedure performed, how a splenic injury is produced, and whether the correct treatment for the splenic injury was administered in a judgment.

Hand-Assisted versus Straight-Laparoscopic versus Open Proctosigmoidectomy for Treatment of Sigmoid and Rectal Cancer: A Case-Matched Study of 100 Patients

To assess the efficacy of laparoscopic proctosigmoidectomy for cancer treatment, 25 patients who underwent hand-assisted laparoscopic resection during the study period (9/2006 - 7/2012) were matched to 25 straight-laparoscopic and 50 open-surgery cases. The patients who underwent hand-assisted resection had higher rates of preoperative cardiac disease and hypertension than did the straight-laparoscopy and open-surgery groups. Straight-laparoscopic surgery seems to provide faster convalescence compared with open surgery and hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery.

[Intraoperative complications of the lower gastrointestinal tract : Prevention, recognition and therapy]

Every surgical intervention is associated with the risk of intraoperative complications. These occur in approximately 2-12% of patients but significantly influence the postoperative outcome, overall complication and mortality rates. This article presents the treatment of typical intraoperative complications during surgery of the lower gastrointestinal tract with a focus on the prevention and identification of risk factors. Especially changes in the regular anatomy caused by previous surgery, inflammation, tumors and emergency situations carry the risk of iatrogenic injuries to the bowels, spleen, ureter and blood vessels. These risk factors must be considered when choosing a surgical procedure, a surgical approach or an appropriate surgeon. The early detection of complications with a definitive restoration is the essential step for a successful treatment without long-term sequelae. Every delay in therapy is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality and should be avoided.