Restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis revisited

Endoscopic management of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis after prophylactic colectomy or restorative proctocolectomy - systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) develop early colorectal adenomas and if left untreated, progression to cancer is an inevitable event. Prophylactic surgery does not prevent further development of cancer in the rectal remnant, rectal cuff in patients with ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) and even on the ileal mucosa of the pouch body. The aim of this review is to assess long-term rates of cancer and adenoma development in patients with FAP after prophylactic surgery and to summarise current recommendations for endoscopic management and surveillance of these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search of studies from January 1946 through to June 2023 was conducted using the PRISMA checklist. The electronic database PubMed was searched.

RESULTS

Fifty-four papers involving 5010 patients were reviewed. Cancer rate in the rectal remnant was 8.8-16.7% in the western population and 37% in the eastern population. The cumulative risk of cancer 30 years after surgery was 24%. Mortality due to cancer in the rectal remnant is 1.1-11.1% with a 5-year survival rate of 55%. The adenoma rate after primary IPAA was 9.4-85% with a cumulative risk of 85% 20 years after surgery and a cumulative risk of 12% for advanced adenomas 10 years after surgery. Cumulative risk for adenomas after ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) was 85% after 5 and 100% after 10 years. Adenomas developed more frequently after stapled (33.9-57%) compared to hand-sewn (0-33%) anastomosis. We identified reports of 45 cancers in patients after IPAA of which 30 were in the pouch body and 15 in the rectal cuff or at the anastomosis.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a significant incidence of cancer and adenomas in the rectal remnant and ileal pouch of FAP patients during the long-term follow-up. Regular endoscopic surveillance is recommended, not only in IRA patients, but also in pouch patients after proctocolectomy.

Usefulness of genotyping APC gene for individualizing management of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal polyp burden is crucial for the management of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). However, accurate evaluation of polyp burden is difficult to standardize. This study aimed to examine the possible utility of genotype-oriented management of colorectal neoplasms in patients with FAP.

METHODS

Clinicopathological data from genetically proven patients with FAP was analyzed using the database of a nationwide retrospective Japanese multicenter study. The cumulative incidence of CRC was evaluated between different genotype groups. Genotype-1 were defined as germline variants on attenuated FAP-associated regions (codons 1-177, alternative splice site of exon 10 (codon 312), 1581-2843) and Genotype-2 as the other variants. Weibull and Joinpoint analyses were performed to determine the annual percentage changes in CRC risk.

RESULTS

Overall, 69 men and 102 women were included. Forty-eight patients underwent colorectal resection for the first CRC, and five patients underwent resection for first cancer in the remnant anorectal segment after prophylactic surgery. The 70-year cumulative incidence of CRC in all patients was 59.3%. Patients with Genotype-1 (n = 23) demonstrated a lower risk of CRC stages II-IV than those with Genotype-2 (n = 148, P = 0.04). The risk of stage II-IV CRC was estimated to increase markedly at the age of 49 years in the Genotype-1 patients and 34 years in the Genotype-2 patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Different interventional strategies based on genotypes may be proposed for the clinical management of patients with FAP. This policy needs to be validated in further prospective studies focusing on long-term endoscopic intervention and optimal age at prophylactic (procto)colectomy.

Development of ileal adenomas after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis versus end ileostomy in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) undergo (procto)colectomy to prevent colorectal cancer from developing. Interestingly, after proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA), most patients develop adenomas in the pouch. This is not well described for patients with end ileostomy. We aimed to compare ileal adenoma development in patients with IPAA with those with end ileostomy.

METHODS

This historical cohort study included FAP patients with IPAA or end ileostomy who underwent surveillance endoscopies between 2001 and 2021. Primary outcomes were the proportion of patients with ileal adenomas, location of adenomas, and proportion of patients undergoing surgical excision of pouch/end ileostomy.

RESULTS

Overall, 144 patients with IPAA (n = 111) and end ileostomy (n = 33) were included. Five years after surgery, 15% of patients with IPAA had ileal adenomas versus 4% after ileostomy. At 10 years, these estimates were 48% versus 9% and at 20 years were 85% versus 43% (log-rank P < .001). Adenomas developed more often in the pouch body (95%) in the IPAA group and more often at the everted site of the ileostomy (77%) in the ileostomy group. Numbers for surgical excision of the pouch (n = 9) or ileostomy (n = 3) for polyposis or cancer were comparable. Taking into account potential confounders in a multivariable Cox regression analysis, having an IPAA was significantly associated with ileal adenoma development.

CONCLUSIONS

After proctocolectomy, FAP patients with IPAA more often developed ileal adenomas than patients with end ileostomy. This could potentially affect long-term management, and patients with end ileostomy might benefit from less-frequent endoscopic surveillance.

Two-time perforation of the ileal J-pouch 6 and 18 years after restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch–anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis: a case report

Background

Perforation of the ileal J-pouch after restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch–anal anastomosis are extremely rare. There has been no report of perforation of the ileal J-pouch occurring twice over several years. We report the first case of perforation at 6 and 18 years following restorative proctocolectomy.

Case presentation

The patient was a 52-year-old man who underwent a two-stage restorative proctocolectomy with a hand-sewn ileal J-pouch anal anastomosis due to familial adenomatous polyposis and sigmoid colon cancer at 34 years of age. At the age of 40, he underwent ileal pouch resection at its blind end, abdominal drainage, and anastomotic dilatation. The patient had a perforation of the blind end of the ileal J-pouch from increased intraluminal pressure, with anastomotic stricture and pervasive peritonitis. The patient had no symptoms for a few years; however, 18 years after the initial surgery and 12 years after the first perforation, the patient presented with severe abdominal pain. Computed tomography demonstrated pneumoperitoneum; accordingly, laparotomy was performed. Upon opening the abdominal cavity, contaminated ascites and inflammatory changes were documented involving the ileum. A 2-mm perforation involving the blind end of the ileal J-pouch was also observed and repaired, followed by temporary loop ileostomy creation. Postoperative endoscopy revealed an ulcer in the ileal J-pouch and a stricture located directly at the anastomosis.

Conclusions

The blind end of the J-pouch repeatedly perforated over the years due to recurrent anastomotic stricture. Regular surveillance is, therefore, considered necessary for the release of stricture, maintenance of anastomotic patency, and prevention of ileal J-pouch perforation.

The CHAMP-study: the CHemopreventive effect of lithium in familial AdenoMatous Polyposis; study protocol of a phase II trial

BACKGROUND

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare autosomal dominant disease characterized by germline mutations in the Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) gene, resulting in the development of numerous colorectal adenomas. As these patients have a high risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), guidelines suggest prophylactic colectomy during early adulthood, however, adenoma development is still observed in the remaining intestinal tract. Therefore, FAP patients would benefit from chemoprevention strategies reducing the development of adenomas. Recent work in mice reveals a chemopreventive effect of lithium on the development of adenomas by inhibiting the expansion of Apc mutated intestinal stem cells (ISCs) within the crypts of normal intestinal mucosa. Here, we aim to investigate the effect of lithium on the spread of APC mutant cells within the human intestinal epithelium.

METHODS

This prospective phase II single arm trial has a duration of 18 months. FAP patients (18-35 years) with a genetically confirmed APC mutation who did not undergo colectomy will be treated with lithium carbonate orally achieving a serum level of 0.2-0.4 mmol/l between month 6 and 12. Colonoscopy with biopsies of normal intestinal mucosa will be performed at baseline and every six months. The primary endpoint is the effect of lithium on the spread of APC mutant cells within intestinal crypts over time by using APC specific marker NOTUM in situ hybridization. Secondary endpoints include change in adenoma burden, patient reported side effects and safety-outcomes. Total sample size is 12 patients and recruitment will take place in the Amsterdam UMC, location AMC in the Netherlands.

DISCUSSION

The outcome of this study will function as a proof-of-concept for the development of novel chemoprevention approaches that interfere with the competition between normal and mutant ISCs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ ): NCT05402891 (June 1, 2022) and the EU Clinical Trials Register: EuraCT 2022-000240-30 (January 1, 2022).

Identification of gut microbiome and transcriptome changes in ulcerative colitis and pouchitis

BACKGROUND

Pouchitis is the common postoperative complication of ulcerative colitis (UC) and is also considered as inflammatory bowel disease. The aim was to investigate the microbiological and transcriptional differences between the two illnesses.

METHODS

Eighty-five participants were enrolled (37 UC, 15 healthy UC pouches, 15 pouchitis and 18 healthy volunteers) and stool samples were collected. Microbial populations were analyzed by pyrosequencing of 16S ribosomal DNA. Furthermore, transcriptome data of 119 UC and 28 pouch patients were obtained from two data sets for bioinformatics analysis.

RESULTS

The results of gut microbiota community analysis showed that with aggravation of UC, intestinal microorganisms were characterized by a gradual decreased in diversity and numbers of butyrate-producing bacteria and Bacteroides. Besides, in addition to the decrease of probiotics, the proliferation of Escherichia-Shigella and Ruminococcus gnavus was observed in pouchitis which is related to multiple infection pathways. The function enrichment of differential expression genes and hub genes, as well as the immunological condition was shown to be distinct using transcriptome bioinformatics analysis between UC and pouchitis. A stronger immune response occurs in UC and may be associated with high expression of tumor necrosis factor and interleukin, while multiple hub genes such as CDK1 in pouchitis are associated with cell cycle regulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The characteristics of gut microbiota disturbance and transcriptome alteration in UC and pouchitis are different. Our findings suggested that pouchitis may have a unique pathogenesis which was separated from UC.

Current guidelines in the surgical management of hereditary colorectal cancers

Incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is on rise. While approximately 70% of all CRC cases are sporadic in nature, 20%-25% have familial aggregation and only < 5% is hereditary in origin. Identification of individuals with hereditary predilection for CRC is critical, as it has an impact on their overall surgical management including surgical timing, approach & technique and determines the role of prophylactic surgery and outcome. This review highlights the concept of hereditary CRC, provides insight into its molecular basis, possibility of its application into clinical practice and emphasizes the current treatment strategies with surgical management, based on the available international guidelines.

Regular endoscopic surveillance and polypectomy is effective in managing rectal adenoma progression following colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

AIM

Total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (TC-IRA) is a surgical option for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Regular endoscopic surveillance of the rectum is recommended to prevent rectal cancer. We aimed to document polyp progression in the rectum following TC-IRA and evaluate the role of polypectomy during surveillance.

METHOD

Patients with FAP who underwent TC-IRA between 1990 and 2017 were identified. Demographic, endoscopic and genetic data were retrieved. Cumulative rectal adenoma (polyp) counts were obtained, whilst accounting for any polypectomies during the study period. The rate of polyp progression and factors influencing secondary proctectomy were evaluated.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety-nine patients fulfilled our inclusion criteria, of which 44% were male. The median age at colectomy was 19 (range 11-70) years and median preoperative rectal polyp count was 7 (range 0-50). All patients had an APC pathogenic variant, of which 151 (79%) were 5' of the mutation cluster region (MCR), 19 (10%) in the MCR, six (3%) were 3' of the MCR and 15 (8%) had a gross deletion. After a median follow-up of 8.6 (range1-27) years and a median of 11 (range 2-37) flexible sigmoidoscopies per patient, the median rate of polyp progression was 5.5 polyps/year (range 0-70.2). There was no evidence of polyp regression. Eight (4%) patients underwent secondary proctectomy for neoplasia, of which one (0.5%) had rectal adenocarcinoma. A total of 13,527 polyps were removed, a median of 35 polyps/patient (range 0-829). The rate of polyp progression was not significantly associated with genotypic or phenotypic factors.

CONCLUSION

Progression of rectal adenoma burden following TC-IRA appears to be slow and dependent on the length of follow-up. In the modern era of stringent endoscopic surveillance and therapeutic procedures such as cold snare polypectomy, the rate of secondary proctectomy and the risk of rectal cancer after TC-IRA are very low. These findings are important when counselling patients with regard to the choice of surgery for FAP and implementing endoscopic surveillance.

Laparoscopic robotic-assisted restorative proctocolectomy and ileal J-pouch-anorectal anastomosis in children

PURPOSE

Total proctocolectomy with ileal J-pouch-anorectal anastomosis (IPAA) remains the preferred surgical treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC) in children. Considering the well-known advantages of minimally invasive approach, and its main application for the deep pelvis, robotic surgery may be used in UC reconstructive procedures. The aim of the study is to report our experience with Robotic IPAA in children.

METHODS

Single surgeon experience on Robotic IPAA were prospectively included. Data on patient demographics, surgical details, complications, and length of stay (LOS), were collected.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were included. Median age was 13.2 years, median body weight 45 kg. Median operative time was 240 min. Median LOS was 7 days and mean follow-up time 1 year. No intraoperative complication occurred. Five postoperative complications happened: 3 minors treated conservatively (CD I-II), 2 majors needing reintervention under anesthesia (CD IIIb). No mortality was observed.

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary experience reveals that Robotic IPAA is a safe and feasible option for the surgical treatment of UC in children. A bigger patient sample and a long-term follow-up are needed to confirm our findings.

Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR) guidelines 2020 for the Clinical Practice of Hereditary Colorectal Cancer

Hereditary colorectal cancer (HCRC) accounts for < 5% of all colorectal cancer cases. Some of the unique characteristics commonly encountered in HCRC cases include early age of onset, synchronous/metachronous cancer occurrence, and multiple cancers in other organs. These characteristics necessitate different management approaches, including diagnosis, treatment or surveillance, from sporadic colorectal cancer management. There are two representative HCRC, named familial adenomatous polyposis and Lynch syndrome. Other than these two HCRC syndromes, related disorders have also been reported. Several guidelines for hereditary disorders have already been published worldwide. In Japan, the first guideline for HCRC was prepared by the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), published in 2012 and revised in 2016. This revised version of the guideline was immediately translated into English and published in 2017. Since then, several new findings and novel disease concepts related to HCRC have been discovered. The currently diagnosed HCRC rate in daily clinical practice is relatively low; however, this is predicted to increase in the era of cancer genomic medicine, with the advancement of cancer multi-gene panel testing or whole genome testing, among others. Under these circumstances, the JSCCR guidelines 2020 for HCRC were prepared by consensus among members of the JSCCR HCRC Guideline Committee, based on a careful review of the evidence retrieved from literature searches, and considering the medical health insurance system and actual clinical practice settings in Japan. Herein, we present the English version of the JSCCR guidelines 2020 for HCRC.

Familial adenomatous polyposis: a case study

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an inherited syndrome characterized by several adenomatous polyps of the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa. If treatment is not provided, an average individual with classic FAP will develop colorectal carcinoma around the age of 40 years. The incidence rate of FAP in developing countries like Ghana is unknown compared to advanced countries. We present the first FAP case of a 22-year-old Ghanaian female who presented with massive lower GI bleeding and underwent surgical management after a thorough investigation. The initial assumption that colonic polyps are scarce in native Africans may be more than what is perceived. This highlights the need for the availability of endoscopic services in Ghana.

High Abundance of Proteobacteria in Ileo-Anal Pouch Anastomosis and Increased Abundance of Fusobacteria Associated with Increased Pouch Inflammation

Low diversity intestinal dysbiosis has been associated with inflammatory bowel disease, including patients with ulcerative colitis with an ileo-anal pouch anastomosis. Furthermore, specific Escherichia coli phylogroups have been linked to inflammatory bowel disease. Our aim was to characterize the differences among microbiota and E. coli phylogroups in active and inactive pouchitis. Disease activity was assessed using the modified pouch disease activity index and by fecal calprotectin. Microbiota diversity was assessed by 16S rDNA MiSeq sequencing. E. coli phylogroup was determined after triplex PCR. Twenty patients with ulcerative colitis with an ileo-anal pouch anastomosis were included, 10 of whom had active pouchitis. Ileo-anal pouch anastomosis patients had an increased abundance of Proteobacteria colonization compared to patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease and healthy controls, p = 1.4·10^-5. No differences in E. coli phylogroup colonization could be determined between cases of active and inactive disease. No significant link was found between α-diversity and pouch inflammation. However, higher levels of Fusobacteria colonization were found in patients with a pouch with a fecal calprotectin level above 500, p = 0.02. In conclusion, patients with a pouch had an increased Proteobacteria abundance, but only Fusobacteria abundance was linked to inflammation.

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guideline on the role of endoscopy in familial adenomatous polyposis syndromes

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome is a complex entity, which includes FAP, attenuated FAP, and MUTYH-associated polyposis. These patients are at significant risk for colorectal cancer and carry additional risks for extracolonic malignancies. In this guideline, we reviewed the most recent literature to formulate recommendations on the role of endoscopy in this patient population. Relevant clinical questions were how to identify high-risk individuals warranting genetic testing, when to start screening examinations, what are appropriate surveillance intervals, how to identify endoscopically high-risk features, and what is the role of chemoprevention. A systematic literature search from 2005 to 2018 was performed, in addition to the inclusion of seminal historical studies. Most studies were from worldwide registries, which have compiled years of data regarding the natural history and cancer risks in this cohort. Given that most studies were retrospective, recommendations were based on epidemiologic data and expert opinion. Management of colorectal polyps in FAP has not changed much in recent years, as colectomy in FAP is the standard of care. What is new, however, is the developing body of literature on the role of endoscopy in managing upper GI and small-bowel polyposis, as patients are living longer and improved endoscopic technologies have emerged.

Lower fecal pH may be a novel indicator of pouchitis after IPAA in patients with FAP or metachronous Lynch syndrome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To assess whether fecal pH might be an indicator of pouchitis during the postoperative period in hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who have undergone ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA).

METHODS

Five consecutive daily pH values of stool samples from 31 familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients and 32 metachronous Lynch syndrome patients who underwent IPAA procedures were reviewed. Patients with pouchitis (pouchitis group, n = 22) were compared with patients without pouchitis (nonpouchitis group, n = 41). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the indicative potential of fecal pH for pouchitis. A Mantel-Cox test was also performed to evaluate the survival status of patients with or without pouchitis.

RESULTS

Pouchitis was noted in 22 (34.9%) of 63 patients after IPAA. The significance of each daily average fecal pH value and the 5-day overall average fecal pH value was compared between the two groups (P < .01). A cutoff fecal pH value of 7.46 was determined by the ROC analysis for assessing the risk of pouchitis. No significant difference in 5-year overall survival was observed between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

A lower fecal pH value in patients with hereditary CRC after IPAA might be a new indicator of pouchitis.

The impact of surgical therapies for inflammatory bowel disease on female fertility

BACKGROUND

Women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may require surgery, which may result in higher risk of infertility. Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal anal pouch anastomosis (IPAA) may increase infertility, but the degree to which IPAA affects infertility remains unclear, and the impact of other surgical interventions on infertility is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

Primary objective• To determine the effects of surgical interventions for IBD on female infertility.Secondary objectives• To evaluate the impact of surgical interventions on the need for assisted reproductive technology (ART), time to pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, prematurity, mode of delivery (spontaneous vaginal, instrumental vaginal, or Caesarean section), infant requirement for resuscitation and neonatal intensive care, low and very low birth weight, small for gestational age, antenatal and postpartum hemorrhage, retained placenta, postpartum depression, gestational diabetes, and gestational hypertension/preeclampsia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and the Cochrane IBD Group Specialized Register from inception to September 27, 2018, to identify relevant studies. We also searched references of relevant articles, conference abstracts, grey literature, and trials registers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included observational studies that compared women of reproductive age (≥ 12 years of age) who underwent surgery to women with IBD who had a different type of surgery or no surgery (i.e. treated medically). We also included studies comparing women before and after surgery. Any type of IBD-related surgery was permitted. Infertility was defined as an inability to become pregnant following 12 months of unprotected intercourse. Infertility at 6, 18, and 24 months was included as a secondary outcome. We excluded studies that included women without IBD and those comparing women with IBD to women without IBD..

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened studies and extracted data. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to assess bias and GRADE to assess the overall certainty of evidence. We calculated the pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) using random-effects models. When individual studies reported odds ratios (ORs) and did not provide raw numbers, we pooled ORs instead.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 16 observational studies for inclusion. Ten studies were included in meta-analyses, of which nine compared women with and without a previous IBD-related surgery and the other compared women with open and laparoscopic IPAA. Of the ten studies included in meta-analyses, four evaluated infertility, one evaluated ART, and seven reported on pregnancy-related outcomes. Seven studies in which women were compared before and after colectomy and/or IPAA were summarized qualitatively, of which five included a comparison of infertility, three included the use of ART, and three included other pregnancy-related outcomes. One study included a comparison of women with and without IPAA, as well as before and after IPAA, and was therefore included in both the meta-analysis and the qualitative summary. All studies were at high risk of bias for at least two domains.We are very uncertain of the effect of IBD surgery on infertility at 12 months (RR 5.45, 95% CI 0.41 to 72.57; 114 participants; 2 studies) and at 24 months (RR 3.59, 95% CI 1.32 to 9.73; 190 participants; 1 study). Infertility was lower in women who received laparoscopic surgery compared to open restorative proctocolectomy at 12 months (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.27; 37 participants; 1 study).We are very uncertain of the effect of IBD surgery on pregnancy-related outcomes, including miscarriage (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.60; 776 pregnancies; 5 studies), use of ART (RR 25.09, 95% CI 1.56 to 403.76; 106 participants; 1 study), delivery via Caesarean section (RR 2.23, 95% CI 1.00 to 4.95; 20 pregnancies; 1 study), stillbirth (RR 1.96, 95% CI 0.42 to 9.18; 246 pregnancies; 3 studies), preterm birth (RR 1.91, 95% CI 0.67 to 5.48; 194 pregnancies; 3 studies), low birth weight (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.08 to 4.83), and small for gestational age (RR 2.54, 95% CI 0.80 to 8.01; 65 pregnancies; 1 study).Studies comparing infertility before and after IBD-related surgery reported numerically higher rates of infertility at six months (before: 1/5, 20.0%; after: 9/15, 60.0%; 1 study), at 12 months (before: 68/327, 20.8%; after: 239/377, 63.4%; 5 studies), and at 24 months (before: 14/89, 15.7%; after: 115/164, 70.1%; 2 studies); use of ART (before: 5.3% to 42.2%; after: 30.3% to 34.3%; proportions varied across studies due to differences in which women were identified as at risk of using ART); and delivery via Caesarean section (before: 8/73, 11.0%; after: 36/75, 48.0%; 2 studies). In addition, women had a longer time to conception after surgery (two to five months; 2 studies) than before surgery (5 to 16 months; 2 studies). The proportions of women experiencing miscarriage (before: 19/123, 15.4%; after: 21/134, 15.7%; 3 studies) and stillbirth (before: 2/38, 5.3%; after: 3/80: 3.8%; 2 studies) were similar before and after surgery. Fewer women experienced gestational diabetes after surgery (before: 3/37, 8.1%; after: 0/37; 1 study), and the risk of preeclampsia was similar before and after surgery (before: 2/37, 5.4%; after: 0/37; 1 study). We are very uncertain of the effects of IBD-related surgery on these outcomes due to poor quality evidence, including confounding bias due to increased age of women after surgery.We rated evidence for all outcomes and comparisons as very low quality due to the observational nature of the data, inclusion of small studies with imprecise estimates, and high risk of bias among included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The effect of surgical therapy for IBD on female infertility is uncertain. It is also uncertain if there are any differences in infertility among those undergoing open versus laparoscopic procedures. Previous surgery was associated with higher risk of miscarriage, use of ART, Caesarean section delivery, and giving birth to a low birth weight infant, but was not associated with risk of stillbirth, preterm delivery, or delivery of a small for gestational age infant. These findings are based on very low-quality evidence. As a result, definitive conclusions cannot be made, and future well-designed studies are needed to fully understand the impact of surgery on infertility and pregnancy outcomes.

MutYH-associated polyposis

MutYH-associated polyposis is the only polyposis syndrome with an autosomal recessive type of inheritance, often phenotypically similar to a weakened form of familial adenomatous polyposis. For the development of the disease mutations in both alleles of the gene are required, but an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer in carriers of monoallelic mutations is noted. The diagnosis of MutYH-associated polyposis should be suspected in a patient with colorectal cancer over 45 years old on the background of polyps in the colon. The review presents modern algorithms for diagnostic and treatment of the disease.

Functional outcome after pouch-anal reconstruction with primary and secondary mucosectomy for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

INTRODUCTION

Restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal reconstruction is the surgical standard for the majority of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The pouch-anal anastomosis may be performed handsewn after primary mucosectomy or by double stapling. Better functional results favour the latter; however, higher rates of remaining rectal mucosa with adenomas often necessitate secondary mucosectomy. Data on functional outcome after secondary mucosectomy is scarce. The aim of the study was to analyse whether patients who undergo secondary mucosectomy maintain their functional benefits compared to patients with primary mucosectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty patients after secondary mucosectomy and 31 patients after primary mucosectomy were compared with respect to their functional outcome, using the MSKCC score, the Wexner score and ano-rectal physiology testing.

RESULTS

The MSKCC global score and the Wexner score showed a non-significant trend towards slightly better results after secondary mucosectomy (63.1 vs. 56.6, p = 0.0188 and 9.5 vs. 11, p = 0.3780). Patients after secondary mucosectomy also showed a tendency towards less bowel movements per 24 h (7 (range 4-11) vs. 8.5 (range 3-20), p = 0.1518). Resting pressures were slightly higher after secondary (44 vs. 39.6 mmHg, p = 0.4545) and squeeze pressures slightly higher after primary mucosectomy (87.6 vs. 81.2 mmHg, p = 0.6126). However, the results did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study cannot ultimately resolve the controversy concerning handsewn versus stapled ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Our results suggest a trend towards better functional results after stapled anastomosis with secondary mucosectomy.

Comparison of Mesenteric Lengthening Techniques in IPAA: An Anatomic and Angiographic Study on Fresh Cadavers

BACKGROUND

The IPAA technique restores anal functionality in patients who have had the large intestine and rectum removed; however, 1 of the most important reasons for pouch failure is tension on the anastomosis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare technical procedures for mesenteric lengthening used for IPAA to reduce this tension.

DESIGN

After randomization, 4 different techniques for mesenteric lengthening were performed and compared on fresh cadavers.

SETTING

This was a cross-sectional cadaveric study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

In the first group (n = 5), stepladder incisions were made on the visceral peritoneum of the mesentery of the small intestine. In the second and third groups, the superior mesenteric pedicle was divided, whereas the ileocolic pedicle (n = 7) or marginal vessels (n = 6) were preserved during proctocolectomy. In the fourth group (n = 7), the superior mesenteric pedicle was cut without preserving any colic vessels. Mesenteric lengthening was analyzed. Angiography was performed to visualize the blood supply of the terminal ileum and pouch after mesenteric lengthening.

RESULTS

Average mesenteric lengthening was 5.72 cm (± 1.68 cm) in group 1, 3.63 cm (± 1.75 cm) in group 2, 7.03 cm (± 3.47 cm) in group 3, and 7.29 cm (± 1.73 cm) in group 4 (p = 0.011 for group 2 when compared with the others).

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by nature of being a cadaver study.

CONCLUSIONS

Stepladder incisions through superior mesenteric pedicle trace are usually sufficient for mesenteric lengthening. In addition, division of the superior mesenteric pedicle with either a preserving marginal artery or without preserving ileocolic and marginal arteries leads to additional mesenteric lengthening.

Close rectal dissection in benign diseases of the rectum: A review

PURPOSE

Total mesorectal excision (TME) is the gold standard resectional strategy for rectal cancer to minimize loco-regional recurrence and optimize oncological outcomes. This plane is described by many as 'bloodless' but it does contain important pelvic neural plexuses and dissection may be close to the ureters and major vascular structures, particularly in inflammatory conditions of the distal colon and rectum. In such benign diseases a more conservative excision, so-called close rectal dissection, has been advocated to minimize damage to these structures.

METHODS

A review of the literature was conducted to document the evolution of this procedure. Contemporary literature was interrogated to ascertain how this approach is adopted in minimally invasive surgery. Post-operative outcomes are compared to those from TME surgery.

RESULTS

From early descriptions in 1956, this procedure has been adapted for use in laparoscopic surgery. It may be particularly useful in trans-anal mesorectal surgery. Reported benefits include reduced nerve injury and pelvic sepsis. However, this must be balanced against risks of mesorectal bleeding, rectal injury, and ongoing inflammation from the retained mesorectum.

CONCLUSION

Rectal surgery in inflammatory conditions is technically challenging. Close rectal dissection is an alternate approach available to colorectal surgeons in these cases to minimize pelvic morbidity and optimize postoperative outcomes.

Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR) Guidelines 2016 for the Clinical Practice of Hereditary Colorectal Cancer (Translated Version)

Hereditary colorectal cancer accounts for less than 5% of all colorectal cancer cases. Some of the unique characteristics that are commonly encountered in cases of hereditary colorectal cancer include early age at onset, synchronous/metachronous occurrence of the cancer, and association with multiple cancers in other organs, necessitating different management from sporadic colorectal cancer. While the diagnosis of familial adenomatous polyposis might be easy because usually 100 or more adenomas that develop in the colonic mucosa are in this condition, Lynch syndrome, which is the most commonly associated disease with hereditary colorectal cancer, is often missed in daily medical practice because of its relatively poorly defined clinical characteristics. In addition, the disease concept and diagnostic criteria for Lynch syndrome, which was once called hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer, have changed over time with continual research, thereby possibly creating confusion in clinical practice. Under these circumstances, the JSCCR Guideline Committee has developed the "JSCCR Guidelines 2016 for the Clinical Practice of Hereditary Colorectal Cancer (HCRC)," to allow delivery of appropriate medical care in daily practice to patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, Lynch syndrome, or other related diseases. The JSCCR Guidelines 2016 for HCRC were prepared by consensus reached among members of the JSCCR Guideline Committee, based on a careful review of the evidence retrieved from literature searches, and considering the medical health insurance system and actual clinical practice settings in Japan. Herein, we present the English version of the JSCCR Guidelines 2016 for HCRC.

Alternative treatments for prophylaxis of colorectal cancer in familial adenomatous polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare, hereditary disease characterized by the presence of 100 or more adenomas distributed throughout the colon and rectum. If untreated, colorectal cancer develops in almost 100% of FAP patients. As prophylactic treatment, proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis remains the surgical treatment of choice. High rates of postoperative complications, however, have been reported with this procedure, including bowel dysfunction, incontinence, and reduced female fecundity. Some novel strategies for preventing hereditary colon cancers have been reported. This review summarizes alternative treatments, including the laparoscopic approach, chemoprevention, endoscopic management, and subtotal colectomy combined with endoscopic treatment, for prophylaxis of colorectal cancer in FAP patients.

Current Approaches to Pediatric Polyposis Syndromes

Colorectal adenomatous polyposis syndromes encompass a diverse group of disorders with varying modes of inheritance and penetrance. Children may present with overt disease or within screening programs for families at high risk. We provide an overview of the array of pediatric polyposis syndromes, current screening recommendations, and surgical indications and technical considerations. Optimal disease management for these pediatric patients is still evolving and has implications for screening, surveillance, pediatric surgical management, and transition of care gastroenterologic neoplasia physicians and surgeons.

Postoperative complications after stapled and hand-sewn ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis: A multicenter study

Ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis (IPAA) after total proctocolectomy (TPC) can be conducted with either hand‐sewn or stapled anastomosis for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Although stapled IPAA without mucosectomy has a higher risk for developing adenomas in the remnant mucosa, it is the simpler procedure with potential benefit in short‐term outcomes. However, it remains controversial as to whether stapled IPAA has any advantages in reducing postoperative complications. The aim of the present study was to compare the postoperative complications and short‐term outcomes of stapled and hand‐sewn IPAA for patients with FAP, using a multicenter cohort sample in Japan. Data of 143 patients with FAP who underwent TPC with stapled IPAA (n=37) and hand‐sewn IPAA (n=106) at 23 institutions between 2000 and 2012 were collected. Postoperative complications, proportion of ostomy, fecal continence and overall survival were compared. Overall rates of the Clavien‐Dindo grade II‐IV complications were not different between the two groups (19% in stapled vs 25% in hand‐sewn, P=.42), with significantly fewer pouch‐related complications including leakage, pelvic abscess, vaginal fistula and anastomotic stricture in stapled IPAA (none in stapled vs 11% in hand‐sewn, P=.036). There was no mortality. Proportion of ostomy at 12 months was similar (2.7% in stapled vs 4.3% in hand‐sewn, P=.26). Mean Wexner score was similar. (0.47 in stapled vs 2.0 in hand‐sewn, P=.12). Five‐year overall survival excluding Stage IV patients was 96% in both groups. Stapled IPAA is a safe option in patients with FAP with a potential benefit in reducing pouch‐related complications.

Management strategies in Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis: a national healthcare survey in Japan

Lynch syndrome (LS) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are major sources of hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) and are associated with other malignancies. There is some heterogeneity in management strategies in Japan. We undertook a survey of management of hereditary CRC in hospitals that are members of the Japan Society of Colorectal Cancer Research. One hundred and ninety departments responded, of which 127 were from designated cancer care hospitals (DCCHs) according to the Japanese government. There were 25 488 operations for CRC in these departments in 2015. The DCCHs performed better with regard to usage of Japan Society of Colorectal Cancer Research guidelines, referring new CRC patients for LS screening, and having in‐house genetic counselors and knowledge of treatment for LS. There were 174 patients diagnosed with LS and 602 undergoing follow‐up in 2011–2015, which is fewer than the number expected from CRC operations in 2015. These numbers were not affected by whether the institution was a DCCH. Universal screening for LS was carried out in 8% of the departments. In contrast, 541 patients were diagnosed with FAP and 273 received preventive proctocolectomy/colectomy in 2011–2015. The DCCH departments undertook more surgery than non‐DCCH departments, although most of the management, including surgical procedures and use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, was similar. Management of desmoid tumor in the abdominal cavity differed according to the number of patients treated. In conclusion, there was heterogeneity in management of LS but not FAP. Most patients with LS may be overlooked and universal screening for LS is not common in Japan.

Early Transcriptomic Changes in the Ileal Pouch Provide Insight into the Molecular Pathogenesis of Pouchitis and Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) only involves the colonic mucosa. Yet, nearly 50% of patients with UC who undergo total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis develop UC-like inflammation of the ileal pouch (pouchitis). By contrast, patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) with ileal pouch anal anastomosis develop pouchitis far less frequently. We hypothesized that pathogenic events associated with the development of UC are recapitulated by colonic-metaplastic transcriptomic reprogramming of the UC pouch.

METHODS

We prospectively sampled pouch and prepouch ileum mucosal biopsies in patients with UC with ileal pouch anal anastomosis 4, 8, and 12 months after their pouch was in continuity. Mucosal samples were also obtained from patients with FAP. Transcriptional profiles of the UC and FAP pouch and prepouch ileum were investigated via RNA sequencing and compared with data from a previously published microarray study.

RESULTS

Unlike patients with FAP, subjects with UC exhibited a large set of differentially expressed genes between the pouch and prepouch ileum as early as 4 months after pouch functionalization. Functional pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes in the UC pouch revealed an enhanced state of immune/inflammatory response and extracellular matrix remodeling. Moreover, >70% of differentially expressed genes mapped to published inflammatory bowel diseases microarray data sets displayed directional changes consistent with active UC but not with Crohn's disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The UC pouch, well before histologic inflammation, already displays a systems-level gain of colon-associated genes and loss of ileum-associated genes. Patients with UC exhibit a unique transcriptomic response to ileal pouch creation that can be observed well before disease and may in part explain their susceptibility to the development of pouchitis.

Long-Term Outcomes After Colectomy in Patients With Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term prognosis of patients who underwent colectomy for familial adenomatous polyposis. The clinical data of 29 familial adenomatous polyposis patients who underwent colectomy were retrospectively reviewed. Five patients died of causes that included colorectal cancer (CRC), desmoid tumor, cancer of the small intestine, and pancreatitis. The 30-year survival rate was 72%. Among the 15 patients who had CRC at primary surgery, the 5-year survival rate was 100% in stages 0, I, and II, and 75% in stage IIIA. Stage I desmoid tumor showed slow or no growth, whereas a stage IV tumor showed rapid growth and was fatal. Extracolonic malignancies were seen in the small intestine, stomach, duodenum, thyroid, kidney, breast, and ovary. Among 8 patients with ileorectal anastomosis, 4 had a second primary rectal cancer and 6 had a salvage reoperation. None of the patients who underwent either stapled or handsewn ileal pouch–anal anastomosis had second primary rectal cancers. The stage of primary CRC at colectomy is the most important prognostic factor. But in addition to second primary CRC, the management of desmoid tumors and extracolonic malignancies is important for long-term survival regardless of the anastomotic technique used.

Risk Factors for the Development of Desmoid Tumor After Colectomy in Patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study in Japan

BACKGROUND

Desmoid tumor (DT) is the primary cause of death in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) after restorative proctocolectomy. This study aimed to identify risk factors for DT in a Japanese population.

METHODS

Clinical data for 319 patients with FAP undergoing first colectomy from 2000 to 2012 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-seven FAP patients were included in this study. Thirty-nine (14.1 %) patients developed DT. Occurrence sites were the intraperitoneal region in 25 (64.1 %) cases, intraperitoneal region and abdominal wall in three (7.7 %), and abdominal wall in nine (23.1 %). The mean period from surgery to DT development was 26.3 months (range 4-120 months). Gender (female vs. male, p = 0.03), age at surgery (>30 vs. ≤30 years, p = 0.02), purpose of surgery (prophylactic vs. cancer excision, p = 0.01), and surgical procedure (proctocolectomy [ileoanal anastomosis (IAA), ileoanal canal anastomosis (IACA), total proctocolectomy (TPC)] vs. total colectomy [ileorectal anastomosis, partial colectomy]; p = 0.03) significantly influenced the estimated cumulative risk of developing DT at 5 years after surgery. Conversely, approach (laparoscopic vs. open, p = 0.17) had no significant effect on the increased risk of DT occurrence. In multivariate analysis, female gender, with a hazard ratio of 2.2 (p = 0.02,) and proctocolectomy (IAA, IACA, TPC), with a hazard ratio of 2.2 (p = 0.03), were independent risk factors for DT incidence after colectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Female gender and proctocolectomy (IAA, IACA, TPC) were independent risk factors for developing DT after colectomy in patients with FAP.

Childbirth after surgery for familial adenomatous polyposis in Japan

PURPOSE

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a genetic disorder. Some female patients with FAP can become pregnant. However, the current state of childbirth after surgery for FAP is unclear in Japan.

METHODS

The study investigated 303 patients (147 female) who had undergone surgery for FAP at the 23 institutions between 2000 and 2012.

RESULTS

Eighty female patients had information available on childbirth after surgery for FAP. Eight patients (10 %) gave birth after surgery. The mean age at surgery for FAP was 27 (range 20-41) years and 37 years in patients with and without childbirth after surgery, respectively (P = 0.044). The rate of childbirth after surgery was 17 % in women ≤30 years of age and 13 % in those ≤40 years of age. Although only one patient with invasive cancer (2.9 %) gave childbirth after surgery, seven patients without cancer (15.6 %) gave birth (P = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

This study clarified the current state of childbirth after surgery for FAP in Japan. It is important to use these data to determine the best therapeutic approach for female FAP patients.

Comparison of proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis to colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis in familial adenomatous polyposis

Prophylactic surgical options for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are either colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) or proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA). The aim of this study was to analyse the short-term and long-term outcomes of these two operative techniques. All patients with FAP in Finland have been prospectively recorded in a database since 1963 were retrospectively reviewed in this analysis. Altogether 140 (61%) colectomies with IRA and 88 (39%) proctocolectomies with IPAA have been performed. Complications occurred in 28 (21%) patients after IRA and in 26 (30%) patients after IPAA. There were 15 (11%) severe complications for IRA and 5 (6%) for IPAA. Twenty-one (15%) patients of the IRA group ended up in conventional ileostomy whereas 3 (3.4%) patients of the IPAA group had their ileal reservoir converted to an ileostomy (p = 0.01). Cumulative survival for IRA was lower than for the IPAA (p = 0.03), but if accounting only for operations made after the IPAA era had commenced, there was no significant difference. IPAA was associated with improved long-term survival without an increase in postoperative complications. The risk of death after colectomy and IRA seemed to be predominantly related to the remaining risk of rectal cancer. Therefore, we favour proctocolectomy with IPAA as the prophylactic surgical procedure for FAP with intermediate or severe polyposis.

Prevalence of laparoscopic surgical treatment and its clinical outcomes in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis in Japan

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery is becoming the preferred technique for most colorectal interventions. This study aimed to clarify the time trend of surgical treatment for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and its relevance to clinical outcomes in Japan over a 13-year period.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study comprising 23 specialist institutions for colorectal disease and a cohort of 282 FAP patients who underwent total colectomy or proctocolectomy during 2000-2012. Patient clinical backgrounds and surgical outcomes were compared between the first and second halves of the study period.

RESULTS

The proportion of surgical types adopted over the entire study period was 46, 21, 30, and 3 % for ileoanal anastomosis (IAA), ileoanal canal anastomosis, ileorectal anastomosis, and permanent ileostomy, respectively. FAP patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery have increased since 2008 and reached 74 % in the past 3 years. In particular, the number of patients undergoing laparoscopic proctocolectomy with IAA increased approximately four-fold from the first to the second half of the study period. A laparoscopic approach was increasingly used in patients with coexisting colorectal malignancies. Despite this trend, surgical results of the laparoscopic approach between the two study periods showed similar morbidity, pouch operation and stoma closure completion rates. No postoperative mortality was observed in this series, and laparoscopic surgery was comparable to open surgery in terms of stoma closure rate, incidence of intra-abdominal/abdominal desmoid tumors, and postoperative survival rate in both study periods.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic approach is increasingly being adopted for prophylactic FAP surgery in Japan and may provide clinically acceptable practical outcomes.

Prophylactic surgery in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)--a single surgeon's short- and long-term experience with hand-assisted proctocolectomy and smaller J-pouches

PURPOSE

Prophylactic proctocolectomy with an ileoanal neo-reservoir is the established procedure in non-attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Traditionally, the ileal J-pouch is created by doubling 15 cm of the terminal ileum. Pouch inlet problems are not infrequently encountered in longer pouches. On this rationale, this series reports on the functional outcome and quality of life (QoL) following standardized construction of a shorter J-pouch with a limb of 8-9 cm length.

METHODS

All patients of a single-surgeon series with FAP who underwent hand-assisted laparoscopic proctocolectomy and small ileal pouch-anal anastomosis as the primary procedure between 10/2005 and 04/2010 and responded to the questionnaire were included and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 46 patients (78 %) out of the consecutive series who underwent operation in this period were included in the study. After a mean follow-up of 38 months, 40/46 patients (87 %) did not report any incontinence and 3 patients (6.5 %) complained about occasional nocturnal incontinence (3 failed to answer this question). The mean stool frequency per 24 h was 6.25. No significant difference was encountered between the QoL outcome of our patients versus the German normative population. Comparable results were achieved in a study analyzing the long-term results in FAP patients with a 15-cm pouch.

CONCLUSIONS

Smaller, 8-9 cm J-pouches show excellent functional results both in short- and in long-term results. The hand-assisted procedure was safe and no conversions were required. QoL is equal to a normative population, as it is in a series of patients with larger J-pouches.

Laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy ileal pouch anal anastomosis: How I do it?

Surgery for ulcerative colitis is a major and complex colorectal surgery. Laparoscopy benefits these patients with better outcomes in context of cosmesis, pain and early recovery, especially in young patients. For surgeons, it is a better tool for improving vision and magnification in deep cavities. This is not the simple extension of the laparoscopy training. Starting from preoperative preparation to post operative care there are wide variations as compared to open surgery. There are also many variations in steps of laparoscopic surgery. It involves left colon, right colon and rectal mobilisation, low division of rectum, pouch creation and anastomosis of pouch to rectum. Over many years after standardisation of this technique, it takes same operative time as open surgery at our centre. So we present our standardized technique of laparoscopic assisted restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA).

ACG clinical guideline: Genetic testing and management of hereditary gastrointestinal cancer syndromes

This guideline presents recommendations for the management of patients with hereditary gastrointestinal cancer syndromes. The initial assessment is the collection of a family history of cancers and premalignant gastrointestinal conditions and should provide enough information to develop a preliminary determination of the risk of a familial predisposition to cancer. Age at diagnosis and lineage (maternal and/or paternal) should be documented for all diagnoses, especially in first- and second-degree relatives. When indicated, genetic testing for a germline mutation should be done on the most informative candidate(s) identified through the family history evaluation and/or tumor analysis to confirm a diagnosis and allow for predictive testing of at-risk relatives. Genetic testing should be conducted in the context of pre- and post-test genetic counseling to ensure the patient's informed decision making. Patients who meet clinical criteria for a syndrome as well as those with identified pathogenic germline mutations should receive appropriate surveillance measures in order to minimize their overall risk of developing syndrome-specific cancers. This guideline specifically discusses genetic testing and management of Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (AFAP), MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP), Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, juvenile polyposis syndrome, Cowden syndrome, serrated (hyperplastic) polyposis syndrome, hereditary pancreatic cancer, and hereditary gastric cancer.

Residual rectal mucosa after stapled vs. handsewn ileal J-pouch-anal anastomosis in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis coli (FAP)--a critical issue

INTRODUCTION

Restorative proctocolectomy has become the standard surgical procedure for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients. The use of stapler devices has initiated a controversial discussion concerning the ileal pouch-anal reconstruction. Some authors advocate a handsewn anastomosis after transanal mucosectomy. A double-stapled anastomosis leads to better functional results but seems to bear a higher risk of residual rectal mucosa with dysplasia and adenomas. The present study systematically analyses the rate of residual rectal mucosa after restorative proctocolectomy and handsewn vs. stapled anastomosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred FAP patients after restorative proctocolectomy undergoing regular follow-up at our outpatient clinic were included in the study. Proctoscopy with standardised biopsy sampling was performed.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients, 50 had undergone a stapled and 50 a handsewn anastomosis. Median follow-up was 146.1 months (handsewn) vs. 44.8 months (stapled) (P < 0.0001). Eighty-seven patients received a proctoscopy with standardised biopsy sampling. Thirteen patients had been diagnosed with residual rectal mucosa before. Sixty-three patients (63 %) showed remaining rectal mucosa (42 (66.6 %) stapler, 21 (33.3 %) handsewn, P < 0.0001). Patients after stapled anastomosis had higher rates of circular rectal mucosa seams, while small mucosa islets predominated in the handsewn group. The rate of rectal adenomas was significantly higher in the stapler group (21 vs. 10, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Rectal mucosa, especially wide mucosa seams, as well as rectal adenomas are found significantly more often after a stapled than after a handsewn anastomosis. As the follow-up interval in the stapler group was significantly shorter, the impact of these findings may still be underestimated.

Pouch adenomas in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis after restorative proctocolectomy

INTRODUCTION

Australian Clinical Practice Guidelines suggest six to twelve-monthly endoscopic pouch surveillance in patients after restorative proctocolectomy for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). There are several reports of adenomas and carcinomas forming within the ileum, ileal pouch mucosa or residual rectal mucosa. A retrospective clinical study was performed to audit pouch endoscopic surveillance at a large Sydney tertiary referral Hospital. The aim was to evaluate adenoma development after restorative proctocolectomy for FAP and the adherence rate to published clinical guidelines.

METHODS

Thirty-nine patients who had restorative proctocolectomy for FAP from 1985 to 2011 were identified. Demographic data, details of surgery, original histopathology and details of follow-up pouch endoscopy and pathology findings were obtained.

RESULTS

Of the thirty-nine patients, twenty-seven patients were included in this study. Adenomas were found in twelve of 27 (44%) patients. Mean time to first polyp formation was 88 months and median time was 72 months (range 18-249 months). All polyps were either tubular or tubulovillous in histology. One polyp had high grade dysplasia. The remainder had mild or moderate dysplasia. Polyps were excised either endo-anally or during pouchoscopy. None of the five patients who had a hand-sewn ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) developed polyps on follow-up, compared with 12 of the 22 (55%) with a double stapled anastomosis (fishers exact test; p=0.047 (two-tailed)). Of those who developed pouch adenomas, eight (67%) developed further pouch adenomas on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This study supports guidelines recommending lifelong pouch surveillance after restorative proctocolectomy for FAP. Those who develop pouch adenomas may be at greater risk of developing further adenomas. Residual rectal mucosa at the pouch-anal anastomosis should be carefully examined.

Ileal j pouch complications and surgical solutions: a review

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is currently accepted as the standard method to restore continence after total proctocolectomy for medically refractory ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis. Ileal pouches offer improved quality of life and high patient satisfaction; however, there are many pouch-related complications due to the original disease process and change in anatomy. This is a review article of the common and some rare surgical complications after J pouches, which can be subdivided into the septic and nonseptic categories. Septic-related complications include anastomotic leak, abscess, and fistulas, whereas common nonseptic-related complications include small bowel obstruction, strictures, Crohn's disease, pouchitis, and cuffitis. Rare nonseptic complications to be discussed are prolapse, volvulus, and neoplasia.

Personalised cancer medicine

The evolving field of personalised medicine is playing an increasingly important role in cancer prevention, diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutics. Its importance in clinical management is demonstrated by the recent introduction into routine clinical practice of various individualised, molecularly targeted therapies with increased efficacy and/or reduced toxicity. The identification of cancer predisposition genes, such as the BRCA genes in breast cancer, permits screening programmes to identify patients "at-risk" of developing cancer and helps them make decisions on individual risk-modification behaviours. Personalised medicine also plays an increasingly important role in cancer treatment. It is increasingly clear that there are molecularly distinct subtypes of various common cancers, with different therapeutic approaches required for each subtype, for example, the use of the monoclonal antibodies (trastuzumab and cetuximab) in HER2-positive breast cancer and wild-type KRAS colorectal cancer; tyrosine kinase inhibitors (imatinib, gefitinib, erlotinib and crizotinib) in chronic myeloid leukaemia, gastrointestinal stromal tumours and non-small-cell lung cancer and intracellular agents (vemurafenib and olaparib) in metastatic malignant melanoma and ovarian, breast and prostate cancer. The efficacy of various targeted therapies in such disparate tumours suggests that we are entering an era in which treatment decisions will be based on tumour molecular abnormality profile or "signature," rather than tumour tissue type or anatomical site of origin, improving patient prognosis and quality of life. This mini review focuses on the role of personalised medicine in cancer prevention and treatment as well as its future direction in oncology.

Laparoscopic-assisted proctocolectomy with prolapsing technique for familial adenomatous polyposis

PURPOSE

The role of laparoscopic total proctocolectomy (TPC) and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) has been controversial, given its technical difficulty of selecting the appropriate distal transection line and achieving safe anastomosis. We herein describe our initial experience with the prolapsing technique for laparoscopic-assisted TPC and IPAA (J-pouch) in the treatment of FAP.

METHODS

A consecutive series of patients with FAP undergoing laparoscopic-assisted TPC with IPAA were identified from a prospectively collected database between June 2004 and February 2012. Medical records were reviewed for patient demographics, operative outcomes, and follow-up.

RESULTS

The surgery was successfully completed in all 6 patients without any conversion to open surgery. The median operating time was 279 minutes (range, 240 to 386 min) and the median blood loss was 17.5 mL (range, 5 to 161 mL). No patient required blood transfusion. The median length of diet resumption and postoperative hospital stay were 7 days (range, 6 to 10 d) and 15 days (range, 13 to 21 d), respectively. A postoperative complication, wound infection, occurred in 1 patient. No anastomotic leakages or small bowel obstructions occurred. At a median follow-up of 59 months (range, 14.2 to 107.5 mo), no carcinoma had developed at the pouch or at the anastomotic site. Sexual function and fertility were unchanged as compared with preoperatively in 2 male patients. None of the patients experienced night-time incontinence or had to use a pad.

CONCLUSIONS

Our limited experience suggests that this prolapsing technique helps prevent problems with laparoscopic-assisted TPC and IPAA for FAP patients.

Restoring the gut microbiome for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is considered to be a highly successful therapy for recurrent and refractory Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) based on recent clinical trials. The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is thought to be due in part to perturbations in the gut microflora that disrupt homeostasis. FMT restores essential components of the microflora which could reverse the inflammatory processes observed in IBD. Case reports and series for the treatment of IBD by FMT have shown promise with regards to treatment success and safety despite the limitations of the reporting. Future studies will determine the optimal delivery and preparation of stool as well as the conditions under which the recipient will derive maximal benefit. The long term consequences of FMT with regards to infection, cancer, auto-immune, and metabolic diseases are not known and will require continued regulation and study. Despite these limitations, FMT may be beneficial for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, particularly those with concurrent CDI or with pouchitis.

Obesity increases risk for pouch-related complications following restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA)

PURPOSE

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the preferred surgical treatment for patients with ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis. As obesity is becoming more epidemic in surgical patients, the aim of this study was to investigate if obesity increases complication rates following IPAA.

METHODS

This study was conducted as a retrospective review of patients undergoing IPAA between January 1990 and April 2011. Patients were categorized by body mass index (BMI): BMI < 30 (non-obese) and BMI ≥ 30 (obese). Preoperative patient demographics, operative variables, and postoperative complications were recorded through chart review. The primary outcome studied was cumulative complication rate.

RESULTS

A total of 103 non-obese and 75 obese patients were identified who underwent IPAA. Obese patients had an increased rate of overall complications (80 % vs. 64%, p = 0.03), primarily accounted for by increased pouch-related complications (61% vs. 26%, p < 0.01). In particular, obese patients had more anastomotic/pouch strictures (27% vs. 6%, p < 0.01), inflammatory pouch complications (17 % vs. 4%, p < 0.01) and pouch fistulas (12% vs. 3%, p = 0.03). In a regression model, obesity remained a significant risk factor (odds ratio [OR] = 2.86, p = 0.01) for pouch-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of overall and pouch-related complications following IPAA. Obese patients should be counseled preoperatively about these risks accordingly.

Risk of cancer and secondary proctectomy after colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis in familial adenomatous polyposis

PURPOSE

The aim of our retrospective study was to review the outcome of patients undergoing colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) due to familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) in Finland during the last 50 years.

METHODS

The cumulative risk of rectal cancer and the rate of anus preservation were analyzed. A total of 140 FAP patients with previous colectomy combined with ileorectal anastomosis were included. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to evaluate cumulative risks.

RESULTS

Secondary proctectomy was performed for 39 (28 %) of 140 patients. The cumulative risk of secondary proctectomy was 53 % at 30 years after colectomy with IRA. A total of 17 (44 %) secondary proctectomies were performed due to cancer or suspicion of cancer, and another 17 (44 %) secondary proctectomies were performed due to uncontrollable rectal polyposis. During our study, the anus preservation rate in secondary proctectomies was 49 %. The cumulative risk of rectal cancer was 24 % at 30 years after colectomy with IRA. Therefore, the cumulative rectal cancer mortality 30 years after colectomy with IRA was 9 %.

CONCLUSIONS

Proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) should be favored as a primary operation for patients not having technical or medical contraindications for it because colectomy with IRA carried a rectal cancer risk of 13 % with a mortality of 7 % during our study, and because IPAA is likely to succeed better at earlier phase of the disease. Patients with attenuated FAP had no rectal cancer in our study, and they may form a group where IRA should still be the first choice as an exception.

Early postoperative complications after stapled vs handsewn restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis in 148 patients with familial adenomatous polyposis coli: a matched-pair analysis

AIM

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and ulcerative colitis (UC) has been modified from a transanal hand-suture after mucosectomy to a stapled ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) without mucosectomy. Better functional results favour stapled anastomosis; however, stapled anastomosis results in higher rates of adenomas in persisting anorectal mucosa. The purpose of this study was to compare the two techniques of pouch-anal anastomosis with respect to early postoperative complications in a collective of FAP patients.

METHOD

The study was performed as a matched-pair analysis. Data were obtained from a prospectively collected database.

RESULTS

The overall rate of postoperative complications was higher after stapled IPAA (31% stapled vs 23% handsewn), with anastomotic stricture occurring in 24.3% (stapled) and 16.2% (handsewn) (P = 0.22). Any leakage or pelvic abscess formation after stapled anastomosis occurred within 30 days in almost all patients, whereas these were mainly diagnosed between 30 days and 6 months after handsewn IPAA. A laparoscopic approach was used in 56.7% of patients in the stapled group but in only two patients in the handsewn group. Intra-operative blood loss was significantly higher in the handsewn group (mean ± SD: 699 ± 511 ml vs 369 ± 343 ml; P < 0.0001), as was the volume of blood transfused (mean ± SD: 205 ± 365 ml vs 8 ± 49 ml; P < 0.0001). Function did not differ between the groups.

CONCLUSION

There was a nonstatistically significant tendency towards a higher rate of early postoperative complications after stapled IPAA. The timing of anastomotic leakage and abscess formation differed between the groups.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of laparoscopic vs open restorative proctocolectomy

AIM

The benefits of a laparoscopic approach to restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) are controversial. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the outcome following laparoscopic and open RPC, with particular attention to adverse events and long-term function.

METHOD

A systematic search of the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Ovid databases was performed for studies published until March 2012. The primary end-point was long-term function. Secondary end-points were intra-operative details, short-term postoperative outcome and postoperative adverse events. Weighted mean difference (WMD) and odds ratio (OR) were calculated using fixed/random effect meta-analytic techniques.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 27 comparative studies of 2428 patients, of whom 1097 (45.1%) underwent laparoscopic surgery. A laparoscopic approach was associated with a significantly longer operation time (WMD 70.1 min, P < 0.001), shorter length of hospital stay (WMD -1.00 day, P < 0.001), reduced intra-operative blood loss (WMD -89.10 ml, P < 0.001) and a lower incidence of wound infection (OR 0.60, P < 0.005). No significant differences were observed in the rate of pouch failure. Although there was no significant difference in the number of daily bowel movements (OR 0.04, P = 0.950), laparoscopic surgery led to fewer nocturnal bowel movements (WMD -1.14, P < 0.001) and reduced pad usage during the day (OR 0.22, P < 0.001) and night (OR 0.33, P < 0.001). The post hoc power to detect differences in adverse event rates ranged from 5% to 42%.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic and open approaches to RPC produced equivalent adverse event rates and long-term functional results. However, the present evidence is underpowered to detect true differences in adverse event rates.

Primary and secondary restorative proctocolectomy for familial adenomatous polyposis: complications and long-term bowel function

AIM

The aim of the study was to evaluate intra-operative difficulties, complications and long-term bowel function in polyposis patients undergoing conversion of an ileorectal anastomosis to an ileoanal pouch, compared with patients with a primary ileoanal pouch operation.

METHOD

A national register-based retrospective study was performed with clinical follow-up and a questionnaire on long-term bowel function.

RESULTS

There were 84 patients in the study: 59 (70%) had a primary pouch operation and in 25 (30%) a secondary pouch procedure was attempted. This was abandoned, in one case, leaving 24 patients who had a successful secondary restorative proctocolectomy. The median (range) follow-up was 123 (0-359) months. There were no intra-operative difficulties in the 59 primary operations, but intra-operative difficulties were reported in nine of 25 secondary operations (P < 0.001). Complications within 1 month of surgery occurred in six of 59 primary operations and in none of 24 secondary operations (P < 0.001); and late surgical complications occurred in eight of 55 primary operations and in eight of 24 secondary operations (P = 0.13). The only difference in bowel function was a lower frequency of nocturnal defaecation after secondary pouch formation (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Reoperation with proctectomy after a previous ileorectal anastomosis and conversion to restorative proctocolectomy is feasible in polyposis patients, with morbidity and functional results similar to those seen after a primary pouch operation.

Adenoma formation and malignancy after restorative proctocolectomy with or without mucosectomy in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND

There is controversy concerning whether or not to perform mucosectomy after IPAA in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. Although more frequent adenoma formation at the anastomotic site in patients without a mucosectomy is documented, the interpretation of the theoretical reflections and empirical findings are ambiguous.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the differences in adenoma formation at the anastomotic site and in the ileal pouch among patients with familial adenomatous polyposis after IPAA with or without mucosectomy.

DESIGN

Data were gathered from The Norwegian Polyposis Registry and The Cancer Registry of Norway.

PATIENTS

Sixty-one patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who had IPAA were included in the Norwegian Polyposis Registry.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The frequency of adenoma development in the pouch or at the anastomotic site was measured.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients had a pelvic pouch performed with mucosectomy and 22 patients without. The observational time was 15.5 and 13.7 years. Adenoma formation at the anastomotic site was 4 in 39 and 14 in 22, and the estimated rate was 17% vs 75% (p = 0.0001). One patient without mucosectomy had a cancer (Dukes A) at the anastomotic site. There was no estimated long-term difference in adenoma formation in the ileal pouches between the 2 surgical procedures (38%) (p = 0.10).

LIMITATIONS

The study is retrospective, in part, and relies on data from registries. There is a limited number of cases, and selection bias because of surgeon preference may exist.

CONCLUSION

In patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who undergo IPAA, adenoma formation at the anastomotic site is significantly reduced after mucosectomy. Mucosectomy may be the preferable procedure to prevent adenomas at the anastomotic site.