Disparities in the use of minimally invasive surgery for colorectal disease

Association of neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage with use of minimally invasive resection for non-small cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

Minimally invasive resection for non-small cell lung cancer has been linked to decreased postoperative morbidity. This work sought to characterize factors associated with receiving minimally invasive surgery for surgically resectable non-small cell lung cancer.

METHODS

All adults undergoing lobectomy/sublobar resection for stage I non-small cell lung cancer were identified using the 2010-2020 National Cancer Database. Those undergoing thoracoscopic/robotic procedures comprised the minimally invasive resection cohort (others: open). Hospitals were stratified by minimally invasive resection procedure volume, with the top quartile considered high minimally invasive resection volume centers. Multivariable models were constructed to assess the independent association between the patients, diseases, and hospital factors and the likelihood of receiving minimally invasive resection.

RESULTS

Of 217,762 patients, 112,304 (52%) underwent minimally invasive resection. The proportion of minimally invasive resection procedures increased from 27% in 2010 to 72% in 2020 (P < .001). After adjustment, several factors were independently associated with decreased odds of receiving minimally invasive resection, including lower quartiles of median neighborhood income (51st-75th percentile adjusted odds ratio, 0.92, 95% CI, 0.89-0.94; 26th-50th percentile adjusted odds ratio, 0.86, CI, 0.83-0.89; 0-25th percentile adjusted odds ratio, 0.78, CI, 0.75-0.81; reference: 76th-100th percentile income) and care at community hospitals (adjusted odds ratio, 0.70, CI, 0.68-0.71; reference: academic centers). Among patients receiving care at high minimally invasive resection volume centers, lowest income remained linked with reduced likelihood of undergoing minimally invasive resection from 2010 to 2015 (adjusted odds ratio, 0.85, CI, 0.77-0.94), but did not alter the odds of minimally invasive resection in later years (adjusted odds ratio, 1.01, CI, 0.87-1.16; reference: highest income).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified significant community income-based disparities in the likelihood of undergoing minimally invasive resection as definitive surgical treatment. Novel interventions are warranted to expand access to high-volume minimally invasive resection centers and ensure equitable access to minimally invasive surgery.

Utilization of minimally invasive colectomy at safety-net hospitals in the United States

BACKGROUND

Prior literature has reported inferior surgical outcomes and reduced access to minimally invasive procedures at safety-net hospitals. However, this relationship has not yet been elucidated for elective colectomy. We sought to characterize the association between safety-net hospitals and likelihood of minimally invasive resection, perioperative outcomes, and costs.

METHODS

All adult (≥18 years) hospitalization records entailing elective colectomy were identified in the 2016-2020 National Inpatient Sample. Centers in the top quartile of safety-net burden were considered safety-net hospitals (others: non-safety-net hospitals). Multivariable regression models were developed to assess the impact of safety-net hospitals status on key outcomes.

RESULTS

Of ∼532,640 patients, 95,570 (17.9%) were treated at safety-net hospitals. The safety-net hospitals cohort was younger and more often of Black race or Hispanic ethnicity. After adjustment, care at safety-net hospitals remained independently associated with reduced odds of minimally invasive surgery (adjusted odds ratio 0.92; 95% confidence interval 0.87-0.97). The interaction between safety-net hospital status and race was significant, such that Black race remained linked with lower odds of minimally invasive surgery at safety-net hospitals (reference: White race). Additionally, safety-net hospitals was associated with greater likelihood of in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio 1.34, confidence interval 1.04-1.74) and any perioperative complication (adjusted odds ratio 1.15, confidence interval 1.08-1.22), as well as increased length of stay (β+0.26 days, confidence interval 0.17-0.35) and costs (β+$2,510, confidence interval 2,020-3,000).

CONCLUSION

Care at safety-net hospitals was linked with lower odds of minimally invasive colectomy, as well as greater complications and costs. Black patients treated at safety-net hospitals demonstrated reduced likelihood of minimally invasive surgery, relative to White patients. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the root causes of these disparities in care.

Factors affecting minimally invasive surgery utilization during elective colectomies for diverticular disease in the United States

Background

Compared with open surgery, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been shown to have improved outcomes when treating diverticular disease. This study aimed to analyze recent trends in MIS utilization for elective colectomy for diverticular disease and to identify individual variables and hospital characteristics associated with MIS utilization.

Methods

This population-based study examined individuals from the National Inpatient Sample who underwent elective colectomy for diverticular disease from 2016 to 2019.

Results

Hospitals in the Midwest used MIS less than those in other geographic regions. Rural hospitals used MIS less than urban hospitals. Hospital bed size and teaching status were not associated with differences in MIS utilization. Patients with private insurance were more likely to have an MIS operation. There was also a racial disparity in MIS utilization, even after adjusting for insurance status.

Conclusions

While there is no longer any variance in MIS utilization based on hospital bed size or teaching status, disparities concerning patient race remain, even after adjusting for insurance status. Further investigation is needed to determine the roots of these disparities.

Factors contributing to the utilization of robotic colorectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Some studies have suggested disparities in access to robotic colorectal surgery, however, it is unclear which factors are most meaningful in the determination of approach relative to laparoscopic or open surgery. This study aimed to identify the most influential factors contributing to robotic colorectal surgery utilization.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of published studies that compared the utilization of robotic colorectal surgery versus laparoscopic or open surgery. Eligible studies were identified through PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, PsycINFO, and ProQuest Dissertations in September 2021.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included in the analysis. Patients were less likely to undergo robotic versus laparoscopic surgery if they were female (OR = 0.91, 0.84-0.98), older (OR = 1.61, 1.38-1.88), had Medicare (OR = 0.84, 0.71-0.99), or had comorbidities (OR = 0.83, 0.77-0.91). Non-academic hospitals had lower odds of conducting robotic versus laparoscopic surgery (OR = 0.73, 0.62-0.86). Additional disparities were observed when comparing robotic with open surgery for patients who were Black (OR = 0.78, 0.71-0.86), had lower income (OR = 0.67, 0.62-0.74), had Medicaid (OR = 0.58, 0.43-0.80), or were uninsured (OR = 0.29, 0.21-0.39).

CONCLUSION

When determining who undergoes robotic surgery, consideration of factors such as age and comorbid conditions may be clinically justified, while other factors seem less justifiable. Black patients and the underinsured were less likely to undergo robotic surgery. This study identifies nonclinical disparities in access to robotics that should be addressed to provide more equitable access to innovations in colorectal surgery.

Predictors and Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Small Bowel Neuroendocrine Tumors : Minimally Invasive Surgery for SBNETs

BACKGROUND

Open surgical resection with regional lymphadenectomy is the standard of care for small bowel neuroendocrine tumors (SBNETs). There is no consensus on the role of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This study aims to evaluate the current national trends for MIS in treating SBNETs and its association with lymph node (LN) yield.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients with Stage I-III SBNETs who underwent surgery from 2010-2017. Time trends were examined using the Cochran-Armitage test. Chi-square tests, t test, and multivariable logistic regression assessed associations of surgical approach with patient, clinical, and facility characteristics. Kaplan-Meier curves and propensity score weighted Cox proportional hazards model were used to examine survival.

RESULTS

Of the 11,367 patients with Stage I-III SBNETs, 46.5% (N = 5,298) underwent MIS. From 2010-2017, the proportion of MIS increased from 35.6% to 57.7% (P < 0.001). Patients of Stage I disease (OR = 1.23), Caucasian race (OR = 1.18), private insurance (OR = 1.29), and higher volume centers (OR = 1.29) were more likely to undergo MIS (all P < 0.02). The average number of LN harvested in the MIS cohort was greater than in the open surgery cohort (13.3 vs 11.8 LN, P < 0.001). MIS patients had shorter length of stay by 2 days compared to open surgery (5.4 vs 7.6 days, P < 0.001). LN yield ≥ 8 was associated with better survival (HR = 0.77, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The utilization of a MIS approach to treat Stage I-III SBNETs has increased, especially at higher volume centers. We did not observe an inferior LN harvest with the MIS cohort compared to the open surgery cohort.

Association of hospital factors and socioeconomic status with the utilization of minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer over a decade

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection is a mainstay of treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC). Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been shown to have improved outcomes compared to open procedures for colorectal malignancy. While use of MIS has been increasing, there remains large variability in its implementation at the hospital and patient level.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify disparities in sex, race, location, patient income status, insurance status, hospital region, bed size and teaching status for the use of MIS in the treatment of CRC.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database. Between 2008 and 2017, there were 412,292 hospitalizations of adult patients undergoing elective colectomy for CRC. The primary outcome was use of MIS during hospitalization.

RESULTS

Overall, the frequency of open colectomies was higher than MIS (56.56% vs. 43.44%). Black patients were associated with decreased odds of MIS use during hospitalization compared to White patients (OR 0.921, p = 0.0011). As the county population where patients resided decreased, odds of MIS also significantly decreased as compared to central counties of metropolitan areas. As income decreased below the reference of $71,000, odds of MIS also significantly decreased. Medicaid and uninsured patients had decreased odds of MIS use during hospitalization compared to private insurance (OR 0.751, p < 0.0001 and OR 0.629, p < 0.0001 respectively). Rural and urban non-teaching hospitals were associated with decreased odds of MIS as compared to urban teaching hospitals (OR 0.523, p < 0.0001 and OR 0.837, p < 0.0001 respectively). Hospitals with a small bed size were also associated with decreased MIS during hospitalizations (OR 0.888, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Marked hospital level and socioeconomic disparities exist for utilization of MIS for colorectal cancer. Strategies targeted at reducing these gaps have the potential to improve surgical outcomes and cancer survival.

Racial Disparity in the Surgical Management of Diverticular Disease

INTRODUCTION

Although minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has clearly been associated with improved colorectal surgery outcomes, not all populations benefit from this approach. Using a national database, we analyzed both, the trend in the utilization of MIS for diverticulitis and differences in utilization by race.

METHODS

Colon-targeted participant user files (PUFs) from 2012 to 18 were linked to respective PUFs in National Surgical Quality Improvement Project. Patients undergoing colectomy for acute diverticulitis or chronic diverticular disease were included. Surgical approach was stratified by race and year. To adjust for confounding and estimate the association of covariates with approach, data were fit using multivariable binary logistic regression main effects model. Using a joint effects model, we evaluated whether the odds of a particular approach over time was differentially affected by race.

RESULTS

Of the 46 713 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 83% were white, with 7% black and 10% other. Over the study period, there was a decrease in the rate of open colectomy of about 5% P < .001, and increase in the rate of utilization of laparoscopic and robotic approaches (RC) P < .0001. After adjusting for confounders, black race was associated with open surgery P < .0001.

CONCLUSION

There is disparity in the utilization of MIS for diverticulitis. Further research into the reasons for this disparity is critical to ensure known benefits of MIC are realized across all races.

Racial Disparities in the Management of Locoregional Colorectal Cancer

Racial disparities pervade nearly all aspects of management of locoregional colorectal cancer, including time to treatment, receipt of resection, adequacy of resection, postoperative complications, and receipt of neoadjuvant and adjuvant multimodality therapies. Disparate gaps in treatment translate into enduring effects on survivorship, recurrence, and mortality. Efforts to reduce these gaps in care must be undertaken on a multilevel basis and focus on modifiable factors that underlie racial disparity.

National disparities in use of minimally invasive surgery for rectal cancer in older adults

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is safe and improves outcomes in older persons with rectal cancer but may be underutilized. As older persons are the largest surgical population, investigation of the current use and factors impacting MIS use is warranted. Our goal is to investigate the trends and disparities that affect utilization of MIS in older persons with rectal cancer.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was reviewed for persons 65 years and older who underwent curative resection for rectal adenocarcinoma from 2010 to 2017. Cases were stratified by surgical approach (open or MIS [laparoscopic or robotic]). Univariate analysis compared patient and provider demographics across approaches. Multivariate analysis investigated variables associated with MIS use. Main outcome measures were trends and factors associated with MIS use in older persons.

RESULTS

Of 31,910 patients analyzed, 51.9% (n = 16,555) were open and 48.1% (n = 15,355) MIS. The MIS cohort was 66.7% (n = 10,236) laparoscopic and 33.3% (n = 5119) robotic. MIS increased from 29% in 2010 (n = 1197; 25% laparoscopic, 4% robotic) to 65% in 2017 (n = 2382; 35% laparoscopic, 30% robotic), likely from annual increases in robotics (OR 1.24/year, p < 0.0001). In the unadjusted analysis, there were significant differences in MIS use by age, race, comorbidity, socioeconomic status, and facility type. In multivariate analysis, patients with advancing age (OR 0.93, p < 0.001), major comorbidity (OR 0.75, p < 0.001), total proctectomy (OR0.78, p < 0.001), and advanced pathologic stage (OR 0.51, p < 0.001) were less likely to undergo MIS.

CONCLUSION

Nationwide, less than half of rectal cancer cases in older persons were performed with MIS, despite steady robotic growth. Patient and facility factors impacted MIS use. Further work on regionalizing rectal cancer care and ensuring equitable MIS access and training could improve utilization.

Characteristics of patients who underwent gastric electrical stimulation vs. surgical pyloric interventions for refractory gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

There has been recent debate comparing the efficacy of gastric electrical stimulation (GES) with pyloric intervention, but medical literature lacks clear indications for when to perform GES or pyloric intervention. This study aims to assess the effect of sociodemographic factors and hospital characteristics on the surgical technique chosen for the treatment of gastroparesis.

METHODS

Data was extracted from the National Inpatient Sample between the years 2012 and 2014, using any discharge diagnosis of gastroparesis. For comparison of analysis between GES and pyloric surgical intervention, pyloroplasty, endoscopic pyloric dilation, and pyloromyotomy were considered to be pyloric interventions. The study population was divided into two groups, one which received GES and the other receiving pyloric intervention, to compare socioeconomic factors and hospital characteristics.

RESULTS

In total, 737,930 hospitalizations had a discharge diagnosis of gastroparesis between 2012 and 2014. On weighted multivariant analysis of patients undergoing GES or pyloric intervention for gastroparesis, being female (odds ratio (OR) 1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25-1.78; P < 0.001), being Hispanic (OR 1.75, 95%CI; P < 0.001), being in urban teaching (OR 1.41, 95%CI 1.15-1.72; P < 0.001), and nonteaching hospitals (OR 2.93, 95%CI 2.4-3.58; P < 0.001), early satiety (OR 6.70, 95%CI 1.54-31.25; P = 0.01), and diabetes mellitus (OR 2.14, 95%CI 1.78-2.56; P < 0.001) were each statistically significantly correlated with receiving GES intervention compared to pyloric intervention.

CONCLUSION

The racial difference, payer source, and hospital location affected the surgical intervention (GES or pyloric intervention) that patients with gastroparesis would receive.

Patient Factors Limit Colon Cancer Survival at Safety-Net Hospitals: A National Analysis

BACKGROUND

Safety-net hospitals serve a vital role in society by providing care for vulnerable populations. Existing data regarding oncologic outcomes of patients with colon cancer treated at safety-net hospitals are limited and variable. The objective of this study was to delineate disparities in treatment and outcomes for patients with colon cancer treated at safety-net hospitals.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study identified 802,304 adult patients with colon adenocarcinoma from the National Cancer Database between 2004-2016. Patients were stratified according to safety-net burden of the treating hospital as previously described. Patient, tumor, facility, and treatment characteristics were compared between groups as were operative and short-term outcomes. Cox proportional hazards regression was utilized to compare overall survival between patients treated at high, medium, and low burden hospitals.

RESULTS

Patients treated at safety-net hospitals were demographically distinct and presented with more advanced disease. They were also less likely to receive surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, negative resection margins, adequate lymphadenectomy, or a minimally invasive operative approach. On multivariate analysis adjusting for patient and tumor characteristics, survival was inferior for patients at safety-net hospitals, even for those with stage 0 (in situ) disease.

CONCLUSION

This analysis revealed inferior survival for patients with colon cancer treated at safety-net hospitals, including those without invasive cancer. These findings suggest that unmeasured population differences may confound analyses and affect survival more than provider or treatment disparities.

Treatment Utilization and Socioeconomic Disparities in the Surgical Management of Gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is an end-organ sequela of diabetes. We evaluated the roles of race and socioeconomic status in hospitalization rates and utilization of surgical treatments in these patients.

METHODS

Data was extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) between the years 2012 and 2014, and any discharge diagnosis of gastroparesis (536.3) was included. Gastrostomy, jejunostomy, and total parenteral nutrition were considered nutritional support procedures, and procedures aimed at improving motility were considered definitive disease-specific procedures: pyloroplasty, endoscopic pyloric dilation, gastric pacemaker placement, and gastrectomy.

RESULTS

There were 747,500 hospitalizations reporting a discharge diagnosis of gastroparesis. On multivariable analysis, black race (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.89-1.98; p < 0.001) and Medicaid insurance (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.42-1.50; p < 0.001) were the strongest socioeconomic risk factors for hospitalization due to gastroparesis. Patients in urban teaching institutions were most likely to undergo a surgical intervention for gastroparesis (5.53% of patients versus 3.94% of patients treated in urban non-teaching hospitals and 2.38% of patients in rural hospitals; p < 0.001). Uninsured patients were less than half as likely to receive treatment compared to those with private insurance (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.34-0.48; p < 0.001), and black patients had an OR 0.75 (95% CI 0.69-0.81; p < 0.001) for receiving treatment. Urban teaching hospitals had a twofold higher likelihood of intervention (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.84-2.44; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Marked racial and economic disparities exist in surgical distribution of care for gastroparesis, potentially driven by differences in utilization of care.

Low Socioeconomic Status Is Associated with Worse Outcomes After Curative Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: Results from a Large, Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Socioeconomic status (SES) has been associated with early mortality in cancer patients. However, the association between SES and outcome in colorectal cancer patients is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether SES is associated with short- and long-term outcome in patients undergoing curative surgery for colorectal cancer.

METHODS

Patients who underwent curative surgery in the region of Rotterdam for stage I-III colorectal cancer between January 2007 and July 2014 were included. Gross household income and survival status were obtained from a national registry provided by Statistics Netherlands Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek. Patients were assigned percentiles according to the national income distribution. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard regression were performed to assess the association of SES with 30-day postoperative complications, overall survival and cancer-specific survival, adjusted for known prognosticators.

RESULTS

For 965 of the 975 eligible patients (99%), gross household income could be retrieved. Patients with a lower SES more often had diabetes, more often underwent an open surgical procedure, and had more comorbidities. In addition, patients with a lower SES were less likely to receive (neo) adjuvant treatment. Lower SES was independently associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications (Odds ratio per percent increase 0.99, 95%CI 0.99-0.998, p = 0.004) and lower cancer-specific mortality (Hazard ratio per percent increase 0.99, 95%CI 0.98-0.99, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that lower SES is associated with increased risk of postoperative complications, and poor cancer-specific survival in patients undergoing surgery for stage I-III colorectal cancer after correcting for known prognosticators.

Clinical Research Using the National Inpatient Sample: A Brief Review of Colorectal Studies Utilizing the NIS Database

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) is the largest collection of longitudinal hospital care data in the United States and is sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The data are collected from state organizations, hospital associations, private organizations, and the federal government. This database has been used in more than 400 disease-focused studies to examine health care utilization, access, charges, quality, and outcomes of care. The database has been maintained since 1988, making it one of the oldest on hospital data. The focus of this review is to explore and discuss the use of NIS database in colorectal surgery research and to formulate a simplified guide of the data captured for future researchers.

Disparities in minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer in Florida

BACKGROUND

The cost of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) raises potential for racial and social disparities. The aim of this study was to identify the racial, socioeconomic and geographic disparities associated with MIS for colorectal cancer (CRC) in Florida.

METHODS

Using the Florida Inpatient Discharge Dataset, we examined the clinical data of patients who underwent elective resections for CRC during 2013-2015. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify differences in gender, age, race, urbanization, region, insurance and clinical characteristics associated with the surgical approach.

RESULTS

Of the 10,224 patients identified, 5308 (52%) had open surgery and 4916 (48%) had MIS. Females (p = 0.012), Medicare-insured patients (p = 0.001) and residents of South Florida were more likely to undergo MIS. Patients with Medicaid (p = 0.008), metastasis (p < 0.001) or 3-5 comorbidities (p = 0.004) had reduced likelihood of MIS. Hispanic patients in Southwest Florida had reduced likelihood of receiving MIS than whites (p < 0.017). Patients who underwent MIS had significantly reduced LOS (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with national studies, MIS for CRC in Florida is associated with insurance status and geographic location. There are patient-level regional differences for racial disparities in MIS for CRC in Florida.

The Presence of an Advanced Gastrointestinal (GI)/Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) Fellowship Program Does Not Impact Short-Term Patient Outcomes Following Fundoplication or Esophagomyotomy

INTRODUCTION

The current surgical landscape reflects a continual trend towards sub-specialization, evidenced by an increasing number of US surgeons who pursue fellowship training after residency. Despite this growing trend, however, the effect of advanced gastrointestinal (GI)/minimally invasive surgery (MIS) fellowship programs on patient outcomes following foregut/esophageal operations remains unclear. This study looks at two representative foregut surgeries (laparoscopic fundoplication and esophagomyotomy) performed in New York State (NYS), comparing hospitals which do and do not possess a GI/MIS fellowship program, to examine the effect of such a program on perioperative outcomes. We also aimed to identify any patient or hospital factors which might influence perioperative outcomes.

METHODS

The SPARCS database was examined for all patients who underwent a foregut procedure (specifically, either an esophagomyotomy or a laparoscopic fundoplication) between 2012 and 2014. We compared the following outcomes between institutions with and without a GI/MIS fellowship program: 30-day readmission, hospital length of stay (LOS), and development of any major complication.

RESULTS

There were 3175 foregut procedures recorded from 2012 to 2014. Just below one third (n = 1041; 32.8%) were performed in hospitals possessing a GI/MIS fellowship program. Among our entire included study population, 154 patients (4.85%) had a single 30-day readmission, with no observed difference in readmission between hospitals with and without a GI/MIS fellowship program, even after controlling for potential confounding factors (p = 0.6406 and p = 0.2511, respectively). Additionally, when controlling for potential confounders, the presence/absence of a GI/MIS fellowship program was found to have no association with risk of having a major complication (p = 0.1163) or LOS (p = 0.7562). Our study revealed that postoperative outcomes were significantly influenced by patient race and payment method. Asians and Medicare patients had the highest risk of suffering a severe complication (10.00 and 7.44%; p = 0.0311 and p = 0.0036, respectively)-with race retaining significance even after adjusting for potential confounders (p = 0.0276). Asians and uninsured patients demonstrated the highest readmission rates (15.00 and 12.50%; p = 0.0129 and p = 0.0012, respectively)-with both race and payment method retaining significance after adjustment (p = 0.0362 and p = 0.0257, respectively). Lastly, payment method was significantly associated with postoperative LOS (p < 0.0001), with Medicaid patients experiencing the longest LOS (mean 3.99 days) and those with commercial insurance experiencing the shortest (mean 1.66 days), a relationship which retained significance even after adjusting for potential confounders (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The presence of a GI/MIS fellowship program does not impact short-term patient outcomes following laparoscopic fundoplication or esophagomyotomy (two representative foregut procedures). Presence of such a fellowship should not play a role in choosing a surgeon. Additionally, in these foregut procedures, patient race (particularly Asian race) and payment method were found to be independently associated with postoperative outcomes, including postoperative LOS.

Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Proctectomy for Rectal Adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Long-term oncologic outcomes after minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for rectal adenocarcinoma compared to open surgery continue to be debated. We aimed to review our high-volume single-institution outcomes in MIS rectal cancer surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was completed of all consecutive adult patients with rectal adenocarcinoma treated from January 2005 through December 2011. Stage IV or recurrent disease was excluded. Demographics and operative and pathologic details were reviewed and reported. Primary endpoints include survival and recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 324 patients were included and median follow-up was 54 months (IQR = 37.0, 78.8). The mean age was 58.2 ± 14.1 years. Tumors were in the upper rectum in 111 patients, mid-rectum in 113 patients, and lower rectum in 100 patients. Stage III disease was most common (49.4%). Overall conversion to open procedure rate was 13.9%. The circumferential radial margin was positive in only 1 patient (0.3%) and the mean lymph node yield was 24.7 ± 17.2. Cancer recurred in 42 patients (13%), 10 (2.5%) patients developed local recurrence, 32 (9.8%) developed distant metastasis, and 2 (0.6%) patients had both. The 5-year overall survival for stage 0, 1, 2, and 3 disease is 96, 91, 80, and 77%, respectively (p = 0.015).

CONCLUSION

In carefully selected rectal cancer patients treated with MIS, long-term outcomes of survival and recurrence appear to compare favorably to previously published series.

Facility-level analysis of robot utilization across disciplines in the National Cancer Database

To evaluate trends in contemporary robotic surgery across multiple organ sites as they relate to robotic prostatectomy volume. We queried the National Cancer Database for patients who underwent surgery from 2010 to 2013 for prostate, kidney, bladder, corpus uteri, uterus, cervix, colon, sigmoid, rectum, lung and bronchus. The trend between volumes of robotic surgery for each organ site was analyzed using the Cochran-Armitage test. Multivariable models were then created to determine independent predictors of robotic surgery within each organ site by calculating the odds ratio with 95% CI. Among the 566,399 surgical cases analyzed, 35.1% were performed using robot assistance. Institutions whose robotic prostatectomy volume was in the top 75 percentile compared to the bottom 25 percentile performed a larger percentage of robotic surgery on the following sites: kidney 32.6 vs. 28.8%, bladder 23.6 vs. 18.6%, uterus 52.5 vs. 47.7%, cervix 43.5 vs. 39.2%, colon 3.2 vs. 2.9%, rectum 10.7 vs. 8.9%, and lung 7.3 vs. 6.8% (all p < 0.0001). It appears that increased trends toward robotic surgery in urology have lead to increased robotic utilization within other surgical fields. Future analysis in benign utilizations of robotic surgery as well as outcome data comparing robotic to open approaches are needed to better understand the ever-evolving nature of minimally invasive surgery within the United States.

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.

Social determinants of access to minimally invasive hysterectomy: reevaluating the relationship between race and route of hysterectomy for benign disease

BACKGROUND

Racial and socioeconomic disparities exist in access to medical and surgical care. Studies of national databases have demonstrated disparities in route of hysterectomy for benign indications, but have not been able to adjust for patient-level factors that affect surgical decision-making.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine whether access to minimally invasive hysterectomy for benign indications is differential according to race independent of the effects of relevant subject-level confounding factors. The secondary study objective was to determine the association between socioeconomic status and ethnicity and access to minimally invasive hysterectomy.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study evaluated factors associated with minimally invasive hysterectomies performed for fibroids and/or abnormal uterine bleeding from 2010 through 2013 at 3 hospitals within an academic university health system in Philadelphia, PA. Univariate tests of association and multivariable logistic regression identified factors significantly associated with minimally invasive hysterectomy compared to the odds of treatment with the referent approach of abdominal hysterectomy.

RESULTS

Of 1746 hysterectomies evaluated meeting study inclusion criteria, 861 (49%) were performed abdominally, 248 (14%) vaginally, 310 (18%) laparoscopically, and 327 (19%) with robot assistance. In univariate analysis, African American race (odds ratio, 0.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.65-0.97) and Hispanic ethnicity (odds ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-1.00) were associated with lower odds of any minimally invasive hysterectomy relative to abdominal hysterectomy. In analyses adjusted for age, body mass index, income quartile, obstetrical and surgical history, uterine weight, and additional confounding factors, African American race was no longer a risk factor for reduced minimally invasive hysterectomy (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.61-1.10), while Hispanic ethnicity (odds ratio, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.27-0.76) and Medicaid enrollment (odds ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.90) were associated with significantly lower odds of treatment with any minimally invasive hysterectomy. In adjusted analyses, African American women had nearly half the odds of receiving robot-assisted hysterectomy compared to whites (adjusted odds ratio, 0.57; 95%, confidence interval 0.39-0.82), while no differences were noted with other hysterectomy routes. Medicaid enrollment (compared to private insurance; odds ratio, 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.94) and lowest income quartile (compared to highest income quartile; odds ratio, 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.85) were also associated with diminished odds of robot-assisted hysterectomy.

CONCLUSION

When accounting for the effect of numerous pertinent demographic and clinical factors, the odds of undergoing minimally invasive hysterectomy were diminished in women of Hispanic ethnicity and in those enrolled in Medicaid but were not discrepant along racial lines. However, both racial and socioeconomic disparities were observed with respect to access to robot-assisted hysterectomy despite the availability of robotic assistance in all hospitals treating the study population. Strategies to ensure equal access to all minimally invasive routes for all women should be explored to align delivery of care with the evidence supporting the broad implementation of these procedures as safe, cost-effective, and highly acceptable to patients.

Influence of hospital-level practice patterns on variation in the application of minimally invasive surgery in United States pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Although disparities in access to minimally invasive surgery are thought to exist in pediatric surgical patients in the United States, hospital-level practice patterns have not been evaluated as a possible contributing factor.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study using the Kids' Inpatient Database, 2012. Odds ratios of undergoing a minimally invasive compared to open operation were calculated for six typical pediatric surgical operations after adjustment for multiple patient demographic and hospital-level variables. Further adjustment to the regression model was made by incorporating hospital practice patterns, defined as operation-specific minimally invasive frequency and volume.

RESULTS

Age was the most significant patient demographic factor affecting application of minimally invasive surgery for all procedures. For several procedures, adjusting for individual hospital practice patterns removed race- and income-based disparities seen in performance of minimally invasive operations. Disparities related to insurance status were not affected by the same adjustment.

CONCLUSION

Variation in the application of minimally invasive surgery in pediatric surgical patients is primarily influenced by patient age and the type of procedure performed. Perceived disparities in access related to some socioeconomic factors are decreased but not eliminated by accounting for individual hospital practice patterns, suggesting that complex underlying factors influence application of advanced surgical techniques.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Racial and Socioeconomic Differences Manifest in Process Measure Adherence for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Pathway

BACKGROUND

Adherence to care processes and surgical outcomes varies by population subgroups for the same procedure. Enhanced recovery after surgery pathways are intended to standardize care, but their effect on process adherence and outcomes for population subgroups is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to demonstrate the association between recovery pathway implementation, process measures, and short-term surgical outcomes by population subgroup.

DESIGN

This study is a pre- and post-quality improvement implementation cohort study.

SETTING

This study was conducted at a tertiary academic medical center.

INTERVENTION

A modified colorectal enhanced recovery after surgery pathway was implemented.

PATIENTS

Patients were included who had elective colon and rectal resections before (2013) and following (2014-2016) recovery pathway implementation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Thirty-day outcomes by race and socioeconomic status were analyzed using a difference-in-difference approach with correlation to process adherence.

RESULTS

We identified 639 cases (199 preimplementation, 440 postimplementation). In these cases, 75.2% of the patients were white, and 91.7% had a high socioeconomic status. Groups were similar in terms of other preoperative characteristics. Following pathway implementation, median lengths of stay improved in all subgroups (-1.0 days overall, p ≤ 0.001), but with no statistical difference by race or socioeconomic status (p = 0.89 and p = 0.29). Complication rates in both racial and socioeconomic groups were no different (26.4% vs 28.8%, p = 0.73; 27.3% vs 25.0%, p = 0.86) and remained unchanged with implementation (p = 0.93, p = 0.84). By race, overall adherence was 31.7% in white patients and 26.5% in nonwhite patients (p = 0.32). Although stratification by socioeconomic status demonstrated decreased overall adherence in the low-status group (31.8% vs 17.1%, p = 0.05), white patients were more likely to have regional pain therapy (57.1% vs 44.1%, p = 0.02) with a similar trend seen with socioeconomic status.

LIMITATIONS

Data were collected primarily for quality improvement purposes.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in outcomes by race and socioeconomic status did not arise following implementation of an enhanced recovery pathway. Differences in process measures by population subgroups highlight differences in care that require further investigation. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A386.

Patient, Hospital, and Geographic Disparities in Laparoscopic Surgery Use Among Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare Patients With Colon Cancer

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection is the primary treatment for colon cancer, but use of laparoscopic approaches varies widely despite demonstrated short- and long-term benefits.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics associated with laparoscopic colon cancer resection and to quantify variation based on patient, hospital, and geographic characteristics.

DESIGN

Bayesian cross-classified, multilevel logistic models calculated adjusted ORs and CIs for patient, surgeon, hospital, and geographic characteristics and unexplained variability (predicted vs. observed values) using adjusted median odds ratios for hospitals and counties.

SETTINGS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare claims database (2008-2011) supplemented with county-level American Community Survey (2008-2012) demographic data was used.

PATIENTS

A total of 10,618 patients ≥66 years old who underwent colon cancer resection were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Nonurgent/nonemergent resections for colon cancer patients ≥66 years old were classified as laparoscopic or open procedures.

RESULTS

Patients resided in 579 counties and used 950 hospitals; 47% of patients underwent laparoscopic surgery. Medicare/Medicaid dual enrollment, age ≥85 years, and higher tumor stage and grade were negatively associated with laparoscopic surgery receipt; proximal tumors and increasing hospital size and surgeon caseload were positively associated. Significant unexplained variability at the hospital (adjusted median OR = 3.31; p < 0.001) and county levels (adjusted median OR = 1.28; p < 0.05) remained after adjustment.

LIMITATIONS

This was an observational study lacking generalizability to younger patients without Medicare or those with Health Maintenance Organization coverage and data set did not reflect national hospital studies or hospital volume. In addition, we were unable to account for specific types of comorbidities, such as obesity, and had broad categories for surgeon caseload.

CONCLUSIONS

Determining sources of hospital-level variation among poor insured patients may help increase laparoscopic resection to maximize health outcomes and reduce cost. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A363.

Insurance Status, Not Race, is Associated With Use of Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach for Rectal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of race and insurance on use of minimally invasive (MIS) compared with open techniques for rectal cancer in the United States.

BACKGROUND

Race and socioeconomic status have been implicated in disparities of rectal cancer treatment.

METHODS

Adults undergoing MIS (laparoscopic or robotic) or open rectal resections for stage I to III rectal adenocarcinoma were included from the National Cancer Database (2010-2012). Multivariate analyses were employed to examine the adjusted association of race and insurance with use of MIS versus open surgery.

RESULTS

Among 23,274 patients, 39% underwent MIS and 61% open surgery. Overall, 86% were white, 8% black, and 3% Asian. Factors associated with use of open versus MIS were black race, Medicare/Medicaid insurance, and lack of insurance. However, after adjustment for patient demographic, clinical, and treatment characteristics, black race was not associated with use of MIS versus open surgery [odds ratio [OR] 0.90, P = 0.07). Compared with privately insured patients, uninsured patients (OR 0.52, P < 0.01) and those with Medicare/Medicaid (OR 0.79, P < 0.01) were less likely to receive minimally invasive resections. Lack of insurance was significantly associated with less use of MIS in black (OR 0.59, P = 0.02) or white patients (OR 0.51, P < 0.01). However, among uninsured patients, black race was not associated with lower use of MIS (OR 0.96, P = 0.59).

CONCLUSIONS

Insurance status, not race, is associated with utilization of minimally invasive techniques for oncologic rectal resections. Due to the short-term benefits and cost-effectiveness of minimally invasive techniques, hospitals may need to improve access to these techniques, especially for uninsured patients.

Examination of Racial Disparities in the Receipt of Minimally Invasive Surgery Among a National Cohort of Adult Patients Undergoing Colorectal Surgery

BACKGROUND

Racial disparities in outcomes are well described among surgical patients.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work was to identify any racial disparities in the receipt of a minimally invasive approach for colorectal surgery.

DESIGN

Adults undergoing colorectal surgery were studied using the University HealthSystem Consortium. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to identify predictors for the receipt of a minimally invasive approach.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at academic hospitals and their affiliates.

PATIENTS

Adults ≥18 years of age who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer, diverticular disease, IBD, or benign colorectal tumor between 2008 and 2011 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The receipt of a minimally invasive surgical approach was the main measured outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 82,474 adult patients met the study inclusion criteria. Of these, 69,664 (84%) were white, 10,874 (13%) were black, and 1936 (2%) were Asian. Blacks were younger, with higher rates of public insurance and higher comorbidity burden and baseline severity of illness compared with white and Asian patients. Black patients were less likely (adjusted OR = 0.83 (95% CI, 0.79-0.87)) and Asian patients more likely (adjusted OR = 1.34 (95% CI, 1.21-1.49)) than whites to receive minimally invasive surgery. This association did not change with stratification by insurance type (public or private). Black patients had higher rates of intensive care unit admission and nonhome discharge, as well as an increased length of stay compared with white and Asian patients. No differences in complications, readmission, or mortality rates were observed with minimally invasive surgery, but black patients were more likely to be readmitted or to die with open surgery.

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by the retrospective nature of its data.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified racial differences in the receipt of a minimally invasive approach for colorectal surgery, regardless of insurance status, as well as improved outcomes for minority races who underwent a minimally invasive technique compared with open surgery. The improved outcomes associated with minimally invasive surgery should prompt efforts to increase rates of its use among black patients.

Neighborhood Variation in the Utilization of Laparoscopy for the Treatment of Colon Cancer

BACKGROUND

The rates of laparoscopic colectomy for colon cancer have steadily increased since its inception. Laparoscopic colectomy currently accounts for a third of colectomy procedures in the United States, but little is known regarding the spatial pattern of the utilization of laparoscopy for colon cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the utilization of laparoscopy for colon cancer at the neighborhood level in Ontario.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed.

SETTING

This study was conducted at all hospitals in the province of Ontario.

PATIENTS

This population-based study included all patients aged ≥18 who received an elective colectomy for colon cancer from April 2008 until March 2012 in the province of Ontario.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was the neighborhood rates of laparoscopy.

RESULTS

Overall, 9,969 patients underwent surgery, and the cluster analysis identified 74 cold-spot neighborhoods, representing 1.8 million people, or 14% of the population. In the multivariate analysis, patients from rural neighborhoods were less than half as likely to receive laparoscopy, OR 0.44 (95% CI, 0.24-0.84; p = 0.012). Additionally, having a minimally invasive surgery fellowship training facility within the same administrative health region as the neighborhood made it more than 23 times as likely to be a hot spot, OR 25.88 (95% CI, 12.15-55.11; p < 0.001). Neighborhood socioeconomic status was not associated with variation in the utilization of laparoscopy.

LIMITATIONS

Patient case mix could affect laparoscopy use.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

This study identified an unequal utilization of laparoscopy for colon cancer within Ontario with rural neighborhoods experiencing low rates of laparoscopic colectomy, whereas neighborhoods in the same administrative region as minimally invasive surgery training centers experienced increased utilization. Further study into the causes of this variation in resource allocation is needed to identify ways to improve more efficient spread of knowledge and technical skills advancement.

Factors Impacting Use of Robotic Surgery for Treatment of Endometrial Cancer in the United States

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to examine the impact of patient socioeconomic, clinical, and hospital characteristics on the utilization of robotics in the surgical staging of endometrial cancer.

METHODS

Patients surgically treated for endometrial cancer at facilities that offered robotic and open approaches were identified from the National Inpatient Sample Database from 2008 to 2012. The groups were compared for socioeconomic, clinical, and hospital differences. Medical comorbidity scores were calculated using the Charlson comorbidity index. T tests and χ (2) were used to compare groups. Multivariable analyses were used to determine factors that were independently associated with a robotic approach.

RESULTS

A total of 18,284 patients were included (robotic, n = 7169; laparotomy, n = 11,115). Significant differences were noted in all patient clinical and socioeconomic characteristics and all hospital characteristics. Multivariable analyses identified factors that independently predicted patients undergoing robotic surgery. These patients were older [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.008; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.004-1.011], white (aOR 1.38; 95 % CI 1.27-1.50), and privately insured (aOR 1.16; 95 % CI 1.07-1.26). Clinically, these women were more likely to be obese (aOR 1.20; 95 % CI 1.11-1.30) and to be undergoing an elective case (aOR 1.25; 95 % CI 1.11-1.40). Hospitals were more likely to be under private control (aOR 1.55, 95 % CI 1.39-1.71) but less likely to be located in the south (aOR 0.87; 0.81-0.93), quantified as large or medium (aOR 0.57; 95 %CI 0.50-0.67), or teaching hospitals (aOR 0.68; 95 % CI 0.63-0.74).

CONCLUSIONS

Socioeconomic status and hospital characteristics are factors that independently predict robotic utilization in the United States. These racial, socioeconomic, and geographic disparities warrant further study regarding the utilization of this important technology.

National disparities in minimally invasive surgery for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Social and racial disparities have been identified as factors contributing to differences in access to care and oncologic outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate national disparities in minimally invasive surgery (MIS), both laparoscopic and robotic, across different racial, socioeconomic and geographic populations of patients with rectal cancer.

METHODS

We utilized the American College of Surgeons National Cancer Database to identify patients with rectal cancer from 2004 to 2011 who had undergone definitive surgical procedures through either an open, laparoscopic or robotic approach. Inclusion criteria included only one malignancy and no adjuvant therapy. Multivariate analysis was performed to investigate differences in age, gender, race, income, education, insurance coverage, geographic setting and hospital type in relation to the surgical approach.

RESULTS

A total of 8633 patients were identified. The initial surgical approach included 46.5% open (4016), 50.9% laparoscopic (4393) and 2.6% robotic (224). In evaluating type of insurance coverage, patients with private insurance were most likely to undergo laparoscopic surgery [OR (odds ratio) 1.637, 95% CI 1.178-2.275], although there was a less statistically significant association with robotic surgery (OR 2.167, 95% CI 0.663-7.087). Patients who had incomes greater than $46,000 and received treatment at an academic center were more likely to undergo MIS (either laparoscopic or robotic). Race, education and geographic setting were not statistically significant characteristics for surgical approach in patients with rectal cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive approaches for rectal cancer comprise approximately 53% of surgical procedures in patients not treated with adjuvant therapy. Robotics is associated with patients who have higher incomes and private insurance and undergo surgery in academic centers.

Racial disparities in the use of SBRT for treating early-stage lung cancer

OBJECTIVES

Prior studies have shown that the surgical resection rate for black patients with early-stage lung cancer is significantly lower than that of white patients, which may partially explain the worse outcomes observed in this group. Over the past decade, however, there has been increasing utilization of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) as an alternative to surgical resection for inoperable patients. We undertook a population-based study to evaluate potential racial disparities in the use of SBRT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, black and white patients with Stage I NSCLC between 2003 and 2011 were identified. Patients were categorized based on primary treatment modality. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify demographic predictors of SBRT utilization in the non-operative population.

RESULTS

A total of 113,312 patients met the inclusion criteria. When compared to white patients, black patients were less likely to receive surgical intervention (66% vs. 58%, P<0.001) or SBRT (6.1% vs. 5.5%, P<0.001), and more likely to receive standard fractionated external beam radiation (EBRT) or no treatment. When confined to the non-operative cohort, multivariable logistic regression confirmed black race to be negatively associated with SBRT use compared to less aggressive therapy.

CONCLUSION

In this national dataset, we confirmed prior observations that black patients are less likely to receive surgery than white patients, and also found that black patients are less likely to receive SBRT. This suggests that even with emerging utilization of SBRT for inoperable candidates, black patients continue to receive less aggressive therapy.

Safety and feasibility of laparoscopic colo-rectal surgery for cancer at a tertiary center in a developing country: Egypt as an example

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic colectomy has been shown to have significant short- and long-term benefits compared to open approach. The incorporation of laparoscopy in developing countries is challenging, due to the high costs of equipment and lack of expertise. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic colorectal surgery for cancer that could be performed in developing countries under different circumstances in developed countries.

METHODS

Thirty-seven patients (23 males and 14 females) with colorectal cancer with a median age of 46 years (39-72) have been enrolled for laparoscopic colo-rectal surgery in a tertiary center in Egypt (South Egypt Cancer Institute) with the trend of reuse of some disposable laparoscopic instruments.

RESULTS

The median operative time was 130 min (95-195 min). The median estimated blood loss was 70 ml (30-90 ml). No major intra-operative complications have been encountered. Two cases (5.5%) have been converted because of local advancement (one case) and bleeding with unavailability of vessel sealing device at that time (one case). The median time for passing flatus after surgery was 36 h (12-72 h). The median hospital stay was 4.8 days (4-7 days). The peri-operative period passed without events. Pathologic outcome revealed that the median number of retrieved lymph nodes was 14 (range 9-23 lymph node) and all cases had free surgical margin.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery for cancer in developing countries could be safe and feasible. Safe reuse of disposable expensive parts of some laparoscopic instruments could help in propagation of this technique in developing countries.

A comparison of open and minimally invasive surgery for hepatic and pancreatic resections using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample

BACKGROUND

The use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques for pancreatic and liver operations remains ill defined. We sought to compare inpatient outcomes among patients undergoing open versus MIS pancreas and liver operations using a nationally representative cohort.

METHODS

We queried the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for all major pancreatic and hepatic resections performed between 2000 and 2011. Appropriate International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision (ICD-9) coding modifiers for laparoscopy and robotic assist were used to categorize procedures as MIS. Demographics, comorbidities, and inpatient outcomes were compared between the open and MIS groups.

RESULTS

A total of 65,033 resections were identified (pancreas, n = 36,195 [55.7%]; liver, n = 28,035 [43.1%]; combined pancreas and liver, n = 803 [1.2%]). The overwhelming majority of operations were performed open (n = 62,192, 95.6%), whereas 4.4% (n = 2,841) were MIS. The overall use of MIS increased from 2.3% in 2000 to 7.5% in 2011. Compared with patients undergoing an open operation, MIS patients were older and had a greater incidence of multiple comorbid conditions. After operation, the incidence of complications for MIS (pancreas, 35.4%; liver, 29.5%) was lower than for open (pancreas, 41.6%; liver, 33%) procedures (all P < .05) resulting in a shorter median length of stay (8 vs 7 days; P = .001) as well as a lower in-hospital mortality (5.1% vs 2.8%; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

During the last decade, the number of MIS pancreatic and hepatic operations has increased, with nearly 1 in 13 HPB cases now being performed via an MIS approach. Despite MIS patients tending to have more preoperative medical comorbidities, postoperative morbidity, mortality, and duration of stay compared favorably with open surgery.

Association between socioeconomic status, surgical treatment and mortality in patients with colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

High socioeconomic status is associated with better survival in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study investigated whether socioeconomic status is associated with differences in surgical treatment and mortality in patients with CRC.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with stage I-III CRC between 2005 and 2010 in the Eindhoven Cancer Registry area in the Netherlands were included. Socioeconomic status was determined at a neighbourhood level by combining the mean household income and the mean value of the housing.

RESULTS

Some 4422 patients with colonic cancer and 2314 with rectal cancer were included. Patients with colonic cancer and high socioeconomic status were operated on with laparotomy (70·7 versus 77·6 per cent; P = 0·017), had laparoscopy converted to laparotomy (15·7 versus 29·5 per cent; P = 0·008) and developed anastomotic leakage or abscess (9·6 versus 12·6 per cent; P = 0·049) less frequently than patients with low socioeconomic status. These differences remained significant after adjustment for patient and tumour characteristics. In rectal cancer, patients with high socioeconomic status were more likely to undergo resection (96·3 versus 93·7 per cent; P = 0·083), but this was not significant in multivariable analysis (odds ratio (OR) 1·44, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·84 to 2·46). The difference in 30-day postoperative mortality in patients with colonic cancer and high and low socioeconomic status (3·6 versus 6·8 per cent; P < 0·001) was not significant after adjusting for age, co-morbidities, emergency surgery, and anastomotic leakage or abscess formation (OR 0·90, 0·51 to 1·57).

CONCLUSION

Patients with CRC and high socioeconomic status have more favourable surgical treatment characteristics than patients with low socioeconomic status. The lower 30-day postoperative mortality found in patients with colonic cancer and high socioeconomic status is largely explained by patient and surgical factors.

Laparoscopic approach to gastrointestinal malignancies: Toward the future with caution

After the rapid acceptance of laparoscopy to manage multiple benign diseases arising from gastrointestinal districts, some surgeons started to treat malignancies by the same way. However, if the limits of laparoscopy for benign diseases are mainly represented by technical issues, oncologic outcomes remain the foundation of any procedures to cure malignancies. Cancerous patients represent an important group with peculiar aspects including reduced survival expectancy, worsened quality of life due to surgery itself and adjuvant therapies, and challenging psychological impact. All these issues could, potentially, receive a better management with a laparoscopic surgical approach. In order to confirm such aspects, similarly to testing the newest weapons (surgical or pharmacologic) against cancer, long-term follow-up is always recommendable to assess the real benefits in terms of overall survival, cancer-free survival and quality of life. Furthermore, it seems of crucial importance that surgeons will be correctly trained in specific oncologic principles of surgical oncology as well as in modern miniinvasive technologies. Therefore, laparoscopic treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies requires more caution and deep analysis of published evidences, as compared to those achieved for inflammatory bowel diseases, gastroesophageal reflux disease or diverticular disease. This review tries to examine the evidence available to date for the use of laparoscopy and robotics in malignancies arising from the gastrointestinal district.

Fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease: regional variability and factors predicting operative approach

We have recently shown that the majority of patients undergoing fundoplication in the United States are women. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that nonbiological factors contribute to the decisions on surgical reflux therapy. Using State Inpatient Databases of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, we extracted annual fundoplication rates, sex distribution, age cohorts, racial background, and insurance coverage. To account for potential differences in state populations, the results were normalized and correlated with Census data, adult obesity rates, median income, poverty rates, and physician workforce within the state. Fundoplication rates varied fivefold between states, ranging from 4.1±0.1 per 100,000 in New Jersey to 21.8±0.4 per 100,000 in Oregon. Higher poverty rates and a higher fraction of Caucasians within a state independently predicted higher fundoplication rates. While the majority of operations were performed laparoscopically, surgical approaches also differed between states with rates of laparoscopic ranging from 52.3±1.8% in Oklahoma to 87.4±1.7% in Hawaii. A lower number of pediatric and Medicaid-insured patient and a higher fraction of privately insured patients best predicted higher rates of laparoscopic surgery. Our study shows significant regional variation in surgical reflux management, which cannot be explained by differences in disease mechanisms. Insurance coverage and racial background influenced the likelihood of surgery, suggesting a role of financial incentives.