Small bowel obstruction following restorative proctocolectomy: affected by a laparoscopic approach? J Surg Res. 2011;170:202-208. [PMID: 21474147 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2011.03.004]

Drug Repurposing in Crohn's Disease Using Danish Real-World Data

Aim

Drug repurposing, utilizing electronic healthcare records (EHRs), offers a promising alternative by repurposing existing drugs for new therapeutic indications, especially for patients lacking effective therapies. Intestinal fibrosis, a severe complication of Crohn's disease (CD), poses significant challenges, increasing morbidity and mortality without available pharmacological treatments. This article focuses on identifying medications associated with an elevated or reduced risk of fibrosis in CD patients through a population-wide real-world data and artificial intelligence (AI) approach.

Methods

Patients aged 65 or older with a diagnosis of CD from 1996 to 2019 in the Danish EHRs were followed for up to 24 years. The primary outcome was the need of specific surgical procedures, namely proctocolectomy with ileostomy and ileocecal resection as proxies of intestinal fibrosis. The study explored drugs linked to an increased or reduced risk of the study outcome through machine-learning driven survival analysis.

Results

Among the 9179 CD patients, 1029 (11.2%) underwent surgery, primarily men (58.5%), with a mean age of 76 years, 10 drugs were linked to an elevated risk of surgery for proctocolectomy with ileostomy and ileocecal resection. In contrast, 10 drugs were associated with a reduced risk of undergoing surgery for these conditions.

Conclusion

This study focuses on repurposing existing drugs to prevent surgery related to intestinal fibrosis in CD patients, using Danish EHRs and advanced statistical methods. The findings offer valuable insights into potential treatments for this condition, addressing a critical unmet medical need. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to validate the effectiveness of these repurposed drugs in preventing surgery related to intestinal fibrosis in CD patients.

Risk Factors for Stoma Outlet Obstruction after Proctocolectomy for Ulcerative Colitis

Objectives

Stoma outlet obstruction (SOO) occurs with an incidence of approximately 40% after proctocolectomy for Ulcerative colitis (UC) with diverting ileostomy. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for SOO after proctocolectomy with diverting ileostomy for patients with UC.

Methods

We reviewed the data of 68 patients with UC who underwent proctocolectomy and diverting ileostomy between April 2006 and September 2021. These cases were analyzed on the basis of clinicopathological and anatomical factors. SOO was defined as small bowel obstruction displaying symptoms of intestinal obstruction, such as abdominal distention, abdominal pain, insertion of a tube through the stoma.

Results

The study included 38 (56%) men and 30 (44%) women with a median age of 42 years (range, 21-80). SOO categorized as at least Clavien-Dindo grade II occurred in 11 (16%) patients. Six patients required earlier stoma closure than scheduled. Compared with patients without SOO, patients with SOO had a significantly higher total steroid dose from the onset of UC to surgery (p = 0.02), a small amount of intraabdominal fat (p = 0.04), and a higher rate of laparoscopic surgery (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

A high preoperative steroid dose, a small amount of intraabdominal fat and laparoscopic surgery were identified as risk factors for SOO. Early detection and treatment for SOO are important for patients at risk.

Postoperative Morbidity Following Loop Ileostomy Reversal after Primary Elective or Urgent Surgery: A Retrospective Study with 145 Patients

Temporary loop ileostomy is usually performed to protect distal anastomosis or to treat urgent surgical cases. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether, after primary urgent stoma construction, patients undergoing ileostomy reversal have different postoperative outcomes compared with patients who have protective stoma performed in an elective setting. A retrospective observational study was conducted including patients who underwent ileostomy reversal. Baseline patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were collected in a single database. The overall morbidity rate during recovery was fixed as a primary outcome. Between 2011 and 2021, the complete data records of 145 patients were evaluated. After ileostomy reversal, the postoperative morbidity rate did not differ between groups (14.4% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.790). Even considering each complication, such as ileus, small bowel obstruction, bleeding and wound infection, no significant difference was detected. Similarly, the time to first flatus was 2.25 ± 1.24 vs. 2.1 ± 0.99 (p = 0.379) and the length of hospital stay was 5.43 ± 3.03 vs. 5.84 ± 5.15 (p = 0.568). The only significant factor associated with postoperative complications on logistic regression analysis was the presence of comorbidities (OR 4.49; 95% CI 1.19-29.4, p = 0.05). In the present cohort of patients, there was no difference in the postoperative complication rate after stoma closure following elective or urgent indication for surgery.

Method of prevention of post-operative peritoneal adhesions

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the research was to assess the performance of the method of prevention of post-operative peritoneal adhesions (PAs) (author's method) in patients of different age groups.

METHODS

Two hundred eighty-five patients were in total enrolled in the study. The patients of two age groups were divided into two groups: Group 1 (treatment group), where the author's method was used on 143 patients, and Group 2 (control group) 142 patients, where was used the standard approach of prevention of intra-abdominal adhesions. All patients were operated in an urgent order on adhesive intestinal obstruction (AIO). The patients previously had surgery on AIO one to 3 times. Within each group, sick children and adults were identified. The gender distribution was comparable in both groups.

RESULTS

The recurrence of AIO was significantly less in Group 1 than in Group 2 (1.4% and 6.3%, respectively, p<0.05). A separate study of the results of treatment in the age aspect in groups showed some features. Among children the AIO relapse rate in study Groups 1 and 2: Early AIO-in 1 (0.86%) and 2 (1.8%) patients, respectively; late AIO-in 1 (0.86%) and 4 (3.5%), patients, respectively. Among adults who didn't have relapse AIO during the follow-up period in Group 1. The AIO relapse rate in Group 2: Early AIO - in 1 (3.5%) and late AIO-2 (6.9%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The proposed author's method for preventing AIO recurrence has shown its effectiveness among patients with adhesive AIO. Besides, using this method in children to reduce the AIO relapse rate by more than thrice; in adult patients, to prevent the development of clinically significant signs of PA and normalize the patient's quality of life.

Obstructive and secretory complications of diverting ileostomy

This review aimed to highlight the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of obstructive and secretory complications associated with diverting ileostomy (DI). Obstructive complications at the stoma site are termed stoma outlet obstruction (SOO) or stoma-related obstruction (SRO). The incidence of SOO/SRO is 5.4%-27.3%, and the risk factors are multifactorial; however, the configuration of the stoma limb and the thickness of the rectus abdominis muscle (RAM) may be of particular concern. Trans-stomal tube decompression is initially attempted with a success rate of 33%-86%. A thick RAM may carry the risk of recurrence. Surgical refinement, including a wider incision of the anterior sheath and adequate stoma limb length, avoids tension and immobility and may decrease SOO/SRO. Secretory complications of DI are termed high output stoma (HOS). Persistent HOS lead to water and sodium depletion, and secondary hyperaldosteronism, resulting in electrolyte imbalances, such as hypomagnesemia. The incidence of HOS is 14%-24%, with an output of 1000-2000 mL/d lasting up to three days. Treatment of HOS is commenced after excluding postoperative complications or enteritis and includes fluid intake restriction, antimotility and antisecretory drug therapies, and magnesium supplementation. Intensive monitoring and surveillance programs have been successful in decreasing readmissions for dehydration.

Long Distance Between the Superior Mesenteric Artery Root and Bottom of the External Anal Sphincter Is a Risk Factor for Stoma Outlet Obstruction After Total Proctocolectomy and Ileal‐Pouch Anal Anastomosis for Ulcerative Colitis

Background

Stoma outlet obstruction (SOO) is much more common after total proctocolectomy (TPC) and ileal‐pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis (UC) compared to after rectal surgery for cancer. Few prior reports have evaluated anatomical risk factors for SOO. In this study we aimed to clarify the risk factors for SOO after IPAA, focusing on the anatomical perspective.

Methods

This study included 68 UC patients who underwent IPAA with diverting ileostomy. These cases were analyzed based on clinicopathological factors and computed tomography (CT)‐based anatomical factors.

Results

SOO was identified in 18 patients (26.5%). We compared this SOO group with the non‐SOO group. The two groups significantly differed in sex distribution, and patients in the SOO group tended to have a longer postoperative hospital stay. Regarding surgery‐related factors, patients who underwent two‐stage surgery and experienced high‐output syndrome tended to develop SOO. Analysis of anatomical risk factors revealed that SOO was more common in patients with a longer distance between the root of their superior mesenteric artery and the bottom of the external anal sphincter (rSMA‐bEAS). This tendency remained significant even with adjustment for patient height. In multivariate analyses, adjusted rSMA‐bEAS (>191.0 mm/m) and male sex were independent risk factors associated with SOO.

Conclusion

A long rSMA‐bEAS distance suggests that the mesentery is likely to be under tension. In such cases, surgeons should endeavor to avoid tension in the mesentery as much as possible.

Risk factors for outlet obstruction after laparoscopic surgery and diverting ileostomy for rectal cancer

PURPOSE

Outlet obstruction is defined as bowel obstruction at the stoma opening. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for outlet obstruction in patients with rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic surgery and diverting ileostomy.

METHODS

Among consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic curative resection for primary rectal cancer between 2013 and 2015, 261 patients with diverting ileostomy were included in the analysis. The thickness of the abdominal wall, including the thickness of the rectus abdominis muscle, was measured using preoperative computed tomography. The clinicopathological factors were compared between the patients with and without outlet obstruction.

RESULTS

Fourteen (5.4%) patients were diagnosed with outlet obstruction, but reoperation was not required. The rectus abdominis muscle was significantly thicker in male patients with outlet obstruction compared to those without outlet obstruction, but not in females. In a multivariate analysis, a rectus abdominis muscle thickness of 10 mm or more was determined to be an independent risk factor for outlet obstruction (odds ratio, 7.0482; p = 0.0061).

CONCLUSIONS

The thickness of the rectus abdominis muscle may be used to predict the occurrence of outlet obstruction in male patients with rectal cancer who undergo laparoscopic surgery and diverting ileostomy.

Short Bowel Syndrome after Laparoscopic Procedures

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a potential postoperative complication after intra-abdominal procedures. Whether the laparoscopic approach is as likely to result in SBS or the causative mechanisms are similar to open procedures is unknown. Our aim was to evaluate potential mechanisms of SBS after laparoscopic procedures. The records of 175 adult patients developing SBS as a postoperative complication were reviewed. One hundred forty-seven patients had open procedures and 28 laparoscopic. Colectomy (39%), hysterectomy (11%), and appendectomy (11%) were the most common open procedures. SBS followed laparoscopic gastric bypass (46%) and cholecystectomy (32%) most frequently. The mechanisms of SBS were different: adhesive obstruction (57 vs 22%, P < 0.05) was more common in the open group, whereas volvulus (18 vs 46%, P < 0.05) was more common after laparoscopy. Overall, ischemia (25 vs 32%) was similar but significantly more laparoscopic patients had postoperative hypoperfusion (32 vs 67%, P < 0.05). Eleven of the 13 laparoscopic bariatric procedures had internal hernias and volvulus. Of the nine patients undergoing cholecystectomy, four developed ischemia early postoperatively presumably secondary to pneumoperitoneum. SBS is an increasingly recognized complication of laparoscopic procedures. The mechanisms of intestinal injury differ from open procedures with a higher incidence of volvulus and more frequent ischemia from hypoperfusion.

Risk Factors for Small Bowel Obstruction After Laparoscopic Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Multivariate Analysis in Four Expert Centres in Europe

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Although laparoscopy is associated with a reduction in adhesions, no data are available about the risk factors for small bowel obstruction [SBO] after laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis [IPAA]. Our aims here were to identify the risk factors for SBO after laparoscopic IPAA for inflammatory bowel disease [IBD].

METHODS

All consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic IPAA for IBD in four European expert centres were included and divided into Groups A [SBO during follow-up] and B [no SBO].

RESULTS

From 2005 to 2015, SBO occurred in 41/521 patients [Group A; 8%]. Two-stage IPAA was more frequently complicated by SBO than 3- and modified 2-stage IPAA [12% vs 7% and 4%, p = 0.04]. After multivariate analysis, postoperative morbidity (odds ratio [OR] = 3, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.5-7, p = 0.002), stoma-related complications [OR = 3, 95% CI = 1-6, p = 0.03] and long-term incisional hernia [OR = 6, 95% CI = 2-18, p = 0.003] were predictive factors for SBO, while subtotal colectomy as first surgery was an independent protective factor [OR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2-0.8, p = 0.002]. In the subgroup of patients receiving restorative proctocolectomy as first operation, stoma-related or other surgical complications and long-term incisional hernia were predictive of SBO. In the patient subgroup of subtotal colectomy as first operation, postoperative morbidity and long-term incisional hernia were predictive of SBO, whereas ulcerative colitis and a laparoscopic approach during the second surgical stage were protective factors.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that SBO occurred in less than 10% of patients after laparoscopic IPAA. The study also suggested that modified 2-stage IPAA could potentially be safer than procedures with temporary ileostomy [2- and 3-stage IPAA] in terms of SBO occurrence.

Progress in surgical treatment of familial adenomatous polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease with a high tendency to develop colorectal cancer. The timing and choice of preventive surgical interventions should be based on the number, size and severity of adenomas, combined with a variety of considerations, in order to effectively prevent cancer and make patients easy to accept. Total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) procedure, which could minimize the residual rectal mucosa and reduce the risk of adenoma recurrence, has become the first choice for patients with FAP. Besides, laparoscopic IPAA has obvious advantages such as cosmetic appearance, quick recovery, little adhesion and high pregnancy rate. Patients with FAP should be managed by experienced surgeons working in specialized medical centers in order to get the most reasonable treatment at the best time and achieve long-term effective outcomes.

Small Bowel Obstruction After Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis With a Loop Ileostomy in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis

Purpose

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) remains a common complication after pelvic or abdominal surgery. However, the risk factors for SBO in ulcerative colitis (UC) surgery are not well known. The aim of the present study was to clarify the risk factors associated with SBO after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) with a loop ileostomy for patients with UC.

Methods

The medical records of 96 patients who underwent IPAA for UC between 1999 and 2011 were reviewed. SBO was confirmed based on the presence of clinical symptoms and radiographic findings. The patients were divided into 2 groups: the SBO group and the non-SBO group. We also analyzed the relationship between SBO and computed tomography (CT) scan image parameters.

Results

The study included 49 male and 47 female patients. The median age was 35.5 years (range, 14–72 years). We performed a 2- or 3-stage procedure as a total proctocolectomy and IPAA for patients with UC. SBO in the pretakedown of the loop ileostomy after IPAA occurred in 22 patients (22.9%). Moreover, surgical intervention for SBO was required for 11 patients. In brief, closure of the loop ileostomy was performed earlier than expected. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the 2-stage procedure (odds ratio, 2.850; 95% confidence interval, 1.009–8.044; P = 0.048) was a significant independent risk factor associated with SBO. CT scan image parameters were not significant risk factors of SBO.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that a 2-stage procedure is a significant risk factor associated with SBO after IPAA in patients with UC.

Perioperative outcomes and adverse events of robotic colorectal resections for inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic literature review

The purpose of this study was to assess outcome measures and cost-effectiveness of robotic colorectal resections in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The Cochrane Library, PubMed/Medline and Embase databases were reviewed, using the text "robotic(s)" AND ("inflammatory bowel disease" OR "Crohn's" OR "Ulcerative Colitis"). Two investigators screened abstracts for eligibility. All English language full-text articles were reviewed for specified outcomes. Data were presented in a summarised and aggregate form, since the lack of higher-level evidence studies precluded meta-analysis. Primary outcomes included mortality and postoperative complications. Secondary outcomes included readmission rate, length of stay, conversion rate, procedure time, estimated blood loss and functional outcome. The tertiary outcome was cost-effectiveness. Eight studies (3 case-matched observational studies, 4 case series and 1 case report) met the inclusion criteria. There was no reported mortality. Overall, complications occurred in 81 patients (54%) including 30 (20%) Clavien-Dindo III-IV complications. Mean length of stay was 8.6 days. Eleven cases (7.3%) were converted to open. The mean robotic operating time was 99 min out of a mean total operating time of 298.6 min. Thirty-two patients (24.7%) were readmitted. Functional outcomes were comparable among robotic, laparoscopic and open approaches. Case-matched observational studies comparing robotic to laparoscopic surgery revealed a significantly longer procedure time; however, conversion, complication, length of stay and readmission rates were similar. The case-matched observational study comparing robotic to open surgery also revealed a longer procedure time and a higher readmission rate; postoperative complication rates and length of stay were similar. No studies compared cost-effectiveness between robotic and traditional approaches. Although robotic resections for inflammatory bowel disease are technically feasible, outcomes must be interpreted with caution due to low-quality studies.

Incidence and risk factor of outlet obstruction after construction of ileostomy

There are several reports on the usefulness of diverting ileostomy for decreasing the incidence of anastomotic leakage and the severity of pelvic peritonitis. However, a number of complications induced by ileostomy itself have also been reported, including a special condition induced by obstruction at the outlet of the stoma known as “outlet obstruction.” In this study, we examined the frequency and risk factors of this complication based on the data of ileostomy cases in our institution. Methods: One hundred and seven patients who received ileostomy creation at our department from January 2010 to December 2015 were included. The incidence of outlet obstruction and risk factors were analyzed. Results: Outlet obstruction occurred in 18 cases (16.8%). The incidence was significantly higher in total colectomy or proctocolectomy cases as well as in those with left side construction and laparoscopic surgery than in other patients in a univariate analysis. However, in a multivariate analysis, no risk factors were extracted. Conclusions: To determine the true cause of this disease, a prospective study with a large number of cases is needed. Since multiple terms are used for this condition, resulting in confusion, a consensus on the appropriate terms is also important.

Outcome of restorative proctocolectomy with an ileo-anal pouch for ulcerative colitis: effect of changes in clinical practice

AIM

Surgery for ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has evolved over time, especially since the introduction of laparoscopy. The aim of this retrospective study was to report the impact of surgical evolution on outcome over a period of 25 years.

METHOD

All patients who had IPAA surgery for ulcerative colitis from 1990 to 2015 at the University Hospitals of Leuven were included. Patients were divided into three period arms (period A 1990-1999; period B 2000-2009; period C 2010-2015). The main outcome measure was anastomotic leakage.

RESULTS

A total of 335 patients (58.8% male) with a median age of 39 years (interquartile range 32-49 years) at surgery were included. Median follow-up was 5 years (interquartile range 2-10 years). Overall anastomotic leakage (grades A-C) was 14.9%. A significant decrease in leakage rate was observed over time (from 21.4% in period A to 12.1% in period B to 10.0% in period C; P = 0.04). The defunctioning ileostomy rate at the time of pouch construction decreased from 91.7% (period A) to 40.3% (period B) to 11.1% (period C) (P < 0.001). We observed an increase in the use of laparoscopy (23.9% in period A vs 72.6% in period B, vs 84.4% in period C; P = 0.001) and a shift to a modified two-stage procedure (4.1% in period A, vs 66.7% in period C; P < 0.0001). In a monocentric study with some of the data retrieved retrospectively it was not possible to account for the impact of preoperative nutritional status (weight loss, serum albumin level) or disease burden. Other outcome factors were not measured, for example sexual function and fecundity.

CONCLUSION

A higher rate of laparoscopic IPAA surgery, together with a shift towards modified two-stage procedures, was associated with a lower leakage rate despite a reduction in the use of defunctioning ileostomy.

Complications in children with ulcerative colitis undergoing ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

Total colectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is considered the standard procedure for the surgical management of ulcerative colitis. Despite the widespread utility of the procedure, as many as 75% of patients who undergo IPAA, experience at least 1 complication. This review highlights difficult intraoperative scenarios and complications of pouch surgery in children, including intraoperative, postoperative, and functional complications. Intraoperative scenarios include insufficient mesenteric length and positive leak tests. Postoperative complications include surgical site infection, anastomotic leak, stricture, fistula, pouchitis, small bowel obstruction, and pouch failure. Less common complications include afferent limb syndrome, pouch prolapse, and superior mesenteric artery syndrome. Functional complications include incontinence, impaired quality of life, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. Despite complications, most patients are satisfied with their outcomes and report an improvement in their lifestyle.

Risk factors of small bowel obstruction following total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis with diverting loop-ileostomy for ulcerative colitis

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) often occurs after total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis with diverting loop‐ileostomy for ulcerative colitis. Little is known about the association between SBO and surgical procedures for diverting loop‐ileostomy. We conducted a multicenter, retrospective questionnaire survey. Unlinkable anonymized data on ileostomy procedures and ileostomy‐related complications including SBO were collected from institutions specializing in surgery for inflammatory bowel disease. In total, 515 patients undergoing total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis with loop‐ileostomy among 1022 patients with ulcerative colitis undergoing surgery during a 3‐year period between 2012 and 2014 were analyzed. Twenty‐nine patients without information on complications were excluded. Incidence of ileostomy‐related complications and factors associated with the development of small bowel obstruction were determined in 486 patients. The most common complications were parastomal dermatitis (n=169, 34.8%), SBO (n=111, 22.8%), mucocutaneous dehiscence (n=59, 12.1%), stoma prolapse (n=21, 4.3%), parastomal hernia (n=12, 2.5%), and stoma retraction (n=11, 2.3%). Incidence of small bowel obstruction was significantly higher in patients with distance from the ileal pouch to the ileostomy of less than 30 cm and in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. Procedures for diverting loop‐ileostomy after surgery for ulcerative colitis varied among institutions. Incidence of small bowel obstruction was high after total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis with diverting loop‐ileostomy. Shorter distance between the pouch and the stoma and the laparoscopic surgery were risk factors for SBO in univariate analysis.

Clinical Characteristics of Stoma-Related Obstruction after Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis for Ulcerative Colitis

AIMS

We defined small bowel obstruction occurring around the limbs of the ileostomy as stoma-related obstruction (SRO) and investigated the clinical characteristics and predictive factors of SRO.

METHODS

From January 2002 to March 2016, 309 consecutive patients who underwent ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis were enrolled. Two-stage IPAA with diverting ileostomy was analyzed. We assessed the possible associations between SRO and clinical factors.

RESULTS

A total of 205 patients met the inclusion criteria. Fifty-three (25.8%) patients with SRO before ileostomy closure were identified for review. All patients with SRO were at least transiently resolved by intubation though orifice of ileostomy (98.1%) or nasally (3.7%). In 18 (33.9%) patients, the ileostomy was taken down ahead of schedule and the small bowel obstruction improved in all cases. Multivariate analysis revealed that age at surgery <16 years old and body mass index <21 were significant predictive factors for SRO (P = 0.013 and 0.0012, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Younger age at surgery and low body mass index may be significant predictive factors for SRO after IPAA with diverting ileostomy in patients with ulcerative colitis.

Systematic review: outcomes and post-operative complications following colectomy for ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Colectomy for ulcerative colitis is associated with short- and long-term complications. Estimates of the frequency of such complications are variable and may have changed since the introduction of biological therapy. Understanding the true burden of surgical complications is important to clinicians in assessing risks and benefits of colectomy vs. continued medical therapy.

AIM

To ascertain the outcomes of colectomy and ileal pouch surgery in patients with ulcerative colitis in the biologics era.

METHODS

Embase, MEDLINE and The Cochrane Library were searched for studies (2002-2015) reporting the outcomes of colorectal procedures (total and subtotal colectomy, IPAA with J-, S-, W-pouch) in adults with ulcerative colitis. Conferences proceedings (2011-2015) were hand-searched.

RESULTS

We identified 28 studies (20,801 patients) reporting outcomes from procedures conducted from 2002-2015. Early complications (≤30 days post-operatively), reported in 10 studies, occurred in 9-65% of patients with ulcerative colitis; late complications (>30 days post-operatively) occurred in 17-55% of patients. Most frequent short-term complications: infectious complications and ileus (mean incidence 20% and 18%). Most frequent long-term complications: pouchitis, faecal incontinence and small bowel obstruction (mean incidence 29%, 21% and 17%). Rates of early infection and late pouch failure decreased from 22% and 13% in 2002-2009 to 11% and 2% in 2010-2015. The mean incidence of post-operative mortality was 1.0% across 11 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Early and late complications arise in about one-third of patients undergoing surgery for ulcerative colitis. While colorectal surgical procedures are recommended for a specific group of patients, the post-operative complications associated with these procedures should not be underestimated.

Meta-analysis of the risk of small bowel obstruction following open or laparoscopic colorectal surgery

Background

One of the potential advantages of laparoscopic compared with open colorectal surgery is a reduction in postoperative bowel obstruction events. Early reports support this proposal, but accumulated evidence is lacking.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed of randomized clinical trials and observational studies by searching the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases from 1990 to August 2015. The primary outcomes were early and late postoperative bowel obstruction following laparoscopic and open colorectal surgery. Both ileus and bowel obstruction were defined as a postoperative bowel obstruction. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed, and a random-effects model was used to account for the heterogeneity among the studies.

Results

Twenty-four randomized clinical trials and 88 observational studies were included in the meta-analysis; 106 studies reported early outcome and 12 late outcome. Collectively, these studies reported on the outcomes of 148 392 patients, of whom 58 133 had laparoscopic surgery and 90 259 open surgery. Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic surgery was associated with reduced rates of early (odds ratio 0·62, 95 per cent c.i. 0·54 to 0·72; P &lt; 0·001) and late (odds ratio 0·61, 0·41 to 0·92; P = 0·019) postoperative bowel obstruction. Weighted mean values for early postoperative bowel obstruction were 8 (95 per cent c.i. 6 to 10) and 5 (3 to 7) per cent for open and laparoscopic surgery respectively, and for late bowel obstruction were 4 (2 to 6) and 3 (1 to 5) per cent respectively.

Conclusion

The reduction in postoperative bowel obstruction demonstrates an advantage of laparoscopic surgery in patients with colorectal disease.

Hand-assisted hybrid laparoscopic-robotic total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch--anal anastomosis

PURPOSE

Few studies have reported minimally invasive total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis (UC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). We herein report a novel hand-assisted hybrid laparoscopic-robotic technique for patients with FAP and UC.

METHODS

Between February 2010 and March 2014, six patients underwent hand-assisted hybrid laparoscopic-robotic total proctocolectomy with IPAA. The abdominal colectomy was performed laparoscopically with hand assistance through a transverse suprapubic incision, also used to fashion the ileal pouch. The proctectomy was carried out with the da Vinci Surgical System. The IPAA was hand-sewn through a trans-anal approach. The procedure was complemented by a temporary diverting loop ileostomy.

RESULTS

The mean hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) time was 154.6 (±12.8) min whereas the mean robotic time was 93.6 (±8.1) min. In all cases, a nerve-sparing proctectomy was performed, and no conversion to traditional laparotomy was required. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 13.2 (±7.4) days. No anastomotic leakage was observed. To date, no autonomic neurological disorders have been observed with a mean of 5.8 (±1.3) bowel movements per day.

CONCLUSIONS

The hand-assisted hybrid laparoscopic-robotic approach to total proctocolectomy with IPAA has not been previously described. Our report shows the feasibility of this hybrid approach, which surpasses most of the limitations of pure laparoscopic and robotic techniques. Further experience is necessary to refine the technique and fully assess its potential advantages.

Role of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of ulcerative colitis; short- and mid-term results

OBJECTIVES

Laparoscopy is used more widely for the surgery of ulcerative colitis. The objective of this study was a comparison of the surgical and 3-year follow-up results of patients treated with conventional and minimally invasive methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 45 patients received surgery for ulcerative colitis, 16 as emergency and 29 as elective cases. Laparoscopy was used in 23 and a conventional method in 22 cases. No difference was found between the two groups from the aspects of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status (ASA) class, mean body mass index (BMI) and age. There were 4 emergency cases in the laparoscopy group, and 12 in the open group. Nineteen elective surgeries were performed in the laparoscopy group, and 10 in the open group.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the groups as concerns the length of hospital or intensive care unit (ICU) stay, the time to bowel function recovery, but the duration of open surgery was significantly shorter. There was no difference between the groups in the rate of early postoperative complications, whereas among potential late complications, the rates of intestinal obstruction (8.7% vs. 45%) and a septic condition (0% vs. 27%) were significantly lower in the laparoscopy group. There was a significant improvement in the quality of life after surgery in both groups, and better cosmetic results were observed in the laparoscopy group.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopy can be used for ulcerative colitis both emergency and elective cases, it provides a good quality of life and the mid-term rate of complications is lower as compared with open surgery.

Morbidity of loop ileostomy closure after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Temporary loop ileostomy is a routine procedure to reduce the morbidity of restorative proctocolectomy. However, morbidity of ileostomy closure could reduce the benefit of this concept. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the risks of ileostomy closure after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Publications in English or German language reporting morbidity of ileostomy closure after restorative proctocolectomy were identified by Medline search. Two hundred thirty-two publications were screened, 143 were assessed in full-text, and finally 26 studies (reporting 2146 ileostomy closures) fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Weighted means for overall morbidity and mortality of ileostomy closure, rate of redo operations, anastomotic dehiscence, bowel obstruction, wound infection, and late complications were calculated.

RESULTS

Overall morbidity of ileostomy closure was 16.5 %, there was no mortality. Redo operations for complications were necessary in 3.0 %. Anastomotic dehiscence occurred in 2.0 %. Postoperative bowel obstruction developed in 7.6 %, with 2.9 % of patients requiring laparotomy for this complication. Wound infection rate was 4.0 %. Hernia or bowel obstruction as late complications developed in 1.9 and 9.4 %, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The considerable morbidity of ileostomy reversal reduces the overall benefit of temporary fecal diversion. However, ileostomy creation is still recommended, as it effectively reduces the risk of pouch-related septic complications.

Surgical treatment of familial adenomatous polyposis: Dilemmas and current recommendations

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant inherited syndrome characterized by multiple adenomatous polyps (predisposing to colorectal cancer development) and numerous extracolonic manifestations. The underlying genetic burden generates variable clinical features that may influence operative management. As a precancerous hereditary condition, the rationale of performing a prophylactic surgery is a mainstay of FAP management. The purpose of the present paper is to bring up many controversial aspects regarding surgical treatment for FAP, and to discuss the results and perspectives of the operative choices and approaches. Preferably, the decision-making process should not be limited to the conventional confrontation of pros and cons of ileorectal anastomosis or restorative proctocolectomy. A wide discussion with the patient may evaluate issues such as age, genotype, family history, sphincter function, the presence or risk of desmoid disease, potential complications of each procedure and chances of postoperative surveillance. Therefore, the definition of the best moment and the choice of appropriate procedure constitute an individual decision that must take into consideration patient’s preferences and full information about the complex nature of the disease. All these facts reinforce the idea that FAP patients should be managed by experienced surgeons working in specialized centers to achieve the best immediate and long-term results.

Feasibility and safety of laparoscopic total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for severe ulcerative colitis

INTRODUCTION

The laparoscopic approach is accepted as a treatment option for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who are otherwise in good health. However, its application for patients with severe UC remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of the laparoscopic approach for severe UC cases. Short- and long-term clinical outcomes after laparoscopic total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis were compared between severe and mild-to-intermediate UC patients.

METHODS

Cases treated between March 2002 and September 2010 were retrieved retrospectively from the database of Kyoto Medical Center and Kyoto University Hospital. Intraoperative complications and short- and long-term clinical outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 31 patients underwent laparoscopic total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. A comparison of short- and long-term clinical outcomes after one- or two-stage laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis between severe (n = 7) and mild-to-intermediate (n = 21) UC patients revealed no significant differences. The proportion of patients with restoration of intestinal continuity did not differ between the groups (severe: 86%, mild to intermediate: 95%; P = 0.69).

CONCLUSION

The present findings suggest that laparoscopic total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for severe UC patients could be a good alternative approach when performed by an experienced hand.

Comparison of laparoscopic-assisted and open total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic techniques have been applied to restorative proctocolectomy since the early 2000's. We have employed a technique for laparoscopic-assisted total proctocolectomy (TPC) and ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) for the treatment of children with ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 68 laparoscopic-assisted TPCs and 39 open TPCs performed at our institution for UC between January 1997 and February 2011. Case duration, postoperative length of stay, and complications of the two groups were compared, and multivariable analysis was applied.

RESULTS

The two groups were comparable with respect to gender, age, and postoperative length of stay. Total abdominal colectomy (TAC) duration was significantly longer in the laparoscopic-assisted group (P < .001). Complications were similar in the laparoscopic and open group, although small bowel obstruction (SBO) was significantly less frequent in the laparoscopic group (log-rank test = 8.88, P = .003). Kaplan-Meier estimated freedom from SBO at 1 year follow-up is 99% for patients treated laparoscopically (95% CI: 98%-100%) and 76% for those undergoing an open surgical approach (95% CI: 64%-88%).

CONCLUSIONS

The significantly lower SBO rate, low complication rates, and equivalent length of stay favor use of the laparoscopic-assisted approach for TPC and IPAA in children.

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.

Risk factors of early postoperative small bowel obstruction following a proctectomy for rectal cancer

Purpose

Postoperative small bowel obstruction is a common and serious complication following a proctectomy, and early postoperative small bowel obstruction (EPSBO) leads to longer hospital stays, delays chemotherapy in advanced cases, and may be a contributor to mortality. The goal of this study is to identify the risk factors of EPSBO after a proctectomy for rectal cancer, thereby seeking to reduce the incidence of EPSBO.

Methods

Patients (735) who underwent a proctectomy for rectal cancer between March 2005 and February 2010 were entered into this study, and data were collected prospectively. Patients were judged to have EPSBO if, within the first 30 days, they presented symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal distention lasting for 2 days, and radiologic finding of small bowel obstruction after evidence of return of small bowel motility. The association between EPSBO and patients and surgery-related variables were studied by using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

EPSBO developed in 47 cases (6.4%) and was the most frequently occurring complication in the early perioperative period following a proctectomy. The frequency of EPSBO according to operative variables shows that EPSBO developed in 3.0% of the patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery (LS) compared with 8.4% of the patients who underwent open surgery (OS) (P = 0.004). OS (odds ratio [OR], 2.5) and a previous laparotomy (OR, 2.3) were independent risk factors for the development of EPSBO after a proctectomy for rectal cancer.

Conclusion

EPSBO is more likely to occur in patients who undergo OS or who have had a previous laparotomy. LS may be considered as a surgical procedure that can reduce the risk of EPSBO in patients undergoing a proctectomy for rectal cancer.