Laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of colonic polyps

Can Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors and CD34 Expression Implement NICE (Narrow-Band Imaging International Colorectal Endoscopic) Classification in Colorectal Polypoid Lesion Diagnosis?

BACKGROUND

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a subfamily of growth factors involved in angiogenesis; CD34+ cells are normally found in endothelial progenitor cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels. Colonic adenomatous polyps may not always be completely removable endoscopically, and a preoperative diagnosis might still be necessary. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether VEGF-A, VEGF-C and CD34 mRNA expression along colorectal carcinogenesis steps can implement NICE (Narrow-Band Imaging International Colorectal Endoscopic) classification in the diagnosis of malignancy in colorectal polypoid lesions.

METHODS

Seventy-one subjects with colonic adenoma or cancer who underwent screening narrow-band imaging (NBI) colonoscopy were prospectively enrolled in the MICCE1 project (Treviso center). Polyps were classified according to the NICE classification. Real-time RT-PCR for VEGF-A, VEGF-C and CD34 mRNA expression was performed. Nonparametric statistics, receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis and logistic multiple regression analysis were used.

RESULTS

VEGF-A and CD34 mRNA expression was significantly higher in sessile adenomas than in polypoid ones (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively). VEGF-A, VEGF-C and CD34 mRNA expression was significantly higher in adenocarcinoma than in adenoma (p = 0.01, p = 0.01 and p = 0.01, respectively). The accuracy of VEGF-A, VEGF-C and CD34 mRNA expression for prediction of malignancy was 0.79 (95% CI 0.65-0.90), 0.81 (95% CI 0.66-0.91) and 0.80 (95% CI 0.65-0.90), respectively, while the accuracy of the NICE classification was 0.85 (95% CI 0.72-0.94). The determination coefficient R2, which indicates the amount of the variability explained by a regression model, for NICE classification alone was 0.24 (p < 0.001). A regression model that included NICE classification and VEGF-C mRNA expression showed an R2 = 0.39 as well as a model including NICE classification and CD34 mRNA levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that VEGF-C and CD34 mRNA levels might be useful to stratify colorectal polyps in different risk of progression classes by implementing the accuracy of the NICE classification. Studies on in vivo detection of these markers are warranted.

Radioguided Occult Colonic Lesion Identification (Rocli) during Open and Laparoscopic Surgery

Aims and Background

Intraoperative localization, during open and laparoscopic surgery, of small, nonpalpable colonic lesions located at peculiar sites or with concurrent inflammatory bowel alterations (diverticulosis, perivisceritis) is often difficult. The aim of our work was to assess the validity of radioguided identification after preoperative labeling.

Methods and Study Design

Patients who were candidates for colon surgery for occult lesions that, because of their size and location, were assumed to be difficult to detect, underwent colonoscopy 1 to 2.5 hours before surgery. A small dose of labeled albumin macroaggregates was injected with a sclerotherapy needle into the subserosa underneath the lesion. Immediately following injection the lesion was identified with a transcutaneously placed gamma detecting probe. Intraoperative tracer detection was performed either during open surgery or by means of a laparoscopic probe (detection time 3-5 mins). The position of the lesion was marked with a suture or with a clip. Surgery was performed according to the type of lesion to be treated.

Results

In our initial clinical experience 15 colon lesions were preoperatively marked in 14 patients and were subsequently detected during surgery (four under laparoscopy) with a gamma detecting probe. This technique allows highly accurate, fast, and inexpensive surgical localization of lesions without irradiation and without complications.

Conclusion

Our experience shows that preoperative endoscopic marking of nonpalpable colon lesions with 99mTc-labeled albumin macroaggregates followed by intraoperative detection with a gamma probe is a useful clinical method that is highly accurate and without complications.

Colorectal polypoid lesions and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in a consecutive series of endoscopic and surgical patients

Colorectal cancer incidence in patients undergoing screening protocols is decreasing because of the higher rate of discovered preneoplastic colonic lesions; however, adenomatous polyps may not always be removable endoscopically and surgery may still be necessary. The aim of this study was to assess the vascular endothelial growth factor expression in the different steps of colorectal carcinogenesis to explore its potential role as a marker of malignancy in polypoid lesions. A total of 92 subjects with colonic adenoma or cancer who underwent screening colonoscopy or surgery were prospectively enrolled. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for VEGF-A messenger RNA expression and immunohistochemistry for VEGF-A were performed. Immunoassays for VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3 were also performed. Non-parametric statistics, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and logistic multiple regression analysis were used. VEGF-A messenger RNA expression was higher in patients with high-grade dysplasia or colorectal cancer than in those with low-grade dysplasia adenomas (p = 0.01). At immunohistochemistry, VEGF-A expression was significantly higher in colorectal cancer patients compared to dysplastic adenomas (p < 0.001), and the accuracy of VEGF-A expression for prediction of malignancy was 91.7 (95% confidence interval = 78.7-97.9). VEGF-C protein expression was lower in colorectal cancer patients than in simple adenomas (p = 0.02). VEGF-A levels were directly correlated to polyp size (rho = 0.73, p = 0.0062). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that malignancy and polyp size were independent predictors of VEGF-A mucosal levels. This study demonstrated that the VEGF-A expression changes along the colorectal carcinogenesis pathway showing a neat step up at the passage from high-grade dysplasia to invasive cancer. This feature might potentially be useful to stratify colorectal polyps in different risks of progression classes. Moreover, the high level of VEGF-A expression predicted the presence of lymphovascular invasion with good accuracy.

Laparoscopic resection of colonic lipomas: When and why?

PATIENT

Male, >60 FINAL DIAGNOSIS: Colonic lipoma Symptoms: Rectal bleeding • abdominal pain • fatique • abdominal distention

MEDICATION

- Clinical Procedure: Laparoscopic resection Specialty: General surgery.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to review and discuss the clinical picture and management of 4 patients who underwent laparoscopic colonic resection with a definitive pathology of colonic lipoma.

BACKGROUND

Colonic lipomas are rare benign nonepithelial tumors of the colon. They begin to be symptomatic when they reach a certain size, although the presentation can vary. Different endoscopic and surgical treatment strategies have been reported in the literature.

CASE REPORTS

Four male patients who underwent laparoscopic colonic resection and had definitive diagnosis of colonic lipoma were included in this report. All patients were over 60 years old. The first case presented with massive rectal bleeding. Obstructive symptoms and intermittent bleeding were prominent in the second and third cases. Abdominal pain and discomfort was present in the forth case. In the first 2 cases, abdominal CTs were suggestive of colonic lipoma and laparoscopic ileocecal resection was performed. However, malignancy could not be ruled out in the other 2 cases due to large size and heterogeneous appearance of the lesions and inconclusive endoscopic biopsies consisted of ulcer with exudate and inflammatory cells. Laparoscopic left and right hemicolectomy was performed in the third and forth cases, respectively. There were no complications in any patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic resection can be the first choice in treatment of colonic lipomas with various presentations. Wider resections should be considered in cases with uncertain diagnosis.

Oncologic colorectal resection, not advanced endoscopic polypectomy, is the best treatment for large dysplastic adenomas

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and partial circumference resection are used for large benign polyps to avoid an "Oncologic" Colorectal Resection (OCR); polyps with invasive cancer require OCR. This review of polyp patients who had OCR was done to stratify polyps into risk groups to guide treatment.

METHODS

Colonoscopy, operative, and pathology reports of patients with adenoma (+/- dysplasia) who had OCR were reviewed. Polyp size, location, and pathology were assessed.

RESULTS

Three hundred eighty-six polyp patients who had OCR were studied. Polyp locations were: right, 263 (68.1%); transverse, 33 (8.6%); sigmoid, 38 (9.8%); rectum, 23 (6.0%); and multiple sites, 13 (3.4%). The preoperative diagnosis was adenoma for 288 (74.6%) and dysplastic adenoma for 98 patients (25.4%). Final pathology revealed 62 invasive cancers (16.1%); 35% (34 out of 98) with dysplasia preoperatively had cancer versus 9.7% (28 out of 288) with adenoma alone (p < 0.0001). The mean lymph node count was 16.0 ± 10.2. Cancer stage breakdown was: stage 1, 74%; stage 2, 8.1%; stage 3, 16%; and stage 4, 1.6%. The mean benign polyp size was 3.0 ± 1.9 versus 3.9 ± 2.4 cm for malignant polyps (p = 0.0008).

CONCLUSION

Over one out of three of dysplastic polyps and 10% of adenomas were invasive cancers. OCR is advised for dysplastic polyps; ESD, EMR, and wedge resection are appropriate for non-dysplastic adenomas.

Salvage colectomy for endoscopically removed malignant colon polyps: is it possible to determine the optimal number of lymph nodes that need to be harvested?

AIM

The total number of lymph nodes examined after salvage colectomy for endoscopically removed malignant polyps was evaluated and an attempt was made to determine whether there was an optimal number of lymph nodes that should be harvested.

METHOD

From 2000 to 2009, 531 patients underwent segmental resection for non-metastatic colon cancer. Of these, 22 underwent a salvage colectomy for an endoscopically removed malignant polyp, the main indication for which was a resection margin of < 1 mm. The surgical procedure was identical to that used for all colon cancers.

RESULTS

The mean number of lymph nodes examined was 11.6 ± 7.6 for the 22 patients with an endoscopically removed malignant polyp and 26.2 ± 13.9 for the remaining 509 patients (P = 0.0006). Fewer than 12 lymph nodes were examined in 62 (12%) of the 509 patients and in 13 (59%) of the 22 patients with an endoscopically removed malignant polyp (P < 0.0001). In the group of 22 patients who underwent a salvage colectomy, the total number of lymph nodes examined ranged from 2 to 33. At a mean follow up of 41 ± 15.6 months, no local or distant recurrence was observed in the 22 patients.

CONCLUSION

The total number of lymph nodes examined after colectomy for endoscopically removed malignant polyps varies and is less than the recommended number of 12 in most cases: this does not appear to have long-term prognostic significance. There is no biological reason to explain this clinical observation.

Laparoscopic resection for colorectal polyps: a single institution experience

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic polypectomy, although routinely used for the treatment of colorectal polyps, may be limited by polyp size, location and histology. Laparoscopic resection for malignant polyps and polyps not amenable to endoscopic removal has the advantage of adequate disease clearance as well as the short-term benefits of laparoscopic surgery. This study evaluates the outcomes of such an approach.

METHODS

Patients who had laparoscopic resection for colorectal polyps between January 2005 and July 2008 were identified from a prospective database. Polyps that were malignant, large, difficult to snare or incompletely excised, were included. Demographics, perioperative details and histopathology were analysed.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients (44 male) with a median age of 62.5 years (range 24-86) were studied. The majority (79%) were laparoscopic anterior resections for sigmoid or rectal polyps. Median operating time was 125 min (range, 65-225). Eight cases (10.3%) were converted to open mainly due to adhesions. There was no post-operative mortality. Perioperative complications occurred in seven patients (8.9%). Median hospital stay was 6 days (range 4-78). Median polyp size was 20 mm (range, 5-75). There were 44 benign polyps (55.7%); majority were tubulovillous adenomas (n= 22), and tubular adenomas (n= 10). Thirty-five patients (44.3%) had invasive cancer, with T1 (n= 27) and T2 (n= 2) tumours. Three of these patients (8.6%) had lymph node metastases. Median number of lymph nodes sampled was six (range 0-23).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic resection is safe and effective for colorectal polyps not amenable to colonoscopic removal, and is especially important for adequate clearance in the case of malignant polyps.

Laparoscopic colectomy using cancer principles is appropriate for colonoscopically unresectable adenomas of the colon

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to determine the risks of cancer in unresectable polyps and to compare the short-term outcome of laparoscopic colectomy with that of open colectomy for benign polyps.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients (n = 165) undergoing colectomy for an adenoma unresectable at colonoscopy was performed on patients collected in a prospective database. One hundred four patients underwent laparoscopic colectomy and 61 underwent open colectomy between 1991 and 2003. Follow-up was 7 to 155 (median, 90) months.

RESULTS

In the laparoscopic group, 85% of the patients underwent a right colectomy and 15% underwent a left colectomy or a sigmoidectomy. Conversion to open colectomy occurred in 4.8% of the cases. Complications occurred in 14% of the patients, including 1 death. The median length of stay was 4 days. At final pathology, cancer was diagnosed in 15 patients: stage I in 8 patients, stage II in 5, and stage III in 2. In the open colectomy group, 69% of the patients underwent right colectomy. The complication rate reached 23% (P = .13), including death in 2 patients. The median length of stay was 6 days (P < .01). Cancer was diagnosed in 6 patients: stage I in 5 patients, and stage II in 1. Proximal (10 cm) and distal (13 cm) margins, lymph nodes harvest (9), incidence of cancer (13%), and high-grade dysplasia (22%) were similar between groups. There were no local recurrences, trocar site implants, or deaths due to cancer.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colectomy for polyps unresectable at colonoscopy is safe. Oncologic resection of the colon should be performed for all colonoscopically unresectable polyps due to the risk of cancer.

Laparoscopic colorectal resection for benign polyps not suitable for endoscopic polypectomy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic polypectomy still remains the cornerstone of therapy for colorectal polyps and adenomas. However, if colorectal polyps are too large or not accessible for endoscopic ablation or cannot be removed without an increased risk for perforation, operative procedures are required. In such circumstances, laparoscopic resection represents a minimally invasive alternative.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 1993 and December 2004, more than 2,500 endoscopic polypectomies were performed at the Department of Surgery, University of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Germany. In patients which could not be treated by endoscopic polypectomy due to size, location, and/or risk of complications, a laparoscopic colorectal resection was performed. All data were prospectively assessed in our "colorectal resection" database.

RESULTS

The database analysis revealed 58 patients with endoscopically not resectable colorectal polyps who underwent a laparoscopic colorectal resection (intend to treat). In 54 patients, the operative procedure could be finished by the laparoscopic approach (study population). The conversion rate was 6.9% (four of 58). An ileocolic resection was performed in 20 patients (37.0%), and 14 patients (25.9%) underwent an anterior rectal resection. A right colectomy was necessary in 12 patients (22.2%), and six patients (11.1%) underwent a sigmoid resection. In the remaining two patients, a left colectomy and a resection of the transverse colon were performed. Intra- and postoperative complications occurred in five patients (9.3%). Perioperative mortality was not registered. The histopathological work-up revealed benign disease in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic resection of colorectal polyps is a safe and minimally invasive technique for the management of benign colorectal tumors. Thus, the laparoscopic approach to endoscopically not resectable polyps enriches the therapeutic spectrum.

Combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resections of colorectal polyps: 10-year experience and follow-up

BACKGROUND

Large, colorectal polyps or those that are difficult to access may be unamenable to conventional snare polypectomy and may require surgical resection. This study was designed to evaluate the resection of such lesions by the use of combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resections (CLER).

METHODS

Patients who had received CLER for colorectal polyps between January 1997 and December 2006 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Patients with biopsies consistent with invasive cancer were excluded from the combined approach. Baseline characteristics, surgical, pathological, postoperative, and follow-up data of patients and lesions were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 146 consecutive patients underwent CLER for 154 lesions, and 120 (82%) patients underwent local excision (i.e., laparoscopy-assisted endoscopic resection, endoscopy-assisted wedge resection, and endoscopy-assisted transluminal resection). Twenty-six (18%) patients received endoscopy-assisted segmental colon resection. Conversion rate was 5% and intraoperative complications occurred in two patients (1%). Major postoperative complications occurred in five patients (3%), necessitating surgical reintervention in four of them. Follow-up colonoscopy revealed metachronous adenomas in 33 patients, of which 8 patients showed macroscopic or microscopic characteristics of advanced lesions. One patient, who had been converted to open resection because of incomplete laparoscopic resection of an adenoma, developed relapse of the initial adenoma and was successfully treated with repeat CLER accounting for a local recurrence rate of 0.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resection is an efficient, safe, and minimally invasive alternative to open resection for selected patients with difficult polyps, but it should be restricted to benign disease.

Combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resections of colorectal polyps: 10-year experience and follow-up

BACKGROUND

Large, colorectal polyps or those that are difficult to access may be unamenable to conventional snare polypectomy and may require surgical resection. This study was designed to evaluate the resection of such lesions by the use of combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resections (CLER).

METHODS

Patients who had received CLER for colorectal polyps between January 1997 and December 2006 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Patients with biopsies consistent with invasive cancer were excluded from the combined approach. Baseline characteristics, surgical, pathological, postoperative, and follow-up data of patients and lesions were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 146 consecutive patients underwent CLER for 154 lesions, and 120 (82%) patients underwent local excision (i.e., laparoscopy-assisted endoscopic resection, endoscopy-assisted wedge resection, and endoscopy-assisted transluminal resection). Twenty-six (18%) patients received endoscopy-assisted segmental colon resection. Conversion rate was 5% and intraoperative complications occurred in two patients (1%). Major postoperative complications occurred in five patients (3%), necessitating surgical reintervention in four of them. Follow-up colonoscopy revealed metachronous adenomas in 33 patients, of which 8 patients showed macroscopic or microscopic characteristics of advanced lesions. One patient, who had been converted to open resection because of incomplete laparoscopic resection of an adenoma, developed relapse of the initial adenoma and was successfully treated with repeat CLER accounting for a local recurrence rate of 0.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resection is an efficient, safe, and minimally invasive alternative to open resection for selected patients with difficult polyps, but it should be restricted to benign disease.

Laparoscopic resection for endoscopically unresectable colorectal polyps: analysis of 525 patients

BACKGROUND

For the management of endoscopically irretrievable polyps, several minimally invasive procedures are currently available as alternatives to conventional laparotomy. However, the high rate of malignant transformation despite initially benign histology continues to be a problem.

METHODS

Within the framework of a prospective multicenter observational study, all patients with adenomatous polyps unsuitable for endoscopic removal and with benign histology were investigated. In addition to an analysis of the perioperative course and the definitive histology, the overall and disease-free survival rates of patients with malignant transformation of colorectal adenomas were also calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 525 patients (median age 65.3 years; median body mass index 25.6 kg/m(2)) underwent a laparoscopic resection. Conversion to laparotomy became necessary in 17 (3.2%) cases. The perioperative morbidity rate was 20.8%, and malignant transformation occurred in a total of 18.1% of the adenomatous polyps. The median number of lymph nodes removed was 12, and lymph node metastases were seen in a total of 14.8% of the patients (T1--4.8%, T2--19.4%, T3--25%, T4--100%). Estimated 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates were 92.4% and 80.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

For the management of endoscopically unresectable polyps, laparoscopic resection is currently the technique of choice. In addition to the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, in the hands of an experienced surgeon it achieves results comparable with those of open surgery. In view of the high rate of malignant transformation and the absence of unequivocal factors predictive of already present malignant transformation, an oncologically radical operation is essential. In the elderly patient presenting with comorbidities limited resection aiming to minimize surgical trauma in potentially benign disease may be considered. In such a case, however, frozen-section histology is obligatory.

Laparoscopic colonoscopic rendezvous procedures for the treatment of polyps and early stage carcinomas of the colon

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic treatment of large or colonoscopically inaccessible polyps or early stage tumors in the colon holds the risk of incomplete resection and colonic perforation. The combination of colonoscopy and laparoscopy offers a minimally invasive treatment modality for the complete resection of polyps with low risk. Aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and outcome of patients operated on by laparoendoscopic rendezvous procedures at the colon.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of 38 patients (21 male, 17 female, median age 66 years [range 39-90]) undergoing rendezvous surgery at the colon were reviewed prospectively. Follow-up data were obtained by clinical examination and personal communication via telephone or questionnaire. The median follow up was 54 months.

RESULTS

From January 1998 until April 2007, 38 patients were treated with rendezvous procedures in our hospital. In 30 cases, a colonoscopically assisted laparoscopic procedure was performed and in eight patients a laparoscopically controlled colonoscopic procedure. A benign lesion was confirmed histologically in 31 patients. In five cases, histopathologic diagnosis revealed a malignancy necessitating colonic surgery. A coprolith extraction and a suture of the sigma were performed in one case each. Complications occurred in two patients. One patient developed an anastomosis insufficiency that necessitated a revision. One patient developed pneumonia postoperatively. A conversion to laparotomy had to be performed in two cases.

CONCLUSION

Rendezvous procedures offer a safe, minimal-invasive therapeutic approach allowing the resection of benign sessile or colonoscopically inaccessible localized polyps and of early stage colon cancer.

Laparoscopic colectomy for apparently benign colorectal neoplasia: A word of caution

PURPOSE

Endoscopically unresectable apparently benign colorectal polyps are considered by some surgeons as ideal for their early laparoscopic colectomy experience. Our hypotheses were: (1) a substantial fraction of patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy for apparently benign colorectal neoplasia will have adenocarcinoma on final pathology; and (2) in our practice, we perform an adequate laparoscopic oncological resection for apparently benign polyps as evidenced by margin status and nodal retrieval.

METHODS

Data from a consecutive series of patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy (on an intention-to-treat basis) for endoscopically unresectable neoplasms with benign preoperative histology were retrieved from a prospective database and supplemented by chart review.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 63 patients (mean age 67, mean body mass index 29). Two out of 63 cases (3%) were converted to laparotomy because of extensive adhesions (n = 1) and equipment failure (n = 1). Colectomy type: right/transverse (n = 49, 78%); left/anterior resection (n = 10, 16%); subtotal (n = 4, 6%). Invasive adenocarcinoma was found on histological analysis of the colectomy specimen in 14 out of 63 cases (22%), standard error of the proportion 0.052. Staging of the 14 cancers were I (n = 6, 43%), II (n = 3, 21%), III ( = 4, 29%), and IV (n = 1, 7%). The median nodal harvest was 12 and all resection margins were free of neoplasm. Neither dysplasia on endoscopic biopsy nor lesion diameter was predictive of adenocarcinoma. Eight out of 23 (35%) patients with dysplasia on endoscopic biopsy had adenocarcinoma on final pathology versus 6/40 (15%) with no dysplasia (p = 0.114, Fisher's exact test). Mean diameter of benign tumors was 3.2 cm (range 0.5-10.0cm) versus 3.9cm (range 1.5-7.5cm) for adenocarcinomas (p = 0.189, t - test).

CONCLUSION

A substantial fraction of endoscopically unresectable colorectal neoplasms with benign histology on initial biopsy will harbor invasive adenocarcinoma, some of advanced stage. This finding supports the practice of performing oncological resection for all patients with endoscopically unresectable neoplasms of the colorectum. The inexperienced laparoscopic colectomist should approach these cases with caution.

Outcome of laparoscopic colectomy for polyps not suitable for endoscopic resection

BACKGROUND

Large colonic polyps or polyps that lie in anatomical locations that are difficult to access at endoscopy may not be suitable for endoscopic resection and therefore may require partial colectomy. This approach eradicates the polyp and allows an oncologic resection should the polyp prove to be malignant. The purpose of this study was to assess outcomes of a laparoscopic approach for the management of these polyps.

METHODS

Patients referred for laparoscopic colectomy for colonic polyps were identified from the prospective colorectal laparoscopic surgery database. Demographics, operative details, and final pathology were reviewed.

RESULTS

Fifty-one consecutive patients (27 male) with a mean age of 68 +/- 11.4 years, ASA classification (1/2/3/4) of 0/21/27/3, and body mass index (BMI) of 26.5 +/- 4.9 were identified. Right (RHC) and left (LHC) colectomy was performed for 39 right and 12 left colonic polyps. Mean operating time (OT) was 87 +/- 30 min (81 for RHC, 105 for LHC) and mean hospital stay was 3.1 +/- 1.9 days. There were six complications (17.7%), including anastomotic leak (n = 1), small bowel obstruction (n = 2), abscess (n = 1), and exacerbation of preexisting medical conditions (n = 2). Four patients were readmitted (7.8%); one required CT scan-guided abscess drainage (1.9%) and two required reoperation (3.9%). Five patients (9.8%) were converted because of adhesions (n = 3), obesity (n = 1), and inability to identify the area that was tattooed at colonoscopy (n = 1). Mean polyp size was 3.1 cm, and pathology revealed tubular (n = 14), tubulovillous (n = 33) and villous adenoma (n = 2), pseudopolyp (n = 1), and prolapse of the appendix into the cecum mimicking an adenoma (n = 1). High-grade dysplasia was seen in four tubular (33%) and five tubulovillous adenomas (15.5%). Adenocarcinoma not identified at colonoscopy was found in 11 polyps (20%), 9 tubulovillous (27.8%) and both villous adenomas (100%).

CONCLUSIONS

Large colonic polyps unresectable at colonoscopy are associated with a high rate of unsuspected cancer. This requires a formal colectomy rather than transcolonic polypectomy. Laparoscopic colectomy offers safe and effective management of these polyps with the benefits of accelerated postoperative recovery.

Advances in gastrointestinal endoscopic techniques

An increasing number of techniques for endoscopic diagnosis and treatment is being described. Endoscopic surgeons should be familiar with these techniques. Although many of the diagnostic techniques, other than marking, do not have widespread clinical application, the therapeutic techniques that were described in this article are being used successfully in increasing numbers of appropriately selected patients. Additional experience and technologic advances will refine the endoscopic therapy that is available to patients with colorectal diseases.

Laparoscopic colon resection early in the learning curve: what is the appropriate setting?

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic colon resection (LCR) is a safe and effective treatment of benign and malignant colonic lesions. There is little question that a steep learning curve exists for surgeons to become skilled and proficient at LCR. Because of this steep learning curve, debate exists regarding the appropriate hospital setting for LCR. We hypothesize that outcomes of LCR performed early in the learning curve at a regional medical center (New Hanover Regional Medical Center; NHRMC) and a university medical center (Baylor College of Medicine; BCM) would not be significantly different.

METHODS

The first 50 consecutive LCRs performed at each institution between August 2001 and December 2003 were reviewed. Age, mean body mass index (BMI), gender, history of previous abdominal surgery (PAS), operative approach [laparoscopic (LAP) versus hand/laparoscopic assisted (HAL)], conversions (Conv), operative time (OR time), pathology (benign vs. malignant), lymph nodes (LN) harvested in malignant cases, length of stay (LOS), morbidity and mortality were obtained. Continuous data were expressed as mean +/- SD. Data were analyzed by chi, Fisher exact test, or t test.

RESULTS

NHRMC patients were on average older females with a higher incidence of PAS. A LAP approach was more frequently performed at BCM (86%), whereas HAL was used more frequently at NHRMC (24%). Conversions to open were similar at both institutions (12%). Benign disease accounted for the majority of operations at both institutions. In cases of malignancy, more LN were harvested at BCM. OR time and LOS were shorter at NHRMC. Complication rates were similar between institutions. There were no anastomotic leaks or deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

LCR can be performed safely and with acceptable outcomes early in the learning curve at regional medical centers and university medical centers. Outcomes depend more on surgeons possessing advanced laparoscopic skills and adhering to accepted oncologic surgical principles in cases of malignancy, than on the size or location of the healthcare institution.

Laparoscopic colorectal resection for polyps not suitable for colonoscopic removal

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic removal of large sessile polyps is sometimes technically difficult and is associated with an increased risk of complications. Moreover, the incidence of invasive carcinoma within these polyps is not negligible. Laparoscopic colorectal resection has been recommended in the treatment of these large polyps. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal resection for polyps that were not suitable for colonoscopic removal.

METHODS

Forty-five patients (28 men and 17 women) who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection with the preoperative diagnosis of colorectal polyps were analyzed. The reasons for surgical resection were large sessile polyps (n = 34), difficult position (n = 2), recurrence after transanal endoscopic microsurgery (n = 1), and the presence of intramucosal malignancy on histology after colonoscopic polypectomy (n = 8).

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 66.7 years (range, 33-89). Previous abdominal operation had been performed in 12 patients (26.7%). Two patients underwent subtotal colectomy because of multiple polyps (14 and 19, respectively). Synchronous resection of other organs was performed in two patients (a right salpingo-oophorectomy and a right adrenalectomy). Intraoperative complications occurred in two patients, and two patients (4.5%) required conversion because of perforation of the colon during dissection and dense adhesions, respectively. There was no postoperative mortality. Complications occurred in seven patients (15.6%), and they included postoperative ileus (n = 4), anastomotic leakage (n = 1), urinary retention (n = 1), and urinary tract infection (n = 1). Reoperation was required in one patient for anastomotic leakage. The median hospital stay was 6 days. The histopathology of colorectal polyps showed tubular (n = 12), tubulovillous (n = 13), and villous adenoma (n = 12); mixed adenomatous/hyperolastic polyps (n = 2); inflammatory polyp (n = 1); and colonic lipoma (n = 1). Four patients, who had previous polypectoray with intramucosal malignancy, had no residual pathology. The median size was 3.0 cm. Invasive carcinoma was found in 16 patients (35.6%). The median number of lymph node sampling was six, and two patients had lymph node metastases.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonic polyps that were not amendable for colonoscopic removal were associated with a high incidence of malignant invasion. Laparoscopic colectomy offers safe and effective management of these polyps with the benefits of early postoperative recovery.

Preoperative colonoscopy decreases the need for laparoscopic management of colonic polyps

PURPOSE

Patients are commonly referred to surgeons for surgical resection of polyps that cannot be excised colonoscopically. Repeating the colonoscopy may be met with resistance by both the patient and the referring endoscopist. However, there are two distinct benefits. First, if the lesion was not marked, tattooing facilitates laparoscopic resection. Second, and more importantly, many of these polyps can be removed endoscopically by an experienced colorectal surgeon, avoiding unnecessary colon resection. Over a period of five years, we have reviewed preoperative colonoscopy in patients who were referred for surgical treatment of benign polyps.

METHODS

From January 1999 through September 2003 all patients referred for surgical resection of a benign polyp were consecutively entered into a database by a single group of colorectal surgeons. All patients underwent preoperative colonoscopy on the day before the planned colon resection. Patient charts were reviewed, and demographics were recorded. The referral and preoperative colonoscopy reports and all pathology results were reviewed to record the polyp size, location, histology, and subsequent treatment.

RESULTS

Altogether, 71 patients were included in this study. The average size of the polyps was 24 mm (range, 10-60 mm). The location of the polyp as determined by preoperative colonoscopy differed from the location noted on referral colonoscopy in nine patients (13 percent). Surgery was canceled in 23 patients (32 percent), primarily because of complete polypectomy at preoperative colonoscopy. Of the 48 who underwent surgery, 23 (47 percent) had a colonic tattoo placed, at the discretion of the surgeon. Lesions clearly located in the cecum were not tattooed routinely. Of the 48 patients who underwent surgery, 45 (94 percent) underwent laparoscopic colon resection.

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded that patients referred for surgical resection of a polyp should undergo repeat colonoscopy preoperatively, given that in our study one-third of patients were spared unnecessary colectomy. In addition, repeat endoscopy by the operating surgeon offers an opportunity to confirm the location of the lesion and place a colonic tattoo to facilitate laparoscopic resection.

Laparoscopic colectomy in the management of large, sessile, transformed colorectal polyps

BACKGROUND

Colonic polyps are usually removed endoscopically. Surgical intervention is reserved for large, inaccessible colorectal polyps that have underdone malignant transformation. Laparoscopic management of colonic polyps has gained a well-defined role.

METHODS

Since 1993, 650 laparoscopic colectomies have been performed in our department. Twenty-eight patients with large, sessile, polyps that have undergone malignant transformation underwent elective laparoscopic colectomy. Operative procedures included 14 sigmoidectomies, 10 low anterior recto-sigmoid resections, 3 right colectomies, and 1 left colectomy. Central ligation of vessels and lymph node dissection were preformed in all patients.

RESULTS

The main outcome measures include conversion rate (11%), morbidity (11%), and mortality (3.5%). The mean return of bowel function was 3.1 days, liquid intake 1.4 days, solid food intake 2.5 days, and mean hospital stay 8 days. The mean specimen length was 23 cm, and the mean number of retrieved lymph nodes was 15. Malignancy according to Dukes classification was in situ, n=4; A, n=15; B, n=4; C, n=4; and D, n=1. During follow-up, 2 patients developed liver metastases.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colectomy is a technically feasible and effective method for treating large colorectal polyps that have undergone malignant transformation.

Prospective comparison of laparoscopic versus open resection for benign colorectal disease

Laparoscopic surgery is not being applied in a widespread manner in the management of benign or malignant colorectal disorders. This is a prospective comparison of 279 patients who underwent elective colorectal surgery. Colorectal diseases included inflammatory bowel, diverticular disease, colonic inertia, polyps, and rectal prolapse. Data included 136 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery (mean age, 51.3 years) and 143 who underwent open surgery (mean age, 56.0 years). Thirteen patients' procedures were converted to open, but their results were included in the laparoscopic surgery group. There was no significant difference in operative time, postoperative complications, morbidity, or mortality between the laparoscopic and open surgery groups. More patients in the laparoscopic group had significant cardiac disease (6.0%, laparoscopic; 0.7%, open; = 0.01). More patients in the open group had undergone previous gastrointestinal surgery (3.7%, laparoscopic; 11.2%, open; = 0.02). The laparoscopic group used less postoperative analgesia and resumed oral feeding quicker ( < 0.05). In addition, time to first flatus and bowel movement was faster ( < 0.05), and the length of postoperative hospital stay (7.7 +/- 15.8 versus 11.0 +/- 8.3; = 0.03) was shorter in the laparoscopic surgery group. There are significant advantages in postoperative recovery with the laparoscopic technique. If proven to be cost-effective, laparoscopic colorectal surgery for benign diseases should become the standard of surgical care.

Intraoperative endoscopy in laparoscopic colectomy

BACKGROUND

The localization of focal colonic pathologies is problematical in laparoscopic surgery because it is difficult to palpate the colon. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of intraoperative lower endoscopy in laparoscopic segmental colectomy.

METHODS

We did a retrospective review of the charts of patients who had undergone laparoscopic segmental colectomy. Patients in whom intraoperative lower endoscopy had been used were compared to a group of 250 patients who had colectomy by laparotomy. The patients were matched by type of surgery and operating surgeon.

RESULTS

Between 1991 and 2000, 233 patients underwent laparoscopic segmental colectomy at our clinic. Lower endoscopy was employed in 57 of them (24%), as compared to 42 patients (17%) in the laparotomy matched group ( p = 0.042). The diseased segment was successfully identified in all of the patients in whom the main indication for endoscopy was localization (65% of cases). Endoscopy was judged to have changed the surgical management in 66% of the 57 cases in whom it was employed, and especially in 88% of the 37 patients for whom the main indication had been localization. There were no endoscopy-related complications.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative lower endoscopy is a useful and safe tool for the localization of pathologies and the assessment of the intracorporeal anastomosis in laparoscopic segmental colectomy.