Wound dehiscence after abdominoperineal resection for low rectal cancer is associated with decreased survival

Closed Incisional Negative Pressure Therapy Reduces Perineal Wound Complications After Abdominoperineal Resection

BACKGROUND

Perineal wound complications after abdominoperineal resection continue to be a significant challenge. Complications, ranging from 14% up to 60%, prolong hospitalization, increase risk of readmission and reoperation, delay the start of adjuvant therapy, and place psychological stress on the patient and family.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of closed incision negative pressure therapy on perineal wound healing.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective study.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted in an academic community hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients who underwent abdominoperineal resection from 2012 to 2020 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Perineal wound complications within 30 and 180 days were the primary outcome measures.

RESULTS

A total of 45 patients were included in the study. Of these, 31 patients were managed with closed incision negative pressure therapy. The overall perineal wound complications were less frequent in the closed incision negative pressure therapy group (10/31; 32.2%) compared to the control group (10/14; 71.4%; = 5.99 [ p = 0.01]). In the closed incision negative pressure therapy group, 2 patients (20%) did not heal within 180 days and no patient required reoperation or readmission. In the control group, 4 patients (44%) had not healed at 180 days and 1 patient required flap reconstruction. When the effect of other variables was controlled, closed incision negative pressure therapy resulted in an 85% decrease in the odds of wound complications (adjusted OR 0.15 [95% CI, 0.03-0.60]; p = 0.01).

LIMITATIONS

The nonrandomized nature and use of historical controls in this study are its limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

The ease of application and the overall reduction in the incidence and severity of complications may offer an option for perineal wound management and possibly obviate the need for more expensive therapies. Further prospective controlled trials are required to effectively study its efficacy. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B895 .

LA TERAPIA POR PRESIN NEGATIVA INCISIONAL CERRADA, REDUCE LAS COMPLICACIONES DE LA HERIDA PERINEAL DESPUS DE LA RESECCIN ABDOMINOPERINEAL

ANTECEDENTES:Las complicaciones de la herida perineal, después de la resección abdominoperineal, continúan siendo un desafío importante. Las complicaciones, que van desde el 14% hasta el 60%, prolongan la hospitalización, aumentan el riesgo de reingreso y reintervención, retrasan el inicio de la terapia adyuvante y generan estrés psicológico en el paciente y su familia.OBJETIVO:Evaluar el impacto de la terapia de presión negativa con incisión cerrada en la cicatrización de heridas perineales.DISEÑO:Estudio retrospectivo.ENTORNO CLINICO:Hospital comunitario académico.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a resección abdominoperineal entre 2012 y 2020.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACION:Las complicaciones de la herida perineal dentro de los 30 y 180 días fueron las principales medidas de valoración.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron en el estudio a un total de 45 pacientes. De estos, 31 pacientes fueron tratados con terapia de presión negativa con incisión cerrada. Las complicaciones generales de la herida perineal fueron menos frecuentes en el grupo de terapia de presión negativa con incisión cerrada (10/31, 32,2%) en comparación con el grupo de control (10/14, 71,4%) (X_1 ^ 2 = 5,99 [ p = 0,01]). En el grupo de terapia de presión negativa con incisión cerrada, dos pacientes (20%) no cicatrizaron en 180 días y ningún paciente requirió reintervención o readmisión. En el grupo de control, cuatro pacientes (44%) no habían cicatrizado a los 180 días y un paciente requirió reconstrucción con colgajo. Cuando se controló el efecto de otras variables, la terapia de presión negativa con incisión cerrada resultó con una disminución del 85% en las probabilidades de complicaciones de la herida (OR ajustado, 0.15 [IC 95%, 0,03-0,60]; p = 0,01).LIMITACIONES:La naturaleza no aleatoria y el uso de controles históricos en este estudio, son limitaciones.CONCLUSIÓNES:La facilidad de aplicación, reducción general de la incidencia y gravedad de las complicaciones, pueden ofrecer una opción para el manejo de las heridas perineales y posiblemente obviar la necesidad de tratamientos más costosos. Se necesitan más ensayos controlados prospectivos para efectivamente estudiar la eficacia. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B895 . (Traducción-Dr. Fidel Ruiz Healy ).

Reconstruction with omental flap and negative pressure wound therapy after total pelvic exenteration of anal fistula cancer: a case report

Introduction

Surgery for anal fistula cancer (AFC) associated with Crohn’s disease usually entails extensive perineal wounds and dead space in the pelvis, which is often filled with a myocutaneous flap. However, use of a myocutaneous flap is invasive. We report a case of total pelvic exenteration (TPE) for AFC in which a myocutaneous flap was avoided by using an omental flap and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT).

Case presentation

The patient was a 47-year-old woman who had been treated for Crohn’s disease involving the small and large intestine for 30 years and had repeatedly developed anal fistulas. She was referred with a diagnosis of AFC that had spread extensively in the pelvis. We performed laparoscopic TPE via a transperineal endoscopic approach. To prevent infection in the large skin defect and extensive pelvic dead space postoperatively, the perineal wound was reconstructed using an omental flap and NPWT. During 20 days of NPWT, the wound steadily decreased in size and closed on postoperative day (POD) 20. She was discharged without complications on POD 30.

Discussion

NPWT is useful for preventing perineal wound infection and promoting granulation tissue formation. However, direct contact with the intestine may lead to intestinal perforation. In this case, the combination of an omental flap with NPWT effectively prevented surgical site infection. The flap filled the large pelvic dead space and physically separated the intestine from the polyurethane foam used for NPWT.

Conclusion

NPWT and an omental flap may become an option when performing TPE.

Perineal wound complication risk factors and effects on survival after abdominoperineal resection of rectal cancer: a single-centre retrospective study

PURPOSE

This study determined the risk factors associated with perineal wound complications (PWCs) and investigated their effect on overall survival in patients with rectal cancer who underwent abdominoperineal resection (APR).

METHODS

The clinicopathologic and follow-up data of patients who underwent APR for primary rectal cancer between 1998 and 2018 were reviewed. PWCs were defined as any perineal wound that required surgical intervention, antibiotics, or delayed healing for more than 2 weeks. The primary objective was identifying the risk factors of PWC after APR. The effect of PWC on survival was also investigated as a secondary objective.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twenty patients were included in the final analyses and 49 had PWCs. An operative time of > 285 min (odds ratio: 2.440, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.257-4.889) was found to be independently associated with PWCs. When the follow-up time was > 60 months, patients with PWCs had a significantly lower overall survival rate than patients without PWC (n = 156; mean over survival: 187 and 164 months in patients without and with PWCs, respectively; P = 0.045). Poor differentiation (hazard ratio (HR): 1.893, 95% CI: 1.127-3.179), lymph node metastasis (HR: 2.063, 95% CI: 1.228-3.467), and distant metastasis (HR: 3.046, 95% CI: 1.551-5.983) were associated with poor prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Prolonged operative time increases the risk of PWCs, and patients with PWCs have a lower long-term survival rate than patients without PWCs. Therefore, surgeons should aim to reduce the operative time to minimise the risk of PWC in patients undergoing APR for rectal cancer.

Perineal Wound Closure Following Abdominoperineal Resection and Pelvic Exenteration for Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary

Abdominoperineal resection (APR) and pelvic exenteration (PE) for the treatment of cancer (mainly anal and rectal cancers) require extensive pelvic resection with a high rate of postoperative complications. The objective of this work was to systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (VRAMf) and mesh closure on perineal morbidity following APR and PE. The studies were distributed as follows: Group A comparing primary closure (PC) and VRAMf, Group B comparing PC and mesh closure, Group C comparing PC and VRAMf in PE. The meta-analysis of Groups A and B showed PC to be associated with an increase in the rate of total and major perineal wound complications. PC was associated with a decrease in total and major perineal complications in Group C.

Abstract

Background. Abdominoperineal resection (APR) and pelvic exenteration (PE) for the treatment of cancer require extensive pelvic resection with a high rate of postoperative complications. The objective of this work was to systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (VRAMf) and mesh closure on perineal morbidity following APR and PE (mainly for anal and rectal cancers). Methods. We searched PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE for eligible studies as of the year 2000. After data extraction, a meta-analysis was performed to compare perineal wound morbidity. The studies were distributed as follows: Group A comparing primary closure (PC) and VRAMf, Group B comparing PC and mesh closure, and Group C comparing PC and VRAMf in PE. Results. Our systematic review yielded 18 eligible studies involving 2180 patients (1206 primary closures, 647 flap closures, 327 mesh closures). The meta-analysis of Groups A and B showed PC to be associated with an increase in the rate of total (Group A: OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.43–0.71; p < 0.01/Group B: OR 0.54, CI 0.17–1.68; p = 0.18) and major perineal wound complications (Group A: OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.35–0.68; p < 0.001/Group B: OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.12–1.17; p < 0.01). PC was associated with a decrease in total (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.39–4.35; p < 0.01) and major (OR 1.67, 95% CI 0.90–3.08; p = 0.1) perineal complications in Group C. Conclusions. Our results confirm the contribution of the VRAMf in reducing major complications in APR. Similarly, biological prostheses offer an interesting alternative in pelvic reconstruction. For PE, an adapted reconstruction must be proposed with specialized expertise.

Meta-analysis of the impact of postoperative infective complications on oncological outcomes in colorectal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND

Cancer outcomes are complex, involving prevention, early detection and optimal multidisciplinary care. Postoperative infection and surgical site-infection (SSI) are not only uncomfortable for patients and costly, but may also be associated with poor oncological outcomes. A meta-analysis was undertaken to assess the oncological effects of SSI in patients with colorectal cancer.

METHODS

An ethically approved PROSPERO-registered meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for studies published between 2007 and 2017 reporting the effects of postoperative infective complications on oncological survival in colorectal cancer. Results were separated into those for SSI and those concerning anastomotic leakage. Articles with a Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies score of at least 18 were included. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95 per cent confidence intervals were computed for risk factors using an observed to expected and variance fixed-effect model.

RESULTS

Of 5027 articles were reviewed, 43 met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 154 981 patients. Infective complications had significant negative effects on overall survival (HR 1·37, 95 per cent c.i. 1·28 to 1·46) and cancer-specific survival (HR 2·58, 2·15 to 3·10). Anastomotic leakage occurred in 7·4 per cent and had a significant negative impact on disease-free survival (HR 1·14, 1·09 to 1·20), overall survival (HR 1·34, 1·28 to 1·39), cancer-specific survival (HR 1·43, 1·31 to 1·55), local recurrence (HR 1·18, 1·06 to 1·32) and overall recurrence (HR 1·46, 1·27 to 1·68).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis identified a significant negative impact of postoperative infective complications on overall and cancer-specific survival in patients undergoing colorectal surgery.

Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy to Reduce Wound Complications after Abdominoperineal Resection

INTRODUCTION

Abdominoperineal resection is associated with a high rate of wound complications. A high degree of wound tension, a common contributor to wound breakdown and complications, may be mitigated by incisional negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Although NPWT has been shown to reduce complications associated with open and complex wounds, there is a paucity of data regarding its prophylactic use for incisional wounds.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of NPWT use on surgical wound complications of abdominoperineal resection for malignancy.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review by querying the PubMed database for studies from 1990 to 2019 and included English-language studies that used incisional NPWT for closed wounds from abdominoperineal resection in malignancy cases.

RESULTS

Five studies with a total of 76 patients were included. Their findings showed reduced rates of surgical site complications with the use of incisional NPWT. Another 2 studies describing the use of prophylactic NPWT to expedite secondary closure of the surgical wound followed by incisional wound therapy were separately categorized and included 8 patients, none of whom experienced wound wound complications.

DISCUSSION

Additional, prospective research is needed to confirm the benefit of prophylactic incisional NPWT.

What is the advantage of rectal amputation with an initial perineal approach for primary anorectal carcinoma?

Background

Rectal amputation (RA) remains an important surgical procedure for salvage despite advances in sphincter-preserving resection, including intersphincteric resection. The aim of this study was to compare short- and long-term outcomes of RA with an initial perineal approach to those of RA with an initial abdominal approach (conventional abdominoperineal resection (APR)) for primary anorectal cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the short- and long-term outcomes of 48 patients who underwent RA with an initial perineal approach (perineal group) and 21 patients who underwent RA with an initial abdominal approach (conventional group).

Results

For the perineal group, the operation time was shorter than that for the conventional group (313 vs. 388 min, p = 0.027). The postoperative complication rate was similar between the two groups (43.8 vs. 47.6%, p = 0.766). Perineal wound complications (PWCs) were significantly fewer in the perineal group than in the conventional group (22.9 vs. 57.1%, p = 0.006). All 69 patients underwent complete TME, but positive CRM was significantly higher in the conventional group than in the perineal group (0 vs. 19.0%, p = 0.011). There were no significant differences in the recurrence (43.8 vs. 47.6%, p = 0.689), 5-year disease-free survival (63.7% vs. 56.7%, p = 0.665) and 5-year overall survival rates (82.5% vs. 66.2%, p = 0.323) between the two groups.

Conclusion

These data suggest that RA with an initial perineal approach for selective primary anorectal carcinoma is advantageous in minimizing PWCs and positive CRMs. Further investigations on the advantages of this approach are necessary.

Risk factors for delayed perineal wound healing and its impact on prolonged hospital stay after abdominoperineal resection

Background

Perineal wound complications are a long-lasting issue for abdominoperineal resection (APR) patients. Complication rates as high as 60% have been reported, with the most common complication being delayed perineal wound healing. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for delayed perineal wound healing and its impact on prolonged hospital stay.

Methods

We included low rectal tumor patients who underwent APR at a referral medical center from April 2002 to December 2017; a total of 229 patients were included. The basic characteristics and surgical outcomes of the patients were analyzed to identify risk factors for delayed perineal wound healing (> 30 days after APR) and prolonged hospital stay (post-APR hospital stay > 14 days).

Results

All patients received primary closure for their perineal wound. The majority of patients were diagnosed with adenocarcinoma (N = 213, 93.1%). In the univariate analysis, patients with hypoalbuminemia (albumin < 3.5 g/dL) had an increased risk of delayed wound healing (39.5% vs. 60.5%, P = 0.001), which was an independent risk factor in the multivariable analysis (OR 2.962, 95% CI 1.437–6.102, P = 0.003). Patients with delayed wound healing also had a significantly increased risk of prolonged hospital stay (OR 6.404, 95% CI 3.508–11.694, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Hypoalbuminemia was an independent risk factor for delayed wound healing, which consequently led to a prolonged hospital stay. Further clinical trials are needed to reduce the incidence of delayed perineal wound healing by correcting albumin levels or nutritional status before APR.

Excluding the ischiorectal fossa irradiation during neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with intensity-modulated radiotherapy followed by abdominoperineal resection decreases perineal complications in patients with lower rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to explore the impact of including or excluding the ischiorectal fossa (IRF) within the clinical target volume during neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) using intensity modulated radiotherapy, in locally advanced lower rectal cancer (LALRC).

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the data of 220 LALRC patients who received NCRT followed by abdominoperineal resection between January 2009 and January 2015. Six patients were excluded because of loss to follow-up, 90 patients received IRF irradiation (IRF group) while 124 patients did not (NIRF group). Survival, patterns of recurrence, and treatment toxicities were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Overall, patient/treatment variables were well balanced except for surgical technique. Perineal wound complications in the IRF and NIRF groups, were 40.0 and 24.2%, respectively (p = 0.010); corresponding 3-year perineal recurrence rates, local recurrence free survival, overall survival, and distant relapse free survival were 4.4% vs. 2.4% (p = 0.670), 88.1% vs. 95.0% (p = 0.079), 82.6% vs. 88.4% (p = 0.087), and 61.9% vs. 81.0% (p = 0.026), respectively. Multivariate analyses demonstrated the following factors to be significantly related to perineal wound complications: irradiation of the IRF (odds ratio [OR] 2.892, p = 0.002), anaemia (OR 3.776, p = 0.010), operation duration > 180 min (OR 2.486, p = 0.007), and interval between radiotherapy and surgery > 8 weeks (OR 2.400, p = 0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

Exclusion of the IRF from the clinical target volume during NCRT using intensity-modulated radiotherapy in LALRC could lower the incidence of perineal wound complications after abdominoperineal resection, without compromising oncological outcomes.

Omental flaps in patients undergoing abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Following abdominoperineal resection (APR) for rectal cancer, perineal wound complications are common. Omental flap creation may allow for decreased morbidity. The aim of this study was to assess wound complications in rectal cancer patients undergoing APR with and without the addition of an omental flap.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Proctectomy targeted database from 2016 to 2017 was used to identify all patients undergoing APR for rectal cancer. The primary outcomes were wound complications such as superficial site infection, deep wound infection, organ space infection, and wound dehiscence.

RESULTS

There were 3063 patients identified. One hundred seventy-three (5.6%) patients underwent APR with an omental flap repair while 2890 (94.4%) patients underwent APR without an omental flap repair. Patients in both groups were similar with regard to age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesia class, and neoadjuvant cancer treatment (all p > 0.05). Patients who underwent an omental flap repair were significantly more likely to have a postoperative organ space infection (10.4% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.04). There was no significant difference in rates of superficial site infection, deep wound infection, wound dehiscence, or reoperation between the two patient groups. In multivariable analysis, omental flap creation was independently associated with organ space infection (OR 1.72, 95%CI 1.02-2.90, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest study to evaluate omental flap use in rectal cancer patients undergoing APR. Omental flaps are independently associated with organ space infection.

Abdominoperineal Resection for Rectal Cancer in the Twenty-First Century: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Management of low rectal cancer continues to be a challenge, and decision making regarding the need for an abdominoperineal resection (APR) in patients with low-lying tumors is complicated. Furthermore, choices need to be made regarding need for modification of the surgical approach based on tumor anatomy and patient goals.

DISCUSSION

In this article, we address patient selection, preoperative planning, and intraoperative technique required to perform the three types of abdominoperineal resections for rectal cancer: extrasphincteric, extralevator, and intersphincteric. Attention is paid not only to traditional oncologic outcomes such as recurrence and survival but also to patient-reported outcomes and quality of life.

Abdominoperineal Resection for Rectal Cancer in the Twenty-First Century: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Management of low rectal cancer continues to be a challenge, and decision making regarding the need for an abdominoperineal resection (APR) in patients with low-lying tumors is complicated. Furthermore, choices need to be made regarding need for modification of the surgical approach based on tumor anatomy and patient goals.

DISCUSSION

In this article, we address patient selection, preoperative planning, and intraoperative technique required to perform the three types of abdominoperineal resections for rectal cancer: extrasphincteric, extralevator, and intersphincteric. Attention is paid not only to traditional oncologic outcomes such as recurrence and survival but also to patient-reported outcomes and quality of life.

The application of incisional negative pressure wound therapy for perineal wounds: A systematic review

Impaired perineal wound healing is a major source of morbidity after abdominoperineal resection. Incisional negative pressure wound therapy can improve healing, prevent infections, and decrease the frequency of dehiscence. Our objective was to summarise existing evidence on the use of incisional negative pressure wound therapy on perineal wounds after abdominoperineal resection and to determine the effect on perineal wound complications. Electronic databases were searched in January 2017. Studies describing the use of incisional negative pressure wound therapy on primarily closed perineal wounds after abdominoperineal resection were included. Of the 278 identified articles, 5 were retrieved for inclusion in the systematic review (n = 169 patients). A significant decrease in perineal wound complications when using incisional negative pressure wound therapy was demonstrated, with surgical site infection rates as low as 9% (vs 41% in control groups). The major limitation of this systematic review was a small number of retrieved studies with small patient populations, high heterogeneity, and methodological issues. This review suggests that incisional negative pressure wound therapy decreases perineal wound complications after abdominoperineal resection. Further prospective trials with larger patient populations would be needed to confirm this association and delineate which patients might benefit most from the intervention.

Extended pelvic resection for rectal and anal canal tumors is a significant risk factor for perineal wound infection: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Perineal wound infection (PWI) rates are high after abdominoperineal resection (APR) and total pelvic exenteration (TPE). This study identified risk factors for PWI after surgery for anorectal tumors and examined the relationship between the surgical excision volume with the PWI degree.

METHODS

A retrospective review involving 135 patients who underwent surgical excision of anorectal tumors was performed. Superficial PWI included cellulitis and superficial dehiscence; deep PWI included major dehiscence, perineal abscess, and presacral abscess. The adjacent organ resection type was classified according to the dead space size formed by surgical excision.

RESULTS

Of the 135 patients, 119 underwent APR, and 16 underwent TPE. PWI occurred in 75 patients (superficial PWI, 44; deep PWI, 31). Adjacent organ resection was an independent risk factor for PWI. The cases with adjacent organ resection were classified into small-defect APR, large-defect APR, and TPE. Large-defect APR and TPE cases had significantly higher rates of deep PWI than APR cases without adjacent organ resection.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjacent organ resection involving the removal of one or more organs and that involving wide-range muscle resection are strong risk factors for deep PWI.

Long-term prognostic impact of surgical complications in the German Rectal Cancer Trial CAO/ARO/AIO-94

Background

The influence of postoperative complications on survival in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer undergoing combined modality treatment is debatable. This study evaluated the impact of surgical complications on oncological outcomes in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated within the randomized CAO/ARO/AIO-94 (Working Group of Surgical Oncology/Working Group of Radiation Oncology/Working Group of Medical Oncology of the Germany Cancer Society) trial.

Methods

Patients were assigned randomly to either preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) followed by total mesorectal excision (TME) or postoperative CRT between 1995 and 2002. Anastomotic leakage and wound healing disorders were evaluated prospectively, and their associations with overall survival, and distant metastasis and local recurrence rates after a long-term follow-up of more than 10 years were determined. Medical complications (such as cardiopulmonary events) were not analysed in this study.

Results

A total of 799 patients were included in the analysis. Patients who had anterior or intersphincteric resection had better 10-year overall survival than those treated with abdominoperineal resection (63·1 versus 51·3 per cent; P &lt; 0·001). Anastomotic leakage was associated with worse 10-year overall survival (51 versus 65·2 per cent; P = 0·020). Overall survival was reduced in patients with impaired wound healing (45·7 versus 62·2 per cent; P = 0·009). At 10 years after treatment, patients developing any surgical complication (anastomotic leakage and/or wound healing disorder) had impaired overall survival (46·6 versus 63·8 per cent; P &lt; 0·001), a lower distant metastasis-free survival rate (63·2 versus 72·0 per cent; P = 0·030) and more local recurrences (15·5 versus 6·4 per cent; P &lt; 0·001). In a multivariable Cox regression model, lymph node metastases (P &lt; 0·001) and surgical complications (P = 0·008) were the only independent predictors of reduced overall survival.

Conclusion

Surgical complications were associated with adverse oncological outcomes in this trial.

A comparison of the cost of primary closure or rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap closure of the perineum after abdominoperineal excision

AIM

Perineal wound complications following abdominoperineal resection continue to be a major challenge. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes and cost of primary closure (PC) and rectus abdominis myocutaneous (RAM) flap reconstruction.

METHOD

This was a retrospective case review of consecutive patients by one surgeon over 11 years. Patient demographics, risk factors, operative details and complications were identified. Inpatient and outpatient costs were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 31 patients underwent a RAM reconstruction and 37 a PC. There were no significant differences in the incidence of wound complications or in the overall costs for either method of perineal closure. When there were no complications the mean costs were significantly higher in the RAM group ($20 948 vs $17 189, P = 0.005), mainly because of the longer operating time. However, the costs of perineal wound complications were greater in the PC group (8394 vs 25 911, P = 0.012). These wounds took longer to heal (median 2 months vs 5.5 months, P = 0.005) and more often required a further reconstructive surgical procedure (RAM 0 vs PC 8, P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

This is the first study reporting on the cost implications of PC and RAM flap reconstruction. The overall costs were similar. This implies appropriate clinical selection when choosing between procedures. While the RAM flap is more expensive to perform, the finding that it decreases the clinical severity and cost of perineal wound complications supports its use when there is a high risk of perineal wound complications.

Primary vs. delayed perineal proctectomy-there is no free lunch

PURPOSE

Perineal wound complications associated with anorectal excision are associated with prolonged wound healing and readmission. In order to avoid these problems, the surgeon may choose to leave the anorectum in situ. The purpose of this study is to compare complications and outcomes after primary vs. delayed anorectum removal.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing proctectomy or proctocolectomy with permanent stoma between 2004 and 2014 in a single tertiary institution was conducted.

RESULTS

During the study period, we identified 117 proctectomy patients; 69 (59%) patients had anorectum removed at index operation and 41% had the anorectum left in place. Patients with retained anorectum developed pelvic abscess significantly more frequently as compared to the other group (23 vs. 4%, p = 0.003). In patients with primary anorectum removal, 22 (32%) had perineal complications and 10 (15%) required reoperations. In patients with retained anorectum, 12 patients (25%) came back for delayed perineal proctectomy at a mean time of 277 days after the index operation; 7 of those (58%) developed postoperative wound complications. There was no difference in time to perineal wound healing between primary and delayed perineal proctectomy group (154 vs. 211 days, p = 0.319).

CONCLUSION

Surgery involving the distal rectum is associated with a significant number of infectious perineal complications. Although leaving the anorectum in place avoids a primary perineal wound, both approaches are associated with a significant number of complications including reoperation.

Prone positioning reduces perineal infections when performing the miles procedure

BACKGROUND

Abdominoperineal resection (APR) remains the cornerstone treatment for rectal cancers less than 5 cm from the anal verge. The perineal portion of an APR can be done with the patient in lithotomy or repositioned to prone jack-knife position, which influences accessibility, visualization and ability to close the wound. This paper analyses the effect of patient positioning on perineal wound dehiscence and infections.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all rectal cancer patients who underwent an APR at Massachusetts General Hospital between 2004 and 2014 (n = 149). Patients were divided into supine (n = 91) or prone (n = 58) positioning as documented in operative reports.

RESULTS

Twenty-two percent of supine positioned patients developed a perineal wound infection, versus 3.4% of the prone patients (P = 0.002). Perineal wound dehiscence rate was also higher in the supine positioned group (14.3% vs. prone 3.4%; P = 0.032). Multivariable analysis showed OR = 9.2 of developing a perineal wound infection for supine positioned patients, compared to prone, corrected for obesity and smoking history.

CONCLUSION

Repositioning patients into prone position for the perineal portion of an APR was associated with significantly lower perineal wound infection and dehiscence rates compared to supine positioned patients.

The LOREC APE registry: operative technique, oncological outcome and perineal wound healing after abdominoperineal excision

AIM

The Low Rectal Cancer Development programme (LOREC) perineal wound healing registry was developed to record data on abdominoperineal excision (APE) for rectal cancer in colorectal units in England between 2012 and 2014, to understand current practice in operative technique and results.

METHOD

Surgeons wishing to participate received secure Web-based access to the registry. Data were collected on preoperative staging, neoadjuvant treatment, operative details, histopathology, early outcome and follow up at 12 months.

RESULTS

Forty-two units entered 266 patients. Of these, 172 (65%) patients underwent extralevator APE (ELAPE) and 94 had non-ELAPE procedures. On preoperative staging, 64% were mrT3/4, and 67% received neoadjuvant treatment. For the ELAPE group the perineal wound was closed primarily with mesh in 55% of patients, without mesh in 15% and with a flap in 21%. For non-ELAPE procedures, 54% of wounds were closed primarily without mesh, 29% primarily with mesh and 5% by a flap. Wound breakdown occurred in 30% and 31% of patients in the ELAPE and non-ELAPE groups, respectively, and was more common after neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Donor-site complications occurred in 17% of patients treated with a flap. Perineal morbidity was recorded in 11% of patients at 12 months. On histopathology, the resection margin was positive in 13% of patients in the ELAPE group and in 4% of patients in the non-ELAPE group.

CONCLUSION

The LOREC registry provides a picture of current APE practice in England. ELAPE was used in two-thirds of patients but does not appear to confer any additional morbidity. Primary closure with mesh appeared as effective as flap reconstruction. The prevalence of an involved resection margin was lower than reported in many historical series but still remains high in the ELAPE group.

Deep Pelvic Surgical Site Infection After Radiotherapy and Surgery for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

High morbidity, increased mortality, and impaired long-term oncologic outcome have been reported after deep surgical site infection (SSI) in rectal cancer surgery. The rate, risk factors and consequences of deep SSI after (chemo)radiotherapy [(C)RT], and surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) in a tertiary university hospital single centre cohort of 540 patients are presented.

METHODS

Patients with LARC, operated between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2015, were identified in the institutional prospective database. All patients had tumours threatening the mesorectal fascia or invading adjacent organs, with a high rate of T4 tumours (60 %), and all received (C)RT. Risk factors for deep SSI were calculated by multivariable logistic regression analysis. Morbidity data were assessed. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) between patients with or without deep SSI were estimated.

RESULTS

Of 540 patients, 104 (19 %) experienced a deep SSI, with the highest rate in the abdominoperineal resection (APR) group with 25 %. APR, good response to (C)RT (low tumour regression grade), age, and operative blood loss were identified as significant (P < 0.05) risk factors for deep SSI in multivariable analysis. No difference was found in OS (P = 0.995) or DFS (P = 0.568). Hospital stay increased with 5 days (P < 0.001), and complete wound healing at the 3-month follow-up decreased from 86 to 45 % (P < 0.001) after deep SSI.

CONCLUSIONS

Deep SSI is a frequent and major complication after rectal surgery for LARC, with high morbidity, increased hospital stay and protracted wound healing. Interestingly, deep SSI did not influence long-term oncologic outcome.

Wound Complications and Perineal Pain After Extralevator Versus Standard Abdominoperineal Excision: A Nationwide Study

BACKGROUND

Extralevator abdominoperineal excision was introduced as an alternative to conventional abdominoperineal excision for low rectal cancers. The perineal dissection is more extensive with extralevator abdominoperineal excision and leaves a greater defect.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate, on a national basis, the risk of perineal wound complications, pain, and hernia after conventional and extralevator abdominoperineal excision performed for low rectal cancer.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective study collecting data from the Danish Colorectal Cancer Group database and from electronic medical files of patients.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at Danish surgical departments.

PATIENTS

A total of 445 patients operated between 2009 and 2012 with extralevator or conventional abdominoperineal excision were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main end points of this study were perineal wound complications and pain lasting for >30 days after the operation.

RESULTS

The 2 groups were demographically similar except for a higher ASA score in the conventional group. In the extralevator group, neoadjuvant chemoradiation was more frequent (71% vs 41%; p < 0.001), T stage was higher (more T3 tumors; 52% vs 38%; p = 0.006), and more tumors were fixed (21% vs 12%; p = 0.02). Perineal wound complications and pain were more frequent after extralevator versus conventional excision (44% vs 25%; p < 0.001 and 38% vs 22%; p < 0.001). After multivariate analyses, neoadjuvant chemoradiation, extralevator excision, and operation early in the study period were found to have a significant influence on the risk of long-term wound complications. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation and wound complications were significant risk factors for long-term perineal pain. Results were similar after subgroup analyses on low tumors only.

LIMITATIONS

This was a retrospective study. The 2 groups were not completely comparable at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation, extralevator compared with conventional excision, and operation early in the study period were significant factors for predicting perineal wound complications. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation and wound complications were predictors of long-term perineal pain.

Conversations for providers caring for patients with rectal cancer: Comparison of long-term patient-centered outcomes for patients with low rectal cancer facing ostomy or sphincter-sparing surgery

For some patients with low rectal cancer, ostomy (with elimination into a pouch) may be the only realistic surgical option. However, some patients have a choice between ostomy and sphincter-sparing surgery. Sphincter-sparing surgery has been preferred over ostomy because it offers preservation of normal bowel function. However, this surgery can cause incontinence and bowel dysfunction. Increasingly, it has become evident that certain patients who are eligible for sphincter-sparing surgery may not be well served by the surgery, and construction of an ostomy may be better. No validated assessment tool or decision aid has been published to help newly diagnosed patients decide between the two surgeries or to help physicians elicit long-term surgical outcomes. Furthermore, comparison of long-term outcomes and late effects after the two surgeries has not been synthesized. Therefore, this systematic review summarizes controlled studies that compared long-term survivorship outcomes between these two surgical groups. The goals are: 1) to improve understanding and shared decision-making among surgeons, oncologists, primary care providers, patients, and caregivers; 2) to increase the patient's participation in the decision; 3) to alert the primary care provider to patient challenges that could be addressed by provider attention and intervention; and 4) ultimately, to improve patients' long-term quality of life. This report includes discussion points for health care providers to use with their patients during initial discussions of ostomy and sphincter-sparing surgery as well as questions to ask during follow-up examinations to ascertain any long-term challenges facing the patient. CA Cancer J Clin 2016;66:387-397. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

Robot-Assisted Abdominoperineal Resection: Clinical, Pathologic, and Oncologic Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The extralevator approach to abdominoperineal resection is associated with a decreased incidence of rectal perforation and circumferential resection margin positivity translating to lower recurrence rates. The abdominoperineal resection, as such, is an operation associated with poorer outcomes in comparison with low anterior resections, and any improvements in short-term outcomes are likely to be related to surgical technique. Robot assistance in extralevator abdominoperineal resection has shown improvement in these pathologic outcomes. Because these are surrogate markers for local recurrence and disease-free survival, long-term survival data are needed to assess the efficacy of this robot-assisted technique, exclusively in a dedicated abdominoperineal resection cohort.

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the perioperative, pathologic, and oncologic outcomes of the robot-assisted extralevator abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer.

DESIGN

This study was a review of a prospective database of patients over a 5-year period.

SETTING

Procedures were performed in the colorectal division of a tertiary hospital from April 2007 to July 2012.

PATIENTS

Patients with rectal cancer were operated on robotically. Indications for abdominoperineal resection were low rectal cancers invading the sphincter complex or location in the anal canal precluding anastomosis.

INTERVENTIONS

All patients received a robot-assisted extralevator abdominoperineal resection.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Operative and perioperative measures, pathologic outcomes, and disease-free survival and overall survival were documented and assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (15 men) with a mean age of 65.5 years and mean BMI of 28.6 kg/m underwent robotic abdominoperineal resection. Circumferential resection margin was positive in 13.6%. There was 1 tumor/rectal perforation. At a mean follow-up of 33.9 months, overall survival was 81.8% with a disease-free survival of 72.7%. Local recurrence was 4.5%.

LIMITATIONS

This was a single-institution study with no comparative open or laparoscopic group.

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted abdominoperineal resection is safe, feasible, and oncologically sound with short-term and long-term outcomes comparable to open and laparoscopic surgery.

Fibromatosis in vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap imitating tumor recurrence after surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer: case report

Background

Abdominoperineal excision is performed in patients with locally advanced, low rectal carcinoma. Reconstruction of the dorsal vagina and perineum using the vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap following extensive surgery results in favorable surgical outcome and quality of life. However, the rectus abdominis muscle, as part of the anterior abdominal wall, may develop fibrous lesions also as a transplant.

Case presentation

A 39-year-old female patient with low rectal cancer and extensive colorectal polyposis was treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by colectomy and abdominoperineal excision with resection of the dorsal vaginal wall and subsequent reconstruction of the perineum using the vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. At the 6-month follow-up, a suspected 2 × 2 cm tumor recurrence was detected in the transposed tissue and was subsequently surgically removed. Histologic examination concluded with fibromatosis. Genetic testing revealed a known disease-causing mutation in the adenomatous polyposis coli gene, confirming the diagnosis of familial adenomatous polyposis.

Conclusions

Fibromatosis may affect the anterior abdominal wall, that is the rectus abdominis muscle, at the primary site or may develop in the muscle after its transposition into the perineum at pelvic reconstruction. Fibromatosis in the muscle flap after pelvic reconstruction may present a difficult diagnostic challenge for the multidisciplinary team.

Real world dehiscence rates for patients undergoing abdominoperineal resection with or without myocutaneous flap closure in the national surgical quality improvement project

PURPOSE

Perineal wound complications cause significant morbidity following abdominoperineal resection (APR). Myocutaneous flap closure may mitigate perineal wound complications though data is limited outside of specialized oncologic centers. We aim to compare rates of wound dehiscence in patients undergoing APR with and without flap closure.

METHODS

All patients undergoing APR in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program between 2005 and 2013 were included. Thirty-day rate of wound dehiscence and other perioperative outcomes were compared between the flap and non-flap cohorts. Subgroup analysis was performed for propensity score-matched cohorts and those receiving neoadjuvant radiation.

RESULTS

Seven thousand two hundred and five patients underwent non-emergent APR [527 (7 %) flap vs. 6678 (93 %) non-flap]. Wound dehiscence occurred in 224 patients [38 (7 %) flap vs. 186 (3 %) non-flap] with 84/224 (38 %) of these reoperated. Reoperation was more common in flap patients [15 vs. 8 %; p = 0.001]. Overall morbidity was higher in flap closure [38 % flap vs. 31 % non-flap; p < 0.001]. Dehiscence was higher for flap closure in the propensity score-matched cohort [7 vs. 3 %; p < 0.001]. Flap closure was an independent predictor of dehiscence for both the overall and propensity score-matched groups. Dehiscence was not increased in patients who had neoadjuvant radiation [5.4 % flap vs. 2.6 % non-flap; p = 0.127].

CONCLUSIONS

This represents the largest study of flap vs. non-flap closure following APR and the first such study from a national database. Flap closure was independently associated with increased risk of wound dehiscence in both the overall and matched cohorts. This study highlights the challenge of wound complications following APR and provides real-world generalizable data.

Abdominoperineal Resection, Pelvic Exenteration, and Additional Organ Resection Increase the Risk of Surgical Site Infection after Elective Colorectal Surgery: An American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Analysis

BACKGROUND

Determining predictors of surgical site infection (SSI) in a large cohort is important for the design of accurate SSI surveillance programs. We hypothesized that additional organ resection and pelvic exenterative procedures are associated independently with a higher risk of SSI.

METHODS

Patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program® (ACS NSQIP®; American College of Surgeons, Chicago, IL) database (2005-2012) were identified (n=112,282). Surgical site infection (superficial or deep SSI) at 30 d was the primary outcome. Using primary and secondary CPT® codes (American Medical Association, Chicago, IL) pelvic exenteration was defined and additional organ resection was defined as: bladder resection/repair, hysterectomy, partial vaginectomy, additional segmental colectomy, small bowel, gastric, or diaphragm resection. Univariable analysis of patient and procedure factors identified significant (p<0.05) predictors, which were modeled using stepwise logistic regression.

RESULTS

The rate of SSI was 9.2%. After adjusting for operative duration, predictors of SSI were body mass index (BMI) 25-29.9 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.3), BMI 30-34.9 (OR: 1.59), BMI 35-39.9 (OR: 2.11), BMI>40 (OR: 2.51), pulmonary comorbidities (OR: 1.22), smoking (OR: 1.24), bowel obstruction (OR: 1.40), wound classification 3 or 4 (OR: 1.18), and abdominoperineal resection (OR: 1.58). Laparoscopic or laparoscopically assisted procedures offered a protective effect against incision infection (OR: 0.55). Additional organ resection (OR: 1.08) was also associated independently with SSI, but the magnitude of the effect was decreased after accounting for operative duration. In the analysis that excludes operative duration, pelvic exenteration is associated with SSI (OR: 1.38), but incorporating operative duration into the model results in this variable becoming non-significant.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to other factors, obesity, surgery for bowel obstruction, abdominoperineal resection, and additional organ resection are independently associated with a higher risk of SSI. Surgical site infection risk in pelvic exenteration and multiple organ resection cases appears to be mediated by prolonged operative duration. In these established high-risk sub-groups of patients, aggressive interventions to prevent SSI should be implemented.

Early removal of urinary catheters after rectal surgery is associated with increased urinary retention

BACKGROUND

Urinary retention after rectal resection is common and managed prophylactically by prolonging urinary catheterization. However, because indwelling urinary catheterization is a well-established risk factor for urinary tract infection, the ideal timing for urinary catheter removal following a rectal resection is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesized that early urinary catheter removal (on or before postoperative day 2) would be associated with urinary retention.

DESIGN

This study is a retrospective review of medical records.

SETTING

This study was conducted at a colorectal surgery service at a tertiary care academic teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

Adults undergoing rectal resection operations by colorectal surgeons in 2005 to 2010 were selected.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome measured was urinary retention.

RESULTS

Of 205 patients included, 41 (20%) developed urinary retention. Male sex (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.7-9), increased intraoperative intravenous fluid (OR for each liter, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.04-1.48), and urinary catheter removal on postoperative day 2 or earlier (OR, 3.8; 95% CI, 1.4-10.5) were associated with urinary retention on multivariable analysis. Early catheter removal was not associated with decreased urinary tract infection rates (p = 0.29) but was associated with shorter length of stay (6.5 vs 8.9 days; p = 0.005).

LIMITATIONS

The retrospective nature of this study did not allow for a precise definition of urinary retention. Preoperative urinary function was not available, and the patient sample was heterogeneous, including several indications for rectal resection. Urinary catheters were not removed per protocol and therefore subject to bias. The study is likely underpowered to detect differences in urinary tract infection between urinary catheter removal groups.

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing rectal resection, we found that urinary catheter removal on or before postoperative day 2 was associated with urinary retention (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/DCR/A172).

Perineal wound healing after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Impaired perineal wound healing has become a significant clinical problem after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer. The increased use of neoadjuvant radiotherapy and wider excisions might have contributed to this problem.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to determine the impact of radiotherapy and an extralevator approach on perineal wound healing after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer.

DATA SOURCES

In March 2014, electronic databases were searched.

STUDY SELECTION AND INTERVENTIONS

Studies describing any outcome measure on perineal wound healing after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was overall perineal wound problems within 30 days after conventional or extralevator abdominoperineal resection with or without neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Secondary end points were primary wound healing, perineal hernia rate, and the effect of biological mesh closure on perineal wound problems.

RESULTS

A total of 32 studies were included. The pooled percentage of perineal wound problems after primary perineal wound closure in patients who did not undergo neoadjuvant radiotherapy was 15.3% (95% CI, 12.1-19.2) after conventional abdominoperineal resection and 14.8% (95% CI, 9.5-22.4) after extralevator abdominoperineal resection. After neoadjuvant radiotherapy, perineal wound problems occurred in 30.2% (95% CI, 19.2-44.0) after conventional abdominoperineal resection and in 37.6% (95% CI, 18.6-61.4) after extralevator abdominoperineal resection. Radiotherapy significantly increased perineal wound problems after abdominoperineal resection (OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.45-3.40; p < 0.001). After biological mesh closure of the pelvic floor following extralevator abdominoperineal resection with neoadjuvant radiotherapy, the percentage of perineal wound problems was 7.3% (95% CI, 1.5-29.3).

LIMITATIONS

Heterogeneity was high for some analyses.

CONCLUSION

Neoadjuvant radiotherapy significantly increases perineal wound problems after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer, whereas the extralevator approach seems not to be of significant importance.

The risk of colonic adenomas and colonic cancer in obesity

Increasing body fatness has been associated with an increased burden from colorectal cancer. An increased susceptibility spanning the entire continuum from precancerous adenomatous polyps to the development of colorectal cancer, poor outcome with treatment, and reduced survival when compared to those with normal body weight has been described. It is unknown which age period and which degree and duration of excess weight are associated with increased colorectal cancer risk. It is uncertain whether weight loss can reverse this risk. If it can, how long will the new lower or normal weight be maintained to effect enduring risk reduction? Furthermore, it is controversial whether the increased burden of colorectal cancer warrants earlier and/or more frequent screening for obese persons. This article reviews the relationship between obesity and colorectal neoplasia, explores the postulated mechanism of carcinogenesis, discusses interventions to reduce the burden of disease, and suggests future directions of research.