Ureteral injuries in colorectal surgery: an analysis of trends, outcomes, and risk factors over a 10-year period in the United States

The role of ureteric indocyanine green fluorescence in colorectal surgery: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Ureteric injury (UI) is an infrequent but serious complication of colorectal surgery. Prophylactic ureteric stenting is employed to avoid UI, yet its efficacy remains debated. Intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence imaging (ICG-FI) has been used to facilitate ureter detection. This study aimed to investigate the role of ICG-FI in identification of ureters during colorectal surgery and its impact on the incidence of UI.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study involving 556 consecutive patients who underwent colorectal surgery between 2018 and 2023 assessed the utility of routine prophylactic ureteric stenting with adjunctive ICG-FI. Patients with ICG-FI were compared to those without ICG-FI. Demographic data, operative details, and postoperative morbidity were analyzed. Statistical analysis included univariable regression.

RESULTS

Ureteric ICG-FI was used in 312 (56.1%) patients, whereas 43.9% were controls. Both groups were comparable in terms of demographics except for a higher prevalence of prior abdominal surgeries in the ICG-FI group. Although intraoperative visualization was significantly higher in the ICG-FI group (95.3% vs 89.1%; p = 0.011), the incidence of UI was similar between groups (0.3% vs 0.8%; p = 0.585). Postoperative complications were similar between the two groups. Median stent insertion time was longer in the ICG-FI group (32 vs 25 min; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Ureteric ICG-FI improved intraoperative visualization of the ureters but was not associated with a reduced UI rate. Median stent insertion time increased with use of ureteric ICG-FI, but total operative time did not. Despite its limitations, this study is the largest of its kind suggesting that ureteric ICG-FI may be a valuable adjunct to facilitate  ureteric visualization during colorectal surgery.

A delayed diagnosis of iatrogenic ureteral injury results in increased morbidity

This study aimed to register and analyse outcomes after iatrogenic ureteral injuries (IUI) with special emphasis on potential consequences of a delayed diagnosis, and further to analyse if the incidence of IUI has changed during the study period. 108 patients treated for an IUI during 2001-2021 were included. Injuries due to endourological procedures, planned tumour resection and traumatic injuries were excluded. All relevant information to answer the research questions were entered into a database. Chi-square and t-tests were used for categorical and continuous variables respectively. Regression analysis was used to evaluate potential change of incidence in IUIs over time. Our results showed that most IUIs (74, 69%) were caused by gynaecological surgery. 49 (45%) had a delayed diagnosis (not diagnosed intraoperatively). Younger age (mean 50 vs 62 years, p < 0.001) and benign indication for laparoscopic hysterectomy (OR 8.0, p < 0.001) predisposed for a delayed diagnosis. Patients with a delayed diagnosis had a higher number of secondary injury related procedures (mean 4.6 vs 1.7, p < 0.001), hospital admissions (mean 3.0 vs 0.8, p < 0.001) and longer hospital stays (mean 20.6 vs 3.9 days p < 0.001) compared to patients with an intraoperative diagnosis. There was complete recovery for 91% of the patients. We did not observe any changes in IUI incidence during the study period. In conclusion, our study underlines that IUI can cause major morbidity for the patient affected if not diagnosed intraoperatively. Benign indication and younger age are predictors for a delayed diagnosis. The prognosis is good, with 91% full recovery. No significant changes in incidence of IUIs were observed.

Role of artificial intelligence in colorectal cancer

The sphere of artificial intelligence (AI) is ever expanding. Applications for clinical practice have been emerging over recent years. Although its uptake has been most prominent in endoscopy, this represents only one aspect of holistic patient care. There are a multitude of other potential avenues in which gastrointestinal care may be involved. We aim to review the role of AI in colorectal cancer as a whole. We performed broad scoping and focused searches of the applications of AI in the field of colorectal cancer. All trials including qualitative research were included from the year 2000 onwards. Studies were grouped into pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative aspects. Pre-operatively, the major use is with endoscopic recognition. Colonoscopy has embraced the use for human derived classifications such as Narrow-band Imaging International Colorectal Endoscopic, Japan Narrow-band Imaging Expert Team, Paris and Kudo. However, novel detection and diagnostic methods have arisen from advances in AI classification. Intra-operatively, adjuncts such as image enhanced identification of structures and assessment of perfusion have led to improvements in clinical outcomes. Post-operatively, monitoring and surveillance have taken strides with potential socioeconomic and environmental savings. The uses of AI within the umbrella of colorectal surgery are multiple. We have identified existing technologies which are already augmenting cancer care. The future applications are exciting and could at least match, if not surpass human standards.

Fluorescence and tracers in surgery: the coming future

The revolution that we are seeing in the world of surgery will determine the way we understand surgical approaches in coming years. Since the implementation of minimally invasive surgery, innovations have constantly been developed to allow the laparoscopic approach to go further and be applied to more and more procedures. In recent years, we have been in the middle of another revolutionary era, with robotic surgery, the application of artificial intelligence and image-guided surgery. The latter includes 3D reconstructions for surgical planning, virtual reality, holograms or tracer-guided surgery, where ICG-guided fluorescence has provided a different perspective on surgery. ICG has been used to identify anatomical structures, assess tissue perfusion, and identify tumors or tumor lymphatic drainage. But the most important thing is that this technology has come hand in hand with the potential to develop other types of tracers that will facilitate the identification of tumor cells and ureters, as well as different light beams to identify anatomical structures. These will lead to other types of systems to assess tissue perfusion without the use of tracers, such as hyperspectral imaging. Combined with the upcoming introduction of ICG quantification, these developments represent a real revolution in the surgical world. With the imminent implementation of these technological advances, a review of their clinical application in general surgery is timely, and this review serves that aim.

Can preoperative ureteral stent placement help in the intraoperative identification of iatrogenic ureteral injury?

BACKGROUND

The benefits of prophylactic ureteral stent placement during colorectal surgery remain controversial. This study aimed to determine the incidence of ureteral injury in colorectal operations, assess the complications associated with stent usage, and determine whether their use leads to earlier identification and treatment of injury.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients undergoing colorectal abdominal operations between 2015 and 2021. Variables were examined for possible association with ureteral stent placement. The primary study endpoint was ureteral injury identified within 30 days postoperatively.

RESULTS

Of 6481 patients who underwent colorectal surgery, 970 (15%) underwent preoperative ureteral stent placement. The use of stents was significantly associated with a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, wound classification, and longer duration of surgery. A ureteral injury was identified in 28 patients (0.4%). Of these patients, 13 had no stent, and 15 had preoperative stents placed. After propensity matching, stent use was associated with an increased risk of hematuria and urinary tract infection. Ureteral injury was identified intraoperatively in 14 of 28 patients (50.0%) and was not associated with ureteral stent use (P = .45).

CONCLUSION

Iatrogenic ureteral injury was uncommon, whereas preoperative stent placement was relatively frequent. Earlier recognition of iatrogenic ureteral injury is not an expected advantage of preoperative ureteral stent placement.

Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Simulation of Pudexacianinium (ASP5354) for Dose Setting of a Phase 2 First-in-Patient Study: A Novel Imaging Agent for Intraoperative Ureter Visualization during Abdominopelvic Surgery

Pudexacianinium (ASP5354) chloride is an indocyanine green derivative designed to enable enhanced ureter visualization during surgery. The objective of the present analysis was to determine appropriate doses of pudexacianinium for a phase 2, dose-ranging study (NCT04238481). Real-time urine pudexacianinium concentration is considered a good pharmacodynamic surrogate marker, since ureter visualization likely depends on its concentration in the ureter. Using plasma and urine concentrations of pudexacianinium from a phase 1 single-ascending-dose (0.1-24.0 mg) study in healthy participants, a 3-compartment population pharmacokinetic model with a urine output compartment was developed and effectively described the concentration-time profiles. The individual estimated glomerular filtration rates had a significant impact on drug clearance. Simulations suggested that a 1.0 mg intravenous injection would achieve target urine concentrations over 1 μg/mL (determined from previous nonclinical studies) for 3 hours postdose, assuming a urine production rate of 1.0 mL/min. Based on this simulation, doses of 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg were proposed for the phase 2 study. The observed plasma concentrations were generally consistent with model predictions. For urine, although only limited data could be obtained due to the difficulties of spot urine collection from surgical patients, intraoperative ureter visualization was successful at 1.0 and 3.0 mg.

Preventing iatrogenic ureteral injury in colorectal surgery: a comprehensive and systematic review of the last 2 decades of literature and future perspectives

Iatrogenic ureteral injury (IUI) during colorectal surgery is a rare complication but related to a serious burden of morbidity. This comprehensive and systematic review aims to provide a critical overview of the most recent literature about IUI prevention techniques in colorectal surgery. We performed a comprehensive and systematic review of studies published from 2000 to 2022 and assessed the use of techniques for ureteral injury prevention and intraoperative localization. 26 publications were included, divided into stent-based (prophylactic/lighted ureteral stent and near-infrared fluorescent ureteral catheter [PUS/LUS/NIRFUC]) and fluorescent dye (FD) groups. Costs, the percentage and number of IUIs detected, reported limitations, complication rates and other outcome points were compared. The IUI incidence rate ranged from 0 to 1.9% (mean 0.5%) and 0 to 1.2% (mean 0.3%) in the PUS/LUS/NIRFUC and FD groups, respectively. The acute kidney injury (AKI) and urinary tact infection (UTI) incidence rate ranged from 0.4 to 32.6% and 0 to 17.3%, respectively, in the PUS/LUS/NIRFUC group and 0-15% and 0-6.3%, respectively, in the FD group. Many other complications were also compared and descriptively analyzed (length-of-stay, mortality, etc.). These techniques appear to be feasible and safe in select patients with a high risk of IUI, but the delineation of reliable guidelines for preventing IUI will require more randomized controlled trials.

Long-term economic outcomes of ureteral injury in the United States

OBJECTIVES

Ureteral injuries (UIs) during surgical procedures can have serious consequences for patients. Although UIs can result in substantial clinical burden, few studies report the impact of these injuries on payer reimbursement and patient cost-sharing. This retrospective study evaluated 30-day, 90-day, and 1-year healthcare resource utilization for patients with UIs and estimated patient and payer costs.

METHODS

Patients aged ≥ 12 years who underwent abdominopelvic surgery from January 2016 to December 2018 were identified in a United States claims database. Patients were followed for 1 year to estimate all-cause healthcare visits and costs for patients and payers. Surgeries resulting in UIs within 30 days from the surgery date were matched to surgeries without UIs to estimate UI-attributable visits and costs.

RESULTS

Five hundred and twenty-two patients with UIs were included. Almost a third (29.9%) of patients with UIs had outpatient surgery. Patients with UIs had slightly more healthcare visits and a 15.3% higher 30-day hospital readmission rate than patients without UIs. Patient costs due to UIs were not statistically significant, but annual payer costs attributable to UIs were $38,859 (95% CI = 28,142-49,576), largely driven by inpatient costs.

CONCLUSIONS

UIs add substantial cost for payers and result in more healthcare visits for patients. These findings highlight the importance of including inpatient and outpatient settings for UI prevention. Although UIs are rare, the associated patient and payer burdens are high; thus, protocols or techniques are needed to recognize and avert UIs as current guideline recommendations are lacking.

Iatrogenic ureteral injury: What should the digestive surgeon know?

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Iatrogenic ureteral injury (IUI) is a rare but formidable complication of any abdominal or pelvic surgery. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of IUI in colorectal surgery in the Basse-Normandie region over the period 2004-2022, as well as to review the literature on the management of this complication.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This multicenter retrospective analysis of clinical data (medical records and operative reports) concerned 22 patients (13 men and 9 women) who suffered an IUI during colorectal surgery between 2004 and 2022. Ureteral resections for oncological purposes and endoluminal instrumental injuries (post-ureteroscopy) were excluded from the study. We also carried out a review of the literature concerning the incidence of IUI in colorectal surgery.

RESULTS

The incidence of IUI was 0.27% over the study period (22 ureteral injuries out of 8129 colorectal procedures). Colorectal cancer and sigmoid diverticulitis were the dominant surgical indications (85% of cases). Proctectomy and left colectomy were the most performed resection procedures (75% of cases). Surgery was scheduled in 68% of cases. The approach was open laparotomy in 59% and laparoscopy in 41% of cases. The IUI involved the left ureter in 63% of cases and the pelvic ureter in 77% of cases. Conservative endoscopic treatment by insertion of a double-J catheter stent had a success rate of 87.5%. Surgical repairs consisting of re-implantation techniques and uretero-ureteral anastomosis had a success rate of 75%. The nephrectomy rate was 13.6% (3/22) and the mortality rate 9% (2/22). A literature review identified sixteen studies, where the incidence of IUI varied from 0.1 to 4.5%.

FINDINGS

IUI occurring during colorectal surgery is a rare occurrence but remain a formidable complication. No means of prevention has proven its effectiveness to date, but guidance devices using illuminated ureteral catheters or dyes seem to constitute a promising approach. Injuries to the left pelvic ureter are the most common, and the majority can be treated endoscopically if diagnosed early.

Risk stratification of acute kidney injury (AKI) following ureteral stent insertion for colorectal surgery

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Ureteral stents have long been utilized during colorectal resections to assist in the identification of ureters intraoperatively and mitigate risk of ureteral injury. As these procedures have shifted toward robot-assisted laparoscopic methods, lighted stents have increasingly been used. The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) following bilateral ureteral stent placement has been reported to be as high as 41.9%. We sought to identify our single-institution risk and determine the extent to which age, sex, and stent type affected incidence of AKI.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed at a single community hospital of all open and robotic-assisted laparoscopic colorectal surgeries from October 2012 to April 2022. If requested, ureteral stents were placed bilaterally by a urologist and later removed by the surgeon. Non-lighted stents used were 5 Fr whistle-tip (BARD); lighted stents were 6 Fr with a fiberoptic core (STRYKER). Kidney failure was described as a rise of creatinine to ≥ 1.5 times the preoperative value, per KDIGO guidelines.

RESULTS

633 consecutive colorectal surgeries were evaluated, with no stents placed in 237 cases, non-lighted stents placed in 137 cases, and lighted stents placed in 259 cases. No ureteral injuries were observed. Overall incidence of AKI for non-stented surgeries was 0.8% vs 5.8% for non-lighted stents and 5.8% for lighted stents. Patient age was the most significant factor in AKI incidence: for patients under 60, there was no statistical difference in AKI incidence for stented vs non-stented procedures (2.2% vs 1.1%). For patients over 60, the risk of AKI was 10.5% for stented vs 0.7% for non-stented. Female patients had statistically significant risk differences, with AKI incidence of 7.1% stented vs 0.0% non-stented. AKI completely resolved in all cases, regardless of cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients under age 60, the use of stents was not associated with an increased risk of AKI. For women and those over 60, stents pose a higher risk of transient AKI. Overall incidence of AKI in our larger and single-institution community hospital population was significantly lower than reported in other studies. No statistical difference was observed, overall, in AKI incidence between lighted and non-lighted stents.

Prediction of Ureteral Injury During Colorectal Surgery Using Machine Learning

BACKGROUND

Ureteral injury (UI) is a rare but devastating complication during colorectal surgery. Ureteral stents may reduce UI but carry risks themselves. Risk predictors for UI could help target the use of stents, but previous efforts have relied on logistic regression (LR), shown moderate accuracy, and used intraoperative variables. We sought to use an emerging approach in predictive analytics, machine learning, to create a model for UI.

METHODS

Patients who underwent colorectal surgery were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database. Patients were split into training, validation, and test sets. The primary outcome was UI. Three machine learning approaches were tested including random forest (RF), gradient boosting (XGB), and neural networks (NN), and compared with traditional LR. Model performance was assessed using area under the curve (AUROC).

RESULTS

The data set included 262,923 patients, of whom 1519 (.578%) experienced UI. Of the modeling techniques, XGB performed the best, with an AUROC score of .774 (95% CI .742-.807) compared with .698 (95% CI .664-.733) for LR. Random forest and NN performed similarly with scores of .738 and .763, respectively. Type of procedure, work RVUs, indication for surgery, and mechanical bowel prep showed the strongest influence on model predictions.

CONCLUSIONS

Machine learning-based models significantly outperformed LR and previous models and showed high accuracy in predicting UI during colorectal surgery. With proper validation, they could be used to support decision making regarding the placement of ureteral stents preoperatively.

Ureteral Injury

CASE SUMMARY

A 70-year-old man underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection for a rectal adenocarcinoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Postoperatively, the patient had high drain volume output, with 800 mL of clear serous fluid being drained on the second postoperative day. Drain creatinine returned as 300 mmol/L, with a corresponding serum creatinine of 100 mmol/L. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis confirmed a left ureteric injury with an associated urinoma. After urology consultation, the patient underwent a left ureteric reimplantation emergently.

Indocyanine green dye and its application in gastrointestinal surgery: The future is bright green

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a water-soluble fluorescent dye that is minimally toxic and widely used in gastrointestinal surgery. ICG facilitates anatomical identification of structures (e.g., ureters), assessment of lymph nodes, biliary mapping, organ perfusion and anastomosis assessment, and aids in determining the adequacy of oncological margins. In addition, ICG can be conjugated to artificially created antibodies for tumour markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen for colorectal, breast, lung, and gastric cancer, prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer, and cancer antigen 125 for ovarian cancer. Although ICG has shown promising results, the optimization of patient factors, dye factors, equipment, and the method of assessing fluorescence intensity could further enhance its utility. This review summarizes the clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery and discusses the emergence of novel dyes such as ZW-800 and VM678 that have demonstrated appropriate pharmacokinetic properties and improved target-to-background ratios in animal studies. With the emergence of robotic technology and the increasing reporting of ICG utility, a comprehensive review of clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery is timely and this review serves that aim.

2023 WSES guidelines for the prevention, detection, and management of iatrogenic urinary tract injuries (IUTIs) during emergency digestive surgery

Iatrogenic urinary tract injury (IUTI) is a severe complication of emergency digestive surgery. It can lead to increased postoperative morbidity and mortality and have a long-term impact on the quality of life. The reported incidence of IUTIs varies greatly among the studies, ranging from 0.3 to 1.5%. Given the high volume of emergency digestive surgery performed worldwide, there is a need for well-defined and effective strategies to prevent and manage IUTIs. Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding the prevention, detection, and management of IUTIs in the emergency setting. The present guidelines, promoted by the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES), were developed following a systematic review of the literature and an international expert panel discussion. The primary aim of these WSES guidelines is to provide evidence-based recommendations to support clinicians and surgeons in the prevention, detection, and management of IUTIs during emergency digestive surgery. The following key aspects were considered: (1) effectiveness of preventive interventions for IUTIs during emergency digestive surgery; (2) intra-operative detection of IUTIs and appropriate management strategies; (3) postoperative detection of IUTIs and appropriate management strategies and timing; and (4) effectiveness of antibiotic therapy (including type and duration) in case of IUTIs.

Pudexacianinium (ASP5354) chloride for ureter visualization in participants undergoing laparoscopic, minimally invasive colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative ureteral injury, a serious complication of abdominopelvic surgeries, can be avoided through ureter visualization. Near-infrared fluorescence imaging offers real-time anatomical visualization of ureters during surgery. Pudexacianinium (ASP5354) chloride is an indocyanine green derivative under investigation for intraoperative ureter visualization during colorectal or gynecologic surgery in adult and pediatric patients.

METHODS

In this phase 2 study (NCT04238481), adults undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery were randomized to receive one intravenous dose of pudexacianinium 0.3 mg, 1.0 mg, or 3.0 mg. The primary endpoint was successful intraoperative ureter visualization, defined as observation of ureter fluorescence 30 min after pudexacianinium administration and at end of surgery. Safety and pharmacokinetics were also assessed.

RESULTS

Participants received pudexacianinium 0.3 mg (n = 3), 1.0 mg (n = 6), or 3.0 mg (n = 3). Most participants were female (n = 10; 83.3%); median age was 54 years (range 24-69) and median BMI was 29.3 kg/m2 (range 18.7-38.1). Successful intraoperative ureter visualization occurred in 2/3, 5/6, and 3/3 participants who received pudexacianinium 0.3 mg, 1.0 mg, or 3.0 mg, respectively. Median intensity values per surgeon assessment were 1 (mild) with the 0.3-mg dose, 2 (moderate) with the 1.0-mg dose, and 3 (strong) with the 3.0-mg dose. A correlation was observed between qualitative (surgeon's recognition/identification of the ureter during surgery) and quantitative (video recordings of the surgeries after study completion) assessment of fluorescence intensity. Two participants experienced serious adverse events, none of which were drug-related toxicities. One adverse event (grade 1 proteinuria) was related to pudexacianinium. Plasma pudexacianinium concentrations were dose-dependent and the mean (± SD) percent excreted into urine during surgery was 22.3% ± 8.0% (0.3-mg dose), 15.6% ± 10.0% (1.0-mg dose), and 39.5% ± 12.4% (3.0-mg dose).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, 1.0 and 3.0 mg pudexacianinium provided ureteral visualization for the duration of minimally invasive, laparoscopic colorectal procedures and was safe and well tolerated.

The efficacy of ureteroscopic triage in increasing the cure rate of the first-line treatment for a ureterovaginal fistula resulting from radical hysterectomy

Study objective

To explore the effect of pretreatment with ureteroscopic triage for iatrogenic ureterovaginal fistula (UVF) resulting from radical hysterectomy.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Department of gynecology at a tertiary medical center.

Patients

Women diagnosed with UVF secondary to radical hysterectomy at our center between April 2008 to June 2018.

Interventions

The patients were divided into two groups according to whether pretreatment with ureteroscopic triage was performed. Those in the non-triage group underwent retrograde placement of a double-J stent immediately following diagnosis as the first-line therapy. Patients in the triage group were first evaluated under ureteroscopy, their ureteral injuries were then classified into different grades and then underwent different treatments as the first-line therapy, including stent placement or reconstruction surgeries. The cure rate of the first-line therapy and the timeliness of the implementation of adjuvant radiotherapy were subsequently analyzed.

Measurements and main results

Ninety-eight UVF patients were included. The demographics, ECOG status, stage of cervical cancer (FIGO 2009), types and onset time of symptoms were not different between the two groups. There were 54 patients in the nontriage group, with an overall first-line cure rate of 70.4% and a timely implementation rate of adjuvant radiotherapy of 38.5%. There were 44 patients in the evaluation group, with an overall first-line cure rate of 93.2% and a timely implementation rate of adjuvant radiotherapy of 90.0%. The differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Ureteroscopic triage of ureteral injuries can guide the selection of the optimal first-line therapy for patients with UVF secondary to radical hysterectomy, increase the cure rate and ensure the timely implementation of adjuvant radiotherapy.

Nanovaccine-based strategies for lymph node targeted delivery and imaging in tumor immunotherapy

Therapeutic tumor vaccines have attracted considerable attention in the past decade; they can induce tumor regression, eradicate minimal residual disease, establish lasting immune memory and avoid non-specific and adverse side effects. However, the challenge in the field of therapeutic tumor vaccines is ensuring the delivery of immune components to the lymph nodes (LNs) to activate immune cells. The clinical response rate of traditional therapeutic tumor vaccines falls short of expectations due to inadequate lymph node delivery. With the rapid development of nanotechnology, a large number of nanoplatform-based LN-targeting nanovaccines have been exploited for optimizing tumor immunotherapies. In addition, some nanovaccines possess non-invasive visualization performance, which is benefit for understanding the kinetics of nanovaccine exposure in LNs. Herein, we present the parameters of nanoplatforms, such as size, surface modification, shape, and deformability, which affect the LN-targeting functions of nanovaccines. The recent advances in nanoplatforms with different components promoting LN-targeting are also summarized. Furthermore, emerging LNs-targeting nanoplatform-mediated imaging strategies to both improve targeting performance and enhance the quality of LN imaging are discussed. Finally, we summarize the prospects and challenges of nanoplatform-based LN-targeting and /or imaging strategies, which optimize the clinical efficacy of nanovaccines in tumor immunotherapies.

Abdominopelvic Surgery: Intraoperative Ureteral Injury and Prophylaxis in the United States, 2015-2019

INTRODUCTION

Preoperative ureteral catheterization/stenting (stenting) and intraoperative diagnostic cystoscopy (cystoscopy) may help prevent or identify intraoperative ureteral injuries (IUIs) during abdominopelvic surgery. In order to provide a comprehensive, single source of data for health care decision makers, this study aimed to catalog the incidence of IUI and rates of stenting and cystoscopy across a wide spectrum of abdominopelvic surgeries.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of United States (US) hospital data (October 2015-December 2019). IUI rates and stenting/cystoscopy use were investigated for gastrointestinal, gynecological, and other abdominopelvic surgeries. IUI risk factors were identified using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among approximately 2.5 million included surgeries, IUIs occurred in 0.88% of gastrointestinal, 0.29% of gynecological, and 1.17% of other abdominopelvic surgeries. Aggregate rates varied by setting and for some surgery types were higher than previously reported, especially in certain higher-risk colorectal procedures. Prophylactic measures were generally employed at a relatively low frequency, with cystoscopy used in 1.8% of gynecological procedures and stenting used in 5.3% of gastrointestinal and 2.3% of other abdominopelvic surgeries. In multivariate analyses, stenting and cystoscopy use, but not surgical approach, were associated with a higher risk of IUI. Risk factors associated with stenting or cystoscopy, as well as those for IUI, largely mirrored the variables reported in the literature, including patient demographics (older age, non-White race, male sex, higher comorbidity), practice settings, and established IUI risk factors (diverticulitis, endometriosis).

CONCLUSION

Use of stenting and cystoscopy largely varied by surgery type, as did rates of IUI. The relatively low use of prophylactic measures suggests there may be an unmet need for a safe, convenient method of injury prophylaxis in abdominopelvic surgeries. Development of new tools, technology, and/or techniques is needed to help surgeons identify the ureter and avoid IUI and the resulting complications.

Heterotopic Kidney Autotransplantation for Recurrent Iatrogenic Distal Ureteral Injury: A Case Report

Iatrogenic ureteral injuries are a significant complication during pelvic surgery, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for optimal repair. When a ureteral injury is suspected postoperatively, abdominal imaging is essential to determine the type of injury and thus the timing and method of reconstruction. That can be performed either by a CT pyelogram or by an ureterography-cystography with or without ureter stenting. Although technological advancements and minimally invasive surgery have been gaining ground over open complex surgeries, renal autotransplantation is a well-established technique of proximal ureter repair and should be highly considered when dealing with a severe injury. We hereby report the case of a patient with a recurrent ureter injury and multiple laparotomies treated with autotransplantation, without any major morbidities or change in their quality of life. In every case, a personalized approach for each patient and consultation with experienced transplant experts (surgeons, urologists, and nephrologists) is advised.

Post-Surgical Imaging Assessment in Rectal Cancer: Normal Findings and Complications

Rectal cancer (RC) is one of the deadliest malignancies worldwide. Surgery is the most common treatment for RC, performed in 63.2% of patients. The type of surgical approach chosen aims to achieve maximum residual function with the lowest risk of recurrence. The selection is made by a multidisciplinary team that assesses the characteristics of the patient and the tumor. Total mesorectal excision (TME), including both low anterior resection (LAR) and abdominoperineal resection (APR), is still the standard of care for RC. Radical surgery is burdened by a 31% rate of major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 3-4), such as anastomotic leaks and a risk of a permanent stoma. In recent years, less-invasive techniques, such as local excision, have been tested. These additional procedures could mitigate the morbidity of rectal resection, while providing acceptable oncologic results. The "watch and wait" approach is not a globally accepted model of care but encouraging results on selected groups of patients make it a promising strategy. In this plethora of treatments, the radiologist is called upon to distinguish a physiological from a pathological postoperative finding. The aim of this narrative review is to identify the main post-surgical complications and the most effective imaging techniques.

Ureteral identification with indocyanine green in laparoscopic colorectal surgery

INTRODUCTION

Fluorescence-guided surgery has emerged as a complement of traditional laparoscopic surgery with the advantage that is adaptable to existent platforms. The purpose of this article is to describe our technique for ureteral identification with indocyanine green (ICG) during laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

MATERIALS AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

We report a case series of all patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal surgery and ureteral injection of ICG in a private third level hospital.

RESULTS

We performed 30 laparoscopic colorectal surgeries in which we used this technique to identify the ureters. Mean age was 52.6 ± 15.28 years; 16 (53.3%) were men. The indication for surgery was diverticulitis in 18 patients. Mean urological operative time was 22.4 minutes. There were no immediate or delayed adverse effects attributable to intra-ureteral ICG administration.

DISCUSSION

Although ureteric iatrogenic injury is uncommon, when it does happen, it significantly increases the patient's morbidity. We consider this technique has the potential to make laparoscopic surgeries safer mostly in patients with cancer, diverticular disease or endometriosis who have extensive fibrosis, adhesions, and inflammation.

Iatrogenic injury of the urinary tract during salvage procedures for pelvic sepsis: Experience of a national referral centre

AIM

This study aimed to determine the incidence, consequences and outcomes of iatrogenic urinary tract injury (IUI) during salvage surgery for pelvic sepsis.

METHOD

Patients who underwent salvage surgery for pelvic sepsis after prior low anterior resection or Hartmann's procedure for rectal cancer were prospectively maintained in a database between 2010 and 2020 and reviewed retrospectively. The primary endpoint was the incidence of IUI. Secondary endpoints were timing of diagnosis (intra- vs. postoperative), reinterventions related to the IUI and healing of IUI.

RESULTS

In total 126 consecutive patients were included, and IUI occurred in 13 patients (10%). A ureteric injury occurred in eight patients, bladder injury in four patients and a urethral injury in one patient. All patients with an IUI had radiotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment. The IUI was diagnosed postoperatively in 63% (n = 8/13) with a median duration between surgery and diagnosis of the IUI of 10 days (IQR: 6-15). The median number of reinterventions was five (range 1-31) in the group with a postoperative diagnosis and one (range 0-1) in the group with an intraoperative diagnosis. Four patients required a surgical reintervention, all concerning injuries diagnosed postoperatively. At the end of follow-up, 85% of patients (n = 11/13) had a healed IUI.

CONCLUSION

Iatrogenic urinary tract injury is not uncommon in salvage procedures for pelvic sepsis, even in an experienced tertiary referral centre. Most injuries were diagnosed postoperatively which affects the severity of these complications, emphasising the need to improve intraoperative diagnostic modalities.

Image Navigation Surgery With the Fluorescent Ureteral Catheter of Recurrent Tumors in the Pelvic Cavity

INTRODUCTION

Ureteral injury during pelvic surgery is a serious complication that requires special attention. The fluorescent ureteral catheter near-infrared ray catheter sets are 6.0F catheters containing fluorescent substances along their length that can be recognized by a laparoscopic indocyanine green camera. We present our experience using a near-infrared ray catheter in 6 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for recurrent pelvic tumors.

TECHNIQUE

The near-infrared ray catheters were inserted into the bilateral ureters in all patients, with the exception of patient 5 (left unilateral), by urologists using a cystoscope with the same technique as that commonly used in placing ureteral stents under general anesthesia. A laparoscopic indocyanine green camera was adapted to identify the ureters. From February 2020 to July 2020, 6 consecutive patients with recurrent pelvic tumors underwent surgery using a near-infrared ray catheter. In 3 patients, recurrent tumors were detected in the pelvic cavity after surgery for colon cancer (1 patient each of peritoneal recurrence behind the seminal vesicles, lymph node metastasis on the residual superior rectal artery, and peritoneal recurrence at the peritoneal reflection). Two patients had postoperative local recurrences of rectal cancer. The last patient had a recurrence of cervical carcinoma invading the rectum.

RESULTS

All patients underwent surgery under ureteral image navigation using near-infrared ray catheter not only for ureter preservation during the operation (4 patients) but also for the combined resection of the ureter with recurrent tumors (2 patients). One patient experienced postoperative ureteral stenosis on postoperative day 21 that required a ureteral double J-stent placement in the left ureter.

CONCLUSION

Near-infrared ray catheter has the potential to reduce inadvertent periureteral dissection because the ureter can be identified before approaching it.

Prophylactic Ureteral Catheter Placement Appears to Reduce Intraoperative Ureteric Injury During Resection of Primary Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma

Background: Prophylactic ureteral catheters placement (PUCP) was advocated as an effective strategy for decreasing ureteral morbidities in colorectal surgeries. However, whether it should be routinely used prior to primary retroperitoneal liposarcoma (PRLS) surgeries remains unknown. Methods: It was a retrospective study, conducted at a tertiary sarcoma center. Medical records of patients with PRLS undergoing surgeries from January 2015 through December 2018 were reviewed. Primary endpoint was the rate of ureteral morbidities during and after retroperitoneal liposarcoma resection procedures. Univariate and multivariate analyses determined risk factors associated with ureteral injury (UI) in patients undergoing surgeries. Results: A total of 55 patients of PRLS were included. Fourteen (25.5%) patients underwent PUCP, with 1 UI (7.1%) identified. In 41 patients with no PUCP, 15 (36.6%) exhibited UIs during and post surgeries. There were significant improvements of UIs in group PUCP, compared with patients without PUCP (P < .05). Resection surgeries combined with colectomy and tumor-ureter relationship were 2 risk factors significantly associated to UIs (P < .01). Conclusions: PUCP might be an effective way of preventing UIs in patients with PRLS. It could be suggested especially in patients with ureter encased by tumor or anticipated colectomy during the surgical process.

Postoperative complications after robotic resection of colorectal cancer: An analysis based on 5-year experience at a large-scale center

BACKGROUND

As a common gastrointestinal malignancy, colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a serious health threat globally. Robotic surgery is one of the future trends in surgical treatment of CRC. Robotic surgery has several technical advantages over laparoscopic surgery, including 3D visualization, elimination of the fulcrum effect, and better ergonomic positioning, which together lead to better surgical outcomes and faster recovery. However, analysis of independent factors of postoperative complications after robotic surgery is still insufficient.

AIM

To analyze the incidence and risk factors for postoperative complications after robotic surgery in patients with CRC.

METHODS

In total, 1040 patients who had undergone robotic surgical resection for CRC between May 2015 and May 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Postoperative complications were categorized according to the Clavien-Dindo (C-D) classification, and possible risk factors were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among 1040 patients who had undergone robotic surgery for CRC, the overall, severe, local, and systemic complication rates were 12.2%, 2.4%, 8.8%, and 3.5%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that multiple organ resection (P < 0.001) and level III American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (P = 0.006) were independent risk factors for overall complications. Multivariate analysis identified multiple organ resection (P < 0.001) and comorbidities (P = 0.029) as independent risk factors for severe complications (C-D grade III or higher). Regarding local complications, multiple organ resection (P = 0.002) and multiple bowel resection (P = 0.027) were independent risk factors. Multiple organ resection (P < 0.001) and level III ASA score (P = 0.007) were independent risk factors for systemic complications. Additionally, sigmoid colectomy had a lower incidence of overall complications (6.4%; P = 0.006) and local complications (4.7%; P = 0.028) than other types of colorectal surgery.

CONCLUSION

Multiple organ resection, level III ASA score, comorbidities, and multiple bowel resection were risk factors for postoperative complications, with multiple organ resection being the most likely.

Localizing ureteral catheters for left-sided colectomy and proctectomy: Do the risks justify the benefits?

BACKGROUND

The role of ureteral catheters in left-sided colectomies and proctectomies remains debated. Given the rarity of ureteral injury, prior retrospective studies were underpowered to detect potentially small, but meaningful differences. This study seeks to determine the role and morbidity of ureteral catheters in left-sided colectomy and proctectomy using a large, national database.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Project from 2012 to 2018 was queried. Left-sided colectomies or proctectomies were included. Propensity score matching and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

8419 patients with ureteral catherization and 128,021 patients without catheterization were included. After matching, there was not a significant difference in ureteral injury between the groups (0.7% with vs 0.9% without, p = 0.07). Ureteral catheters were associated with increased overall morbidity and longer operative time. Increasing body mass index, operations for diverticular disease, conversion to open, T4 disease and increasing operative complexity were associated with ureteral injury (p < 0.01 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Ureteral catheterization was not associated with decreased rates of ureteral injury when including all left-sided colectomies. High-risk patients for ureteral injury include those with obesity, diverticular disease, and conversion to open. Selective ureteral catheterization may be warranted in these settings.

Safety and Clinical Value of Prophylactic Ureteral Stenting Before Cytoreductive Surgery With Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic ureteral stents (PUS) are typically placed prior to complex abdominal or pelvic operations at the surgeon's discretion to help facilitate detection of iatrogenic ureteral injury. However, its usefulness and safety in the setting of cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) have not been examined. This study aims to evaluate the potential clinical value and risk profile of prophylactic ureteral stent placement prior to CRS-HIPEC.

METHODS

We performed a single-institutional retrospective analysis of 145 patients who underwent CRS-HIPEC from 2013 to 2021. Demographic and operative characteristics were compared between patients who underwent PUS placement and those that did not. Ureteral stent-related complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 145 patients included in the analysis, 124 underwent PUS placement. There were no significant differences in patient demographics, medical comorbidities, or tumor characteristics. Additionally, PUS placement did not significantly increase operative time and was not associated with increased pelvic organ resection. However, patients who underwent prophylactic ureteral stenting had significantly higher peritoneal carcinomatosis index score (15.1 vs 9.1, P=.002) and increased rate of ureteral complications (24.2% vs 14.3%, P=.04), which led to lengthened hospital stay (13.2 days vs 8.1 days, P= .03). Notably, the sole ureteral injury and three cases of hydronephrosis were seen in patients who underwent PUS.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic ureteral stent placement in patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC may be useful, particularly in patients with predetermined extensive pelvic disease. However, PUS placement is not without potential morbidity and should be selectively considered in patients for whom benefits outweigh the risks.

Intraoperative use of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging in rectal cancer surgery: The state of the art

Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging is widely used in abdominal surgery. The implementation of minimally invasive rectal surgery using new methods like robotics or a transanal approach required improvement of optical systems. In that setting, ICG fluorescence optimizes intraoperative vision of anatomical structures by improving blood and lymphatic flow. The purpose of this review was to summarize all potential applications of this upcoming technology in rectal cancer surgery. Each type of use has been separately addressed and the evidence was investigated. During rectal resection, ICG fluorescence angiography is mainly used to evaluate the perfusion of the colonic stump in order to reduce the risk of anastomotic leaks. In addition, ICG fluorescence imaging allows easy visualization of organs such as the ureter or urethra to protect them from injury. This intraoperative technology is a valuable tool for conducting lymph node dissection along the iliac lymphatic chain or to better identifying the rectal dissection planes when a transanal approach is performed. This is an overview of the applications of ICG fluorescence imaging in current surgical practice and a synthesis of the results obtained from the literature. Although further studies are need to investigate the real clinical benefits, these findings may enhance use of ICG fluorescence in current clinical practice and stimulate future research on new applications.

Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Study to Evaluate Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Single Ascending Doses of ASP5354, an Investigational Imaging Product, in Healthy Adult Volunteers

Intraoperative ureter identification helps reduce the risk of ureteral injury. Currently, no suitable agents for real‐time ureter visualization are approved. ASP5354 (TK‐1) is a novel indocyanine green derivative. In this first‐in‐human phase 1, double‐blind, sequential ascending‐dose study, urethral catheters were placed in 6 healthy volunteers who were randomized to single‐dose, intravenous ASP5354 0.1 mg (n = 4) or placebo (n = 2). Sequential dose escalations to 0.5‐, 2‐, 8‐, and 24‐mg ASP5354 in new cohorts were contingent upon Dose‐Escalation Committee approval after review of pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety data. Blood and urine samples were collected over 24 hours following dose administration. Objectives were to assess the safety/tolerability and PK of ASP5354. Treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were reported in 3 (15%) and 2 (20%) participants in the ASP5354 and placebo groups, respectively. In the former, there were 6 TEAEs (5/6 grade 1‐2). One ASP5354 participant experienced grade 3 pyelonephritis, attributed to the catheter. No TEAEs were related to ASP5354. Mean plasma terminal elimination half‐life ranged from 2.1 to 3.6 hours, with near complete urinary excretion of unchanged ASP5354 within 24 hours after administration. Linear and dose‐proportional PK were observed. These results support further evaluation of ASP5354 at doses up to 24 mg for intraoperative near‐infrared fluorescence ureter visualization.

Role of near-infrared fluorescence in colorectal surgery

Near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) is a technique of augmented reality that, when applied in the operating theatre, allows the colorectal surgeon to visualize and assess bowel vascularization, to identify lymph nodes draining a cancer site and to identify ureters. Herein, we review the literature regarding NIRF in colorectal surgery.

Feasibility of injected indocyanine green for ureteral identification during robotic left-sided colorectal resections

BACKGROUND

Ureteral identification is essential to performing safe colorectal surgery. Injected immunofluorescence may aid with ureteral identification, but feasibility without ureteral catheterization is not well described.

METHODS

Case series of robotic colorectal resections where indocyanine green (ICG) injection with or without ureteral catheter placement was performed. Imaging protocol, time to ureteral identification, and factors impacting visualization are reported.

RESULTS

From 2019 to 2020, 83 patients underwent ureteral ICG injection, 20 with catheterization and 63 with injection only. Main indications were diverticulitis (52%) and cancer (36%). Median time to instill ICG was faster with injection alone than with catheter placement (4min vs 13.5min, p < 0.001). Median time [IQR] to right ureter (0.3 [0.01-1.2] min after robot docking) and left ureter (5.5 [3.1-8.8] min after beginning dissection) visualization was not different between injection alone and catheterization.

CONCLUSION

ICG injection alone is faster than with indwelling catheter placement and equally reliable at intraoperative ureteral identification.

Postoperative complications of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer, and surgery is the most common treatment. Several surgical options are available, but each is associated with a range of potential complications. The timely and efficient identification of these complications is vital for effective clinical management of these patients in order to minimise their morbidity and mortality. This review aims to describe the range of commonly performed surgical treatments for colorectal surgery. In addition, frequent post-surgical complications are explored with investigative options explained and illustrated.

Ureteral injuries in colorectal surgery and the impact of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted approaches

BACKGROUND

Ureteral injury is a feared complication in colorectal surgery that has been increasing over the past decade. Some have attributed this to an increased adoption of minimally invasive surgery (MIS), but the literature is hardly conclusive. In this study we aim to further assess the overall trend of ureteral injuries in colorectal surgery, and investigate propensity adjusted contributions from open and MIS to include robotic-assisted surgery.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of colorectal surgeries from 2006 to 2016 using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify predisposing and protective factors. Demographics, hospital factors, and case-mix differences for open and MIS were accounted for via propensity analysis. The NIS coding structure changed in 2015, which could introduce a potential source of incongruity in complication rates over time. As a result, all statistical analyses included only the first nine years of data, or were conducted before and after the change for comparison.

RESULTS

Of 514,162 colorectal surgeries identified there were 1598 ureteral injuries (0.31%). Ureteral injuries were found to be increasing through 2015 (2.3/1000 vs 3.3/1000; p < 0.001) and through the coding transition to 2016 (4.8/1000; p < 0.001). This trend was entirely accounted for by injuries made during open surgery, with decreasing injury rates for MIS over time. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) for ureteral injury with all MIS vs. open cases was 0.81 (95% CI 0.70-0.93, p = 0.003) and for robotic-assisted surgery alone versus open cases was 0.50 (95% CI 0.33-0.77, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence rate of ureteral injuries during open colorectal surgery is increasing over time, but have been stable or decreasing for MIS cases. These findings hold even after using propensity score analysis. More research is needed to further delineate the impact of MIS and robotic-assisted surgery on ureteral injuries.

Iatrogenic Ureteral Injury and Prophylactic Stent Use in Veterans Undergoing Colorectal Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Iatrogenic ureteral injury (IUI) is an uncommon complication in colorectal surgery. Prophylactic ureteral stenting (PUS) gained acceptance to aid in intraoperative identification of the ureter. Despite its use, the benefit of pus to avoid IUI remains debatable. We sought to analyze the rates of IUI after colorectal surgery in veterans and to compare the outcomes after PUS using a large matched cohort.

METHODS

The veterans affairs surgical quality improvement program database was queried for patients who underwent colorectal surgery from 2008-2015. To analyze the outcomes of PUS, we created two matched groups using propensity-score matching accounting for demographical and clinical cofactors to assess variable outcomes. Cross-tabulation was used to calculate rates of IUI and univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate risk factors associated with IUI.

RESULTS

27,448 patients were identified and 458 underwent PUS placement (1.6%). The majority of procedures were performed electively and with an open approach. Mean age was 65 y, 96.3% were male, and colorectal cancer was the most common indication. 45 patients (0.2%) were diagnosed with IUI. IUI incidence was higher in female patients, after left-sided colorectal resection, and in those undergoing open procedures. After matching, PUS use was associated with longer length of stay and operative time and increased creatinine levels from baseline.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that the use of PUS is independently associated with increased operative time and change in creatinine levels. Although no IUI occurred in the PUS group, this finding was not statistically significant. The risk and/or benefit ratio of PUS should be considered for each individual case, with its selective use based on the presence of risk factors for IUI, such as female patients and left-sided resections.

Intraoperative complications during laparoscopic total mesorectal excision

Intraoperative complication during laparoscopic mesorectal excision for rectal cancer is a common complication occurring in 11% to 15% of the cases. They are probably underestimated because not systematically reported. The most frequent intraoperative complications are haemorrhage (3-7%), tumour perforation (1-4%), bowel injury (1-3%), ureter injury (1%), urogenital injury (2%), other organ injury (<1%), and anastomotic complications (1%). The mechanisms, management and prevention of vascular port injury, inferior mesenteric artery bleeding, small bowel and colon perforation, ureteral and urethral injury, pelvic nerve damage, tumour perforation and anastomotic failure are described. This review underlines the necessity to prevent intraoperative complication to avoid operative death and severe side-effects.

Nanoprobes-Assisted Multichannel NIR-II Fluorescence Imaging-Guided Resection and Photothermal Ablation of Lymph Nodes

Lymph node metastasis is a major metastatic route of cancer and significantly influences the prognosis of cancer patients. Radical lymphadenectomy is crucial for a successful surgery. However, iatrogenic normal organ injury during lymphadenectomy is a troublesome complication. Here, this paper reports a kind of organic nanoprobes (IDSe-IC2F nanoparticles (NPs)) with excellent second near-infrared (NIR-II) fluorescence and photothermal properties. IDSe-IC2F NPs can effectively label lymph nodes and helped achieve high-contrast lymphatic imaging. More importantly, by jointly using IDSe-IC2F nanoparticles and other kinds of nanoparticles with different excitation/emission properties, a multichannel NIR-II fluorescence imaging modality and imaging-guided lymphadenectomy is proposed. With the help of this navigation system, the iatrogenic injury can be largely avoided. In addition, NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided photothermal treatment ("hot" strategy) can ablate those metastatic lymph nodes which are difficult to deal with during resection ("cold" strategy). Nanoprobes-assisted and multichannel NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided "cold" and "hot" treatment strategy provides a general new basis for the future precision surgery.

Does prophylactic ureteric stenting at the time of colorectal surgery reduce the risk of ureteric injury? A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Cystoscopic placement of ureteric stents during colorectal surgery (CRS) may aid in the intraoperative identification of the ureters and thus prevent ureteric injury, but may also be associated with prolonged operating time, increased cost and adverse events. No formal recommendations exist regarding the use of ureteric stents prior to CRS. Our aim was to determine the effect of prophylactic ureteric stent insertion on the risk of ureteric injury among adult patients undergoing CRS.

METHOD

A systematic search using the Ovid platform was completed. The primary outcome was risk of ureteric injury. Secondary outcomes included the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI), urinary tract infection (UTI), sepsis, length of stay (LOS) and mortality. The Paule-Mandel pooling and a random effects model was used to produce odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for binary outcomes. Standardized mean differences (MD) were reported for continuous variables. Analyses were completed using R3.5.

RESULTS

Nine retrospective cohort studies evaluating 98 507 patients were included. The incidence of ureteric injury was 0.6%. Overall, 5.1% of patients underwent ureteric stenting. There was no change in the odds of ureteric injury among stented patients compared with controls (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.39-4.29, I²  = 25%). Operating time was significantly longer (MD 49.3 min, 95% CI 35.3-63.4, I²  = 96%) in the intervention group. There was no difference in rates of AKI, UTI, sepsis, LOS or mortality between groups.

CONCLUSION

Given the retrospective nature of the identified studies, the benefit of prophylactic ureteric stenting remains uncertain. Prophylactic ureteric stenting was not associated with increased patient morbidity but did significantly increase operating time.

Management of intraoperative complications during laparoscopic right colectomy

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive right colectomy is increasingly performed as standard treatment for diseases of right colon. Complete mesocolic excision has been introduced for cancer treatment to improve oncological results. Both standard and complete mesocolic excision techniques are associated with intraoperative complications. The purpose of this study was to analyse incidence and management of intraoperative complications in patients who underwent laparoscopic right colectomy with complete mesocolic excision in a single institution.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study conducted in a single Italian centre from April 2017 to October 2020. Data of non-metastatic cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic right colectomy were collected to analyse onset of intraoperative complications, their management and rate of conversion to open surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 92 patients were included in this study. The 1.09% of patients were converted to open surgery due to adhesions and bowel occlusion. The 5.43% of patients had intraoperative complications: bleeding from Henle's trunk, pre-pancreatic plane and ileocolic artery stump account for 3.26%, gonadal vessel injury for 1.09% and bowel lesion for 1.09%.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the limits of this study, it shows that bleeding is one of the most frequent complications in laparoscopic right colectomy. Bleeding, occlusion and adhesions are most common reasons for conversion to open surgery.

Indocyanine green fluorescence-guided laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery with prophylactic retrograde transileal conduit ureteral catheter placement after previous total cystectomy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic ureteral injury (UI) is a potentially serious complication of colorectal cancer surgery. Performing perioperative placement of ureteral stents or intraoperative fluorescence navigation surgery for the ureter using indocyanine green (ICG) has been employed as a method of preventing UI. However, transileal conduit stent placement has been considered challenging because it is difficult to identify the ureteral orifice due to the anatomical changes caused by a previous surgery. We report a case in which laparoscopic colectomy was safely performed using a combination of prophylactic transileal conduit ureteral catheter placement and intraoperative ICG fluorescence navigation surgery.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 75-year-old man presented to our hospital complaining of vomiting and abdominal distension. He had a history of open total cystectomy and ileal conduit urinary diversion 11 years prior to admission. Computed tomography confirmed colon dilation with fecal impaction from the ascending colon to the sigmoid colon and wall thickening in the sigmoid colon. Colonoscopy during the transanal ileus tube insertion revealed a Borrmann type II tumor with circumferential stenosis 10 cm distal to the junction between the descending colon and the sigmoid colon. The patient was diagnosed with colorectal ileus due to obstructive sigmoid colon cancer and underwent transanal ileus tube insertion. Severe intra-abdominal adhesions were expected due to the previous total cystectomy, and the left ureter was near the sigmoid colon tumor; therefore, prophylactic retrograde transileal conduit ureteral catheter placement was performed one day before the elective surgery. During the operation, 20 ml (5.0 × 10^-2 mg/ml) ICG was administered from the transileal conduit ureteral catheter, and ICG fluorescence of the ureter was observed in the retroperitoneum. Laparoscopic Hartmann's operation was successfully performed, confirming ureter fluorescence. The operation time was 231 min, with 5 mL of intraoperative bleeding. The ureteral catheter was removed 3 days after the operation. The patient's postoperative course was good with no complications, and he was discharged on postoperative day 7.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic transileal conduit ureteral catheter placement and ICG fluorescence navigation surgery were effective in performing laparoscopic colorectal surgery with severe adhesions after urinary diversion.

Intraureteral indocyanine green augments ureteral identification and avoidance during complex robotic-assisted colorectal surgery

AIM

Up to 10% of patients who undergo nonurological abdominopelvic operations suffer a ureteral injury. While preoperative ureteral stenting to facilitate identification of the ureter is common, it does not reduce the incidence of intraoperative ureteral injury and is not without risk. As we continue to broaden the application of minimally invasive surgical techniques, a new form of ureteral identification and avoidance that does not rely on tactile feedback is needed. We report our initial experience with intraureteral indocyanine green (ICG) for ureteral identification and avoidance during complex robotic-assisted colorectal surgery.

METHOD

Patients undergoing adjunctive ureteral identification during robotic-assisted colorectal surgery were prospectively identified. Each patient underwent intraureteral ICG administration using rigid cystoscopy (22 Fr). A 5-Fr open-ended ureteral catheter was inserted up to 20 cm and used to inject 5 ml of 2.5 mg/ml ICG as the catheter was withdrawn to the ureteral orifice. Intraureteral ICG was then detected using near-infrared laser fluorescence technology (Firefly®).

RESULTS

Successful ICG-enhanced ureteral identification and avoidance was performed in 15 of 16 (94%) patients undergoing robotic-assisted colorectal surgery. The median ICG instillation time was 11.5 min (range 4-21 min) and the median operative time with ICG visualization was 489 min (8 h 9 min) [range 268-738 min (4 h 28 min-12 h 18 min)]. No patient experienced intraoperative ureteral injury and there were no adverse sequelae or complications associated with intraureteral ICG administration.

CONCLUSION

Intraureteral ICG is a safe and effective method of intraoperative ureteral identification and avoidance during complex robotic-assisted colorectal surgery. Precise and prolonged ureteral visualization was achieved, allowing for long operative times compatible with complex robotic-assisted operations.

Prophylactic Ureteral Localization Stent with Guidewire Assistance Decreases Urologic-Induced Complication Rates: Quality Improvement Initiative and Review of Literature

Background: We previously reported a 2% Clavien IIIb urologic-induced complication rate associated with blind (no guidewire, no fluoroscopy) prophylactic ureteral localization stent (PULSe) placement. As part of a quality improvement initiative, mandatory guidewire placement before PULSe was performed and urologic-induced Clavien IIIb or greater complication rates were evaluated. A systematic review was performed to elicit the overall urologic-induced complication rate in the literature. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of all patients who underwent guidewire-assisted PULSe placement before colorectal surgery was performed. The contemporary cohort was compared with those in the prior cohort using age, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, preoperative creatinine, postoperative creatinine, pre-/postoperative creatinine difference, and Clavien IIIb urologic-induced complication rates. A review of literature from 1982 to 2019 was performed using 14 unique search terms. Of 38 studies reviewed, 18 met predetermined inclusion criteria. Results: One hundred thirty-two patients underwent bilateral PULSe placement with mandatory guidewire utilization. Mean age and BMI were 55.78 (18-89) and 27.02, respectively, with zero Clavien IIIb complications, compared with a rate of 2% (P < .001) in our prior study. Our contemporary cohort yielded a more favorable postoperative creatinine (P < .022) and pre-/postoperative creatinine difference (P < .003). A review of literature identified a mean Clavien IIIb complication rate of 0.38%. Conclusions: Mandatory guidewire utilization before PULSe placement reduced the Clavien IIIb complication rate to zero, compared with a rate of 2% from our prior cohort. Guidewire utilization can decrease Clavien IIIb urologic-induced complication rates. A review of the literature shows a lack of uniformity concerning the technique of PULSe placement.

Iatrogenic ureteral injury during retroperitoneal laparoscopy for large renal cysts: What we learned and a review of the literature

PURPOSE

To avoid Iatrogenic ureteral injury during retroperitoneal laparoscopy for large renal cyst (diameter > 70 mm), we present two cases of iatrogenic ureteral injury and discuss their clinical courses and final outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two male patients (47 years old and 74 years old) with large left simple renal cysts underwent a retroperitoneal laparoscopic operation to treat the cysts. In the first patient, the left proximal ureter was partially transected (Grade 3) during the operation. The injury was identified intraoperatively. The transection was managed with a primary ureteroureterostomy (end to end) along with a double J ureteral stent. In the second patient, the left proximalureter was partially transected (Grade 4). However, the injury was unrecognized postoperatively for two days. After recognition of the complication, the injury was managed with an early primary ureteroureterostomy, which followed a failed attempt to place ureteral stent endoscopically.

RESULTS

In the first patient, a postoperative urinary leakage developed and lasted for 13 days. During long term follow-up of the first patient after the urine leak resolved, there were no reports of pain in the lumbar region or other discomfort. No recurrence of the renal cyst occurred, which was confirmed with an ultrasound at one year postoperatively. In the second patient a ureteral fistula and severe perirenal infection occurred and lasted for 86 days. The patient ultimately underwent a left nephrectomy after conservative management for this surgical complication failed. This patient developed a chronic wound infection that lasted for 3.14 months following the nephrectomy. During follow-up post nephrectomy, the patient developed stage 3B moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD) (GFR = 30 -44 ml/min).

CONCLUSIONS

For single large (diameter > 70 mm) renal cysts located at the lower pole of the kidney, it is recommended to not completely dissect out and mobilize the entire renal cyst for cyst decortication in order to avoid injuring the ureter. Iatrogenic ureteral injury increases the risk of readmission and serious life-threatening complications. The immediate diagnosis and proper management ureteric injury can reduce complications and long term sequalae.

Iatrogenic ureteral injuries: a case series analysis with an emphasis on the predictors of late ureteral strictures and unfavorable outcome in different surgical specialties

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

We aimed to report the demographics and management of iatrogenic ureteral injuries (IUIs) with different surgical specialties. Moreover, our goal was to analyze the predictors of late ureteral strictures and secondary intervention after primary surgical management, and the final effect on the kidney.

METHODS

A retrospective study, between 2006 and 2019, enrolled all patients undergoing urological, abdominal, and pelvic surgeries performed through open, laparoscopic, or endoscopic means. If IUIs were discovered intraoperatively, they were managed either by internal stent or surgical intervention following the standard procedure. For IUIs discovered postoperatively, either percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) or double J (DJ) ureteral stents were inserted for later endoscopic or surgical management. The final outcomes were divided into two groups: patients with successful primary outcomes and those who required secondary intervention later. All predictors were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients were reviewed: 23 out of 48 (48%) from obstetrics and gynecology (ob/gyn) involving the lower ureter primarily with overall favorable outcomes (82%), 15 (31%) colorectal, and 10 (21%) urology with serious injuries affecting men in the upper ureter. The primary management included open surgery in 12 patients, and drainage (PCN or DJ) in 36 patients. Restoration of ureteral anatomy and kidney function was achieved in all, but 18 cases required a secondary correction, either endoscopically or surgically. Both early and late discovery resulted in the same outcome. On bivariate analysis, only the side of the injury (left side, p = 0.03), and the specialty (colorectal cancer surgeries, p = 0.01) were predictors for late ureteral strictures, and both sustained their significance in multivariate regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

Iatrogenic ureteral injuries associated with ob/gyn surgeries involve the lower ureter, primarily with overall favorable outcomes (82%). Serious ureteroscopic IUIs affect men in the upper ureter with greater frequency. IUIs on the left side and colorectal cancer surgeries are the predictors for late strictures and secondary interventions.

Surgical Management of Recurrent Uncomplicated Diverticulitis

Sigmoid diverticulitis represents a most common gastroenterological diagnosis in the western world. There has been a significant change in the management of recurrent uncomplicated diverticulitis in the last 10 to 15 years. The absolute number of previous episodes is not used as criteria to recommend surgery anymore. Young age is no longer considered to be an indication for more aggressive surgical treatment. It is accepted that subsequent episodes of diverticulitis are not significantly worse than the first episode. Laparoscopic surgery is now the standard of care for elective surgery for diverticulitis where expertise is available. There is a consensus that decision to perform sigmoid colectomy should be individualized, after careful risk benefit assessment.