Robotic Platform for an IPAA

Employing innovation to enhance the safety and reliability of restorative surgical techniques for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis at a national referral centre

INTRODUCTION

Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) and total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (TC-IRA) are traditional surgical options for individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Re-appraisal and modification to these techniques, such as near-total colectomy with ileo-distal sigmoid anastomosis (NT-IDSA) and RPC with robotic intracorporeal single-stapled anastomosis (RPC-RiSSA), have been implemented in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the early postoperative outcomes associated with novel techniques employed in a single centre for restorative surgery in patients with FAP.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from patients with FAP who underwent prophylactic restorative surgery between January 2008 and December 2022 at St Mark's Hospital.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty-three individuals underwent restorative surgery over the 15-year period; 102/253 (40.3%) underwent TC-IRA, 84 (33.2%) had NT-IDSA, and 67 (26.5%) underwent RPC. Laparoscopic approach was the most common (88.2%) operative access. Seventeen patients (6.7%) underwent robotic operations. For robotic-assisted procedures, no conversions were reported. No anastomotic leaks or 30-day reoperations were reported in the NT-IDSA group compared to 8% (0/84 vs 8/102, p = 0.009) and 11% (0/84 vs 11/102, p = 0.002), respectively, in the TC-IRA group. Regarding RPC, following the introduction of robotic RPC-RiSSA in 2019, no anastomotic leakage was observed compared with 9% (0/11 vs 5/56, p = 0.3) in those undergoing conventional RPC.

CONCLUSION

Our institution has transitioned from TC-IRA to NT-IDSA since 2014 and conventional RPC to RPC-RiSSA in 2019. To date, since refinement of the techniques there have been no anastomotic failures amongst these cohorts. The reported results may offer future horizons for patients undergoing similar procedures for alternative colorectal diseases.

Navigating Progress: 8-Year Single-Center Experience With Minimally Invasive Proctectomy and IPAA

BACKGROUND

IPAA has become the criterion standard for treating ulcerative colitis, familial adenomatous polyposis, and selected cases of Crohn's colitis. Robotic surgery promises improved postoperative outcomes and decreased length of stay. However, few studies have evaluated the benefits of robotic IPAA compared to laparoscopy.

OBJECTIVE

To compare short-term 30-day postoperative outcomes of robotic versus laparoscopic proctectomy with IPAA and diverting loop ileostomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study from a single, high-volume center.

SETTINGS

Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (tertiary referral center for IBD).

PATIENTS

All adult patients undergoing minimally invasive proctectomy with IPAA and diverting loop ileostomy between January 2015 and April 2023.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Thirty-day complications, hospital length of stay, estimated blood loss, conversion rate, 30-day readmission, and 30-day reoperation.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventeen patients were included in the study; 107 underwent robotic proctectomy with IPAA and diverting loop ileostomy, whereas 110 had laparoscopic proctectomy with IPAA and diverting loop ileostomy. Operating time was significantly longer in the robotic group (263 ± 38 vs 228 ± 75 minutes, p < 0.0001). The robotic group also had lower estimated blood loss (81.5 ± 77.7 vs 126.8 ± 111.0 mL, p = 0.0006) as well as fewer conversions (0% vs 8.2%, p = 0.003). Patients in the robotic group received more intraoperative fluids (3099 ± 1140 vs 2472 ± 996 mL, p = 0.0001). However, there was no difference in length of stay, 30-day morbidity, 30-day readmission, 30-day reoperation, rate of diverting loop ileostomy closure at 3 months, and surgical IPAA complication rate after ileostomy closure.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design, single-center study, potential bias because of the novelty of the robotic approach, and lack of long-term and quality-of-life outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic proctectomy with IPAA and diverting loop ileostomy may offer advantages in terms of estimated blood loss and conversion rate while maintaining the benefits of minimally invasive surgery. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term outcomes. See Video Abstract .

NAVEGANDO EL PROGRESO EXPERIENCIA DE OCHO AOS EN UN SOLO CENTRO CON PROCTECTOMA MNIMAMENTE INVASIVA Y ANASTOMOSIS ANALBOLSA ILEAL

ANTECEDENTES:La anastomosis anal-bolsa ileal (IPAA) se ha convertido en el estándar de oro para el tratamiento de la colitis ulcerosa, la poliposis adenomatosa familiar y casos seleccionados de colitis de Crohn. La cirugía robótica promete mejores resultados posoperatorios y una menor duración de la estancia hospitalaria. Sin embargo, pocos estudios han evaluado los beneficios de la IPAA robótica en comparación con la laparoscopia.OBJETIVO:Comparar los resultados postoperatorios a corto plazo a 30 días de la proctectomía robótica versus laparoscópica con IPAA e ileostomía en asa de derivación.DISEÑO:Estudio observacional retrospectivo de un único centro de gran volumen.AJUSTES:Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (centro terciario de referencia para EII).PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes adultos sometidos a proctectomía mínimamente invasiva con IPAA y DLI entre Enero de 2015 y Abril de 2023.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADOS:Complicaciones a los 30 días, duración de la estancia hospitalaria, pérdida de sangre estimada, tasa de conversión, reingreso a los 30 días y reoperación a los 30 días.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron en el estudio 217 pacientes; 107 se sometieron a proctectomía robótica con IPAA y DLI, mientras que 110 se sometieron a proctectomía laparoscópica con IPAA y DLI. El tiempo operatorio fue significativamente mayor en el grupo robótico (263 ± 38 minutos versus 228 ± 75 minutos, p < 0,0001); la pérdida de sangre estimada (EBL) fue menor en el grupo robótico (81,5 ± 77,7 ml versus 126,8 ± 111,0 ml, p = 0,0006), así como el número de conversiones (0% versus 8,2%, p = 0,003). Los pacientes del grupo robótico recibieron más líquidos intraoperatorios (3099 ± 1140 ml versus 2472 ± 996 ml, p = 0,0001). Sin embargo, no hubo diferencias en la duración de la estancia hospitalaria, la morbilidad a los 30 días, el reingreso a los 30 días, la reoperación a los 30 días, la tasa de cierre del DLI a los tres meses y la tasa de complicaciones quirúrgicas de la IPAA después del cierre de la ileostomía.LIMITACIONES:Diseño retrospectivo, estudio unicéntrico, posible sesgo debido a la novedad del enfoque robótico, falta de resultados a largo plazo y de calidad de vida.CONCLUSIONES:La proctectomía robótica con IPAA y DLI puede ofrecer ventajas en términos de EBL y tasa de conversión, manteniendo al mismo tiempo los beneficios de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva. Se necesita más investigación para evaluar los resultados a largo plazo. (Traducción-Dr. Yesenia Rojas-Khalil ).

Transanal ileal pouch-anal anastomosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of technical approaches and clinical outcomes

PURPOSE

Transanal minimally invasive surgery has theoretical advantages for ileal pouch-anal anastomosis surgery. We performed a systematic review assessing technical approaches to transanal IPAA (Ta-IPAA) and meta-analysis comparing outcomes to transabdominal (abd-IPAA) approaches.

METHODS

Three databases were searched for articles investigating Ta-IPAA outcomes. Primary outcome was anastomotic leak rate. Secondary outcomes included conversion rate, post operative morbidity, and length of stay (LoS). Staging, plane of dissection, anastomosis, extraction site, operative time, and functional outcomes were also assessed.

RESULTS

Searches identified 13 studies with 404 unique Ta-IPAA and 563 abd-IPAA patients. Anastomotic leak rates were 6.3% and 8.4% (RD 0, 95% CI -0.066 to 0.065, p = 0.989) and conversion rates 2.5% and 12.5% (RD -0.106, 95% CI -0.155 to -0.057, p = 0.104) for Ta-IPAA and abd-IPAA. Average LoS was one day shorter (MD -1, 95% CI -1.876 to 0.302, p = 0.007). A three-stage approach was most common (47.6%), operative time was 261(± 60) mins, and total mesorectal excision and close rectal dissection were equally used (49.5% vs 50.5%). Functional outcomes were similar. Lack of randomised control trials, case-matched series, and significant study heterogeneity limited analysis, resulting in low to very low certainty of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis demonstrated the feasibility and safety of Ta-IPAA with reduced LoS, trend towards less conversions, and comparable anastomotic leak rates and post operative morbidity. Though results are encouraging, they need to be interpreted with heterogeneity and selection bias in mind. Robust randomised clinical trials are warranted to adequately compare ta-IPAA to transabdominal approaches.

Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis

Significant advancements have been made over the last 30 years in the use of minimally invasive techniques for curative and restorative operations in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Numerous studies have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic and robotic approaches to subtotal colectomy (including in the urgent setting), total proctocolectomy, completion proctectomy, and pelvic pouch creation. Data show equivalent or improved short-term postoperative outcomes with minimally invasive techniques compared to open surgery, and equivalent or improved long-term bowel function, sexual function, and fertility. Overall, while minimally invasive techniques are safe and feasible for properly selected UC patients, surgeons must remember to abide by the principles of high-quality proctectomy and pouch creation and convert to open if necessary.

Pouch volvulus-why adhesions are not always the enemy

AIM

Minimally invasive approaches to proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis have become the standard of care with one benefit being the reduced risk of adhesion-related complications. However, a lack of pouch adherence to the pelvis can lead to increased mobility as well as volvulization, placing pouch viability at risk. We aimed to describe our institutional experience with pouch volvulus.

METHODS

Patients who presented with pouch volvulus from 1983 to 2020 were identified through a search of our pelvic pouch registry and enterprise-wide electronic medical record. Pouch volvulus was defined as a reducible rotation of the J-pouch on its mesenteric axis with evidence of a properly oriented ileo-anal anastomosis. Patients with 'twisted pouches' were excluded.

RESULTS

In total, 5760 patients underwent ileal pouch anal anastomosis from 1983 to 2020. Six patients (five women) were identified with a diagnosis of 'pouch volvulus' consistent with our definition. The six pouches were constructed utilizing laparoscopic techniques and the mean time from construction to volvulus was 2.36 years. All patients underwent urgent surgery, with a paucity of adhesions noted in five. Reduction and pouch pexy was performed in three and pouch excision in three, with immediate pouch reconstruction in two and end ileostomy creation in one. At a median follow-up of 9 months, pouch survival was 50%.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic pouches constructed using minimally invasive techniques may be at risk of volvulus due to reduced adhesion development. A high index of suspicion is warranted in pouch patients with obstructive symptomatology. CT imaging may be diagnostic, and prompt surgical intervention may facilitate pouch salvage.

Equivalency of short-term perioperative outcomes after open, laparoscopic and robotic ileal anal pouch anastomosis. Does procedure complexity override operative approach?

Background

Ileal pouch anal anastomosis is the treatment of choice for patients with chronic ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis undergoing a proctocolectomy and desiring bowel continuity. It is a technically complex operation associated with significant morbidity and may be performed by an open, laparoscopic, or robotic approach. However, there is a paucity of data regarding the comparative perioperative outcomes between these 3 techniques outside of institutional studies.

Methods

The NSQIP targeted proctectomy data set was used to identify patients who underwent open, laparoscopic, and robotic ileal pouch anal anastomosis between 2016 and 2019. Thirty-day outcomes between different surgical approaches were compared using univariate and multivariable analysis.

Results

During the study period, 1,067 open, 971 laparoscopic, and 341 robotic ileal pouch anal anastomosis were performed. The most frequent indications were inflammatory bowel disease (64%), malignancy (18%), and familial adenomatous polyposis (7%). Mean age of the cohort was 43 ± 15 years with 43% female and 76% with body mass index ≤ 30 kg/m². Overall morbidity was 26.8% for the entire cohort with 4% anastomotic leak, 6% reoperation, 21% ileus, and 21% readmission rate. After adjusting for available confounders, operative approach was not associated with better short-term outcomes, including length of stay, overall morbidity, anastomotic leak, reoperation, incidence of ileus, and 30-day readmissions.

Conclusion

Ileal pouch anal anastomosis continues to be associated with significant postoperative morbidity regardless of operative approach. Patient-related advantages in terms of perioperative outcomes for laparoscopic and robotic platforms compared to open surgery are less pronounced in complex operations such as ileal pouch anal anastomosis.

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Ileal anal pouch anastomosis is a technically complex operation associated with significant postoperative 30-day morbidity.

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Postoperative morbidity is similar between open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches.

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In complex operations such as ileal anal pouch anastomosis, the short-term perioperative advantages of minimally invasive approaches may not be clinically evident.

Perioperative outcomes of minimally invasive ileocolic resection for complicated Crohn disease: Results from a referral center retrospective cohort

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive ileocolic resection for complicated Crohn disease, defined as penetrating Crohn disease associated with intra-abdominal fistula, abscess, or phlegmon, is challenging. In addition, the impact of the minimally invasive approach on postoperative outcomes is still debated. This study aimed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of minimally invasive ileocolic resection for complicated versus uncomplicated Crohn disease.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all consecutive adult patients with Crohn disease undergoing minimally invasive ileocolic resection from 2014 to 2021 was performed. Perioperative outcomes were compared between patients with complicated Crohn disease (complicated group) and patients without these lesions (uncomplicated group).

RESULTS

Among the 274 patients undergoing minimally invasive ileocolic resection for Crohn disease, 101 (36.9%) had a robotic approach, and 84 (30.7%) had complicated Crohn disease. Complicated patients were more frequently malnourished (32.1% vs 16.1%, P = .004) and had more frequent previous bowel resections for Crohn disease (22.1% vs 9.5%, P = .002). There were no differences between both groups regarding intraoperative complications (1.1% uncomplicated group vs 2.4% complicated group, P = .463), conversion rate (2.6% uncomplicated group vs 4.8% complicated group, P = .463), postoperative morbidity (27.4% uncomplicated group vs 34.5% complicated group, P = .231), intra-abdominal septic complications (4.2% uncomplicated group vs 7.1% complicated group, P = .309), and length of stay (3.8 ± 2.0 days uncomplicated group vs 4.2 ± 3.0 complicated group, P = .188).

CONCLUSION

Minimally invasive ileocolic resection for complicated Crohn disease is safe and feasible. Future prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.

Temporal trends in ileoanal pouch surgery for paediatric onset ulcerative colitis in England from 1997 to 2015 using hospital episode statistics

INTRODUCTION

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) following colectomy for ulcerative colitis (UC) achieves restoration of intestinal continuity with potential return of continence. It is undertaken relatively infrequently in children. We aimed to investigate the national frequency of IPAA in paediatric UC and report outcomes useful for surgeon/centre benchmarking.

METHODS

Hospital Episode Statistics data were obtained for all admissions in England (1997-2015) in children (< 18 years) who underwent IPAA for UC using OPCS-4 procedural codes. Surgeon specialty, readmission, and reoperation rates were identified. Data are median (interquartile range).

RESULTS

UC was diagnosed in 7604 children in whom 346 (4.6%) underwent IPAA at age 15 [13-17] years. Laparoscopy was used in 55 (15.9%) cases and in the most recent 10 years more commonly by specialist paediatric surgeons (SPS) than general surgeons (GS) (34.3%vs14.7%, p = 0.001). National frequency of IPAA ranged from 12 to 34 annually. Where specialty was available, 95/342 (57%) cases were undertaken by GS and 147/342 (43%) cases by SPS. The proportion of cases undertaken by SPS increased significantly compared to GS over the study period, p = 0.0003. Post-operative length of stay was 8 [6-11] days. During the index admission, unplanned return to theatre was required in 25/346 (7.2%). Following discharge 58 (16.8%) were readmitted within 30 days. Overall return to theatre rate within 30 days of pouch surgery was 11.0% (38/346).

CONCLUSION

IPAA for UC within childhood is undertaken infrequently in England, with a shift towards SPS undertaking surgery. These data can be used by surgeons to benchmark outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race: A Solid Case for a 3-Stage Approach in Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

Approximately 10% to 20% of patients with ulcerative colitis require surgery during their disease course, of which the most common is the staged restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to compare the rates of anastomotic leaks among all staged restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA procedures.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a single tertiary care IBD center.

PATIENTS

All patients with ulcerative colitis or IBD-unspecified who underwent a primary total proctocolectomy with IPAA for medically refractory disease or dysplasia between 2008 and 2017 were identified.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was anastomotic leak within a 6-month postoperative period. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to compare patients with and without anastomotic leaks.

RESULTS

The sample was composed of 584 nonemergent patients, of whom 50 (8.6%) underwent 1-stage, 162 (27.7%) underwent 2-stage, 58 (9.9%) underwent modified 2-stage, and 314 (53.7%) underwent a 3-stage total proctocolectomy with IPAA. The primary indication was medically refractory disease in 488 patients and dysplasia/cancer in 101 patients. Anastomotic leak occurred in 10 patients (3.2%) after 3-stage, 14 patients (8.6%) after 2-stage, 6 patients (10.3%) after modified 2-stage, and 10 patients (20.0%) after a 1-stage procedure. A 3-stage procedure had fewer leaks and additional procedures for leaks compared with 1- and modified 2-stage procedures (p < 0.03). The 3-stage procedure had fewer combined anastomotic leaks and pelvic abscesses than all of the other staged procedures (p < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective design and evolving electronic medical charts system.

CONCLUSIONS

The 3-stage total proctocolectomy with IPAA is the optimal staged method in ulcerative colitis to reduce leaks and related complications. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B693.

LENTO Y CONSTANTE GANA LA CARRERA UN CASO SLIDO PARA UN ENFOQUE DE TRES ETAPAS EN LA COLITIS ULCEROSA

ANTECEDENTES:Aproximadamente el 10-20% de los pacientes con colitis ulcerosa requieren cirugía durante el curso de su enfermedad, de los cuales la más común es la proctocolectomía restauradora escalonada con anastomosis con bolsa ileo-anal.OBJETIVO:El objetivo fue comparar las tasas de fugas anastomóticas entre todos los procedimientos de proctocolectomía restauradora por etapas con procedimiento de anastomosis con bolsa ileo-anal.DISEÑO:Este fue un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.ENTORNO CLÍNICO:Este estudio se llevó a cabo en un único centro de atención terciaria de tercer nivel para enfermedades inflamatorias del intestino.PACIENTES:Se identificaron todos los pacientes con colitis ulcerosa o enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal inespecífica que se sometieron a una proctocolectomía total primaria mas anastomosis con bolsa ileo-anal por enfermedad médicamente refractaria o displasia entre 2008 y 2017.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El resultado primario fue la fuga anastomótica dentro de un período posoperatorio de seis meses. Se utilizó regresión logística univariante y multivariante para comparar pacientes con y sin fugas anastomóticas.RESULTADOS:La muestra estuvo compuesta por 584 pacientes no emergentes, de los cuales 50 (8,6%) se sometieron a una etapa, 162 (27,7%) se sometieron a dos etapas, 58 (9,9%) se sometieron a modificación en dos etapas y 314 (53,7%) se sometieron a una proctocolectomía total en tres tiempos mas anastomosis con bolsa ileo-anal. La indicación principal fue enfermedad médicamente refractaria en 488 pacientes y displasia / cáncer en 101 pacientes. Se produjo una fuga anastomótica en 10 (3,2%) pacientes después de tres etapas, 14 (8,6%) pacientes después de dos etapas, 6 (10,3%) pacientes después de dos etapas modificadas y 10 (20,0%) pacientes después de una etapa procedimiento. Un procedimiento de tres etapas tuvo menos fugas y procedimientos adicionales para las fugas en comparación con los procedimientos de una y dos etapas modificadas (p <0.03). El procedimiento de tres etapas tuvo menos fugas anastomóticas y abscesos pélvicos combinados que todos los demás procedimientos por etapas (p <0,05).LIMITACIONES:Este estudio estuvo limitado por su diseño retrospectivo y su sistema de registros médicos electrónicos en evolución.CONCLUSIONES:La proctocolectomía total en tres etapas mas anastomosis con bolsa ileo-anal es el método óptimo por etapas en la colitis ulcerosa para reducir las fugas y las complicaciones relacionadas. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B693.

Ileal pouch–anal anastomosis—a personal experience reevaluating complications, pouch survival, and quality of life

Background

Ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the gold standard for proctocolectomy. The present study evaluates surgical outcomes of the authors’ operations over a 30-year period, including pouch survival and quality of life (QOL).

Methods

Records of patients undergoing IPAA between 1986 and 2015 were retrospectively analyzed regarding early and late complications and pouch survival. An online survey assessed QOL.

Results

Of 119 patients, 84 had chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and 35 non-inflammatory bowel disease (non-IBD). Pouch construction was simultaneous with proctocolectomy in 69% and metachronous in 31%. Double-stapler anastomosis with purse string suture was performed in 100 patients. With temporary transanal decompression by catheter insertion in all patients, loop ileostomy (LIS) was selectively omitted in 68%. Three anastomotic insufficiencies occurred both without (4.4%) and with LIS (9.4%). Perioperative morbidity for LIS closure was substantial (33.3%). In the long-term course, 36 patients (30.5%) required revision (cumulative probability after 15 years: 59.1%). IPAA was discontinued in 16 patients (13.6%), reducing cumulative continence preservation to 72.9% after 15 years. By converting the pouch to a continent ileostomy (CI) in 6 patients with uncorrectable functional complications, cumulative pouch survival reached 81.8% after 27 years. The online survey revealed significant improvements in occupation, sports, and travel vs. before proctocolectomy, but no change in sexual life. Physical, psychological, and social scores were still below the age-matched norm values. Whereas >90% were satisfied with the surgical outcome, only 3/25 had no functional improvement requests.

Conclusion

IPAA in double-stapler technique is safe, even without protective LIS. However, short- and long-term morbidity is considerable, with a non-negligible risk of continence loss. Conversion to CI for purely functional complications can significantly reduce definite pouch failure. Despite patients’ high subjective satisfaction, QOL remains objectively compromised.

Optimizing outcomes of colorectal cancer surgery with robotic platforms

Advanced robotic technology makes it easier to perform total mesorectal excision procedures in the narrow pelvis for rectal cancer while maintaining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. Robotic surgery for rectal cancer leads to lower conversion rates and faster recovery of urogenital function than conventional laparoscopic surgery. However, longer operative time and high cost are major weaknesses of robotic surgery. To date, most other short-term surgical outcomes, pathologic outcomes, and long-term oncologic outcomes of robotic surgery have not shown significant advantages over laparoscopic surgery. However, robotic surgery is still a valid and highly anticipated surgical approach for rectal cancer because it greatly reduces the surgeon's workload and learning curve. There are also advantages when robotic techniques are applied to technically demanding procedures such as lateral pelvic lymph node dissection or intersphincteric resection. The introduction of new surgical robot systems, including the da Vinci® SP system, is expected to expand the applications of robotic surgery and provide new advantages.

Training for Minimally Invasive Surgery for IBD: A Current Need

Surgery for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) management has passed through an important evolution over the last decades, with innovative strategies and new technologies, especially in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches. MIS procedures for IBD include multiport laparoscopy, single-port surgery, robotics, and the use of transanal platforms. These approaches can be used in the surgical management of both Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). There are significant peculiarities in the surgical field in CD and UC, and their perfect understanding are directly related to better outcomes in IBD patients, as a consequence of improvement in knowledge by IBD surgeons. Different strategies to train colorectal surgeons were developed worldwide, for better application of MIS, usually for malignant or non-IBD benign diseases. There is a significant lack of evidence in specific training strategies for MIS in the IBD field. In this review, the authors outline the importance of adequate surgical training in IBD MIS, by discussing the current evidence on different approaches and emphasizing the need for better training protocols included in multidisciplinary teams in IBD centers throughout the globe.

Cost drivers of locally advanced rectal cancer treatment-An analysis of a leading healthcare insurer

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the economic burden of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) treatment from a society perspective through analysis of health insurance-derived data of commercially insured and Medicare Advantage (MA) patients.

METHODS

Retrospective cost analysis of patients undergoing rectal resection within a multimodal (neoadjuvant chemoradiation + adjuvant chemotherapy) treatment strategy between January 1, 2010 and October 31, 2018, using the claims OptumLabs Data Warehouse database.

RESULTS

In total, 1738 (935 commercial and 803 MA) patients were included. Overall treatment costs totaled $230,881,746 (on average $183 653 ± 82 384 per commercially insured and $73 681 ± 32 917 per MA patient). Cost distribution according to category (commercially insured patients) was: 29.92% related to outpatient care (follow-up visits/diagnostics), radiotherapy: 21.83%, index resection: 20.62%, chemotherapy: 17.44%, surgical inpatient: 6.32%, medical inpatient: 3.28%, emergency room: 0.58%. Relative cost distribution of the index resection itself differed marginally between the three approaches and was 21.49% for open, 19.30% for laparoscopic, and 20.93% for robotic surgery. Relative cost distributions of neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and outpatient treatments remained unchanged, independently of the surgical approach. This representation was similar in MA patients.

CONCLUSION

Index-surgery related costs were outweighed by costs related to oncological and outpatient workup/follow-up treatments independently of both surgical approach and insurance type.

The use of robotic or laparoscopic stapler in rectal cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Minimally invasive surgery for total mesorectal excision (TME) remains technically challenging due to poor maneuverability within the pelvis, which makes extremely difficult to introduce a laparoscopic stapler (LS) for the rectal transection. We aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on robotic TME after the use of robotic stapler (RS) or LS after robotic TME. A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Database. Participants who underwent robotic anterior resection were considered following these criteria: (1) studies comparing RS and LS; (2) studies reporting the rate of anastomotic leakage (AL). The primary outcome was the risk of AL. Secondary outcomes included the number of firings of stapler needed. A meta-analysis based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement was performed. A total of 4 studies including 391 patients (LS = 251, RS = 140) were included for analysis. Regarding the number of firings, overall results suggest that the rectal stapling was achieved with less firings in the RS group, but the difference is not significant [risk difference, (95% CI) 0.42 (- 0.13, 0.97)]. There was a 56% increased odds of AL for LS compared with RS; however, this was not statistically significant (OR: 1.56; 95% CI 0.59, 4.14). With the current literature evidence, the present study could not demonstrate a clear benefit of the RS over the LS. Although the development of an AL is multifactorial and unpredictable, our data may suggest that the use of the RS could help reducing the risk of AL. There is a need of future randomized clinical trial to assess the possible benefits of the RS.

Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): ulcerative colitis

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a Position Statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of ulcerative colitis management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve the quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Robotic Colorectal Surgery

The role of robotics in colon and rectal surgery has been established as an important and effective tool for the surgeon. Its inherent technologies have provided for increased visualization and ease of dissection in the minimally invasive approach to surgery. The value of the robot is apparent in the more challenging aspects of colon and rectal procedures, including the intracorporeal anastomosis for right colectomies and the low pelvic dissection for benign and malignant diseases.

Ileal-anal pouches: A review of its history, indications, and complications

The ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) has revolutionised the surgical management of ulcerative colitis (UC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Despite refinement in surgical technique(s) and patient selection, IPAA can be associated with significant morbidity. As the IPAA celebrated its 40^th anniversary in 2018, this review provides a timely outline of its history, indications, and complications. IPAA has undergone significant modification since 1978. For both UC and FAP, IPAA surgery aims to definitively cure disease and prevent malignant degeneration, while providing adequate continence and avoiding a permanent stoma. The majority of patients experience long-term success, but “early” and “late” complications are recognised. Pelvic sepsis is a common early complication with far-reaching consequences of long-term pouch dysfunction, but prompt intervention (either radiological or surgical) reduces the risk of pouch failure. Even in the absence of sepsis, pouch dysfunction is a long-term complication that may have a myriad of causes. Pouchitis is a common cause that remains incompletely understood and difficult to manage at times. 10% of patients succumb to the diagnosis of pouch failure, which is traditionally associated with the need for pouch excision. This review provides a timely outline of the history, indications, and complications associated with IPAA. Patient selection remains key, and contraindications exist for this surgery. A structured management plan is vital to the successful management of complications following pouch surgery.

The Role of Laparoscopic, Robotic, and Open Surgery in Uncomplicated and Complicated Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease is increasing and despite advances in medical therapy, patients continue to require operations for complications of their disease. Minimally invasive surgical options have impacted postoperative morbidity dramatically with reduction of pain, length of stay and adhesion formation, but additionally, this population of patients are not only concerned with successful operative therapy but also the ability to return to their lifestyle and cosmetics. Laparoscopic and robotic surgery for Crohn's disease has proven to benefit patients with ileocolic or colonic disease, however complicated disease with phlegmon, abscess or fistulae is best served with a hybrid approach. Ulcerative colitis treatment has seen advancements with laparoscopic and robotic platforms, however the benefits of minimally invasive surgery must be balanced with producible and durable outcomes.

Feasibility and safety of robotic resection of complicated diverticular disease

This study aimed to assess intra- and postoperative outcomes of robotic resection of left-sided complicated diverticular disease. Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained institutional database on consecutive patients undergoing elective robotic resection for diverticular disease (2014-2018). All procedures were performed within an enhanced recovery pathway (ERP). Demographic, surgical and ERP-related items were compared between patients with simple and complicated diverticular disease according to intra-operative presentation. Postoperative complications and length of stay were compared between the two groups. Out of 150 patients, 78 (52%) presented with complicated and the remaining 72 (48%) with uncomplicated disease. Both groups were comparable regarding demographic baseline characteristics and overall ERP compliance. Surgery for complicated disease was longer (288 ± 96 vs. 258 ± 72 min, p = 0.04) and more contaminated (≥ class 3: 57.7 vs. 23.6%, p < 0.001) with a trend to higher conversion rates (10.3 vs. 2.8%, p = 0.1). While postoperative overall complications tended to occur more often after resections for complicated disease (28.2 vs. 15.3%, p = 0.075), major, surgical and medical complications did not differ between the two groups, and median length of stay was 3 days in both settings (p = 0.19). Robotic resection of diverticular disease was feasible and safe regardless of disease presentation by the time of surgery.

Progress in surgical treatment of familial adenomatous polyposis

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