Is there still a role for continent ileostomy in the surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease?

Conversion of Failed J-Pouch to Kock Pouch: Indications, Contraindications, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The IPAA has been successful in restoring intestinal continuity and preserving continence in the majority of patients requiring a proctocolectomy. However, a subset of individuals experience significant complications that might result in pouch failure. The conversion of the J-pouch to a continent ileostomy pouch represents a significant surgical procedure. In this article, we discuss the indications and contraindications, present the technical principles applied for the conversion, and describe the outcomes of such conversion in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective during the conversion of the J-pouch to a continent ileostomy is the creation of a sufficiently sized reservoir with a high-quality valve mechanism while preserving as much small bowel as possible.

CONCLUSIONS

The conversion of the J-pouch to a continent ileostomy represents a significant surgical procedure. When performed in centers of expertise, it can be a good option for patients who otherwise will require an end ileostomy. Indications for conversion include most cases of J-pouch failure, with a few important exceptions. See video from symposium .

Cancer in the Anal Transition Zone and Ileoanal Pouch following Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis remains the gold standard treatment for patients with ulcerative colitis who desire restoration of intestinal continuity. Despite a significant cancer risk reduction after surgical removal of the colon and rectum, dysplasia and cancers of the ileal pouch or anal transition zone still occur and are a risk even if an anal canal mucosectomy is performed. Surgical care and maintenance after ileoanal anastomosis must include consideration of malignant potential along with other commonly monitored variables such as bowel function and quality of life. Cancers and dysplasia of the ileal pouch are rare but sometimes difficult-to-manage sequelae of pouch surgery.

Reoperations and Long-term Survival of Kock's Continent Ileostomy in Patients With IBD: A Population-Based National Cohort Study From Sweden

BACKGROUND

Kock's continent ileostomy is an option after proctocolectomy for patients not suitable for IPAA or ileorectal anastomosis. Ulcerative colitis is the most common indication for continent ileostomy.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of continent ileostomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort register study.

SETTINGS

Data were obtained from the Swedish National Patient Registry.

PATIENTS

All patients with IBD and a continent ileostomy were identified. Data on demographics, diagnosis, reoperations, and excisions of the continent ileostomy were obtained. Patients with inconsistent diagnostic coding were classified as IBD-unclassified.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measures were number of reoperations, time to reoperations, and time to excision of continent ileostomy.

RESULTS

We identified 727 patients, 428 (59%) with ulcerative colitis, 45 (6%) with Crohn's disease, and 254 (35%) with IBD-unclassified. After a median follow-up time of 27 (interquartile range, 21-31) years, 191 patients (26%) never had revision surgery. Some 1484 reoperations were performed on 536 patients (74%), and the median number of reoperations was 1 (interquartile range, 0-3) per patient. The continent ileostomy was excised in 77 patients (11%). Reoperation within the first year after reconstruction was associated with a higher rate of revisions (incidence rate ratio, 2.90; p < 0.001) and shorter time to excision (HR 2.38; p < 0.001). Constructing the continent ileostomy after year 2000 was associated with increased revision and excision rates (incidence rate ratio, 2.7; p < 0.001 and HR 2.74; p = 0.013). IBD-unclassified was associated with increased revisions (incidence rate ratio, 1.3; p < 0.001)' and the proportion of IBD-unclassified patients almost doubled from the 1980s (32%) to after 2000 (50%).

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design, data from a register, and no data on quality of life were available were the limitations of this study.

CONCLUSION

Continent ileostomy is associated with substantial need for revision surgery, but most patients keep their reconstruction for a long time. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C122 .

REOPERACIONES Y SUPERVIVENCIA A LARGO PLAZO DE LA ILEOSTOMA CONTINENTE DE KOCK EN PACIENTES CON ENFERMEDAD INFLAMATORIA INTESTINAL UN ESTUDIO DE COHORTE NACIONAL BASADO EN LA POBLACIN DE SUECIA

ANTECEDENTES:La ileostomía continente de Kock es una opción después de la proctocolectomía para los pacientes que no son aptos para la anastomosis ileoanal con reservorio o la anastomosis ileorrectal. La colitis ulcerativa es la indicación más común para la ileostomía continente.OBJETIVO:El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el resultado a largo plazo de la ileostomía continente.DISEÑO:Estudio de registro de cohorte retrospectivo.AJUSTES:Los datos se obtuvieron del Registro Nacional de Pacientes de Suecia.PACIENTES:Se identificaron todos los pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal e ileostomía continente. Se obtuvieron datos demograficos, diagnóstico, reoperaciones y extirpaciones de la ileostomía continente. Los pacientes con codificación diagnóstica inconsistente se clasificaron como no clasificados con EII.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Las principales medidas de resultado fueron el número de reoperaciones, el tiempo hasta las reoperaciones y el tiempo hasta la escisión de la ileostomía continente.RESULTADOS:Identificamos 727 pacientes, 428 (59%) con colitis ulcerativa, 45 (6%) con enfermedad de Crohn y 254 (35%) con EII no clasificada. Después de una mediana de tiempo de seguimiento de 27 (IQR 21-31) años, 191 (26%) pacientes nunca se habían sometido a una cirugía de revisión. Se realizaron 1.484 reintervenciones en 536 (74%) pacientes, la mediana de reintervenciones fue de 1 (RIC 0-3) por paciente. La ileostomía continente se extirpó en 77 (11%) pacientes. La reoperación dentro del primer año después de la reconstrucción se asoció con una mayor tasa de revisiones (IRR 2,90 p < 0,001) y un tiempo más corto hasta la escisión (HR 2,38 p < 0,001). La construcción de la ileostomía continente después del año 2000 se asoció con mayores tasas de revisión y escisión (IRR 2,7 p < 0,001 y HR 2,74 p = 0,013). La EII no clasificada se asoció con un aumento de las revisiones (IRR 1,3 p < 0,001) y la proporción de pacientes con EII no clasificada casi se duplicó desde la década de 1980 (32%) hasta después de 2000 (50%).LIMITACIONES:Diseño retrospectivo, datos de registro. No hay datos disponibles sobre la calidad de vida.CONCLUSIÓN:La ileostomía continente se asocia con una necesidad sustancial de cirugía de revisión, pero la mayoría de los pacientes logran mantener su reconstrucción durante mucho tiempo. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C122 . (Traducción-Dr. Yolanda Colorado ).

Redo Continent Ileostomy in Patients With IBD: Valuable Lessons Learned Over 25 Years

BACKGROUND

Patients with IBD with continent ileostomies may require revision surgeries. There remains a paucity of data regarding outcomes after redo continent ileostomy.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate patient outcomes after redo continent ileostomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department.

PATIENTS

We identified patients who underwent redo continent ileostomy (defined as neo-pouch construction or major operations changing the pouch configuration) for IBD between 1994 and 2020.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcomes measured were patient demographics, short- and long-term outcomes, and quality of life.

RESULTS

A total of 168 patients met inclusion criteria; 102 (61%) were female, the mean age was 51 years (±13.1), and the mean BMI was 24.4 (±3.9). The median time between primary and redo continent ileostomy was 16.8 years. One hundred twenty-two patients (73%) who underwent redo surgery had ulcerative colitis, 36 (21%) had Crohn's disease, and 10 (6%) had indeterminate colitis. Slipped nipple valve and valve stricture were the most common indications for redo continent ileostomy (86%). After a median follow-up of 4 years, 48 patients (29%) required a subsequent reoperation and 27 (16%) had pouch failure requiring pouch excision. The pouch survival rate was 89% at 3 years, 84% at 5 years, and 79% at 10 years. On univariate analysis, a shorter interval between the primary and redo continent ileostomy was associated with long-term pouch failure ( p = 0.003). Cox regression multivariate analysis confirmed that a shorter interval between surgeries was independently associated with pouch failure ( p = 0.014). The mean Cleveland Clinic Global Quality of Life score was 0.61 (± 0.23) among the 70 patients who responded to the questionnaire.

LIMITATIONS

The main limitations were that this was a retrospective, single-center study and that it had a low response rate for the Global Quality of Life questionnaire.

CONCLUSIONS

Redo continent ileostomy surgery is associated with a long-term pouch retention rate of 79% and satisfactory quality of life. Therefore, redo surgery should be offered to patients who are motivated to keep their continent ileostomy. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C87 .

REHACER LA ILEOSTOMA CONTINENTE EN PACIENTES CON ENFERMEDAD INFLAMATORIA INTESTINAL VALIOSAS LECCIONES APRENDIDAS DURANTE AOS

ANTECEDENTES:Los pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal con ileostomías continentes pueden requerir cirugías de revisión. Sigue habiendo escasez de datos con respecto a los resultados después de volver a realizar la ileostomía continente.OBJETIVO:Evaluar los resultados después de rehacer la ileostomía continente.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.ESCENARIO:Departamento especializado en cirugía colorrectal de alto volumen.PACIENTES:Identificamos pacientes que se sometieron a una nueva ileostomía continente (definida como construcción de una nueva bolsa u operaciones mayores que cambian la configuración de la bolsa) por enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal entre 1994 y 2020.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Datos demográficos de los pacientes, resultados a corto y largo plazo y calidad de vida.RESULTADOS:Un total de 168 pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión; 102 (61%) eran mujeres, la edad media fue de 51 años (±13,1) y el IMC medio fue de 24,4 (±3,9). La mediana de tiempo entre la ileostomía primaria y la nueva ileostomía continente fue de 16,8 años. Ciento veintidós pacientes (73%) que se sometieron a una nueva cirugía tenían colitis ulcerosa, 36 (21%) tenían enfermedad de Crohn y 10 (6%) tenían colitis indeterminada. El deslizamiento de la válvula del pezón y la estenosis de la válvula fueron las indicaciones más comunes para rehacer la ileostomía continente (86%). Después de una mediana de seguimiento de 4 años, 48 (29%) pacientes requirieron una reintervención posterior y 27 (16%) tuvieron falla de la bolsa que requirió la escisión de la bolsa. La tasa de supervivencia de la bolsa fue del 89 % a los 3 años, del 84% a los 5 años y del 79% a los 10 años. En el análisis univariable, un intervalo de tiempo más corto entre la ileostomía continente primaria y la nueva se asoció con falla de la bolsa a largo plazo (p = 0,003). El análisis multivariable de regresión de Cox confirmó que el intervalo más corto entre cirugías se asoció de forma independiente con el fracaso de la bolsa (p = 0,014). La puntuación media de la Calidad de Vida Global fue de 0,61 (± 0,23) entre los 70 pacientes que respondieron al cuestionario.LIMITACIONES:Estudio retrospectivo de un solo centro. Baja tasa de respuesta al cuestionario de Calidad de Vida.CONCLUSIÓN:La cirugía de ileostomía continente se asocia con una tasa de retención de la bolsa a largo plazo del 79% y una calidad de vida satisfactoria. Por lo tanto, se debe ofrecer una nueva cirugía a los pacientes que están motivados para mantener su ileostomía continente. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C87 . (Traducción-Dr. Felipe Bellolio ).

Construction of and Conversion to Continent Ileostomy: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Continent ileostomy was first introduced by Nils Kock in 1969 as Kock pouch (K-pouch). Its most characteristic feature, the nipple valve that offers continence' was a later addition. Even though today's continent ileostomy is sidelined by ileal pouch-anal anastomosis as the gold standard of restorative procedures for colectomy patients, it remains an excellent option for select patients, offering an alternative to end-ileostomy or a poorly functioning ileoanal pouch.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to summarize principles and techniques behind K-pouch construction, both de novo and as "J to K" conversion, as well as examine surgical outcomes following the procedure in the modern era regardless of indication.

DATA SOURCES

Data sources included PubMed and the Cochrane Library up to July 2021.

STUDY SELECTION

The study selection materials included articles reviewing continent ileostomy procedures and outcomes between 2000-2021. Case reports and series <15 were excluded.

RESULTS

Fifteen articles were selected for review, describing 958 patients with a K-pouch, 510 patients who had undergone a Barnett continent intestinal reservoir, and 40 who had undergone construction of a T-pouch.

CONCLUSION

Continent ileostomies carried out in specialized centers by experienced surgeons can be a great option for patients who would otherwise be confined by an end ileostomy. High pouch survival rates with higher quality-of-life scores than end ileostomy and comparable with IPAA make continent ileostomy a great option, even if we consider the less than ideal reoperation and complication rates. However, it is of paramount importance that patients are carefully selected, thoroughly educated, highly motivated, and engaged in their care. Specifically, for patients with Crohn's disease, further research is needed to help elucidate factors that affect pouch survival and candidacy for K-pouch creation. Finally, continuous surgical technique modifications and refinements can allow even more patients to be considered suitable for the procedure.

Elective and Emergent Surgery in the Ulcerative Colitis Patient

Ulcerative colitis (UC) requires surgical management in 20 to 30% of patients. Indications for surgery include medically refractory disease, dysplasia, cancer, and other complications of UC. Appropriate patient selection for timing and staging of surgery is paramount for optimal outcomes. Restorative proctocolectomy is the preferred standard of care and can afford many patients with excellent quality of life. There have been significant shifts in the treatment of UC-associated dysplasia, with less patients requiring surgery and more entering surveillance programs. There is ongoing controversy surrounding the management of UC-associated colorectal cancer and the techniques that should be used. This article reviews the most recent literature on the indications for elective and emergent surgical intervention for UC and the considerations behind the surgical options.

Quality of Life in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) Patients after Surgery

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) are chronic, relapsing and disabling diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract. This relapsing course is often unpredictable with severe flares and the need for intensive medical treatment, hospitalization, or emergent/urgent surgery, all of which significantly impact patients' quality of life (QoL). QoL in IBD patients is significantly lower than in the general population, and depression and anxiety have been shown to have a higher prevalence than in healthy individuals, especially during disease flares. Complications requiring hospitalization and repeated surgeries are not uncommon during the disease course and significantly affect QoL in IBD patients. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can be used to measure the impact of chronic disease on QoL from the patient's perspective. The use of PROMs in IBD patients undergoing surgery could help to investigate the impact of the surgical procedure on QoL and determine whether there is any improvement or worsening. This review summarizes the use of PROMs to assess QoL after various surgical procedures required for IBD treatment.

Continent ileostomy: short- and long-term outcomes of a forgotten procedure

Background

Continent ileostomy (CI) aims to provide control of gas and faecal evacuation; however, it is rarely performed. This paper reports on outcomes of CI in a large single-surgeon series.

Methods

All consecutive patients who underwent CI between 1986 and 2015 were reviewed. Patients were classified according to the CI procedure (single stage versus two stage) and according to the underlying disease conditions (inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) versus no IBD). Primary outcome measures were early mortality and complications requiring surgical revision within 30 days (group Ia), those requiring surgical revision within 1–12 months (group Ib), and long-term complications after more than 12 months (group II). Secondary outcome measures were pouch survival and quality of life (QoL) assessed using questionnaires for occupational, sports, sexual, and travel activities; patients undergoing CI after conversion from ileostomy. Analyses were performed using descriptive statistics and Kaplan–Meier curves for the long-term outcomes.

Results

Sixty-two consecutive patients (28 men, 34 women) who underwent CI were reviewed, including 48 with IBD, and 14 without inflammatory conditions. Mean(s.d.) follow-up was 14.4 (9.5) (range 1–30) years. Twenty-seven patients (44 per cent) developed group I complications, of which 25 were corrected successfully. Two patients dropped out of the analysis: one who died from sepsis and the other owing to pouch loss attributed to unsolvable nipple complications. Of the remaining 60 patients, 23 (38 per cent) developed between one and five group II complications. The cumulative probability of reoperation was 54. per cent at 25 years. Overall, pouch survival was achieved in 90 per cent. The two-stage approach led to significantly fewer complications in group Ia (single stage versus two stage: 8 of 25 versus 2 of 37; P = 0.005), whereas complication rates in group Ib (5 of 23 versus 14 of 37) and group II (9 of 23 versus 14 of 37) were similar. Four CIs failed because of IBD complications. CI pouch and function were preserved in all patients without IBD, whereas in the group with IBD 2 of 31 with ulcerative colitis and 2 of 17 with Crohn’s colitis lost the CI owing to severe intractable inflammatory complications. In 16 patients who had conversion from ileostomy to CI, QoL improved significantly above precolectomy levels in all domains

Conclusions

CI remains an alternative to conventional ileostomy. Although affected by high reoperation rates, it has the benefit of a high rate of pouch survival.

Long-term outcome and quality of life after continent ileostomy for ulcerative colitis: A systematic review

AIM

The continent ileostomy allows evacuation of an ileal reservoir at a time convenient to the patient. It is a surgical option for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) when a restorative option is not suitable or has not succeeded and the patient does not want a conventional end ileostomy. Continent ileostomy types include the Kock pouch, Barnett continent intestinal reservoir and T-pouch. All of the published evidence on the long-term outcome and quality of life after continent ileostomy for UC was systematically reviewed.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies published between 1990 and 2020 were included. A descriptive synthesis was used due to the clinical heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The search returned 1655 abstracts and after screening of abstracts and full text review, 19 were included in the final review, involving 1602 patients. Operative mortality is low (0%-3.6%) after all types of continent ileostomy but reoperation rates are high (20.8%-65%) because of valve mechanism failures. Rates of fistulae (0%-25.5%) and stomal stenosis (0%-25%) can be relatively high postoperatively. Quality of life scores improve for most patients undergoing continent ileostomy, especially for patients converted from ileal pouch anal anastomosis. Overall, continent ileostomy retention is high in the long-term.

DISCUSSION

In the long-term, patients report high satisfaction and a good quality of life with continent ileostomy, despite high reoperation rates and complications. Newer technologies may reinvigorate interest in the continent ileostomy for this population.

State-of-the-art surgery for ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune-mediated colitis which can present in varying degrees of severity and increases the individual’s risk of developing colon cancer. While first-line treatment for UC is medical management, surgical treatment may be necessary in up to 25–30% of patients. With an increasing armamentarium of biologic therapies, patients are presenting for surgery much later in their course, and careful understanding of the complex interplay of the disease, its management, and the patient’s overall health is necessary when considering he appropriate way in which to address their disease surgically. Surgery is generally a total proctocolectomy either with pelvic pouch reconstruction or permanent ileostomy; however, this may need to be spread across multiple procedures given the complexity of the surgery weighed against the overall state of the patient’s health. Minimally invasive surgery, employing either laparoscopic, robotic, or transanal laparoscopic approaches, is currently the preferred approach in the elective setting. There is also some emerging evidence that appendectomy may delay the progression of UC in some individuals. Those who treat these patients surgically must also be familiar with the numerous potential pitfalls of surgical intervention and have plans in place for managing problems such as pouchitis, cuffitis, and anastomotic complications.

Long-term Follow-up, Patient Satisfaction, and Quality of Life for Patients With Kock's Continent Ileostomy

BACKGROUND

Continent ileostomy is a solution for patients after proctocolectomy.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term complications and failure rate alongside patient satisfaction, function, and quality of life for patients with a continent ileostomy.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective, descriptive cross-sectional study.

SETTINGS

All patients were operated in 1 center between 1980 and 2016.

PATIENTS

A total of 85 patients received a de novo continent ileostomy in our institution. Sixty-nine patients (80%) had ulcerative colitis, 12 (14%) had Crohn's disease, 2 had indeterminate colitis, and 1 each had familial adenomatous polyposis and anal atresia.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Medical charts were reviewed for reoperations and pouchitis. The 36-Item Short Form, Short Health Scale, and a local continent ileostomy questionnaire were used to assess quality of life, function, and satisfaction.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 24 years, 67 patients (79%) underwent a total of 237 reoperations, of which 15 were conversions to end ileostomies, that is, failures. Fifty patients (59%) underwent repeat laparotomies, excluding loop ileostomy closures. Nipple detachment was the most common cause for repeat laparotomy, and fistulation was the most common cause for pouch removal. IPAA before continent ileostomy was associated with an increased risk for failure. Crohn's disease was not associated with an increased risk for reoperation or failure. Forty-three patients (84%) reported that they were satisfied. Seventy patients were available for questionnaires, and 50 patients (71%) answered. There was no difference in the 36-Item Short Form between the continent ileostomy population and an age-matched control population.

LIMITATIONS

The retrospective, single-center design of the study alongside <100% response rate are to be considered limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite large numbers of complications, patients are generally satisfied with their continent ileostomies, and their quality of life is comparable to the general population. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B444.

SEGUIMIENTO A LARGO PLAZO, SATISFACCIN DEL PACIENTE Y CALIDAD DE VIDA PARA PACIENTES CON ILEOSTOMA CONTINENTE DE KOCK

ANTECEDENTES:La ileostomía continente es una solución para los pacientes después de una proctocolectomía.OBJETIVO:El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar las complicaciones a largo plazo y la tasa de fracaso junto con la satisfacción del paciente, la función y la calidad de vida de los pacientes con una ileostomía continente.AJUSTES:Todos los pacientes fueron operados en un centro entre 1980 y 2016.DISEÑO:Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo y transversal.PACIENTES:Un total de 85 pacientes recibieron una ileostomía continente de novo en nuestra institución. Sesenta y nueve (80%) pacientes tenían colitis ulcerosa, doce (14%) enfermedad de Crohn, dos, colitis indeterminada y uno de poliposis adenomatosa familiar y atresia anal respectivamente.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se revisaron los registros médicos en busca de reintervenciones y pouchitis. Se utilizó SF-36, escala de salud corta y un cuestionario de ileostomía continente local para evaluar la calidad de vida, la función y la satisfacción.RESULTADOS:Después de una mediana de seguimiento de 24 años, 67 (79%) pacientes fueron sometidos a un total de 237 reoperaciones, de las cuales 15 fueron conversiones para terminar con ileostomías, es decir, fracasos. 50 (59%) pacientes se sometieron a laparotomías repetidas, excluyendo los cierres de ileostomía en asa. El desprendimiento del pezón fue la causa más común de repetición de laparotomía y la fistulación fue la causa más común de retiro de la bolsa. La anastomosis anal de la bolsa ileal antes de la ileostomía continente se asoció con un mayor riesgo de fracaso. La enfermedad de Crohn no se asoció con un mayor riesgo de reoperación o fracaso. 43 pacientes (84%) informaron que estaban satisfechos. 70 pacientes estuvieron disponibles para cuestionarios y 50 pacientes (71%) respondieron. No hubo diferencia en SF-36 entre la población de ileostomía continente y una población de control de la misma edad.LIMITACIONES:El diseño retrospectivo y unicéntrico del estudio junto con una tasa de respuesta inferior al 100% deben considerarse limitaciones.CONCLUSIÓN:A pesar del gran número de complicaciones, los pacientes generalmente están satisfechos con sus ileostomías continentes y su calidad de vida es comparable a la de la población general. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B444.

Continent Ileostomy as an Alternative to End Ileostomy

Continent ileostomy (CI) was once a prevalent surgical technique for patients who required total proctocolectomy but then gave way to ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) after 1980. Although IPAA has been the gold standard procedure preferred by most patients when total proctocolectomy is required, due to its imitation of physiological function of rectum and preserved function of anus, various complications have been observed with a relatively high rate of morbidity that could affect pouch longevity. Once serious complications such as pelvic abscesses and/or fistula occur, the pouch often needs to be removed. In addition, for some patients with a shortened small intestine or foreshortened mesentery, it is impossible for the ileal pouch to reach the pelvic floor, thus making the creation of an IPAA difficult. Previously, most of these patients would be referred for an end ileostomy, with an associated poor quality of life. In this circumstance, we propose that CI may deserve a reappraisal and serve as an alternative. In this article, we review the indications, contraindications, technique evolution, and outcomes of CI.

Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): Crohn's disease

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 Crohn's disease 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 Crohn's disease. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

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.

Intestinal Ostomy

BACKGROUND

About 100 000 ostomy carriers are estimated to live in Germany today. The creation of an ostomy represents a major life event that can be associated with impaired quality of life. Optimal ostomy creation and proper ostomy care are crucially important determinants of the success of treatment and of the patients' quality of life.

METHODS

This article is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in PubMed, GoogleScholar, and Scopus, and on the authors' experience.

RESULTS

Intestinal stomata can be created using either the small or the large bowel. More than 75% of all stomata are placed as part of the treatment of colorectal cancer. The incidence of stoma-related complications is reported to be 10-70%. Skin irritation, erosion, and ulceration are the most common early complications, with a combined incidence of 25-34%, while stoma prolapse is the most common late complication, with an incidence of 8-75%. Most early complications can be managed conservatively, while most late complications require surgical revision. In 19% of cases, an ostomy that was initially planned to be temporary becomes permanent. Inappropriate stoma location and inadequate ostomy care are the most common causes of early complications. Both surgical and patient-related factors influence late complications.

CONCLUSION

Every step from the planning of a stoma to its postoperative care should be discussed with the patient in detail. Preoperative marking is essential for an optimal stoma site. Optimal patient management with the involvement of an ostomy nurse increases ostomy acceptance, reduces ostomy-related complications, and improves the quality of life of ostomy carriers.

Innovative appliance for colostomy patients: an interventional prospective pilot study

Background

The control of body waste emptying is a constant research topic in stoma care. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the efficacy and safety of an innovative colostomy appliance.

Methods

An interventional prospective non-comparative pilot study was conducted in seven French centers. The study device is a new type of two-piece appliance including a base plate and a “capsule cap” (CC) composed of a capsule cover and a folded collecting bag. The device gently seals the stoma to provide stoma output control. When the bowel movement pressure increases the patient may control the deployment of the folded bag and collect stools. Patients with left-sided colostomy all using a flat appliance, were enrolled in a 2-week trial. Outcome measures were type of CC removal and peristomal fecal leaks while wearing the device.

Results

Of 30 patients (females 66.7%), with left-sided colostomy (permanent 76.7%), 23 (76.7%) completed the 2-week trial. A total of 472 CC changes were analyzed. Efficacy: of 404 (85.5%) CC changes reported in diaries, 302 (74.8%) were linked with stool and/or gas. In 244 (60.3%) changes, the patient controlled stoma bag deployment and it occurred with bowel emptying 301 (74.5%) times. No leaks around the appliance were observed in 400 (85.3%) changes. Safety: no serious adverse event occurred. Peristomal skin was not modified during the trial.

Conclusions

In the short term this new device has provided an increased control over bowel emptying at no risk in half of the trial population suggesting that an alternative approach to bag wearing is achievable.

Is Conversion of a Failed IPAA to a Continent Ileostomy a Risk Factor for Long-term Failure?

BACKGROUND

A continent ileostomy may be offered to patients in hopes of avoiding permanent ileostomy. Data on the outcomes of continent ileostomy patients with a history of a failed IPAA are limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess whether a history of previous failed IPAA had an effect on continent ileostomy survival and the long-term outcomes.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This investigation took place in a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department.

PATIENTS

Patients who underwent continent ileostomy construction after IPAA failure between 1982 and 2013 were evaluated and compared with patients who have no history of IPAA surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Functional outcomes and long-term complications were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 67 patients fulfilled the case-matching criteria and were included in the analysis. Requirement of major (52% vs 61%; p = 0.756) and minor (15% vs 19%; p = 0.492) revisions were comparable between patients who had continent ileostomy after a failed IPAA and those who had continent ileostomy without having a previous restorative procedure. Intubations per day (5 vs 5; p = 0.804) and per night (1 vs 1; p = 0.700) were similar in both groups. Our data show no clear relationship between failure of continent ileostomy and history of failed IPAA (p = 0.638). The most common cause of continent ileostomy failure was enterocutaneous/enteroenteric fistula (n = 14). Six patients died during the study period because of other causes unrelated to continent ileostomy.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective and nonrandomized nature.

CONCLUSIONS

Converting a failed IPAA to a continent ileostomy did not worsen continent ileostomy outcomes in this selected group of patients. When a redo IPAA is not feasible, continent ileostomy can be offered as an alternative to conventional end ileostomy in highly motivated patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A803.

The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland consensus guidelines in surgery for inflammatory bowel disease

AIM

There is a requirement of an expansive and up to date review of surgical management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can dovetail with the medical guidelines produced by the British Society of Gastroenterology.

METHODS

Surgeons who are members of the ACPGBI with a recognised interest in IBD were invited to contribute various sections of the guidelines. They were directed to produce a procedure based document using literature searches that were systematic, comprehensible, transparent and reproducible. Levels of evidence were graded. An editorial board was convened to ensure consistency of style, presentation and quality. Each author was asked to provide a set of recommendations which were evidence based and unambiguous. These recommendations were submitted to the whole guideline group and scored. They were then refined and submitted to a second vote. Only those that achieved >80% consensus at level 5 (strongly agree) or level 4 (agree) after 2 votes were included in the guidelines.

RESULTS

All aspects of surgical care for IBD have been included along with 157 recommendations for management.

CONCLUSION

These guidelines provide an up to date and evidence based summary of the current surgical knowledge in the management of IBD and will serve as a useful practical text for clinicians performing this type of surgery.

Review of current practice and outcomes following ileoanal pouch surgery: lessons learned from the Ileoanal Pouch Registry and the 2017 Ileoanal Pouch Report

AIM

The second Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI) Ileoanal Pouch Registry (IPR) report was released in July 2017 following a first report in 2012. This article provides a summary of data derived from the most recent IPR report (2017 Ileoanal Pouch Report. https://www.acpgbi.org.uk/content/uploads/2016/07/Ileoanal-Pouch-Report-2017-FINAL.compressed.pdf).

METHOD

The IPR is an electronic database of voluntarily submitted data including patient demographics, disease, intra-operative and postoperative factors submitted by consultant surgeons or delegates. Data up to 31 March 2017 have been analysed for this report.

RESULTS

A total of 5352 pouch operations were carried out at 76 UK and four European centres by 154 surgeons over four decades. Recorded procedures have increased over time but data submission is voluntary and underestimates actual volume. Significant variation exists in institutional volume; 73 centres entered data on patients undergoing pouch surgery during the past 5 years. Of these, 44 centres have submitted ≤ 10 cases, with 10 centres submitting one patient and nine centres two cases. Since 2013, minimal access surgery has been employed in 54% of cases. Rectal dissection was undertaken in the total mesorectal excision plane in 69%. J-pouch configuration was used in 99% of cases and 90% of pouch-anal anastomoses were performed using a stapled technique. Including all years, the IPR rate of pelvic sepsis was 9.4% and the rate of pouch failure was 4.7%.

CONCLUSION

The IPR holds the largest voluntary repository of data on ileoanal pouch surgery. The second report from the IPR records marked refinements in surgical technique over time but also highlights wide variation in institutional caseload and outcome across the UK.

Variation in practice of pouch surgery in England - using SWORD data to cut to the chase and justify centralization

AIM

Increasing scrutiny on both individual and unit outcomes after surgical procedures is now expected. In the field of inflammatory bowel disease, this is particularly pertinent for outcomes after ileoanal pouch surgery.

METHOD

The Surgical Workload and Outcomes Research Database (SWORD) relies on administrative data derived from Hospital Episode Statistics collected in England. The platform was interrogated for pouch procedures undertaken in England between April 2009 and December 2016 to assess national caseload and, between April 2012 and December 2016, to assess variation in caseload and outcomes after pouch surgery.

RESULTS

In England there is a suggestion that numbers of pouch procedures may be decreasing. Over 80% of Trusts offering pouch surgery do so at very low volume with less than five procedures per year. There is also a clear phenomenon of the occasional pouch surgeon with 126 surgeons undertaking just one pouch operation during the study period of almost 5 years. Laparoscopic practice varies but 60% of pouches overall were done via an open approach. Mean length of stay was 10.1 days and average 30-day readmission rates were 27.4%. Outside London there appears to be an increasing trend for higher volume units to do more adult pouch procedures and lower volume units to do fewer.

CONCLUSION

Low volume units and occasional pouch surgeons present a strong argument for centralization of pouch surgery. Data from England outside London suggest that this may already be happening.

Long-term Outcomes After Continent Ileostomy Creation in Patients With Crohn's Disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with Crohn's disease have a higher failure rate after ileal pouch surgery compared with their counterparts with ulcerative colitis.

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesized that risk of continent ileostomy failure can be stratified based on the timing of Crohn's disease diagnosis and aimed to assess long-term outcomes.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

The investigation took place in a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department.

PATIENTS

Patients with Crohn's disease who underwent continent ileostomy surgery between 1978 and 2013 were evaluated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Functional outcomes, postoperative complications, requirement of revision surgery, and continent ileostomy failure were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 48 patients (14 male patients) with a median age of 33 years at the time of continent ileostomy creation. Crohn's disease diagnosis was before continent ileostomy (intentional) in 15 or made in a delayed fashion at a median 4 years after continent ileostomy in 33 patients. Median follow-up was 19 years (range, 1-33 y) after index continent ileostomy creation. Major and minor revisions were performed in 40 (83%) and 13 patients (27%). Complications were fistula (n = 20), pouchitis (n = 16), valve slippage (n = 15), hernia (n = 9), afferent limb stricture (n = 9), difficult intubation (n = 8), incontinence (n = 7), bowel obstruction (n = 7), valve stricture (n = 5), leakage (n = 4), bleeding (n = 3), and valve prolapse (n = 3). Median Cleveland global quality-of-life score was 0.8. Continent ileostomy failure occurred in 22 patients (46%). Based on Kaplan-Meier estimates, continent ileostomy survival was 48 % (95% CI, 33%-63%) at 20 years. Continent ileostomy failure was similar regardless of timing of diagnosis of Crohn's disease (p = 0.533).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective and nonrandomized nature.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes of continent ileostomy in patients with Crohn's disease are poor, regardless of the timing of diagnosis. Very careful consideration should be given by both the surgeon and the patient before undertaking this procedure in patients with Crohn's disease. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A327.

Surgical Principles in the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Background

The primary treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is conservative; surgical intervention is carried out in the case of therapy-refractory situation, imminent or malignant transformation, or complications. Surgery for UC should be indicated by interdisciplinary means. Despite the development of drug therapy – in particular the introduction of biologics -, a surgical intervention becomes necessary in a relevant proportion of patients with UC throughout lifetime.

Methods

A selective literature search was conducted, taking into account the current studies, reviews, meta-analyses, and guidelines. PubMed served as a database. The present work gives an overview of the surgical options, outcome as well as peri- and postoperative management for patients with UC.

Results

Approximately 20% of patients with UC will require surgery during the course of their disease. The rate of colectomy after a disease duration of 10 years is at approximately 16%. Unlike Crohn's disease, UC is principally surgically curable since it is naturally limited to the colon and rectum. Restorative proctocolectomy with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis represents the surgical treatment of choice. Large studies show a postoperative complication rate of around 30% and a low mortality of 0.1% for this procedure. Chronic pouchitis is one of the main factors limiting the surgical success of curing UC. Despite a high postoperative complication rate, there is a long-term pouch success rate of >90% after 10 and 20 years of follow-up.

Conclusion

A close cooperation between the various disciplines in the pre- and postoperative setting is essential for an optimal outcome of patients with UC. Despite a 30% rate of early postoperative complications, normal quality of life can ultimately be reached in more than 90% of patients in experienced centers.

Ileo-anal pouch excision: A review of indications and outcomes

Restorative proctocolectomy (RP) is the surgical treatment of choice for ulcerative colitis (UC) and patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). A devastating complication for both patient and surgeon is failure of the pouch that requires excision. There is currently no single paper in the literature that consolidates the indications for ileo-anal pouch excision and the subsequent outcomes following this procedure. A literature search was carried out to identify articles on RP and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. The main search terms used were “RP”; “ileal pouch-anal anastomosis” or “ileal reservoir” or “ileal pouch”; “failure of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis” and “excision of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis”. The search was completed using electronic databases MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE from 1975 to June 2014. Characteristics of patients with pouch failure differ between institutions. Reported overall excision rates of the pouches vary and in this review ranged from 0.93% to 12.8%. Age and lower institutional volume (less than 3.3 cases) were independent predictors of pouch failure; however surgeon case load was not. The main reasons identified for excision are sepsis (early cause), Crohn’s disease and poor functional outcomes (both late causes). Pouch cancers in UC and FAP are still rare but 135 cases exist in the literature. The most common complication following excision is persistent perineal sinus. The decision to excise a pouch should not be taken lightly and an awareness of the technical pitfalls and complications that can occur should be fully appreciated.