Usefulness of transanal tube placement for prevention of anastomotic leakage following laparoscopic low anterior resection

Transanal Intubation for Preventing Colorectal Anastomotic Failure

Introduction

Failure of low colorectal anastomosis remains challenging in surgical oncology, necessitating the exploration of new methods and improvements in existing preventive measures.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study was conducted in two stages: intraluminal pressure in the colon was monitored in 32 patients by manometry and sonography over a 5-day postoperative period; 213 patients who underwent anterior resection of the rectum were analyzed, of whom 126 and 87 underwent diverting stoma (DS) and transanal intubation (TAI), respectively.

Results

The effectiveness of the recommended technique for applying and removing transanal intubation (TAI) to prevent pneumo hydro strike (≥15 kPa) on the anastomosis line was analyzed in 87 patients and compared with imposed DS. TAI showed better borderline statistical significance (p = 0.051). The incidence of repeat surgery for anastomotic failure (AL) was seven (5.55%) and four (4.59%) in the DS and TAI groups, respectively. The distance of the anastomosis from the dentate line <60 mm was associated with a higher risk of AL occurrence (odds ratio (OR), 1.012; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.007-1.017; p < 0.001; area under the curve (AUC) = 0.82). DS is recommended for men, as the risk of AL is significantly lower among women (OR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.16-1.04; p = 0.062; AUC, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.54-0.67).

Conclusions

Although TAI is advantageous over DS for preventing AL, surgeons select the method for the preventive approach based on the preoperative and intraoperative results.

Updated evidence of the effectiveness and safety of transanal drainage tube for the prevention of anastomotic leakage after rectal low anterior resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUNDS

Anastomotic leakage (AL) represents a major complication after rectal low anterior resection (LAR). Transanal drainage tube (TDT) placement offers a potential strategy for AL prevention; however, its efficacy and safety remain contentious.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were used to evaluate the influence of TDT subsequent to LAR as part of the revision of the surgical site infection prevention guidelines of the Japanese Society of Surgical Infectious Diseases (PROSPERO registration; CRD42023476655). We searched each database, and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (OBSs) comparing TDT and non-TDT outcomes. The main outcome was AL. Data were independently extracted by three authors and random-effects models were implemented.

RESULTS

A total of three RCTs and 18 OBSs were included. RCTs reported no significant difference in AL rate between the TDT and non-TDT groups [relative risk (RR): 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42-1.15]. OBSs reported that TDT reduced AL risk [odds ratio (OR): 0.45, 95% CI 0.31-0.64]. In the subgroup excluding diverting stoma (DS), TDT significantly lowered the AL rate in RCTs (RR: 0.57, 95% CI 0.33-0.99) and OBSs (OR: 0.41, 95% CI 0.27-0.62). Reoperation rates were significantly lower in the TDT without DS groups in both RCTs (RR: 0.26, 95% CI 0.07-0.94) and OBSs (OR: 0.40, 95% CI 0.24-0.66). TDT groups exhibited a higher anastomotic bleeding rate only in RCTs (RR: 4.28, 95% CI 2.14-8.54), while shorter hospital stays were observed in RCTs [standard mean difference (SMD): -0.44, 95% CI -0.65 to -0.23] and OBSs (SMD: -0.54, 95% CI -0.97 to -0.11) compared with the non-TDT group.

CONCLUSIONS

A universal TDT placement cannot be recommended for all rectal LAR patients. Some patients may benefit from TDT, such as patients without DS creation. Further investigation is necessary to identify the specific beneficiaries.

Pelvic Floor Peritoneum Closure Reduces Severe Postoperative Complications in Rectal Cancer Patients After Laparoscopic Anterior Rectal Resection

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic anterior rectal resection (LAR) is a commonly performed surgery for rectal cancer patients. Pelvic floor peritoneum closure (PC), a vital procedure in conventional anterior rectal resection, is not routinely performed in LAR.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 1118 consecutive patients with rectal cancer receiving LAR were included in this retrospective study. Patients were allocated into the PC group and the non-PC group. The occurrence of postoperative complications was compared between the 2 groups. Influential factors in anastomotic leakage (AL) were explored using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

There was no difference between the groups in terms of baseline characteristics. The occurrence of postoperative complications was similar between the groups. The PC group had significantly shorter postoperative hospitalization and longer operation duration compared with the non-PC group. The occurrences of Clavien-Dindo (CD) III-IV complications, CD III-IV AL, and reoperation were significantly lower in the PC group than the non-PC group. PC and a protective ileostomy were independent protective factors for CD III-IV AL.

CONCLUSION

PC could reduce the occurrence of CD III-IV complications, especially CD III-IV AL, and the rate of secondary surgery, especially in patients with a lower body mass index and patients who did not receive protective ileostomies.

Effect of transanal drainage tube on prevention of anastomotic leakage after anterior rectal cancer surgery taking indwelling time into consideration: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Placement of an indwelling transanal drainage tube (TDT) to prevent anastomotic leakage (AL) after anterior rectal cancer surgery has become a routine choice for surgeons in the recent years. However, the specific indwelling time of the TDT has not been explored. We performed this meta-analysis and considered the indwelling time a critical factor in re-analyzing the effectiveness of TDT placement in prevention of AL after anterior rectal cancer surgery.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies which evaluated the effectiveness of TDT in prevention of AL after rectal cancer surgery and considered the indwelling time of TDT were identified using a predesigned search strategy in databases up to November 2022. This meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled AL rates (Overall and different AL grades) and reoperation rates at different TDT indwelling times and stoma statuses.

Results

Three RCTs and 15 cohort studies including 2381 cases with TDT and 2494 cases without TDT were considered eligible for inclusion. Our meta-analysis showed that the indwelling time of TDT for ≥5-days was associated with a significant reduction (TDT vs. Non-TDT) in overall AL (OR=0.46,95% CI 0.34-0.60, p<0.01), grade A+B AL (OR=0.64, 95% CI 0.42-0.97, p=0.03), grade C AL (OR=0.35, 95% CI 0.24-0.53, p<0.01), overall reoperation rate (OR=0.36, 95%CI 0.24-0.53, p<0.01) and that in patients without a prophylactic diverting stoma (DS) (OR=0.24, 95%CI 0.14-0.41, p<0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in any of the abovementioned indicators (p>0.05) when the indwelling time of TDT was less than 5 days.

Conclusion

Extending the postoperative indwelling time of TDT to 5 days may reduce the overall AL and the need for reoperation in patients without a prophylactic DS.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023407451, identifier CRD42023407451.

Clinical Impact of Transanal Drainage Tube on Anastomosis Leakage Following Minimally Invasive Resection Without Diverting Stoma in Patients With Rectal Cancer: A Propensity Score-matched Analysis

OBJECTIVES

As one of the most serious complications of rectal cancer (RC) surgery, preventing anastomotic leakage (AL) is crucial. Several studies have suggested a positive role of the transanal drainage tube (TaDT) in AL prevention. However, whether TaDT is beneficial for AL in patients with RC remains controversial. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical impact of TaDT on AL following minimally invasive resection without diverting stoma (DS) in patients with RC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 392 consecutive patients with RC who had undergone minimally invasive resection without DS between 2010 and 2021. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce selection bias. AL was classified as grade A, B, or C.

RESULTS

A TaDT was used in 214 patients overall. After PSM, we enrolled 316 patients (n=158 in each group). Before PSM, significant group-dependent differences were observed in terms of age, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, and the use of antiplatelet/anticoagulant agents. The frequency of AL was 7.3% in the overall cohort and was significantly lower in the TaDT group (3.7%) than in the non-TaDT group (11.8%). The rate of grade B AL was significantly lower in the TaDT group than in the non-TaDT group (before PSM, P <0.01; after PSM, P =0.02). However, no significant differences between groups were found for grade C AL. Moreover, multivariate analysis identified the lack of a TaDT as an independent risk factor for AL in the overall and matched cohorts [before PSM, odds ratio, 3.64, P <0.01; after PSM, odds ratio, 2.91, P =0.02].

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that TaDT may play a beneficial role in preventing AL, particularly of grade B, for patients with RC undergoing minimally invasive resection without DS. However, further randomized controlled trials, including patient-reported outcomes, are still needed to understand better the role of TaDT in preventing ALs in patients with RC undergoing minimally invasive resection without DS.

Predictive Factors for Anastomotic Leakage Following Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?

Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains one of the most severe complications following colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. Indeed, leaks that may occur after any type of intestinal anastomosis are commonly associated with a higher reoperation rate and an increased risk of postoperative morbidity and mortality. At first, our review aims to identify specific preoperative, intraoperative and perioperative factors that eventually lead to the development of anastomotic dehiscence based on the current literature. We will also investigate the role of several biomarkers in predicting the presence of ALs following colorectal surgery. Despite significant improvements in perioperative care, advances in surgical techniques, and a high index of suspicion of this complication, the incidence of AL remained stable during the last decades. Thus, gaining a better knowledge of the risk factors that influence the AL rates may help identify high-risk surgical patients requiring more intensive perioperative surveillance. Furthermore, prompt diagnosis of this severe complication may help improve patient survival. To date, several studies have identified predictive biomarkers of ALs, which are most commonly associated with the inflammatory response to colorectal surgery. Interestingly, early diagnosis and evaluation of the severity of this complication may offer a significant opportunity to guide clinical judgement and decision-making.

Transanal drainage tube for the prevention of anastomotic leakage in anterior resection for rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ability of the transanal drainage tube (TDT) to prevent anastomotic leakage (AL) and provide clinicians with the latest evidence in this area.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We search for relevant studies according to a search strategy. Data extracted from the study were analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software.

RESULTS

Fourteen eligible studies were included in our meta-analysis. The results of this meta-analysis suggest that patients with TDT placement have a lower incidence of AL than those without TDT placement (6% vs. 9.1%) (RR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.46, 0.73, P < 0.00001). However, pooled results from RCTs suggest that TDT does not appear to reduce the incidence of AL in patients (6.4% vs. 8%) (RR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.52, 1.18, P = 0.24). In addition, the results of the meta-analysis suggest that TDT appears to reduce patient reoperation rates (2.6% vs. 5.8%) (RR = 0.38, 95% CI 0.27, 0.54, P < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the RCTs suggest that TDT placement does not reduce the AL rate in patients, however, it is undeniable that the placement of TDT does provide patients with some clinical benefits (such as reduced reoperation rates).

The role of transanal tube after low anterior resection in patients with rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy: A propensity score-matched study

BACKGROUND

The protective efficacy of transanal tube for anastomosis was compared with that of diverting stoma in patients with rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

METHODS

We included consecutive patients with rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and curative surgery from January 2013 to December 2019. The patients were grouped into transanal tube or diverting stoma, according to the protection methods they received. Propensity score-matching with 1:1 ratio was done. The primary outcome was the incidence of anastomotic leakage.

RESULTS

Of the 656 eligible patients, 207 (31.6%) and 385 (58.7%) patients were grouped into transanal tube and diverting stoma, respectively, and 64 (9.7%) patients who did not undergo either transanal tube or diverting stoma were excluded. After matching, the incidence of anastomotic leakage was 9.7% and 10.6% in diverting stoma and transanal tube, respectively (P = .871). The overall morbidity was 23.2% and 15.0% in diverting stoma and transanal tube, respectively (P = .045). In the multivariate analysis, tumor size >2.5 cm and level of anastomosis <4 cm were significant risk factors for anastomotic leakage. In a subgroup analysis for patients with the level of anastomosis >4 cm, the incidence of anastomotic leakage was not significantly different between the transanal tube and diverting stoma groups. However, for patients with a level of anastomosis <4 cm, the incidence of grade C anastomotic leakage was significantly greater in the transanal tube than in the diverting stoma group (2.5% vs 9.9%, P = .040).

CONCLUSION

The protective efficacy of transanal tube may be comparable to diverting stoma, especially for those with a level of anastomosis >4 cm.

Anastomotic Leak Rate and Prolonged Postoperative Paralytic Ileus in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Surgery for Colo-Rectal Cancer After Placement of No-Coil Endoanal Tube

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common gastrointestinal tumor in men and the third in women. Left-hemicolectomy (LC) and low anterior resection (LAR) are considered the gold standard curative treatment. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the presence or absence of post-operative complications, in all patients who underwent Video-laparoscopic (VLS) LAR/LC with No Coil trans-anal tube positioning, and compared the data with the current literature on the topic.

METHODS

Thirty-nine patients diagnosed with CRC of the descending colon, splenic flexure, sigma, and rectum were recruited. LC was performed for sigmoid and descending colon cancers, while LAR was applied for tumors of the upper two-thirds of the rectum. The No Coil trans-anal tube (SapiMed Spa, Alessandria, Italy) was placed in all patients of the study at the end of surgical treatment.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients received a LAR-VLS (46%) and 21 patients received a LC-VLS (54%). The average length of hospital stay after surgery was 7 days. PPOI occurred in only one in 39 patients (2.6%) who had undergone LAR-VLS. As for complications, in no patient of the study did AL (0%) occur.

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing LAR-VLS and LC-VLS, we performed colorectal anastomosis and in the same surgical operation we introduced the No-Coil device. Although this is a preliminary study and subject to further investigation, we believe that the No Coil tube positioning may reduce the time of presence of first flatus and feces and the risk of AL.

Efficacy of a transanal drainage tube versus diverting stoma in protecting colorectal anastomosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is the most fearsome complication in low rectal resection. The temporary diverting stoma (DS) is recommended to prevent AL, but it may cause relevant morbidity and needs a second surgical procedure to be closed. Therefore, the use of a transanal drainage tube (TDT) has been proposed as an alternative. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis concerning the peri-operative outcomes in patients undergoing elective anterior rectal resection (ARR) with TDT alone or DS alone. Six studies were meta-analyzed, including a total of 735 patients. The meta-analysis showed that the incidences of AL, surgery-related complications, infective complications, and 30-day reoperation after ARR with low colorectal or coloanal anastomosis did not differ significantly between patients undergoing positioning of TDT and those undergoing DS. Furthermore, overall complications were significantly rarer in patients undergoing TDT. A meta-analysis of the randomized control trial (RCT) and no-RCT subgroups did not detect any statistically significant differences in any outcomes. These results suggest that it might be reasonable to employ a TDT in place of a DS to protect low colorectal and coloanal anastomosis, with consequent considerable advantages in terms of the short- and long-term post-operative outcomes. However, more well-designed RCTs are needed to definitively assess this issue.

Prophylactic transanal drainage tube placement for preventing anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer: A meta-analysis

AIM

The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of transanal drainage tube (TDT) placement for preventing anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

METHOD

PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched up to October 2021. Studies comparing outcomes following low anterior resection with or without TDT were included. The primary outcomes measured were anastomotic leakage rate, reoperation rate and anastomotic bleed rate.

RESULTS

Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 16 observational studies (prospective or retrospective) involving 4560 patients satisfied the basic inclusion criteria. In RCTs, a TDT was associated with no statistically significant differences in anastomotic leakage (OR = 0.67, 95% CI 0.42-1.05, P = 0.08), reduction in reoperation (OR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.51, P = 0.004) and increased anastomotic bleeding rate (OR = 2.36, 95% CI 1.11-5.01, P = 0.03). In observational studies, a TDT was associated with significant reduction in anastomotic leak (OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.30-0.64, P < 0.0001) and reoperation (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.33-0.69, P < 0.0001), with no statistically significant differences in anastomotic bleeding (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 0.20-8.30, P = 0.78).

CONCLUSION

In RCTs, a TDT for rectal cancer was correlated with no detectable differences in anastomotic leakage and with an increased risk of anastomotic bleeding. In observational studies, a TDT was correlated with reduction in anastomotic leakage and no detectable differences in anastomotic bleeding. Both RCTs and observational studies demonstrated a comparable reduction in reoperation rate with TDT. These data in aggregate indicated that TDTs may not show superiority but emphasized differences between RCT and observational data.

Significance of information obtained during transanal drainage tube placement after anterior resection of colorectal cancer

Introduction

It has recently been reported that the placement of a transanal drainage tube after rectal cancer surgery reduces the rate of anastomotic leakage. However, transanal drainage tube cannot completely prevent anastomotic leakage and the management of transanal drainage tube needs to devise. We investigated the information obtained during transanal drainage tube placement and evaluated the relationship between these factors and anastomotic leakage.

Patients and methods

Fifty-one patients who underwent anterior resection of rectal cancer was retrospectively reviewed. transanal drainage tube was placed for more than 5 days after surgery. The daily fecal volume from transanal drainage tube was measured on postoperative day 1–5, and the defecation during transanal drainage tube placement was investigated.

Results

Anastomotic leakage during transanal drainage tube placement occurred in 4 patients. The anastomotic leakage rate during transanal drainage tube placement in patients whose maximum daily fecal volume or total fecal volume from the transanal drainage tube during postoperative days 1–5 was large was significantly higher than that in patients whose fecal volume was small. The anastomotic leakage rate of the patients with intentional defecation during transanal drainage tube placement was significantly higher than that of the patients without intentional defecation during transanal drainage tube placement. The maximum daily fecal volume and the total fecal volume from the transanal drainage tube during postoperative days 1–5 in patients who experienced intentional defecation during transanal drainage tube placement was significantly higher than that of patients without intentional defecation during transanal drainage tube placement.

Conclusion

A large fecal volume from transanal drainage tube after anterior rectal resection or intentional defecation in patients with transanal drainage tube placement were suggested to be risk factors for anastomotic leakage.

Role of transanal drainage tubes in preventing anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The transanal drainage tube (TDT) is thought to reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage (AL) in patients with low anterior resection (LAR). However, results from different clinical trials are inconsistent, although nearly all meta-analyses agree on the efficacy. In contrast to results of many previous studies, 2 recent independent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest that the use of TDT does not prevent AL. We performed a meta-analysis including only RCTs to compare patients with TDTs vs. those without TDTs in terms of AL rate.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library databases, Clinicaltrials.gov and WHO/ICTRP from inception until February 14, 2022. RCTs that evaluated the role of TDTs in AL prevention in patients who underwent LAR for rectal cancer were included. A meta-analysis was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Data were extracted by two authors independently, and random-effects models were implemented. The main outcome was AL, and the secondary outcome was the grade of AL.

RESULTS

Three RCTs were included involving a total of 1115 participants (559 patients in the TDT group and 556 in the non-TDT group). No significant difference in the AL rate was detected (RR = 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42-1.15, p = 0.15, I² = 21%, very low certainty evidence). The incidence of grade C AL was possibly lower in the TDT group (RR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.11-1.01, p = 0.05, very low certainty evidence), while the rate of grade B AL was similar between the two groups (RR = 1.17, 95% CI 0.66-2.08, p = 0.59, very low certainty evidence).

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggests that TDTs are not effective in reducing the overall incidence of AL, but possibly have a potential benefit in reducing the occurrence of grade C AL in patients with LAR. Based on the current limited data and existing heterogeneity, the inclusion of larger populations and the identification of more uniform indications for TDT need to be addressed in future studies.

Effect of the transanal drainage tube on preventing anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a common postoperative complication of rectal cancer, and transanal drainage tube (TDT) efficacy is still contentious. This study aimed to evaluate the TDT effect on AL prevention.

METHODS

All relevant papers were searched by using a predefined search strategy (two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one prospective study, and four retrospective studies). Meta-analysis was conducted to estimate AL and re-operation pooled rates.

RESULTS

A total of 7 studies (1556 patients) were included: No significant statistic difference was found between two groups on AL rate (odds ratio (OR) 0.61, P = 0.11) and re-operation rate (OR 0.52, P = 0.10). For subgroup analysis, significant statistic difference was found between two groups on AL rate (OR 0.29, P = 0.002) and re-operation rate (OR 0.15, P = 0.04) in patients without neoadjuvant therapy. As for patients without diverting stoma, the AL rate (OR 0.35, P = 0.002) was significantly lower than that in patients without TDT.

CONCLUSIONS

TDT may reduce AL morbidity and re-operation rate for patients without high risk of AL, but may be useless for those in high-risk situations.

Oral antibiotics and a low-residue diet reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage after left-sided colorectal surgery: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Anastomotic leakage is a potential complication after colorectal surgery. We investigated the effects of oral antibiotics and a low-residue diet on the incidence of anastomotic leakage after left-sided colorectal surgery.

METHODS

Outcomes were retrospectively compared between 64 patients who underwent mechanical bowel preparation alone (group A) and 183 patients who underwent mechanical bowel preparation with addition of oral kanamycin and metronidazole (group B) on the day before left-sided colorectal surgery. After surgery, patients in group A received a normal diet containing dietary fiber and those in group B received a low-residue diet. The primary outcome was the incidence of anastomotic leakage. Secondary outcomes were rates of other postoperative complications, length of postoperative hospital stay, and laboratory data.

RESULTS

Anastomotic leakage, surgical site infection, and diarrhea were less common in group B than in group A (4.9% vs 18.8%, 6.6% vs 23.4%, and 25.7% vs 43.8%, respectively). Postoperative C-reactive protein levels were significantly lower in group B. The median postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in group B than in group A (8 days vs 9 days, P = 0.010). Adaptive double least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression revealed that use of preoperative oral antibiotics and a postoperative low-residue diet were associated with lower incidence of anastomotic leakage (odds ratio 0.163, 95% confidence interval 0.062-0.430; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Oral antibiotics and a low-residue diet reduced the incidence of anastomotic leakage and shortened the postoperative hospital stay by 1 day.

Transanal Drainage Tube Use for Preventing Anastomotic Leakage After Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection in Patients With Rectal Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Preventing anastomotic leakage (AL) is crucial for colorectal surgery. Some studies have suggested a positive role of transanal drainage tubes (TDTs) in AL prevention after low anterior resection, but this finding is controversial.

Objective

To assess the effect of TDTs in AL prevention after laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter randomized clinical trial with parallel groups (TDT vs non-TDT) was performed from February 26, 2016, to September 30, 2020. Participants included patients from 7 different hospitals in China who were undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection with the double-stapling technique for mid-low rectal cancer; 576 patients were initially enrolled in this study, and 16 were later excluded. Ultimately, 560 patients were randomly divided between the TDT and non-TDT groups.

Interventions

A silicone tube was inserted through the anus, and the tip of the tube was placed approximately 5 cm above the anastomosis under laparoscopy at the conclusion of surgery. The tube was fixed with a skin suture and connected to a drainage bag. The TDT was scheduled for removal 3 to 7 days after surgery.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was the postoperative AL rate within 30 days.

Results

In total, 576 patients were initially enrolled in this study; 16 of these patients were excluded. Ultimately, 560 patients were randomly divided between the TDT group (n = 280; median age, 61.5 years [IQR, 54.0-68.8 years]; 177 men [63.2%]) and the non-TDT group (n = 280; median age, 62.0 years [IQR, 52.0-69.0 years]; 169 men [60.4%]). Intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant difference between the TDT and non-TDT groups in AL rates (18 [6.4%] vs 19 [6.8%]; relative risk, 0.947; 95% CI, 0.508-1.766; P = .87) or AL grades (grade B, 14 [5.0%] and grade C, 4 [1.4%] vs grade B, 11 [3.9%] and grade C, 8 [2.9%]; P = .43). In the stratified analysis based on diverting stomas, there was no significant difference in the AL rate between the groups, regardless of whether a diverting stoma was present (without stoma, 12 [5.8%] vs 15 [7.9%], P = .41; and with stoma, 6 [8.3%] vs 4 [4.5%], P = .50). Anal pain was the most common complaint from patients in the TDT group (130 of 280, 46.4%). Accidental early TDT removal occurred in 20 patients (7.1%), and no bleeding or iatrogenic colonic perforations were detected.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results from this randomized clinical trial indicated that TDTs may not confer any benefit for AL prevention in patients who undergo laparoscopic low anterior resection for mid-low rectal cancer without preoperative radiotherapy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02686567.

Risk factors of symptomatic anastomotic leakage and its impacts on a long-term survival after laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer: a retrospective single-center study

Background

Postoperative symptomatic anastomotic leakage (AL) is a serious complication after low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer. AL can potentially affect short-term patient outcomes and long-term prognosis. This study aimed to explore the risk factors and long-term survival of symptomatic AL after laparoscopic LAR for rectal cancer.

Methods

From May 2009 to May 2015, 298 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic LAR for rectal cancer with or without a defunctioning stoma were included in this study. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore independent risk factors for symptomatic AL. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan–Meier curves, and log-rank tests were used for group comparisons.

Results

Among the 298 patients enrolled in this study, symptomatic AL occurred in eight (2.7%) patients. The univariate analysis showed that age of ≤65 years (P = 0.048), neoadjuvant therapy (P = 0.095), distance from the anal verge (P = 0.078), duration of operation (P = 0.001), and pathological tumor (T) category (P = 0.004) were associated with symptomatic AL. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that prolonged duration of operation (P = 0.010) was an independent risk factor for symptomatic AL after laparoscopic LAR for rectal cancer. No statistically significant differences were observed in the 3-year (P = 0.785) and 5-year (P = 0.979) overall survival rates.

Conclusions

A prolonged duration of operation increased the risk of symptomatic AL after laparoscopic LAR for rectal cancer. An impact of symptomatic AL on a long-term survival was not observed in this study; however, further studies are required.

Trial registration

This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000033413) on May 31, 2020.

Does rectal tube/transanal stent placement after an anterior resection for rectal cancer reduce anastomotic leak? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is increasing evidence that either a transanal stent (TAS) or rectal tube (RT) can decrease the risk of anastomotic leakage (AL) after anterior resection for rectal cancer, in which a diverting stoma may not be required.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review was to investigate the efficacy and safety of RT/TAS in preventing AL after anterior resections.

DATA SOURCES

An up-to-date systematic review was performed on the available literature between 2000 and 2020 on PubMed, EMBASE, Medline and Cochrane Library databases.

STUDY SELECTION

All studies reporting on anterior resections in adults, comparing transanal tube/stent versus non-tube/stent, were analysed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome was rates of AL, whereas secondary outcomes compared associated unplanned re-operation for AL and hospital length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS

Two randomized controlled trials and 13 observational studies were included, with 1714 patients receiving RT/TAS and 1741 patients without. There were 119 (7%) patients with AL in the RT/TAS group compared to 216 (12.3%) patients in the non-RT/TAS group (OR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.38-0.62, p < 0.001). There were 47 (2.9%) patients with AL complications requiring surgery in the RT/TAS group compared to 132 (8%) patients in the non-RT/TAS group (OR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.20-0.42, p < 0.001) and no significant difference identified with the standardized mean difference (SMD) favouring the RT/TAS group for hospital LOS (SMD: -0.23, 95% CI: -0.51 to 0.06, p = 0.115).

CONCLUSION

The use of RT/TAS post restorative anterior resection for rectal cancer should be considered, given the benefits shown from this meta-analysis.

Safety and feasibility of laparoscopic surgery for elderly rectal cancer patients in Japan: a nationwide study

Background

This study aimed to analyse the perioperative results from a national dataset of rectal cancer resections in elderly patients.

Methods

The clinical records of patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery between 2012 and 2014 were retrieved from the Japanese National Clinical Database and analysed retrospectively. Patients were categorized according to age and those 80 years or older were defined as elderly. Subgroups were also defined according to the surgical approach (laparoscopy versus open surgery). The short-term outcomes, including mortality, anastomotic leak, surgical site infections and medical complications were compared between subgroups.

Results

Of 56 175 patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery, some 6717 patients were elderly and laparoscopy was performed in 46.8 per cent of the sample. When comparing laparoscopy and open surgery in elderly patients, the operative mortality rate (1.5 versus 2.8 per cent; P < 0.001), the incidence of anastomotic leakage (5.2 versus 6.5 per cent; P = 0.026), surgical site infections (6.0 versus 8.0 per cent; P = 0.001), pneumonia (1.4 versus 2.5 per cent; P = 0.001), renal failure (0.7 versus 1.3 per cent; P = 0.016) and cardiac events (0.3 versus 0.8 per cent; P = 0.008) were lower for laparoscopy than for open surgery. The overall complication rate in elderly patients (19.5 per cent) was comparable to that in the younger group (P = 0.07). However, incidence of systemic complications was significantly higher in elderly than in younger patients (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Laparoscopy was safe and feasible in elderly patients compared with open surgery. However, the rates of systemic complications were significantly higher than in younger patients.

Retrospective Risk Analysis for Anastomotic Leakage Following Laparoscopic Rectal Cancer Surgery in a Single Institute

PURPOSE

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most serious complications after laparoscopic low anterior resection (LALAR) for rectal cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the risk factors for AL after LALAR.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted of 103 patients who underwent LALAR in a single institute between October 2008 and January 2018. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the clinicopathological factors associated with AL.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of AL was 9.7% (10/103). After anastomosis using the double-stapling technique, a transanal tube was placed in 88 patients (85.4%). A diverting stoma was created in 26 patients (25.2%). The univariate analysis showed that a younger age (P = 0.014), higher stage (P = 0.048), deeper depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.028), larger tumor circumference (P = 0.024), longer operation time (P = 0.015), and early postoperative diarrhea (P = 0.002) were associated with AL. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed early postoperative diarrhea (odds ratio [OR] 16.513, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.393-113.971, P = 0.004) a younger age (10-year increments; OR 0.351, 95% CI 0.147-0.839, P = 0.019), operative time (10-min increments; OR 1.089, 95% CI 1.012-1.172, P = 0.022), and higher stage (OR 10.605, 95% CI 1.279-87.919, P = 0.029) were independent risk factors for AL CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that tumor progression accompanied by a high stage, long operative time, and insufficient bowel preparation and early postoperative diarrhea due to a large tumor circumference may be risk factors of AL after LALAR for rectal cancer.

The impact of transanal tube design for preventing anastomotic leak in anterior resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Placement of a transanal tube (TAT) into the rectum is a strategy used to attempt to prevent anastomotic leak (AL) in anterior resection surgery. There is a wide variation in materials and tube design in devices used as TATs and previous meta-analyses have not considered TAT design in their analyses. This study reviews the impact that design of TAT has on AL rates.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed with the aim of identifying studies evaluating the use of TATs for preventing AL and then defining the design of TATs. Studies were then compared in groups based on TAT design in a meta-analysis to evaluate whether design is an important variable in outcomes.

RESULTS

Thirty-three studies were included. There was a wide variety of tubes used as TATs. On meta-analysis, catheter-type TATs were associated with a substantially lower rate of AL (OR: 0.46; 95% CI 0.30, 0.68). By contrast, stent-type TATs were not associated with any reduction in the incidence of AL (OR: 1.06, 95% CI 0.50, 2.22). Catheter-type TATs were also associated with substantial reductions in the rate of reoperation (OR: 0.32; 95% CI 0.20, 0.50), whereas stent-type TATs showed no benefit in the rate of reoperation (OR: 0.79; 95% CI 0.37, 1.65).

CONCLUSIONS

Off-the-shelf catheter-type transanal tubes appeared effective in preventing AL, whereas custom-designed stent-type TATs were not demonstrated to be effective; although high quality evidence is limited. TAT design should be an important consideration in further research of the use of TATs in anterior resection surgery.

Short-term outcomes of pelvic floor peritoneum closure in endoscopic low anterior resection of rectal cancer: A propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of pelvic floor peritoneum closure (PC) during endoscopic low anterior resection (E-LAR) of rectal cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify whether pelvic floor PC affected short-term outcomes.

METHODS

The study group comprised patients with the pathologically confirmed diagnosis of rectal cancer who underwent E-LAR with pelvic floor PC or with no PC (NPC) between January 2013 and December 2018 in Southwest Hospital. After propensity score matching (PSM), 584 patients (292 who underwent PC and 292 who underwent NPC) were evaluated. Postoperative indicators, including the rates of complications, anastomotic leakage (AL), reoperation, and inflammation, were observed in the two groups.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed in the rates of postoperative complications between the PC and NPC groups. The rates of AL were similar (11.3% vs. 9.2%, p = .414). However, the reoperation rate of patients in the PC group was significantly lower than that of patients in the NPC group after AL (36.4% vs. 11.1%, p = .025). The hospital costs were higher in the NPC leakage subgroup (p = .001). Additionally, the serum C-reactive protein levels were lower in the PC group on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, and 5, whereas procalcitonin levels on POD 1 and 3 were lower in the PC group but did not differ significantly on POD 5.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic peritonization did not affect the rate of complications, especially AL; however, it effectively reduced the reoperation and inflammation rates and reduced hospitalization costs. Other short-term outcomes were similar, which warrant the increased use of pelvic peritonization in endoscopic surgery.

Risk and early predictive factors of anastomotic leakage in laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer

Background

In recent years, laparoscopic surgery has been widely used for rectal cancer. In laparoscopic rectal surgery, a double-stapling technique (DST) anastomosis using a stapling device is considered a relatively difficult procedure. Postoperative anastomotic leakage (AL) is a major complication related to patients’ quality of life and prognosis.

Methods

This study was a retrospective, single-institution study of 101 rectal cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection (LAR) with DST anastomosis (excluding simultaneous resection of other organs and construction of protective diverting stoma) between February 2008 and November 2017 at the Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine. This study aimed to identify risk and early predictive factors of AL.

Results

Among 101 patients, symptomatic AL occurred in 13 patients (12.9%), of whom 10 were male and 3 were female. Their median BMI was 22.7 kg/m² (range, 17.9–26.4 kg/m²).

Among the pre- and intraoperative factors, AL was significantly associated with tumor location (lower rectum), distance from the anal verge (< 6 cm), intraoperative blood loss (≥ 50 ml), and the number of linear staples (≥ 2) in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, only intraoperative blood loss (≥ 50 ml, odds ratio [OR] 4.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–19.52; p = 0.045) was identified as an independent risk factor for AL.

Among the postoperative factors, AL was significantly associated with tachycardia-POD1 (≥ 100 bpm), CRP-POD3 (≥ 15 mg/dl), fever on postoperative day (fever-POD) 3 (≥ 38 °C), and first defecation day after surgery (< POD3) in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, fever-POD3 (≥ 38 °C, OR 30.97; 95% CI 4.68–311.22; p = 0.0003) and first defecation day after surgery (< POD3, OR 5.82; 95% CI 1.34–31.30; p = 0.019) were identified as early predictive factors for AL.

Conclusion

In this study, intraoperative blood loss was an indicator of difficulty in a transection and anastomosing procedure, and fever-POD3 and early first defecation day after surgery were independent early predictive factors for AL. Careful surgery using an appropriate technique and standardized procedures with minimal bleeding and careful postoperative management paying attention to fever and defecation may prevent the onset and severity of AL.

Diverting Stoma Versus No Diversion in Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection: A Single-center Retrospective Study in Japan

BACKGROUND/AIM

The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe the benefits and risks of a diverting stoma (DS) in laparoscopic low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 140 and 167 patients without and with DS, respectively, were included in this study in a high-volume cancer center of Japan within an 8-year period.

RESULTS

Small bowel obstruction occurred more frequently in patients with DS (2.86% vs. 16.17%, p<0.001). The difference in anastomotic leakage rate was not statistically significant (11.43% vs. 10.18%, p=0.72). In multivariate analysis, the operating time was associated with a higher rate of leakage in LAR [odds ratio (OR) 8.772, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.002-1.012, p=0.027].

CONCLUSION

Operating time was associated with a higher rate of leakage in LAR for low rectal cancer. A DS did not reduce anastomotic leakage but increased the risk of postoperative intestinal obstruction in laparoscopic LAR.

Outcomes of transanal tube placement in anterior resection: A meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

In recent years, transanal tube placement was reported to be an effective procedure preventing anastomotic leakage after anterior resection of rectal cancer. However, this procedure is still controversial owing to inconsistent results found in previous studies.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed using Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library from the databases inception up until June 21, 2018. The methodological quality of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies were evaluated by Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.3 software.

RESULTS

1 randomized controlled trial and 9 cohort studies were included in our meta-analysis. The randomized controlled trial was proven to be low risk according to the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. All of the cohort studies proved a high quality according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Patients in transanal tube group had more disadvantageous preoperative demographic characteristics than patients in non-transanal tube group. The anastomotic leak rate was lower in the transanal tube group. Patients in the transanal tube group tended to have lower reoperation rates and shorter hospital stays compared with patients in the non-transanal tube group.

CONCLUSION

Despite various unfavorable preoperative characteristics, anastomotic leakage after anterior resection was lower in patients who received transanal tube placement compared with the control group. Transanal tube placement may be an alternative procedure of defunctioning stoma. A large sample size, multicenter RCT was needed to prove our results.

Predictive factors for anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic colorectal surgery

Every colorectal surgeon during his or her career is faced with anastomotic leakage (AL); one of the most dreaded complications following any type of gastrointestinal anastomosis due to increased risk of morbidity, mortality, overall impact on functional and oncologic outcome and drainage on hospital resources. In order to understand and give an overview of the AL risk factors in laparoscopic colorectal surgery, we carried out a careful review of the existing literature on this topic and found several different definitions of AL which leads us to believe that the lack of a consensual, standard definition can partly explain the considerable variations in reported rates of AL in clinical studies. Colorectal leak rates have been found to vary depending on the anatomic location of the anastomosis with reported incidence rates ranging from 0 to 20%, while the laparoscopic approach to colorectal resections has not yet been associated with a significant reduction in AL incidence. As well, numerous risk factors, though identified, lack unanimous recognition amongst researchers. For example, the majority of papers describe the risk factors for left-sided anastomosis, the principal risk being male sex and lower anastomosis, while little data exists defining AL risk factors in a right colectomy. Also, gut microbioma is gaining an emerging role as potential risk factor for leakage.

An updated meta-analysis of transanal drainage tube for prevention of anastomotic leak in anterior resection for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most serious complications after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Transanal drainage tube (TDT) placement is widely used to reduce AL, but its efficacy remains controversial. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of TDT for prevention of AL, using updated evidence.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies evaluating the effectiveness of TDT for prevention of AL after anterior resection for rectal cancer were identified by using a predefined search strategy. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled rates of AL, reoperation, anastomotic bleeding and mortality separately.

RESULTS

One RCT and ten cohort studies which including 1170 cases with TDT and 1262 cases without TDT were considered eligible for inclusion. Meta-analysis showed that the TDT group was associated with a significant lower rates of AL (RR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.31-0.58, P < 0.00001) and reoperation (RR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.19-0.45, P < 0.00001). There was no significant difference in anastomotic bleeding rate and mortality between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

TDT placement is associated with significant lower rates of AL and reoperation, hence it is likely to be an effective method of preventing and reducing AL after rectal cancer surgery.

Risk factors for anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic surgery with the double stapling technique for stage 0/I rectal carcinoma: a subgroup analysis of a multicenter, single-arm phase II trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic rectal surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective trial involving 395 patients with stage 0/I rectal carcinoma who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection using a double stapling technique. Data concerning variables related to patient background, tumors and surgical factors were evaluated. The outcomes with respect to anastomotic leakage were recorded, and univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify relevant risk factors.

RESULTS

The overall anastomotic leakage rate was 8.4%. A univariate analysis showed male gender (P = 0.006) and preoperative blood sugar level (P = 0.0034) to be significantly associated with anastomotic leakage. The variables of gender, preoperative blood sugar level, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification (P = 0.15), transanal decompression tube (P = 0.06) and number of stapler cartridges used for rectal transection (P = 0.18) were selected for the multivariate analysis because of their P values being <0.2. The multivariate analysis identified male gender (odds ratio 4.12, P = 0.006) and the absence of a transanal decompression tube (odds ratio 3.11, P = 0.0484) as independent risk factors predicting anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

Male gender and the absence of a transanal decompression tube appeared to be independent risk factors for anastomotic leakage. Insertion of a transanal decompression tube may help prevent anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection, particularly in male patients.