Cancer in an ileoanal reservoir: a new late complication?

Imaging Features of Gastrointestinal Neoplasms Complicating Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic inflammatory diseases affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Patients with IBD, besides other non-neoplastic complications, are also at increased risk of GI malignancies such as colorectal cancer, small bowel adenocarcinoma and lymphoma. The principal purpose of imaging in patients with IBD to assess complications and to stage a clinically known cancer. In addition, the goal of imaging has expanded to include the diagnosis of GI malignancies in clinical situations where colonoscopy cannot be performed or is incomplete. In addition, imaging allows the detection of cancers in patients where the development of either disease-related or treatment-related neoplasia is clinically suspected. The purpose of this review is to present the different imaging techniques used to detect GI malignancies in IBD patients and describe the radiological appearances of GI malignancies in IBD patients.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Cancer in the Anal Transitional Zone and Ileal Pouch following Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the intervention of choice for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis requiring surgery. One of the long-term complications is pouch cancer, having a poor prognosis. The risk of high-grade dysplasia and cancer in the anal transitional zone and ileal pouch after 20 years is estimated to be 2 to 4.5% and 3 to 10% in ulcerative colitis and familial polyposis, respectively. The risk factors for ulcerative colitis are the presence of pre-operative dysplasia or cancer, disease duration > 10 years and severe villous atrophy. For familial polyposis, the risk factors are the number of pre-operative polyps > 1000, surgery with stapled anastomosis and the duration of follow-up. In the case of ulcerative colitis, a pouchoscopy should be performed annually if one of the following is present: dysplasia and cancer at surgery, primary sclerosing cholangitis, villous atrophy and active pouchitis (every 5 years without any of these factors). In the case of familial polyposis, endoscopy is recommended every year including chromoendoscopy. Even if anal transitional zone and ileal pouch cancers seldom occur following proctectomy for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis, the high mortality rate associated with this complication warrants endoscopic monitoring.

Controversies in J Pouch Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis: A Focus on Handsewn Versus Stapled Anastomosis

The accepted current standard for treatment of medically refractory ulcerative colitis is total proctocolectomy with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for restoration of continence. There are 2 techniques by which the anastomosis can be performed, including handsewn and stapled. Handsewn anastomosis with mucosectomy was the first method described; however, it has been associated with significant incontinence. The double-stapled anastomosis was developed in response to improve postoperative function. Controversy remains as to which technique is superior as both have disadvantages. This review article addresses differences between the 2 methodologies in relation to postoperative complications, anorectal physiology, functional outcomes, and oncological safety.

Adenocarcinoma of the ileal pouch mucosa: case report and literature review

PURPOSE

Cancers developing near the site of the ileoanal pouch anastomosis (IPAA) have been reported, but uncommonly in the ileal pouch mucosa itself. We present a recently encountered case of ileal pouch cancer and review the literature to examine the prevalence, risk factors, and natural history of ileal pouch adenocarcinoma as well as pouch surveillance.

METHODS

A chart review of the case from our institution was conducted, and a PubMed search was undertaken for articles describing adenocarcinoma arising from the ileal pouch mucosa.

RESULTS

Twenty articles containing 26 cases were reviewed in addition to our described case. More than half were reported in the last decade. Only three cases were definitively stage 1. All seven patients who underwent regular surveillance were diagnosed with stage 1 or 2 disease. Seventeen patients had neoplasia in their original proctocolectomy specimen and six did not. The mean time from pouch creation to adenocarcinoma was 8.9 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of developing ileal pouch mucosa adenocarcinoma appears low. However, increasing reports of these cancers are concerning as most patients present with advanced disease after many years. Patients with a previous history of dysplasia/cancer may be at increased risk. We believe surveillance after IPAA should include the anal transition zone and the ileal pouch mucosa. The establishment of expert consensus guidelines on pouch surveillance should be considered in the near future.

Cancer surveillance strategies in ulcerative colitis: the need for modernization

The risk of colorectal cancer is increased in patients with long-standing ulcerative colitis. Traditional surveillance has centered around regular standard white-light colonoscopy, with multiple biopsies aimed at detecting dysplasia or the identification of early cancer. This has resulted in only a modest reduction in cancer incidence and mortality. A better understanding of disease risk factors may allow endoscopic resources to be more focused on patients at higher risk. In addition, advanced endoscopic techniques have the potential to improve dysplasia detection, minimize the need for routine biopsies, and allow for the removal of dysplastic lesions, avoiding the need for surgery. Techniques such as magnification colonoscopy, chromoendoscopy, narrow band imaging, autofluorescence, and confocal endomicroscopy may all have a role to play in improving the benefits of endoscopic surveillance. Revised endoscopic surveillance strategies are proposed, incorporating aspects of risk stratification, a well-established practice in noncolitis-related colorectal cancer screening, and some of these new technologies.

Is surveillance endoscopy necessary after colectomy in ulcerative colitis?

The role of surveillance endoscopic followup in colectomized patients with long standing total colitis is controversial. Here, we aimed to clarify its usefulness for the early detection of dysplasia and cancer in this group of patients. Ninety-seven colectomised UC patients followedup by surveillance endoscopy were retrospectively investigated by reviewing the pathological reports. Patients had received either subtotal colectomy and ileo-rectal anastomosis (IRA) or total proctocolectomy and ileal anal anastomosis (IPAA). Definite dysplasia was diagnosed in 4 patients, who had received IRA; among them, 2 were carcinoma with submucosal invasion, and one was a high-grade dysplasia. Postoperative surveillance endoscopy is useful for the detection of early cancer in the remaining colonic mucosa of UC patients, and those receiving IRA, in which rectal mucosa is left intact, would be good candidates. However, its effectiveness for patients receiving IPAA, in which the rectal mucosa is resected, needs further investigation.

Inflammatory bowel disease-associated colorectal cancer: proctocolectomy and mucosectomy do not necessarily eliminate pouch-related cancer incidences

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC), the most lethal long-term complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is the culmination of a complex sequence of molecular and histologic derangements of the colon epithelium that are initiated and at least partially sustained by prolonged chronic inflammation. Dysplasia, the earliest histologic manifestation of this process, plays an important role in cancer prevention by providing the first clinical alert that this sequence is under way and by serving as an endpoint in colonoscopic surveillance of patients at high risk for CRC. Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) is indicated for patients with IBD, specifically for ulcerative colitis that is refractory to medical treatment, emergency conditions, and/or in case of neoplastic transformation. Even after RPC with mucosectomy, pouch-related carcinomas have recently been reported with increasing frequency since the first report in 1984. We review IBD-associated CRC and pouch-related neoplasia prevalence, adverse events, risk factors, and surveillances.

METHODS

Literature of IBD-associated CRC patients and those undergoing RPC surgeries through 2010 were prospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

We found 12 studies from retrospective series and 15 case reports. To date, there are 43 reported cases of pouch-related cancers. Thirty-two patients had cancer in the anal transit zone (ATZ); of these, 28 patients had mucosectomy. Eleven patients had cancer found in the pouch body.

CONCLUSION

RPC with mucosectomy does not necessarily eliminate risks. There is little evidence to support routine surveillance of pouch mucosa and the ATZ except for patients associated with histological type C changes, sclerosing cholangitis, and unremitting pouchitis.

Pouch-related dysplasia and adenocarcinoma following restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) is the criterion standard surgical treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC). Restorative proctocolectomy is indicated for UC that is refractory to medical treatment, for emergency conditions, and in case of neoplastic transformation. The procedure substantially reduces the risk of UC-associated dysplasia/neoplasia. However, after RPC surgery, even with mucosectomy, cancers of the pouch and/or the anal-transitional zone (ATZ) have been reported with increasing frequency since the first report in 1984. This review highlights pouch-related dysplastic and neoplastic transformation, prevalence and adverse events, risk factors and surveillance following surgery for UC.

METHODS

Reports in the literature about patients undergoing pouch surgery from different institutions reported through May 2010 were reviewed to identify patients who developed these complications, and an attempt was made to develop a rational follow-up policy based on the data available.

RESULTS

To date, there are 43 reported cancers of the pouch or inlet after RPC for UC: 16 from retrospective series, 1 from a prospective study, and 26 in case reports. Thirty patients underwent mucosectomy and 13 had stapled anastomoses. To date, the number of 28 patients has been diagnosed with dysplasia after RPC for UC. Mucosectomy was performed in 27 of them and in 1 a stapled anastomosis was constructed without mucosectomy. In all cases reviewed, the time interval from the onset of UC to dysplasia/neoplasia was over 10 years.

CONCLUSION

Neoplastic lesions occurring in UC patients after RPC have been shown to be absolutely inevitable. Even mucosectomy does not completely eliminate the risk. There is little evidence to support routine biopsy of the ileal mucosa or the anal-transition zone except in patients with histological type C changes, sclerosing cholangitis, and unremitting pouchitis in the ileal mucosa. Such patients should be selected for endoscopic surveillance to detect dysplasia preceding pouch adenocarcinoma.

Diagnosis and management of dysplasia and cancer of the ileal pouch in patients with underlying inflammatory bowel disease

Approximately 30% of the patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) would ultimately require colectomy for medically refractory UC or UC-associated neoplasia. Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis has become the surgical treatment of choice for these patients. However, this procedure does not completely abolish the risk for neoplasia of the pouch. The main risk factor for pouch neoplasia is a preoperative diagnosis of UC-associated dysplasia or cancer. Although the natural history and prognosis of pouch dysplasia are not clear, mortality associated with pouch cancer, once diagnosed, appears to be high. Conversely, not all pouch neoplasia follows the chronic inflammation-dysplasia-cancer sequence, which makes pouch endoscopy with biopsy, the current gold standard for surveillance, challenging. In addition, the findings that pouch neoplasia is not common and that pouch endoscopy still misses dysplasia lead to controversy on the need and time interval of routine endoscopic surveillance. However, based on reports in the literature and their own experience, the authors recommend surveillance endoscopy to be performed in patients at risk, such as those with a precolectomy diagnosis of UC-associated neoplasia. This review appraises issues in the prevalence and incidence, risk factors, technical aspects of pouch construction, clinical and pathological features, natural history, surveillance examination, diagnosis, and management of pouch neoplasia.

Preoperative colorectal neoplasia increases risk for pouch neoplasia in patients with restorative proctocolectomy

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has substantially reduced the risk for ulcerative colitis (UC)-associated dysplasia or cancer (neoplasia). We characterized features, risk factors, and outcomes of pouch neoplasia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in a historical cohort study.

METHODS

A total of 3203 patients with a preoperative diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease underwent restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA from 1984 to 2009 at the Cleveland Clinic. Demographic, clinical, and endoscopic data were reviewed and samples were examined by histological analyses. Univariable and Cox regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Cumulative incidences for pouch neoplasia at 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years were 0.9%, 1.3%, 1.9%, 4.2%, and 5.1%, respectively. Thirty-eight patients (1.19%) had pouch neoplasia, including 11 (0.36%) with adenocarcinoma of the pouch and/or the anal-transitional zone (ATZ), 1 (0.03%) with pouch lymphoma, 3 with squamous cell cancer of the ATZ, and 23 with dysplasia (0.72%). In the Cox model, the risk factor associated with pouch neoplasia was a preoperative diagnosis of UC-associated cancer or dysplasia, with adjusted hazard ratios of 13.43 (95% confidence interval: 3.96-45.53; P < .001) and 3.62 (95% confidence interval: 1.59-8.23; P = .002), respectively. Mucosectomy did not protect against pouch neoplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk for neoplasia in patients with UC and IPAA is small and not eliminated by colectomy or mucosectomy. A preoperative diagnosis of dysplasia or cancer of colon or rectum is a risk factor for pouch dysplasia or adenocarcinoma.

Technical aspects of ileoanal pouch surgery

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis has become the surgical procedure of choice for chronic ulcerative colitis. Since the initial description of the technique, various modifications have facilitated its evolution into a safe operation with excellent long-term outcomes. However, some aspects of the operation remain contentious. Our aim is to describe the technical aspects of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis and review the current literature in the areas of controversy.

Ulcerative colitis: the fate of the retained rectum

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis has clearly diminished the role of colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) in the management of patients with ulcerative colitis. Nonetheless, IRA probably still has an appropriate place in highly selected patients, and many others maintain an "out of circuit" rectal remnant after subtotal colectomy. Although symptomatic proctitis is the most common reason for completion proctectomy, these patients are also at a significant risk to develop rectal cancer. Routine surveillance appears to be warranted.

Adenocarcinoma complicating restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis with mucosectomy performed by Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator

This is a report of adenocarcinoma arising in an ileal pouch after restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) with rectal mucosal stripping performed by Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA) for ulcerative colitis. The CUSA was introduced to simplify and optimize ileal pouch-anal anastomosis with mucosectomy and has been shown to shorten the operative time and reduce blood loss. Its use however, may increase the number of pathology specimens made uninterpretable on account of tissue ablation. In the present case, even though preoperative colonoscopy had clearly shown dysplasia, the surgical pathology report could not detect any neoplasia in the specimen; hence, the patient was not surveyed for pouch cancer. Six years later, the patient presented with intestinal obstruction caused by cancer. While protocols for universal pouch surveillance remain somewhat controversial, we conclude on the basis of this case and a review of the literature that in RPC with mucosectomy performed by CUSA, pouch cancer surveillance is particularly important because remnants of rectal epithelium may have been left behind and tissue ablation may have made the surgical pathology report uninterpretable.

Adenocarcinoma following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: review of 26 cases

The occurrence of adenocarcinoma following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis (UC) is an infrequent and but potentially lethal complication. We have seen 1 such case among 520 IPAAs performed in our group practice between 1978 and February 2008. We have added this case to a review of 25 previously reported cases of adenocarcinoma of the pouch or outflow tract following IPAA for UC. Our conclusions are 1) that post-IPAA cancer can occur following either mucosectomy or stapled anastomosis; 2) that this malignancy can occur after IPAA performed for UC either with or without neoplasia; and 3) that this complication is seen whether or not the initial cancer or dysplasia had involved the rectum.

Medical management of patients with ileal pouch anal anastomosis after restorative procto-colectomy

Restorative procto-colectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis has become the most common elective surgical procedure for patients with ulcerative colitis and is becoming popular in those with familial adenomatous polyposis coli. The procedure itself is primarily carried out in specialist surgical centres but an increasing number are being performed and followed up in district general hospitals. These patients are now filtering through general surgical and gastroenterology clinics and are frequently seen in primary care. Pouchitis, an inflammatory condition of the ileal pouch, has become the third most important form of inflammatory bowel disease. As research develops in this area, other complications are being found. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date, evidence-based approach to the clinical management of these patients.

Preservation of the anal transition zone in ulcerative colitis. Long-term effects on defecatory function

INTRODUCTION

The anal transition zone (ATZ) after ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis is considered at risk for dysplasia and persistent or recurrent disease activity. The long-term fate of the ATZ and the effects of histologic changes on defecatory function are not well-known.

METHODS

To evaluate the inflammatory and preneoplastic changes of the ATZ in patients without preoperative dysplasia, yearly biopsies of the ATZ were obtained and functional results recorded on a questionnaire/diary. Histologic changes were correlated with simultaneous assessment of defecatory function.

RESULTS

Between 1992 and 2006, 225 patients underwent a stapled IPAA. A total of 238 successful biopsies of the ATZ were performed. There was no dysplasia found. Acute inflammation was noted in 4.6%, chronic inflammation in 84.9%, and normal mucosa in 10.5% of cases. Patients with chronic inflammation reported an average of 6.2+/-1.7 bowel movements/day and 93.2% of them were able to delay a bowel movement for at least 30 min. The presence of chronic ATZ inflammation did not seem to have a negative impact on function, with 96.1% of patients reporting perfect continence, and only 5.3% using protective pads.

CONCLUSIONS

Preservation of the ATZ in selected patients is safe and offers excellent long-term functional results. New onset dysplasia was not noted. Chronic inflammation had limited clinical impact. Presence of ATZ inflammation in a total of 89.5% of patients warrants life-long surveillance with biopsies.

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Since 1977, restorative proctocolectomy with ileoanal anastomosis (IAA) has evolved into the surgical treatment of choice for most patients with intractable ulcerative colitis. Construction of an ileal pouch reservoir is now standard, usually in the form of J pouch (IPAA). The aim of this report is to review selection criteria for, and functional outcomes, follow-up and management of complications of IPAA after 30 years of widespread clinical application.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Literature published in English on the clinical indications, surgical technique, morbidity, complications and outcome following IAA and IPAA was sourced by electronic search, performed independently by two reviewers who selected potentially relevant papers based on title and abstract. Additional articles were identified by cross-referencing from papers retrieved in the initial search.

CONCLUSION

The functional results of IPAA are good. Pouchitis, irritable pouch syndrome and cuffitis are specific long-term complications but rarely result in failure. Pouch salvage is possible in selected patients with poor functional outcomes. One-stage operations are increasingly performed.

Endoscopy/surveillance in inflammatory bowel disease

Patients with chronic colitis from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Previously, to ameliorate this, prophylactic total colectomy was offered to patients who had chronic ulcerative colitis (UC); however, research has identified less invasive management options through better understanding of the pathogenesis of cancer in chronic inflammation, a more uniform histologic diagnosis by pathologists, and proper surveillance colonoscopy techniques. This article reviews the pathogenesis of neoplasia in IBD, and then reviews the risk factors for CRC in IBD, surveillance guidelines and their limitations, surveillance techniques, ileal pouch dysplasia, and chemoprevention. Although data for CRC risk in Crohn's disease (CD) are not as extensive, it has been suggested that the risks are comparable to UC.

Ileal pouch surgery for ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a relapsing and remitting disease characterised by chronic mucosal and submucosal inflammation of the colon and rectum. Treatment may vary depending upon the extent and severity of inflammation. Broadly speaking medical treatments aim to induce and then maintain remission. Surgery is indicated for inflammatory disease that is refractory to medical treatment or in cases of neoplastic transformation. Approximately 25% of patients with UC ultimately require colectomy. Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the standard of care for patients with ulcerative colitis who ultimately require colectomy. This review will examine indications for IPAA, patient selection, technical aspects of surgery, management of complications and long term outcome following this procedure.

Adenocarcinoma Arising Below an Ileoanal Anastomosis After Restorative Proctocolectomy for Ulcerative Colitis: Report of a Case

We report a case of adenocarcinoma developing in remnant rectal mucosa below a hand-sewn ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis (UC). To our knowledge, this is the first such case to be reported from Japan. A 60-year-old man with a 13-year history of UC underwent proctocolectomy with a hand-sewn IPAA and mucosectomy for anal stenosis and serious tenesmic symptoms. About 7 years later, a follow-up endoscopy showed a flat elevated malignant lesion, 2 cm in diameter, below the ileoanal anastomosis. He was treated by abdominoperineal resection of the pouch and anus with total mesorectal excision. Histopathological examination of the resected specimen confirmed the presence of a well-differentiated adenocarcinoma but there were no metastatic lymph nodes. He recovered uneventfully and remains well without evidence of recurrent disease 2 years and 3 months after his last operation.

Should ileal pouch-anal anastomosis include mucosectomy?

OBJECTIVE

Debate exists as to the benefits of performing mucosectomy as part of pouch surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Whilst mucosectomy results in a more complete removal of diseased mucosa, this benefit may be at the price of poorer function. We examined these issues.

METHOD

Using Medline, Embase, Ovid and Cochrane database searches papers were identified relating to the outcome following pouch surgery with and without mucosectomy. Potential reasons for functional problems were investigated, as were rates of 'cuffitis', dysplasia, polyposis and cancer in the ileal pouch and anal canal.

RESULTS

The available evidence suggests that performing a mucosectomy leads to a worse functional outcome. Meta-analysis suggested that nighttime seepage of stool and resting and squeeze pressure were worse after mucosectomy. The most likely reason for functional impairment following pouch surgery was the degree of anal manipulation. Mucosectomy does seem to confer benefit in terms of disease control but this benefit does not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Stapled anastomosis avoiding mucosectomy is the approach of choice for ileal pouch anal anastomosis because this leads to superior functional outcome. Performing mucosectomy results in some clinical benefits in terms of lower rates of inflammation and dysplasia in the retained mucosa in UC patients and lower rates of cuff polyposis in FAP patients. However, on the basis of available evidence mucosectomy is only indicated in those cases where the patient is at a high risk of disease in the retained rectal cuff.

Mucosal dysplasia in ileal pelvic pouches after restorative proctocolectomy

PURPOSE

Inflammation, villous atrophy, colonic metaplasia, and dysplasia have been observed within the mucosa of ileal pelvic pouches after restorative proctocolectomy. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of mucosal dysplasia in ileal pouch and any associated risk factors.

METHODS

Prospectively registered patients having restorative proctocolectomy were recruited. A cross-sectional study was performed using a questionnaire focusing on disease history, functional results, and pouchitis after surgery. Participants underwent screening endoscopic pouch examination using sigmoidoscopy. Mucosal biopsies were taken from six specific locations in the pouch from proximal ileal-pouch (inflow) to ileoanal anastomosis. All biopsies were performed under strict surveillance protocol regardless of patients' symptoms. Biopsies were interpreted by two pathologists unaware of each other's report.

RESULTS

A total of 138 patients completed the protocol. Colectomy specimens from restorative proctocolectomy showed chronic ulcerative colitis in 118 (85.6 percent), familial adenomatous polyposis in 10 (7.2 percent), Crohn's colitis in 2 (1.4 percent), and indeterminate colitis in 8 (5.8 percent) patients. Twenty-two patients (18.3 percent) had dysplasia and eight (6.7 percent) had invasive cancer found in colectomy specimens after restorative proctocolectomy. Median interval between proctocolectomy and pouch biopsy was 5.4 years. Inflammatory changes were present in a majority of specimens, but these did not correlate with clinical history of pouchitis. No villous atrophy was identified. Pouch biopsies from only one patient were indefinite for dysplasia. Subsequent biopsies were negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and microscopic evidence of ileal-pouch inflammation is common. Ileal-pouch mucosal dysplasia is uncommon, occurring in only 1 of 138 patients. Villous atrophy and colonic metaplasia were not observed in this series. Routine pouch surveillance with biopsies may not be warranted.

Clinical features of ileal pouch polyps in patients with underlying ulcerative colitis

PURPOSE

Polypoid lesions rarely occur in the ileal pouch in ulcerative colitis patients after restorative proctocolectomy. Clinical features, malignant potential, and management of pouch polyps have not been characterized.

METHODS

We identified 23 ulcerative colitis patients with large polyps (size> or =1 cm) of the ileal pouch from our 2,512-case ulcerative colitis pouch database. Demographic, clinical, endoscopic, and histologic data were reviewed. The Pouchitis Disease Activity Index symptom score (range, 0-6) was used to quantify patients' symptoms before and after polypectomy.

RESULTS

Of the 23 patients, 95.7 percent (22 patients) had pouch endoscopy indicated for the evaluation of symptoms when polyps were detected, and 60.9 percent of patients had the polyps in the pouch, 26.1 percent in the anal transitional zone, and 21.7 percent in the afferent limb. The mean size of pouch polyps was 1.9 cm +/- 1 cm. Twenty-one patients (91.3 percent) had concomitant pouchitis, cuffitis, or Crohn's disease. On histology, 21 patients (91.3 percent) had inflammatory-type polyps, and 2 (8.7 percent) had dysplastic or malignant polyps. In 18 patients who had endoscopic polypectomy with concurrent medical therapy, the prepolypectomy and postpolypectomy mean symptom scores were 3.4 +/- 1.7 and 1.1 +/- 1.2 points, respectively (P = 0.015). Two patients (8.7 percent) had pouch excision for malignancy or for concomitant chronic refractory pouchitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of patients with large ileal pouch polyps were symptomatic. These polyps were typically detected on the background of pouchitis, cuffitis, or Crohn's disease. Although the majority of polyps were inflammatory type, polyps in two patients were dysplastic or malignant. Endoscopic polypectomy with concomitant medical therapy seemed to improve patients' symptom scores.

Vascular endothelial growth factor and cyclooxygenase-2 are overexpressed in ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

PURPOSE

Pathophysiology of pouchitis after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is controversial because of the potential for development of carcinoma. Cyclooxygenase-2-derived prostaglandins may be involved in the inflammatory process and play a role in the pathogenesis of colon cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor plays a major role in neoangiogenesis and is overexpressed in a number of gastrointestinal malignancies. The goal of this study was to evaluate the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor and to assess neoangiogenesis and epithelial cell proliferation in patients with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis.

METHODS

Endoscopic biopsies were obtained from 15 patients with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis without pouchitis (10 biopsies from the ileal pouch and 10 from ileal nonpouch mucosa) and from 15 subjects with irritable bowel syndrome (10 biopsies from normal-appearing ileum and rectum). Cyclooxygenase-1, cyclooxygenase-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor messenger ribonucleic acid expression was determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression was evaluated by Western blot. Cyclooxygenase-2, vascular endothelial growth factor, CD34 (neoangiogenesis marker), and Ki67 (proliferation marker) mucosal localizations were evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor was increased in ileal pouch mucosa compared with ileal nonpouch mucosa, normal ileum, and rectum. Cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor immunostaining in ileal pouch mucosa was more intense in the crypt area than in the surface epithelium compared with ileal nonpouch mucosa. CD34 (neoangiogenesis marker) and Ki67 (proliferation marker) expression was increased in ileal pouch mucosa.

CONCLUSIONS

Cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor are overexpressed in the ileal pouch mucosa. This is associated with increased proliferative activity and neoangiogenesis. Cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor overexpression might play a role in the pathogenesis of pouchitis.

Systematic review of dysplasia after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis

Background

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the prevalence and site of dysplasia after restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) for ulcerative colitis (UC), and to identify risk factors that could be used in a surveillance programme.

Methods

Medical databases were searched for potentially relevant publications between 1978 and 2006. Studies that dealt with RPC for UC and postoperative surveillance were included. Two researchers independently performed study selection, quality assessment, data extraction and analysis.

Results

Twenty-three observational studies and case series were included, with a total of 2040 patients. The pooled prevalence of confirmed dysplasia in the pouch, anal transitional zone or rectal cuff was 1·13 (range 0–18·75) per cent. The prevalence of high-grade dysplasia, low-grade dysplasia and indefinite for dysplasia was 0·15 (range 0–4·49), 0·98 (range 0–15·62) and 1·23 (range 0–25·28 per cent) respectively. Dysplasia was equally frequent in the pouch and rectal cuff or anal transitional zone. Dysplasia and cancer identified before or at operation seemed to be significant predictors of the development of dysplasia. Pouchitis and duration of follow-up were not of predictive value.

Conclusion

Although based on low-level evidence from uncontrolled studies, the prevalence of dysplasia observed after RPC was remarkable. A surveillance programme that takes into account the risk factors found is therefore advocated.

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis: the Australasian experience

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this project was to establish and maintain an internet-based database of all ileal pouch procedures performed in major centres in Australasia.

METHOD

The initial three colorectal units contributing data are Auckland, northern Brisbane and Central Sydney Area Health Service. A web-based database was designed. The data collection method was tested on a subgroup of 20 patients to ensure functionality. Data were collected in five main categories: patient demographics, preoperative data, operative details, postoperative complications and functional results.

RESULTS

Initial data are presented for 516 patients [363 J, (70%), 133 W (26%), 16 S pouches (3%)]. There were two deaths within 30 days (0.4%). The anastomotic leak rate overall, in handsewn (HSA) and stapled anastomoses (SA) respectively was 5.0%, 8.5% and 3.3% (P=0.02 for difference HSA vs SA). Incidence of pouchitis was 20% (ulcerative colitis 23%, Crohn's disease 20%, indeterminate colitis 22%, familial adenomatous polyposis 9%). Incidence of anal stricture requiring intervention (11% overall) was significantly greater in HSAs than in SAs (16%vs 9%, P=0.02). Incidence of small bowel obstruction at any time postoperatively was 16%. Functional data were available for 234 patients. The median frequency of bowel actions during waking hours was significantly less in W pouches than in J pouches (four vs five, P=0.0005).

CONCLUSION

A national web-based database has been developed for access by all Australasian colorectal units. Initial Australasian data compare favourably with other international studies. Pouchitis continues to be a long-term problem. The leak rate and rate of late anal stricture requiring a procedure are higher if the anastomosis is handsewn rather than stapled. Functional results are better with the W pouch than with the J pouch.

Risk of dysplasia and adenocarcinoma following restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis

OBJECTIVE

Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) with or without mucosectomy is the treatment of choice for most patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) requiring surgery. The ileal mucosa in the reservoir and the anorectal columnar epithelium below the ileo-anal anastomosis are at risk of neoplastic transformation.

METHOD

The literature has been reviewed to identify patients developing this complication and an attempt has been made to develop a rational follow-up policy based on the data available.

RESULTS

Dysplasia in the ileal reservoir is rare. It is associated with histological type C changes, sclerosing cholangitis and unremitting pouchitis in the ileal mucosa and to the presence of sclerosing cholangitis. Nine patients who have developed adenocarcinoma in the residual anorectal mucosa and seven in the reservoir have been reported in the literature. A further hitherto unreported patient treated by the authors brings the total to 17 patients. Twelve of these had histopathological data on either dysplasia or carcinoma in the original operative specimen. The time intervals from the onset of UC and from the RPC to the development of cancer were 120-528 (median 246) and 16-216 (median 60) months respectively. Cancer appeared to be related to the duration of disease rather than to the interval from RPC. In all the reported patients the interval from the onset of UC was 10 years.

CONCLUSION

Based on these data a surveillance programme should begin at 10 years from the onset of disease. Patients with dysplasia or carcinoma in the original specimen, those with type C ileal mucosal changes and patients with sclerosing cholangitis should be selected for surveillance. This will involve multiple biopsies of the ileal reservoir and the anorectal mucosa below the ileo-anal anastomosis.

Restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis revisited

Since restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) with ileal-pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) removes the entire diseased mucosa, it has become firmly established as the standard operative procedure of choice for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Many technical controversies still persist, such as mesenteric lengthening techniques, close rectal wall proctectomy, endoanal mucosectomy vs. double stapled anastomosis, loop ileostomy omission and a laparoscopic approach. Despite the complexity of the operation, IPAA is safe (mortality: 0.5-1%), it carries an acceptable risk of non-life-threatening complications (10-25%), and it achieves good long-term functional outcome with excellent patient satisfaction (over 95%). In contrast to the high incidence in patients operated for ulcerative colitis (UC) (15-20%), the occurrence of pouchitis after IPAA seems to be rare in FAP patients (0-11%). Even after IPAA, FAP patients are still at risk of developing adenomas (and occasional adenocarcinomas), either in the anal canal (10-31%) or in the ileal pouch itself (8-62%), thus requiring lifelong endoscopic monitoring. IPAA operation does not jeopardise pregnancy and childbirth, but it does impair female fecundity and has a low risk of impairment of erection and ejaculation in young males. The latter can almost completely be avoided by a careful "close rectal wall" proctectomy technique. Some argue that low risk patients (e.g. <5 rectal polyps) can be identified where ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) might be reasonable. We feel that the risk of rectal cancer after IRA means that IPAA should be recommended for the vast majority of FAP patients. We accept that in some very selected cases, based on clinical and genetics data (and perhaps influenced by patient choice regarding female fecundity), a stepwise surgical strategy with a primary IPA followed at a later age by a secondary proctectomy with IPAA could be proposed.

Can a Meta-Analysis Answer the Question: Is Mucosectomy and Handsewn or Double-Stapled Anastomosis Better in Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis?

Although ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the procedure of choice for polyposis and ulcerative colitis with medically refractory disease or dysplasia, controversy exists concerning whether mucosal preservation with double-stapled (DS) IPAA is superior to mucosectomy and handsewn (HS) IPAA anastomosis for postoperative function. Prospective studies have shown no statistically significant differences. The use of meta-analysis can strengthen statistical power by combining the data from related studies. A meta-analysis was performed to determine whether there was a significant difference in functional and manometric outcome between HS-IPAA and DS-IPAA. Prospective, randomized studies were identified using a literature search. Functional outcome variables included number of normal continence, minor incontinence, nocturnal evacuation, the ability to discriminate flatus from stool, and antidiarrheal medication. Manometric outcomes included postoperative resting and squeeze anal pressures. Four prospective, randomized trials were identified. Of the 184 total patients, the HS-IPAA group included 86 patients (48 men and 38 women) and the DS-IPAA group included 98 patients (49 men and 49 women). There were no significant differences in functional outcome between HS-IPAA and DS-IPAA. In addition, there was no significant difference in sphincter resting and squeeze pressures between the two patient groups. This meta-analysis demonstrates that DS-IPAA offers no advantage in functional or manometric outcome when compared with HS-IPAA.

Revolution and evolution: 30 years of ileoanal pouch surgery

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the standard of care for the 25% of patients with ulcerative colitis who ultimately require colectomy. IPAA is favored by patients because it avoids the necessity for a long-term stoma. This review examines how 3 decades of experience with IPAA has molded current practice, highlighting 5- and 10-year follow-up of large series to determine durability and functional performance, in addition to causes of failure and the management of complications.

Three cases of adenocarcinoma following restorative proctocolectomy with hand-sewn anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: a review of reported cases in the literature

Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) has been accepted as optimal surgical therapy for most patients with ulcerative colitis. The occurrence of adenocarcinoma adjacent to the ileoanal anastomotic site for ulcerative colitis is a serious but rare outcome. There are 16 reported cases. We report three additional cases and review previous cases in the literature.

Stapled restorative proctocolectomy in children with refractory ulcerative colitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to review the results after stapled restorative proctocolectomy among children with refractory ulcerative colitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Clinical records of 16 consecutive children with refractory ulcerative pancolitis undergoing colectomy and stapled straight ileoanal anastomosis at a median age of 8.3 years (range, 3.1-14.9 years) were reviewed. Periodical clinical examinations and endoscopies with biopsies above (terminal ileum) and below (columnar cuff) the anastomosis were carried out during follow-up. Median follow-up after bowel restoration lasted 5.3 years (range, 1.2-9.6 years).

RESULTS

Two major complications occurred (12.5%), 1 episode of sepsis treated conservatively and 1 bowel perforation proximal to the anastomosis treated with a temporary diverting ileostomy. All the anastomoses were functional at the end of the study. The columnar cuff averaged 2.6 cm in length and presented signs of persistent inflammation (cuffitis) in 94% of children. Inflammation responded poorly to any medical treatment but was symptomatic in 1 case only. Ileal inflammation was detected endoscopically in 31% of patients and histologically in 62.5%. No case of dysplasia or cancer was recorded. At final follow-up, children had an average of 7.1 +/- 3.1 bowel movements per day; full daytime and nighttime continence were achieved in 87.5% and 62.5% of cases, respectively. A severe inflammation of the columnar cuff was associated with an increased risk of nighttime incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Stapled ileoanal anastomosis in children with pancolitis is associated with low morbidity. Refractory cuffitis persists in almost all patients but is mostly asymptomatic, although it could be associated with nighttime incontinence.

Ileostomy carcinomas a review: the latent risk after colectomy for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND

Ileostomy carcinoma after colectomy for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis is rare.

METHODS

Forty-three case reports from the literature and a case of ours are reviewed.

RESULTS

The risk of malignancy following ileostomy formation appears to be increased compared to the very low incidence of primary small bowel carcinoma. Chronic physical or chemical irritation of the stoma may predispose the ileal mucosa to colonic metaplasia with subsequent adenoma formation, dysplasia and invasive malignant change. This is particularly so where ileostomies are fashioned for familial adenomatous polyposis and ulcerative colitis.

CONCLUSION

Routine surveillance of patients who have had an ileostomy for 15 years or longer may lead to earlier detection of this complication.

Squamous-cell carcinoma developing after an ileoanal pouch procedure: report of a case

PURPOSE

This study was designed to report a new variant of a rare but serious complication of restorative proctocolectomy.

METHODS

We present a 47-year-old female who underwent restorative proctocolectomy after 16 years of disease. Twenty-five years after her pouch procedure, she underwent pouchoscopy for fever and poor pouch function. A suspicious mass was biopsied and pathology indicated squamous metaplasia. On referral, a mass could be palpated above the anorectal ring. Biopsy of the mass was read as invasive squamous carcinoma in the background of normal intestinal mucosa. This represents the twelfth reported case of carcinoma arising in a pouch, but the first report of a squamous carcinoma, as all previous reports had been of adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

The patient has undergone chemoradiation. Response to therapy, functional status, and biopsy after treatment will determine whether the patient will be able to salvage the pouch.

CONCLUSIONS

Diligence and vigilance with regard to active follow-up, and a high index of suspicion, are required to prevent this from becoming a more frequently seen problem.

The risk of dysplasia and cancer in the ileal pouch mucosa after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative proctocolitis is low: a long-term term follow-up study

AIM

Some of the rare complications reported in patients with an ileopouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) after coloectomy for chronic ulcerative colitis are dysplasia and carcinoma. The supposed pathway is for the ileal pouch mucosa to go through adaptational changes then is to progress through the phases of chronic pouchitis, dysplasia and subsequently to adenocarcinoma. In many of these studies however, the dysplasia-cancer sequence is inconclusive since the carcinoma might have developed from the ileal mucosa itself or from residual viable rectal mucosa left behind. The purpose of this study was therefore to study the long-term ileal mucosal adaptation patterns and the incidence and grading of dysplasia in the ileal pouch mucosa in patients previously operated on for ulcerative proctocolitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-five patients who had been operated on with an IPAA (25 males/20 females), with a median age of 54 years (range 34-76), were invited for clinical examination and pouch endoscopy including mucosal biopsies. The duration of their colitis until surgery was median 6 years (range 1-28) and the time median interval from start of disease until time of follow up 24.8 years (range 17-46). Three independent pathologists from two different centres reviewed sequential mucosal biopsies taken from separate sites of the pouch for dysplasia and mucosal adaptation patterns.

RESULTS

The type C pattern with a severe inflammation in lamina propria together with severe atrophy of villi, sometimes with ulceration and granulation tissue, was observed by the two pathologists from one centre in 15 of 45 (33.3%) patients and in 11 (24.4%) of 45 by the third pathologist, respectively. As regards dysplasia one pathologist group evaluated 2/45 (4.4%) cases as low-grade dysplasia while the third pathologist considered one of these cases as indefinite for dysplasia and one as reactive. There was in this respect full agreement between the two centres in 43 (95.6%) of 45 cases. Neither high-grade dysplasia nor invasive carcinoma was diagnosed.

CONCLUSION

Dysplastic transformation within the ileal pouch mucosa in patients operated for ulcerative proctocolitis is rare even after a long follow-up. These results are reassuring for both patients and surgeons. There seem to be no solid grounds to support routine surveillance for dysplasia in the ileal pouch mucosa in these patients. The surveillance for neoplastic changes in the remaining muscular/epithelial cuff is a separate issue however.

Treatment of rectal cuff inflammation (cuffitis) in patients with ulcerative colitis following restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the treatment of choice in the majority of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who require surgery. To ease the construction of the IPAA and improve functional outcome by minimizing sphincter related stretch injury, a stapling technique is being commonly used in the pouch-anal anastomosis. Despite its advantages, the procedure normally leaves a 1-2 cm of anal transitional zone or rectal cuff, which is susceptible to recurrence of residual UC or cuffitis. Cuffitis can cause symptoms mimicking pouchitis.

AIM

To conduct an open-labeled trial of topical mesalamine in patients with cuffitis.

METHODS

We treated 14 consecutive patients with cuffitis by giving mesalamine suppositories 500 mg b.i.d. (mean 3.2 months, range 1-9 months). The Cuffitis Activity Index (adapted from the Pouchitis Disease Activity Index) scores and improvement in symptoms of bloody bowel movements and arthralgias were measured as primary and secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

All patients had surgery for medically refractory UC. There were significant reductions in the total Cuffitis Activity Index scores after the therapy (11.93 +/- 3.17 vs 6.21 +/- 3.19, p < 0.001). Symptom (3.24 +/- 1.28 vs 1.79 +/- 1.31), endoscopy (3.14 +/- 1.29 vs 1.00 +/- 1.52), and histology (4.93 +/- 1.77 vs 3.57 +/- 1.39) scores each were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Ninety-two percent of patients with bloody bowel movements and 70% of patients with arthralgias improved after the therapy. No systemic or topical adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSION

Topical mesalamine appears well tolerated and effective in treating patients with cuffitis, with improvement in symptom as well as endoscopic and histologic inflammation.

Surgery for ulcerative colitis in pediatric patients: functional results of 10-year follow-up with straight endorectal pull-through

Children and adolescents affected by ulcerative colitis (UC) frequently require colectomy because of refractory or chronic symptoms. The aim of this paper is to present our experience and 10-year follow-up results of 28 patients who underwent endorectal pull-through (ERPT) as surgical treatment for UC, with special regard to surgical complications, stooling patterns (frequency of defecation, stool consistency, urgency period), fecal incontinence, and quality of life. A retrospective chart review of these patients was performed to evaluate age at colectomy, indication for surgical treatment, operative procedures, technical details, and early or late complications. Frequency of defecation was less than twice per day in two patients, between three and five times per day in nine patients, and more than six times per day in 10 patients. Stool consistency was normal in 14 patients, loose in five, and liquid in only two cases. Urgency period was normal (minutes) in 14 patients, short (seconds) in four, and absent in three. Ten patients (47%) have perfect or good fecal continence, whereas 11 (52%) patients present moderate to total incontinence. The self-reported emotional health was good in most of the patients. A large number are progressing well at school and are coping with their operations. Studies of quality of life in UC patients who underwent surgical treatment in childhood or adolescence, comparing as well the results according to the surgical technique adopted, must be encouraged.

Current concepts and controversies in surgery for IBD

Surgery improves the quality of life in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and cures patients with chronic ulcerative colitis (CUC). There are several surgical controversies primarily involving techniques and long-term outcomes. Some debates are long standing; whether to perform a double-stapled ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) or a mucosectomy and hand-sewn anastomosis, and whether to divert or not to divert in patients with CUC undergoing an IPAA. Other issues are more recent, such as the effects of age, pregnancy, pouch salvage, and laparoscopic IPAA. In patients with Crohn's disease the anastomosis technique, the management of perianal disease, and the role of laparoscopic surgery are topics of debate. This review shows the current concepts and controversies in the surgical management of patients with CUC or CD.

Colorectal cancer in inflammatory bowel disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease, either Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis, are at an increased risk for developing colorectal carcinoma.

RECENT FINDINGS

Surveillance colonoscopy, although never formally evaluated in a prospective controlled trial, is performed in an effort to reduce this risk. Novel methods of detecting dysplasia are constantly being evaluated, including chromoendoscopy and biomarkers of carcinoma, in an attempt to stratify patients who are at a higher risk of developing high-grade dysplasia or carcinoma.

SUMMARY

Because of the potential impact on quality of life and life expectancy, an optimal strategy for reducing the risk of developing colorectal cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease needs to be defined.

Malignancies in inflammatory bowel disease

The risk of luminal gastrointestinal tract, hepatobiliary tract, and non-gastrointestinal tract cancers in inflammatory bowel disease remains of great interest. The purpose of this review is to report on studies published in 2002 that have addressed several important questions related to the biology, natural history, and risk factors for colonic and extracolonic cancers. Two studies reported conflicting results on the natural history of low-grade dysplasia in patients with ulcerative colitis. Other investigators focused on the safety of medications used to treat inflammatory bowel disease, one noting no increased risk of cancer with azathioprine, another suggesting that anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy may increase the risk of lymphoma. Studies of patients after total proctocolectomy and ileoanal pouch anastomosis suggest that these patients continue to have a small risk of bowel cancer. A novel observation from studies focusing on the subgroup of patients with inflammatory bowel disease and primary sclerosing cholangitis was the identification of an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Finally, many investigators continue to pursue potential biomarkers of malignancy for use in inflammatory bowel disease cancer surveillance programs. These studies have added to our knowledge of the risk of malignancy in inflammatory bowel disease and have set the stage for future long-term studies to better delineate the risk of lymphoma with the use of anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy and the fate of low-grade dysplasia in flat mucosa. Clinical application of potential biomarkers of malignancy in inflammatory bowel disease cancer surveillance is anticipated in the near future.