Usefulness of the C-Reactive Protein (CRP)-Albumin-Lymphocyte (CALLY) Index as a Prognostic Indicator for Patients With Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

The C-reactive protein (CRP)-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index is a novel immune nutrition scoring system associated with cancer prognosis. This study investigated the association between the CALLY index and the long-term outcomes of patients with gastric cancer.

METHODS

We included 175 patients with gastric cancer who underwent curative gastrectomies at the Department of Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital between January 2011 and October 2019. The CALLY index was calculated based on the levels of serum albumin, serum CRP, and peripheral lymphocyte count. Utilizing both univariate and multivariate analyses, the prognostic value of the CALLY index was investigated.

RESULTS

In the multivariate analyses, disease stage (hazard ratio [HR], 7.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.31-18.6; P < .01), microvascular invasion (HR, 2.88; 95% CI, 1.30-6.36; P < .01), and low CALLY index (HR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.00-4.76; P = .05) were independent and significant predictors of disease-free survival. Low body mass index (HR, 4.15; 95% CI, 1.63-10.6; P < .01), advanced disease stage (HR, 8.22; 95% CI, 3.47-19.5; P < .01), and low CALLY index (HR, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.3-6.93; P = .01) were independent and significant predictors of overall survival. The low CALLY index group had a lower body mass index (P < .01), advanced disease stage (P < .01), and a higher Glasgow prognostic score (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The CALLY index may be associated with a poor prognosis for gastric cancer, highlighting the utility of a comprehensive assessment using inflammatory, nutritional, and immunological statuses.

Primary small-cell carcinoma in the lung was found after the cold snare polypectomy of the small metastatic lesion in the cecum: A case report

Metastasis from small-cell lung cancer to the colon is very rare. A 74-year-old man without respiratory or abdominal symptoms underwent a follow-up lower gastrointestinal endoscopy after a polypectomy. He was diagnosed with a 5 mm IIa non-hyperplastic polyp in the cecum and underwent a cold snare polypectomy. The histopathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of small cell carcinoma. The tumor was positive in the deep margins of the submucosal layer. Subsequent systemic examination revealed a mass in the lower lobe of the left lung. Thus, the tumor in the cecum was determined to be a colorectal metastasis from primary small-cell carcinoma of the lung. Metastasis to the colon was diagnosed as small-cell lung cancer based on local positivity for thyroid transcription factor-1 and morphologic and immunochemical features. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of colon metastasis from small cell carcinoma identified by endoscopic treatment.

Interaction of Vitamin D Supplements and Marine n-3 Fatty Acids on Digestive Tract Cancer Prognosis

A meta-analysis suggested that marine n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), e.g., eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), might reduce cancer mortality. However, a randomized clinical trial of marine n-3 PUFA and vitamin D supplementation failed to verify this benefit. This study aimed to investigate the potential interaction between vitamin D supplementation and serum EPA and DHA levels. This post hoc analysis of the AMATERASU trial (UMIN000001977), a randomized controlled trial (RCT), included 302 patients with digestive tract cancers divided into two subgroups stratified by median serum levels of EPA + DHA into higher and lower halves. The 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS) rate was significantly higher in the higher half (80.9%) than the lower half (67.8%; hazard ratio (HR), 2.15; 95% CI, 1.29-3.59). In the patients in the lower EPA + DHA group, the 5-year RFS was significantly higher in the vitamin D (74.9%) than the placebo group (49.9%; HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.24-0.78). Conversely, vitamin D had no effect in the higher half, suggesting that vitamin D supplementation only had a significant interactive effect on RFS in the lower half (p for interaction = 0.03). These results suggest that vitamin D supplementation may reduce the risk of relapse or death by interacting with marine n-3 PUFAs.

Novel tumor marker index using carcinoembryonic antigen and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 is a significant prognostic factor for resectable colorectal cancer

We evaluated the usefulness of a newly devised tumor marker index (TMI), namely, the geometric mean of normalized carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), in determining colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis. This retrospective cohort study included 306 patients with stages I-III CRC who underwent elective laparoscopic resection between April 2010 and March 2020. Survival rates and risk factors of relapse-free survival (RFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards model. High-TMI group (122 patients) had significantly lower rates (95% confidence interval [95% CI]) for 5-year RFS (89.7%, 83.9-93.5 vs. 65.8%, 56.3-73.8, p < 0.001) and CSS (94.9%, 89.4-97.6 vs. 77.3%, 67.7-84.4, p < 0.001) than low-TMI group. Multivariate analysis (hazard ratio [95% CI]) indicated ≥ T3 disease (RFS: 2.69, 1.12-6.45, p = 0.026; CSS: 7.64, 1.02-57.3, p = 0.048), stage III CRC (RFS: 3.30, 1.74-6.28, p < 0.001; CSS: 6.23, 2.04-19.0, p = 0.001), and high TMI (RFS: 2.50, 1.43-4.38, p = 0.001; CSS: 3.80, 1.63-8.87, p = 0.002) as significant RFS and CSS predictors. Area under the curve (AUC) of 5-year cancer deaths (0.739, p < 0.001) was significantly higher for TMI than for CEA or CA19-9 alone. Preoperative TMI is a useful prognostic indicator for patients with resectable CRC.

Effect of low visceral fat area on long-term survival of stage I-III colorectal cancer

OBJECTIVE

The prognostic significance of a low visceral fat area (VFA) in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic effects of a low VFA on the long-term outcomes of patients with CRC after laparoscopic surgery.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 306 patients with stages I-III CRC who underwent R0 resection. VFA was preoperatively measured via computed tomography using image processing software. Relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

Low VFA was identified in 153 patients. The low VFA group had significantly lower RFS and OS rates than did the high VFA group (5-y RFS rates: 72 versus 89%, P = 0.0002; 5-y OS rates: 72 versus 92%, P = 0.0001). The independent significant predictors of RFS were T3 or T4 disease (hazard ratio [HR], 2.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-6.76; P = 0.027), stage III CRC (HR, 3.49; 95% CI, 1.82-6.69; P < 0.001), low psoas muscle index (PMI; HR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.19-3.79; P = 0.011), and low VFA (HR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.16-3.86; P = 0.014). The independent significant predictors of OS were age ≥65 y (HR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.13-5.92, P = 0.024), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels ≥37 ng/mL (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.18-4.58; P = 0.015), stage III CRC (HR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.37-5.17; P = 0.004), low PMI (HR, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.06-3.77; P = 0.031), and low VFA (HR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.24-4.70; P = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

A low preoperative VFA was significantly associated with worse RFS and OS rates in patients who underwent CRC resection.

Indocyanine Green Fluorescent Lymphography During Open Inguinal Hernia Repair: Relationship Between Lymphatic Vessel Injury and Postoperative Hydrocele

BACKGROUND

This prospective case series analyzed patients who underwent indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent lymphography during open inguinal hernia repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between ICG leakage and postoperative hydroceles in patients who underwent inguinal hernia repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were analyzed from 40 patients who underwent primary open hernia repair between October 2020 and June 2021 (44 cases in total). Hydroceles were categorized into two types: symptomatic and "ultrasonic" (detected only by ultrasound imaging).

RESULTS

In the univariate analysis, hernia type (p = 0.044) and ICG leakage (p = 0.007) were independent risk factors for postoperative ultrasonic hydroceles. Additionally, mesh type (p = 0.043) and ICG leakage (p = 0.025) were independent risk factors for postoperative symptomatic hydroceles. In the multivariate analysis, ICG leakage (p = 0.034) was an independent risk factor for postoperative ultrasonic hydroceles.

CONCLUSIONS

ICG leakage after inguinal hernia repair was independently associated with postoperative ultrasonic and symptomatic hydroceles. These findings suggest a relationship between lymphatic vessel injury and the incidence of postoperative hydroceles.

Utility of Novel Clavicle-lifting Technique in Mediastinal Thyroid Surgery: A Case Series Study

BACKGROUND/AIM

Symptomatic mediastinal goitre requires surgery and is usually resectable using the cervical approach alone; however, sternotomy is occasionally required. Sternotomy is a highly invasive procedure, and its complications, including mediastinitis and osteomyelitis, can be critical. To date, there have been no reports of non-invasive techniques to avoid sternotomy for mediastinal thyroid tumours. We investigated the safety and efficacy of thyroidectomy using the clavicle lifting technique with a paediatric Kent hook.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 8 patients who underwent thyroidectomy with a clavicle lifting technique between November 2014 and July 2021 at the Department of Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital. The primary endpoint was sternotomy avoidance rate and R0 resection rate. An extension retractor used in paediatric surgery was used for the clavicle lifting technique.

RESULTS

Sternotomy avoidance rate and R0 resection rate were 100%. The mean operative time was 161±53.5 min, and the mean blood loss was 125.6±125.8 ml. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications related to the clavicle lifting technique.

CONCLUSION

Thyroidectomy with a clavicle lifting technique for mediastinal goitre and thyroid cancer is safe and useful because it avoids sternotomy without causing massive intraoperative bleeding or damage to other organs.

Reduced Relapse-Free Survival in Colorectal Cancer Patients with Elevated Soluble CD40 Ligand Levels Improved by Vitamin D Supplementation

Although elevated serum levels of soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) were reported in patients with cancer, the importance of high sCD40L levels in clinical oncology remains unknown. We conducted a post hoc analysis of the AMATERASU randomized clinical trial of vitamin D3 supplementation (2000 IU/day) in patients with digestive tract cancer to assess its significance. Serum sCD40L levels were measured by ELISA in 294 residual samples, and were divided into tertiles. In patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS) rates in the middle and highest tertiles were 61.6% and 61.2%, respectively, which was significantly lower than 83.8% in the lowest tertile. A Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that the lowest tertile had a significantly lower risk of relapse or death than the highest tertile even with multivariate adjustment (hazard ratio (HR), 0.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.11-0.80; p = 0.016). In the subgroup of CRC patients with the highest tertile of sCD40L, the 5-year RFS rate in the vitamin D group was 77.9%, which was significantly higher than 33.2% in the placebo group (HR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.11-0.81; p = 0.018 [Pinteraction = 0.04]). In conclusion, elevated sCD40L might be a biomarker of poor prognosis in patients with CRC, but vitamin D supplementation might improve RFS in patients with high sCD40L.

Colonoscopy-assisted percutaneous sigmoidopexy (CAPS) for complete rectal prolapse treatment: Case series

Background and study aims We have previously reported on the effectiveness of colonoscopy-assisted percutaneous sigmoidopexy (CAPS) for sigmoid volvulus treatment. This study describes the CAPS application to treat complete rectal prolapse by straightening and fixing the rectum. Complete rectal prolapse is common in older women. Due to their comorbidities, management must comprise a simple, safe, and reliable surgical method not involving general anesthesia or colon resection. Patients and methods We enrolled 13 patients in our outpatient department diagnosed with complete rectal prolapse between June 2016 and 2021. The endoscope was advanced into the anterior proximal rectal wall, straightening the intussuscepted sigmoid colon and rectum to approximate the puncture site. The fixation sites were anesthetized with 1% xylocaine, and a 2-mm skin incision was made using a scalpel. A two-shot anchor was used to fix the sigmoid colon to the abdominal wall (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan). Results The median patient age was 88 years (range: 50-94). The median CAPS procedure time was 30 minutes (range: 20-60). In one patient, the transverse colon was accidentally punctured and interposed between the abdominal wall and sigmoid colon, requiring a laparotomy to remove the causative fixation thread and provide re-fixation. Fecal incontinence was resolved in 10 of 13 cases. Conclusions CAPS is a quick and simple procedure. In addition, it is a treatment option for complete rectal prolapse that can be performed under local anesthesia.

Efficacy and Safety of Gastrointestinal Tumour Site Marking with da Vinci-Compatible Near-Infrared Fluorescent Clips: A Case Series

BACKGROUND

The conventional near-infrared fluorescent clip (NIRFC) ZEOCLIP FS® has been used successfully in marking tumour sites during laparoscopic surgeries. However, this clip is difficult to observe with the Firefly imaging system equipped with the da Vinci® surgical system. We have been involved in the modification of ZEOCLIP FS® and development of da Vinci-compatible NIRFC. This is the first prospective single-centre case series study verifying the usefulness and safety of the da Vinci-compatible NIRFC.

METHODS

Twenty-eight consecutive patients undergoing da Vinci®-assisted surgery for gastrointestinal cancer (16 gastric, 4 oesophageal, and 8 rectal cases) between May 2021 and May 2022 were enrolled.

RESULTS

Tumour location was identified by the da Vinci-compatible NIRFCs in 21 of 28 (75%) patients, which involved 12 gastric (75%), 4 oesophageal (100%), and 5 rectal (62%) cancer cases. No adverse events were observed.

CONCLUSION

Tumour site marking with da Vinci-compatible NIRFC was feasible in 28 patients enrolled in this study. Further studies are warranted to substantiate the safety and improve the recognition rate.

Prognostic significance of the cachexia index in patients with stage I-III colorectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic surgery

PURPOSE

The prognostic significance of the cachexia index, a novel biomarker of cancer cachexia, remains unclear in colorectal cancer; we, therefore, evaluated this relationship.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 306 patients with stage I-III colorectal cancer who underwent R0 resection between April 2010 and March 2020. The cachexia index was calculated as (skeletal muscle index [cm2/m2] × serum albumin level [g/dL])/neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. The overall and disease-free survival rates were analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

A low cachexia index was found in 94 patients. This group had significantly lower disease-free survival and overall survival than the high-cachexia index group (5-year survival, 86.3% vs. 63.1%, p < 0.01; 87.9% vs. 67.2%, p < 0.01). Multivariate analyses showed that T3 or T4 (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.56; 95% confidence interval CI 1.04-6.25, p = 0.039), stage III (HR: 3.77; 95% CI 1.79-7.93, p < 0.01), and a low cachexia index (HR: 2.27; 95% CI 1.31-3.90, p = 0.003) were significant independent predictors of the disease-free survival. CA19-9 ≥ 37.0 ng/mL (HR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.37-5.24, p = 0.004), stage III (HR: 2.57; 95% CI 1.34-4.92, p = 0.004), and a low cachexia index (HR: 2.35; 95% CI 1.31-4.21, p = 0.004) were significant independent predictors of the overall survival.

CONCLUSION

A low cachexia index might be a long-term prognostic factor of colorectal cancer.

Usefulness of the cachexia index as a prognostic indicator for patients with gastric cancer

Aim

Cachexia is associated with the morbidity and mortality of cancer patients. The cachexia index (CXI) is a novel biomarker of cachexia associated with the prognosis for certain cancers. This study analyzed the relationship between CXI with long-term outcomes of gastric cancer patients.

Methods

We included 175 gastric cancer patients who underwent curative gastrectomy at our hospital between January 2011 and October 2019. The CXI was calculated using skeletal muscle index, serum albumin level, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. The prognostic value of CXI was investigated by univariate and multivariate Cox hazard regression models adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

In the multivariate analyses, tumor location (hazard ratio [HR], 0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.11-0.49; p < 0.01), disease stage (HR, 15.4; 95% CI, 4.18-56.1; p < 0.01), and low CXI (HR, 2.97; 95% CI, 1.01-8.15; p = 0.03) were independent and significant predictors of disease-free survival. Disease stage (HR, 9.88; 95% CI, 3.53-29.1; p < 0.01) and low CXI (HR, 4.07; 95% CI, 1.35-12.3; p < 0.01) were independent and significant predictors of overall survival. The low CXI group had a lower body mass index (p = 0.02), advanced disease stage (p = 0.034), and a lower prognostic nutritional index (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Cachexia index is associated with a poor prognosis for gastric cancer, suggesting the utility of comprehensive assessment using nutritional, physical, and inflammatory status.

Effect of Vitamin D Supplements on Relapse or Death in a p53-Immunoreactive Subgroup With Digestive Tract Cancer: Post Hoc Analysis of the AMATERASU Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Recent meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials found that daily vitamin D3 supplementation had beneficial effects on cancer mortality, although the results are still controversial.

Objective

To examine whether vitamin D supplementation reduces the risk of relapse or death in a supgroup of patients with digestive tract cancer who were p53 immunoreactive.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a post hoc subgroup analysis of the AMATERASU randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. This trial included patients at a single university hospital in Japan with digestive tract cancers between January 2010 and February 2018 followed up for a median (IQR) of 3.5 (2.5-5.3) years to compare the effects of vitamin D supplementation with placebo and was reported in 2019. Patients from among 417 participants in the AMATERASU trial whose residual serum samples were available were included. Data were analyzed from October 20 to November 24, 2022.

Interventions

Vitamin D3 (2000 IU/d) supplementation or placebo.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was 5-year relapse or death. The subgroup of patients who were p53 immunoreactive was defined by positivity for anti-p53 antibodies in serum and nuclear accumulation of p53 oncosuppressor protein in more than 99% of cancer cells, which is considered a biomarker for p53 missense mutations. Anti-p53 antibody levels were measured using chemiluminescent enzyme immune assay. Immunohistochemical staining data of p53 protein in cancer tissue in pathologic specimens were obtained from a previous study and divided into 4 grades.

Results

Among 392 patients with digestive tract cancer (mean [SD] age, 66 [10.7] years; 260 males [66.3%]), there were 37 patients with esophageal cancer (9.4%), 170 patients with gastric cancer (43.4%), 2 patients with small bowel cancer (0.5%), and 183 patients with colorectal cancer (46.7%). Serum anti-p53 antibody was detectable in 142 patients (36.2%), and p53-immunohistochemistry grade showed a positive association with serum anti-p53 antibody levels (coefficient = 0.19; P < .001). In the p53-immunoreactive subgroup (80 patients), relapse or death occurred in 9 of 54 patients (16.7%) in the vitamin D group and 14 of 26 patients (53.8%) in the placebo group; 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS) was significantly higher in the vitamin D group (13 patients [80.9%]) than the placebo group (1 patient [30.6%]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.27; 95% CI, 0.11-0.61; P = .002). This was significantly different from 272 patients in the non-p53 immunoreactive subgroup, in which vitamin D had no effect on 5-year RFS (vitamin D: 35 of 158 patients [22.2%] vs placebo: 24 of 114 patients [21.1%]; HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.65-1.84) (P for interaction = .005).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of relapse or death in the subgroup of patients with digestive tract cancer who were p53 immunoreactive.

Trial Registration

Identifier: UMIN000001977.

Anti-acid treatment for ulcerated early gastric cancer may be a treatment option avoiding unnecessary gastrectomy: a cohort study

Diagnosing the invasion depth of ulcerated early gastric cancer is usually inaccurate, especially for endoscopists in primary care clinics who are often not experts in this area. In reality, many patients with open ulcers who can be treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) are referred for surgery.

Materials and methods

Twelve patients with ulcerated early gastric cancer who were treated with proton pump inhibitors, including vonoprazan, and underwent ESD were included in the study. Conventional endoscopic and narrow-band images were evaluated by five board-certified endoscopists (two physicians: A, B, and three gastrointestinal surgeons: C, D, and E). They assessed the invasion depth, and the results were compared with the pathologic diagnosis.

Results

The accuracy of the invasion depth diagnosis was 38.3%. According to the pretreatment diagnosis of invasion depth, gastrectomy was recommended for 41.7% (5/12) of the cases. However, histological examination revealed that additional gastrectomy was required in only one case (8.3%). Thus, in four out of five patients unnecessary gastrectomy could be avoided. Post-ESD mild melena occurred in only one case, and there was no case of perforation.

Conclusion

Antiacid treatment contributed to avoid unnecessary gastrectomy in four out of five patients for whom gastrectomy was indicated based on an inaccurate pretreatment diagnosis of the invasion depth.

A technique for esophagojejunostomy following robot-assisted gastrectomy: a liner stapler and barbed suture device-based technique: a case series

Intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy after total or proximal robot-assisted gastrectomy is technically more demanding than gastroduodenostomy and gastrojejunostomy for distal gastrectomy, as well as laparoscopic surgery. We have established a safe and simple esophagojejunostomy procedure using a liner stapler attached to the Da Vinci Surgical System and a barbed suture device.

Patients and methods

For esophagojejunostomy after total gastrectomy or proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction, we choose the "overlap method," in which entry holes were made at the left of the esophageal stump and at 5 cm of the anal side in antimesentric area of the jejunum, followed by anastomosis on the left of the esophagus using SureForm (blue 45 mm) and hand-sewing closure of the common entry hole with V-Loc. We analyzed the short-term surgical outcomes of all patients.

Results

23 patients underwent this reconstruction technique. None of the patients required any further open surgeries. The mean time to perform anastomosis was 24.7±2.8 min. The postoperative course was uneventful in 22 patients; a single patient developed minor anastomotic leakage (Clavien-Dindo grade 3), which was treated with conservative therapy employing a drainage tube.

Conclusion

Our esophagojejunostomy method following robot-assisted gastrectomy is simple and feasible, with acceptable short-term outcomes, and could represent the procedure of choice for esophagojejunostomy.

Testicular hydrocele postoperative laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair may be caused lymphatic leakage proved by indocyanine fluorescent dye: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent lymphography is reportedly a safe and effective method to diagnosis of lymphatic leakage. We report a case of a patient who underwent ICG fluorescent lymphography during laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 59-year-old man was referred to our department for the treatment of both inguinal hernias, during which laparoscopic ICG lymphography was performed. The patient had a history of open left inguinal indirect hernia repair at the age of 3 years. Following the induction of general anesthesia, 0.25 mg ICG was injected into both testicles, and the scrotum was gently massaged, after which laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair was performed. During the operation, ICG fluorescence was observed in two lymphatic vessels in the spermatic cord. The ICG fluorescent vessels were injured only on the left side due to strong adhesion between lymphatic vessels and the hernia sac, possibly due to a previous operation. ICG leakage was observed on the gauze. Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (transabdominal preperitoneal approach [TAPP]) was performed. The patient was discharged 1 day postoperatively. He had a slight postoperative ultrasonic hydrocele only in the left groin that was detected at the follow-up clinic 9 days postoperatively during ultrasonic examination (ultrasonic hydrocele).

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

We report the use of ICG fluorescent lymphography during laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in a patient who developed a postoperative ultrasonic hydrocele.

CONCLUSION

This case may indicate a relationship between lymphatic vessel injury and hydroceles.

Traditional Serrated Adenoma of the Ileum with Intussusception Successfully Treated with Laparoscopic Bowel Resection

The most common site of traditional serrated adenomas (TSA) is the area from the left colon to the rectum; however, there are few reports on TSA in the small intestine. Herein, we report a case of TSA of the ileum with intussusception that was diagnosed and successfully treated with laparoscopic bowel resection. The patient was a 29-year-old female with the chief complaint of recurrent abdominal pain and vomiting. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a mass in the ileum and intussusception with the mass as the lead point. The patient was diagnosed with intussusception secondary to a small intestinal tumor. Due to the difficulty in endoscopic treatment resulting from the localization of the lesion, elective laparoscopic surgery was planned. Intra-abdominal examination revealed intussusception of the small intestine in the pelvic ileum, and an elastic soft mass 400 cm from the ligament of Treitz was identified at the lead point of intussusception. Partial laparoscopic resection of the small intestine was performed, with an operation time of 81 min, and a small amount of bleeding. The pathological diagnosis was TSA of the ileum, and the patient's postoperative course was good, with no complications. Seven months after the surgery, no recurrence of symptoms was observed. Therefore, from our case of TSA of the ileum with intussusception that was successfully treated with laparoscopic bowel resection, we conclude that when intussusception of the small intestine occurs, TSA of the ileum with malignant potential is possible, and early diagnosis by resection should be considered.

Real-time vessel navigation using indocyanine green fluorescence during robotic-assisted gastrectomy for gastric cancer after coronary artery bypass grafting using the right gastroepiploic artery

Injury to the right gastroepiploic artery (RGEA) graft during gastrectomy after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) can cause critical coronary failure. A man in his 60s with advanced gastric cancer and a history of CABG was admitted to our hospital. His cardiac blood flow was dependent on RGEA, and a gastrectomy with RGEA preservation was necessary. Robot-assisted distal gastrectomy with real-time vessel navigation using indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging and Da Vinci Firefly technology was planned. Intraperitoneal observation revealed severe adhesions around the graft. Two milliliters ICG (2.5 mg/mL) was injected intravenously, and RGEA was visualized. An RGEA-preserving robot-assisted distal gastrectomy was successfully performed. The operation time was 279 minutes, and the blood loss was 5 mL. The postoperative course was good and there were no complications.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome due to sepsis caused by Bacteroides ovatus after acute appendicectomy

Background

Appendicectomy is generally a minimally invasive surgery, after which postoperative complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are rare. We describe a case of ARDS due to sepsis caused by Bacteroides ovatus after appendicectomy.

Case presentation

A man in his 60 s presented to our hospital with a chief complaint of right lower quadrant abdominal pain. He was diagnosed with acute appendicitis and underwent emergency laparoscopic appendicectomy. Cefmetazole was administered as a perioperative antibacterial drug. Postoperatively, the abdominal findings improved. However, on postoperative day three, bloody sputum and respiratory distress were observed. We performed thoracoabdominal computed tomography (CT) and observed bilateral pleural effusion and mottled frosted glass shadows extending to both lung fields. ARDS was diagnosed. We treated the patient with steroids and sivelestat sodium and switched the antibacterial drug to meropenem. The patient’s general condition improved. After the patient was treated, Bacteroides ovatus was isolated from preoperative blood culture, which was resistant to cefmetazole.

Conclusions

We encountered a case in which ARDS due to sepsis was caused by Bacteroides ovatus after acute appendicectomy. Blood culture to isolate the causative organism and determine its antimicrobial sensitivity after commencement of empiric antibiotics is important even in common diseases, such as acute appendicitis.

Colonoscopy-assisted percutaneous sigmoidopexy for a complete rectal prolapse: A case report

Colonoscopy‐assisted percutaneous sigmoidopexy is a simple and swift procedure that does not require general anesthesia. While we first developed this procedure for treating sigmoid volvulus, we herein present the first case in which we used it to correct a complete rectal prolapse in an older patient. Existing treatment modalities for rectal prolapses are limited by high recurrence rates, greater invasiveness, and greater complications; thus, there is a need for minimally invasive techniques that are associated with lower recurrence rates and fewer complications. In this case, a woman in her 90s complained of persistent fecal incontinence, dysuria, anal pain, and difficulty in walking. She was diagnosed with a complete rectal prolapse of 15 cm and was treated with colonoscopy‐assisted percutaneous sigmoidopexy. The sigmoid colon was tractioned colonoscopically and fixed to the abdominal wall to immobilize the prolapsed rectum. The patient developed no complications intraoperatively and postoperatively and experienced no recurrence during a 5‐year postoperative period. This report documents the first case wherein colonoscopy‐assisted percutaneous sigmoidopexy was used successfully to correct a complete rectal prolapse.

A novel method for treating complete rectal prolapse with laparoscopic sigmoidopexy to the abdominal wall: A case report

Introduction

Presentation of case

Discussion

Conclusion

•

This is the first reported case of abdominal wall fixation for rectal prolapse.

•

Laparoscopic fixation of the abdominal wall with minimal dissection was performed.

•

Repair is possible without the use of artificial material.

•

The procedure requires only five sutures to fix.

•

This method may be a useful option for patients who can undergo general anaesthesia.

Association between masseter muscle sarcopenia and postoperative pneumonia in patients with esophageal cancer

Sarcopenia affects the swallowing and chewing muscles, such as the masseter muscle. However, the significance of masseter muscle loss in pneumonia remains unclear. We investigated the effects of masseter muscle sarcopenia (MMS) on postoperative pneumonia in patients with esophageal cancer. In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed the data of 86 patients who underwent esophagectomy for stage I-III esophageal cancer at our hospital between March 2013 and October 2021. The primary endpoint was postoperative pneumonia within 3 months of surgery. MMS was defined as a (1) masseter muscle index (MMI) that was less than the sex-specific MMI cutoff values, and (2) sarcopenia diagnosed using the L3-psoas muscle index (L3-PMI). Postoperative pneumonia was noted in 27 (31.3%) patients. In multivariate analysis, FEV_1.0 < 1.5 L (odds ratio, OR: 10.3; 95% confidence interval, CI 1.56-67.4; p = 0.015), RLNP (OR: 5.14; 95%CI 1.47-17.9; p = 0.010), and MMS (OR: 4.83; 95%CI 1.48-15.8; p = 0.009) were independent risk factors for postoperative pneumonia. The overall survival was significantly worse in patients with pneumonia (log-rank: p = 0.01) than in those without pneumonia. Preoperative MMS may serve as a predictor of postoperative pneumonia in patients with esophageal cancer.

Usefulness of percutaneous transesophageal gastrotubing for gastric outlet obstruction secondary to duodenal ulcer, a case report

Severe duodenal ulcer stenosis requires continuous decompression, which makes oral ingestion difficult, yet poor nutritional status before surgery increases the risk postoperative complications. Double percutaneous transesophageal gastrotubing (dPTEG) is a new treatment that provides both decompression and enteral nutrition. We report a case of duodenal ulcer scar stenosis in which dPTEG was used for preoperative management. A man in his 40s visited our hospital with vomiting as a chief complaint. CT scan showed duodenal ulcer stenosis. As the existence of malignant disease could not be ruled out, surgery was planned. Before surgery, dPTEG was inserted to achieve decompression and nutritional management. The patient's gastric distension and nutritional status improved significantly, and laparoscopic distal gastrectomy was performed 22 days after the insertion. dPTEG may be an effective management method for patients with pyloric stenosis due to duodenal ulcer.

Near-infrared fluorescence clip guided robot-assisted wedge resection of a gastric submucosal tumour: A case report

Background

The conventional near-infrared fluorescence clip (NIRFC): ZEOCLIP FS®, was difficult to observe using the Firefly on da Vinci. We improved the ZEOCLIP FS® and produced the da Vinci compatible NIRFC. In this report, we describe a robot-assisted wedge resection of a submucosal tumour (SMT) of the stomach using the da Vinci compatible NIRFC.

Presentation of case

Surgery was performed for an enlarging SMT (from 18 to 22 mm with an intragastric growth type). Through endoscopy, four da Vinci-compatible NIRFCs were placed at the tumour edge two days prior to the surgery. The location of the NIRFC was confirmed when observed with the Firefly. The distal NIRFC site was incised with a monopolar shear blade to identify the NIRFCs and tumour base. The open area was sutured in two layers using a 3-0 V-Loc. The operation time was 83 min, and the amount of blood loss was 2 g. There were no complications or clip dropout.

Discussion

This method could be performed without intraoperative endoscopist.

Conclusion

In this case, we were able to observe the position of the da Vinci-compatible NIRFC with Firefly on da Vinci. This technique may be an option as a simple procedure to minimize the resection area of the stomach.

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This is the first reported case of robot-assisted wedge resection of a submucosal stomach tumour.

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da Vinci compatible near-infrared fluorescence clip (NIRFC) was used for the procedure.

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Two clips were used to observe the location of the da Vinci-compatible NIRFC.

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This technique reduces the resection area needed to treat submucosal tumors.

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This method could be useful in gastrointestinal stromal tumors without ulcer formation.

Preoperative Masseter Muscle Sarcopenia Predicts Mortality in Patients With Oesophageal Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIM

The impact of masseter muscle sarcopenia on the prognosis of patients with oesophageal cancer after oesophagectomy remains unclear.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analysed data from 70 patients with oesophageal cancer who underwent oesophagectomy between 2013 and 2019. Overall survival and disease-free survival rates were analysed using Cox proportional hazards models and Kaplan-Meier curves with the log-rank test.

RESULTS

Masseter muscle sarcopenia was diagnosed in 36 patients. Multivariate analysis identified cytokeratin 19 fragment >1.1 (p=0.04); stage II, III, and IV cancer (p=0.01); and masseter muscle sarcopenia (p<0.01) as significant independent predictors of disease-free survival. Stage II, III, and IV cancer (p<0.01); masseter muscle sarcopenia (p<0.01); and postoperative pneumonia (p<0.01) were significant independent predictors of overall survival.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative masseter muscle sarcopenia could be a strong predictor of long-term outcomes in patients who undergo oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer.

Prognostic significance of osteopenia in patients with colorectal cancer: A retrospective cohort study

AIM

We examined the prognostic impact of osteopenia on the long-term outcomes of patients with colorectal cancer after laparoscopic colectomy along with other nutritional factors, including sarcopenia or the Glasgow Prognostic Score.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study analyzed the data of 230 patients with stage Ⅰ-Ⅲ colorectal cancers who underwent surgical resection between November 2010 and December 2015. Osteopenia and sarcopenia were evaluated by measuring the average pixel density in the mid-vertebral core of the 11th thoracic vertebra on enhanced computed tomography and the psoas muscle mass area at the third lumbar vertebra, respectively. The overall survival and disease-free survival rates were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan-Meier curves with the log-rank test.

RESULTS

Osteopenia was identified in 43 patients (18.7%). Univariate analysis showed that the disease-free survival rate was significantly worse in patients with stage II-III cancers, vascular invasion, carcinoembryonic antigen (CA) >5.0 ng/mL, CA19-9 > 37.0 U/mL, sarcopenia, and osteopenia (all P < .01). Multivariate analysis revealed that stage II-III cancers (P = .01), vascular invasion (P = .01), carcinoembryonic antigen >5.0 (P < .01), and osteopenia (P < .01) were significant independent disease-free survival predictors. In univariate analysis, the overall survival rate significantly decreased in patients with stage II-III cancers (P = .03), carcinoembryonic antigen >5.0 (P < .01), CA19-9 > 37.0 (P < .01), sarcopenia (P < .01), and osteopenia (P < .01). Multivariate analysis indicated that carcinoembryonic antigen >5.0 (P = .04), CA19-9 > 37.0 (P = .05), and osteopenia (P < .01) were significant independent predictors of overall survival.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative osteopenia could be a strong predictor of long-term outcomes in patients undergoing resection for colorectal cancer.

Nivolumab in combination with radiotherapy for metastatic esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma after esophagectomy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma has an extremely poor prognosis, and no effective second-line treatment is available. Herein, we describe a case of multiple metastases after primary resection of esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma successfully treated with nivolumab plus radiotherapy in a short time.

CASE PRESENTATION

A man in his 70s presented to our hospital after an abnormality was detected on an upper gastrointestinal series. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a type 2 tumor spanning the endothelial cell junction to the abdominal esophagus. Histopathological examination of the biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma. The patient had no distant metastases. Thoracoscopic esophagectomy with three-field lymph node dissection was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma with features of adenoid cystic-like carcinoma and squamoid pattern (pT2 [MP], INF a, ly1, v1 [EVG], pIM0, pDM0, pRM0, pN1 [1/28], M0; Stage II), which was positive for synaptophysin. The postoperative course was good, with no complications. The patient was treated with 100 mg of irinotecan and 100 mg of cisplatin, administered every 4 weeks, as postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. Grade 3 loss of appetite was observed, and adjuvant chemotherapy was discontinued after four cycles of first-line treatment. A positron emission tomography-computed tomography scan 3 years after surgery showed abnormal uptake in the subaortic, left hilar, and left axillary lymph nodes, and in a mass in the right lung apex. The patient was diagnosed with metastatic esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma postoperatively. First-line treatment could not be repeated due to toxicity from the initial treatment. Nivolumab (240 mg every 2 weeks) was administered as second-line treatment, and radiotherapy was started (56 Gy delivered in 28 fractions to the local [subaortic and hilar] lymph nodes). After 10 cycles of nivolumab in combination with radiotherapy (56 Gy), a positron emission tomography-computed tomography scan showed disappearance of all lesions. A complete response was achieved. Maintenance therapy (240 mg of nivolumab) was continued. No recurrence has been observed for 42 months.

CONCLUSIONS

We experienced a case in which nivolumab in combination with radiotherapy was effective for metastatic esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma after primary resection.

Effect of Vitamin D Supplements on Relapse of Digestive Tract Cancer with Tumor Stromal Immune Response: A Secondary Analysis of the AMATERASU Randomized Clinical Trial

The aim was to examine whether vitamin D supplementation (2000 IU/day) reduces the risk of relapse in a subgroup of patients with digestive tract cancer, showing a sufficient immune response in tumor stroma by conducting secondary subgroup analyses of the AMATERASU randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (UMIN000001977). A total of 372 patients were divided into two subgroups stratified by the median density of immune cells infiltrating in tumor stroma into higher and lower halves. In the higher-half subgroup of CD56+ cells, the relapse ratio was significantly lower in the vitamin D group (7.4%) than in the placebo group (20.5%) (subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR), 0.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.15-0.82), but it was equivalent (25.2% vs. 22.7%) in the lower-half subgroup of CD56+ cells (SHR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.68-2.19) with a significant interaction (P_interaction = 0.02). Although there were no significant differences, the risk of relapse was lower in the vitamin D group than in the placebo group in the higher half of CD45RO+ memory T cells (8.9% vs. 19.2%), and of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells (11.3% vs. 22.5%). In patients with digestive tract cancer, vitamin D supplementation was hypothesized to reduce the risk of relapse in the subgroup of patients who already have an adequate infiltration of immune cells in their tumor stroma.

Perineal stapled prolapse resection in combination with Thiersch operation for relapsed rectal prolapse: a case report

Background

Treatment options for complete rectal prolapse include over 100 procedures. In previous reports, operative rectal prolapse repair, regardless of the technique by perineal approach, was associated with high recurrence rates. However, there is no consensus on the optimal surgical procedure for relapsed rectal prolapse.

Case presentation

A 97-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a chief complaint of complete rectal prolapse measuring > 5 cm. The patient had a history of laparoscopic anterior suture rectopexy without sigmoid resection under general anesthesia for complete rectal prolapse one year prior. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful. However, her dementia worsened (Hasegawa’s dementia scale: 5/30 points) after the first operation. Further, moderate-to-severe aortic valve stenosis was first diagnosed with heart failure 6 months after the operation. Nine months after the initial surgery, she experienced a recurrence of complete rectal prolapse measuring approximately 5 cm. Considering the coexistence of advanced age, severe dementia, and aortic valve stenosis, surgery under general anesthesia was not indicated. Perineal stapled prolapse resection in combination with the t operation was planned because of its minimal invasiveness and shortened hospital stay. The procedure was performed by a team of two surgeons in the jack knife position, under spinal anesthesia.

The prolapse was cut along the long-axis direction with three linear staplers and resected along the short-axis direction with four linear staplers. The cross-section of the linear stapler was reinforced with 3-0 Vicryl sutures. After rectal resection, the Thiersch operation using 1-0 nylon thread 1 cm away from the anal verge was additionally performed. The operative time was 24 min, and intraoperative blood loss was 1 mL. The postoperative course was uneventful. Three months after the operation, no recurrence was observed, and defecation function was good with improvements of Wexner score.

Conclusions

Perineal stapled prolapse resection in combination with the Thiersch operation could be a useful option for patients with relapsed rectal prolapse and with poor general condition, who are not indicated for other surgical procedures.

Minimally invasive colostomy with endoscopy as a novel technique for creation of a trephine stoma

The conventional approach of trephine stoma creation is associated with various limitations, including poor elevation of the sigmoid colon, misidentification of the target organs, and poor visualization of the operative field, which may require conversion to an open approach. Our study aimed to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and complications of minimally invasive colostomy with endoscopy (MICE), a new technique for trephine stoma creation. This retrospective cohort study included 14 patients. Patients diagnosed with obstructive rectal cancer or bladder and rectal disorders due to spinal cord injury or bone metastasis requiring sigmoid loop colostomy were eligible for the procedure. MICE was performed using a combination of endoscopic and fluoroscopic procedures. The primary endpoint was the technical success of MICE. Technical success using MICE was achieved in all 14 cases. The mean total operative time was 52.6 (range 32-107) min, and mean blood loss was 18.9 (range 1-50) mL. There was no incidence of conversion to open surgery. Postoperative complications included peristomal abscess formation and ischemic colitis in each case. MICE may be useful as a minimally invasive approach for trephine stoma creation that overcomes the problems of a conventional approach in high-risk patients.

New Scoring System for Predicting the Risk of Surgical Site Infections Following Stoma Reversal

BACKGROUND

Surgical site infections (SSI) are one of the most frequent complications following stoma reversal (SR-SSI) and lead to multiple problems such as decreased mobility of the patients or increased hospital costs. Several risk factors for SR-SSI have been reported, but there are no risk scoring systems for predicting SR-SSI. The current study aimed to analyze the risk factors for SR-SSI and develop a scoring system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multivariate analysis of risk factors for SR-SSI was performed in patients who underwent elective SR and were followed-up during the first month after surgery. A logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors and construct a predictive score.

RESULTS

Of the 182 patients, 53 (29.1%) developed SSI. In multivariate analysis, three variables as preoperative risk factors were associated with increased SR-SSI incidence: subcutaneous fat thickness (≥ 20 mm) (odds ratio [OR]: 8.46 [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.45-20.7], P <0.001), period from stoma creation (≤ 20 weeks) (OR: 2.88 [95% CI: 1.14-7.28], P = 0.025), and SSI after the primary operation (OR: 3.06 [95% CI: 1.19-7.90], P = 0.021). Each of these variables contributed 2,1, and 1 points to the risk score, respectively. The SR-SSI rate was 2.9%, 20.3%, 34.2%, 54.5%, and 81.8% for the scores of 0,1,2,3, and 4 points, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.773 (95% CI: 0.703-0.844).

CONCLUSIONS

A simple clinical scoring system based on three preoperative variables may be useful in predicting the risk of SR-SSI.

One-stage fluoroscopy-guided laparoscopic transcystic papillary balloon dilation and laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with cholecystocholedocholithiasis who previously had undergone gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients with a history of gastrectomy have a higher incidence of cholecystocholedocholithiasis (CCL) and related morbidities than the general population. However, the management of common bile duct (CBD) stones with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is challenging in patients after Roux-en-Y or Billroth II reconstruction because of the altered gastrointestinal anatomy. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of one-stage laparoscopic transcystic papillary balloon dilation and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LTPBD+LC) in patients with previous gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included five patients with CCL who had previously undergone gastrectomy. All five underwent LTPBD+LC between May 2015 and February 2020 at our institution. The primary end-point was complete clearance of the CBD stones.

RESULTS

Of the 311 patients who had undergone gastrectomy for gastric cancer from December 2009 to December 2018 at our institution, six (1.9%) were later diagnosed with CCL. Five of the six patients did not need emergency biliary drainage and underwent conservative therapy and subsequent elective LTPBD+LC. LTPBD+LC was successfully performed in all cases. None of the patients required conversion to open surgery. The rate of complete clearance of the CBD stones was 100%. The mean operative time of the entire procedure was 126 minutes (range, 102-144 minutes), and the mean blood loss was 12.4 mL (range, 1-50 mL). There were no major perioperative complications, and the mean length of postoperative hospital stay was 4.2 days (range, 3-7 days).

CONCLUSION

One-stage LTPBD+LC may be a feasible procedure for patients with CCL who have previously undergone gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

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

BACKGROUND

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

CASE PRESENTATION

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Double percutaneous transesophageal gastrotubing precluded high risk surgery for intestinal malignant lymphoma

Primary gastrointestinal lymphoma is relatively rare and typically treated by chemotherapy. In some cases, surgery for obstruction in the proximal small intestine is challenging and has a high risk for anastomotic leakage. An 80-year-old woman presented to our hospital with vomiting and abdominal distension. Enteroscopy showed a type 2 circumferential tumor in the proximal jejunum 6 cm on the anal side from Treitz ligament. Biopsy showed solid and diffuse proliferation of large atypical cells with round and irregular nuclei. On immunohistochemistry, these cells were positive for CD20, CD79a, and CD138. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) was diagnosed and classified as Ann Arbor stage IIE and Lugano classification stage II 2 and scored 1 point on the International Prognostic Index (i.e., low risk). Given the risk of anastomotic leakage due to lesions and residual obstructive enteritis, surgery was not performed. The patient received double percutaneous transesophageal gastrotubing (dPTEG) to facilitate decompression and enteral nutrition. Enteral nutrition and chemotherapy were initiated immediately after dPTEG insertion. After one course of rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, oncovin, and prednisone (R–CHOP), the tumor showed a partial response, and the obstruction was improved. Oral ingestion was started, and the dPTEG tube was removed. After six courses of R–CHOP, enhanced CT, positron emission tomography-CT, and serum interleukin-2 levels indicated complete treatment response. During treatment, gastrointestinal perforation did not occur, oral intake was good, and careful follow-up will be continued. dPTEG for obstructive small intestinal DLBCL could help avoid high-risk surgery, and a complete response to chemotherapy was achieved.

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・Surgery for obstruction in the proximal small intestine is challenging and has a high risk for anastomotic leakage.

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・Double percutaneous transesophageal gastrotubing is a novel treatment that can achieve both intestinal decompression and enteral nutrition.

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・Performing dPTEG for obstructive small intestinal DLBCL precluded the use of high-risk surgery and facilitated a complete response to chemotherapy.

Vertical distance from navel as a risk factor for bowel obstruction associated with feeding jejunostomy after esophagectomy: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Placement of feeding jejunostomy (PFJ) during esophagectomy is an effective method to maintain adequate nutrition, but is associated with serious complications such as bowel obstruction and jejunal torsion. The purpose of the current study was to analyze the incidence, clinical features, and risk factors of bowel obstruction associated with feeding jejunostomy (BOFJ) after PFJ.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 70 patients who underwent esophagectomy with three-field lymph node dissection for esophageal cancer and treated with PFJ between March 2013 and December 2019 in our hospital. Abdominal dissection was performed under hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) from March 2013 to March 2015, and was changed to complete laparoscopic surgery in April 2015. We compared patients with and without BOFJ, and the incidence of BOFJ was evaluated. The primary endpoint was incidence of BOFJ after PFJ.

Results

Six patients (8.5%) were diagnosed with BOFJ, all of whom were symptomatic and in the HALS group. In addition, 3 cases displayed histories of recurrent BOFJ (3, 3, and 5 times). Laparotomy was performed in all cases. Subgroup analysis of the HALS group showed a significant difference only in straight-line distance between the jejunostomy and navel as a significant pre- and perioperative factor (117 mm [101–130 mm] vs. 89 mm [51–150 mm], p < 0.001). Furthermore, dividing straight-line distance between the jejunostomy and navel into VD and HD, only VD differed significantly (107 mm [93–120 mm] vs. 79 mm [28–135 mm], p = 0.010), not HD (48 mm [40–59 mm] vs. 46 mm [22–60 mm], p = 0.199).

Conclusions

VD between the jejunostomy and navel was associated with BOFJ after PFJ with HALS esophagectomy. PFJ < 9 cm above the navel during HALS esophagectomy might effectively prevent BOFJ.

New Technique for Magnetic Compression Anastomosis Without Incision for Gastrointestinal Obstruction

BACKGROUND

Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) is a novel technique of anastomosis similar to that with surgery, but in a minimally invasive manner. Few reports are available on the utility and feasibility of MCA for gastrointestinal anastomosis without requiring general anesthesia in humans, owing to the difficulty of delivering magnets. We evaluated the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of MCA in gastrointestinal obstruction without requiring general anesthesia.

STUDY DESIGN

In this retrospective single-center study, patients who underwent MCA from January 2013 to October 2019 were included. Adult patients with gastrointestinal obstruction or stenosis, irrespective of the underlying disease, with severe comorbidities, complicated abdominal surgical history, or postoperative complications, and who were unable to tolerate surgery, were eligible for inclusion. Two magnets were delivered by a combination of endoscopic and fluoroscopic procedures and placed in the lumen of the organ to be anastomosed. The main outcome was the technical success of MCA.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients underwent MCA, and the technical success of MCA was achieved in 100% of the cases. The mean procedural time, duration for anastomosis formation, and postoperative hospital stay were 44 minutes, 13 days, and 36 days, respectively. Two patients underwent anastomotic restenosis, and 1 patient had an anastomotic perforation due to balloon dilatation to prevent restenosis. The mean follow-up period was 34 months.

CONCLUSIONS

MCA without general anesthesia for gastrointestinal anastomosis is safe, useful, and feasible. MCA can be a valuable alternative to surgery in gastrointestinal obstruction.

Pembrolizumab plus platinum-based chemotherapy for unfavorable cancer of unknown primary site: Case report

Introduction

We report a case of sustained complete response in unfavorable cancer of unknown primary site (CUP) successfully treated with chemotherapy combining pembrolizumab, pemetrexed and platinum.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old man was presented with weight loss and cough for 3 months. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) confirmed a mass in the superior anterior mediastinum and multiple enlarged mediastinal and axillary lymph nodes. Positron emission tomography-CT (PET-CT) showed abnormal uptake in the corresponding lesions. Histopathological analysis of the left axillary nodule revealed poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry showed the tumor cells were positive for cytokeratin 7 and thyroid transcription factor-1 and negative for cytokeratin 20. Thus, the patient was diagnosed as poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of unknown primary, and treated as non-small-cell lung cancer. Additional genetic testing revealed the patient was negative for EGFR, ALK fluorescence in situ hybridization, ROS1, BRAF, and PD-L1 22C3 IHC with Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) was less than 1%. The patient received six cycles of pembrolizumab, platinum, and pemetrexed intravenously. Cisplatin was switched to carboplatin because of cisplatin nephrotoxicity in one course. PET-CT after six cycles showed all lesions disappeared; complete response was considered to have been achieved. Maintenance therapy of pembrolizumab and pemetrexed has been continued for 6 months after the induction therapies to prevent progressive disease. Complete response has been maintained.

Discussion

Chemotherapy with pembrolizumab, platinum and pemetrexed could be valuable for treating unfavorable CUP.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy with pembrolizumab, platinum, and pemetrexed helped achieved sustained complete response in a patient with unfavorable CUP.

Introduction of VISIONSENSE® for indocyanine green fluorescence-guided parathyroidectomy: Report of a case

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NIR overlay threshold function of VISIONSENSE® allows us to set a floor for the NIR signal to be included in the overlay.

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We report the case of a patient who underwent indocyanine green fluorescence-guided parathyroidectomy using the threshold-adjustment function of VISIONSENSE®.

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The threshold-adjustment function of VISIONSENSE® may be useful to readily identify the PG in parathyroid surgery.

Introduction

VISIONSENSE® is a new near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence laparoscope and has an NIR overlay threshold function that allows us to set a floor for the NIR signal to be included in the overlay. We report the case of a patient who underwent indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence-guided parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism due to parathyroid adenoma using the threshold-adjustment function of VISIONSENSE®.

Presentation of case

A 40-year-old man was referred to our department for examination and treatment of hypercalcemia. ICG fluorescence-guided parathyroidectomy using VISIONSENSE® was planned on diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism due to parathyroid tumor. In the operation, we were unable to readily recognize the parathyroid gland (PG). After intravenous injection of ICG, fluorescence from ICG appeared from the left thyroid lobe to the PG, but PG contours remained unclear. We therefore used the threshold-adjustment function of VISIONSENSE® to discard NIR signal values <50%. Clear contours of the PG were subsequently obtained, allowing recognition of the gland and successful ICG-guided parathyroidectomy. No postoperative complications were encountered and the pathological diagnosis was parathyroid adenoma.

Discussion

In our case, both PG and thyroid showed ICG fluorescence, but the intensity of thyroid fluorescence was slightly little lower than that of PG fluorescence. To differentiate between fluorescence from PG and thyroid, the threshold-adjustment function of VISIONSENSE® may prove useful.

Conclusion

This case suggests that the threshold-adjustment function of VISIONSENSE® may be useful to readily identify the PG in parathyroid surgery.

A new method of sentinel node mapping for early gastric cancer using a fluorescent laparoscope that can adjust the intensity of excitation light and quantify the intensity of indocyanine green fluorescence: Report of a case

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VISION SENSE® is a new near-infrared fluorescence laparoscope, and allows adjustment of the intensity of excitation light and quantification of the intensity of ICG fluorescence during observation.

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Using VISION SENSE®, when many ICG-positive lymph nodes are observed, we can select lymph nodes by quantifying ICG fluorescence during surgery.

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This procedure might improve SN mapping for early gastric cancer.

Introduction

One of the drawbacks of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence sentinel node (SN) mapping is the impossibility of quantifying lymph node fluorescence during surgery. VISION SENSE® is a new near-infrared fluorescence laparoscope for bright-field full-color observation, and provides the ability to adjust the intensity of excitation light and quantify the intensity of ICG fluorescence during observation.

We report the case of a patient who underwent ICG SN mapping for early gastric cancer using VISION SENSE®.

Presentation of case

A woman in her 60 s was diagnosed with cType0-IIc early gastric cancer located in the anterior wall of the middle gastric body (25 mm in diameter, cT1b, cN0, cM0, cStage IA). Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed no metastases. Laparoscopy assisted distal gastrectomy with D1+ lymph node dissection and SN mapping with ICG fluorescence using the VISION SENSE® were successfully performed. Using VISION SENSE®, we could select those lymph nodes objectively showing high intensity by quantifying ICG fluorescence during surgery.

The pathological diagnosis was well-differentiated adenocarcinoma, pT1a, N0, M0, pStage IA. No ICG-positive lymph nodes (8 nodes) contained metastases.

Postoperative course was good, with no complications.

Discussion

The use of VISION SENSE® allowing adjustment of excitation light and quantification of ICG fluorescence intensity might decreased the false-negative rate for SNs and increased the sensitivity of the ICG for detecting SNs.

Conclusion

We successfully performed ICG SN mapping for early gastric cancer using VISION SENSE®.

One-stage fluoroscopic-guided laparoscopic transcystic papillary balloon dilation and laparoscopic cholecystectomy for the treatment of choledocholithiasis after Roux-en-Y reconstruction

Patients with a history of gastrectomy have a higher incidence of cholecystocholedocholithiasis and morbidities. In particular, the management of choledocholithiasis with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has been challenging in patients after Roux-en-Y or Billroth II reconstruction due to the altered gastrointestinal anatomy. A 92-year-old man presented with high fever. He had undergone laparoscopic distal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction 9 years earlier for gastric cancer. Choledocholithiasis was diagnosed and ERCP was attempted, but cannulation of the papilla of Vater failed. An elective one-stage operation was planned. One-stage fluoroscopic-guided laparoscopic transcystic papillary balloon dilation (LTPBD) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) were performed. The operation time was 130 min with 3 mL of intraoperative bleeding. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 with no complications. We report this case in which one-stage LTPBD and LC was successfully performed for a super-elderly patient with choledocholithiasis after Roux-en-Y reconstruction.

Magnetic compression anastomosis for non-anastomotic stenosis of the proximal jejunum after total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction: a case report

BACKGROUND

Postoperative non-anastomotic stenosis of the proximal jejunum after total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction is a rare complication. If endoscopic balloon dilation proves ineffective, patients need re-operation under general anesthesia and experience a high rate of postoperative complications. Magnetic compression anastomosis is a nonsurgical procedure that can create an anastomosis similar to that obtained through surgery. We report a case in which magnetic compression anastomosis was successfully performed to avoid re-operation for non-anastomotic stenosis of the proximal jejunum after total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 70-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital for treatment of non-anastomotic stenosis of the proximal jejunum. Open total gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y reconstruction were performed 2 years previously for advanced gastric cancer at another hospital. She complained of anorexia and obstructed passage of food. No recurrence of gastric cancer was identified. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed circumferential membranous stenosis of the jejunum 3 cm distal to the esophago-jejunal anastomosis. Endoscopic balloon dilation was performed three times, but proved ineffective. Magnetic compression anastomosis was planned because the stenosis existed near the esophago-jejunal anastomosis and re-operation was a highly invasive procedure requiring intrathoracic anastomosis. Endoscopic balloon dilation preceded placement of the parent magnet on the anal side of the stenosis. Confirming the improvement of stenosis, the parent magnet was placed on the anal side of the stenosis during esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The parent magnet attached to nylon thread was fixed to the cheek to prevent magnet migration. A week after placing the parent magnet, restenosis was confirmed and the daughter magnet was placed via nylon thread on the oral side of the stenosis. The two magnets were adsorbed in the end-to-end direction across the stenosis. Magnets adsorbed in the end-to-end direction moved to the anal side 11 days after placement. Wide anastomosis was confirmed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Endoscopic balloon dilation was regularly performed to prevent restenosis after magnetic compression anastomosis. No complications were observed postoperatively. The patient was able to eat normally and successfully reintegrated into society.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic compression anastomosis could be a feasible procedure to avoid surgery for non-anastomotic stenosis of the proximal jejunum after gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction.

Near-infrared fluorescent clip guided gastrectomy: Report of 2 cases (Case reports)

INTRODUCTION

This is the first report on near-infrared fluorescent (NIRF) clip-guided gastrectomy. The NIRF clip, ZEOCLIP FS, emits NIRF signals when excited. We hypothesized that preoperative placement of the ZEOCLIP FS near a gastric lesion would allow fluorescence laparoscopic localization of the clip, and hence, the lesion, during surgery. We report this technique in two cases.

CASE PRESENTATION

Case 1: An 81-year-old female was diagnosed with early gastric cancer and a pedunculated 4 cm large hyperplastic polyp that had prolapsed into the duodenum, and was scheduled for laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy, due to the potential risk of dissection of the polyp with the duodenal wall. On the day before surgery, ZEOCLIP FS clips were endoscopically placed at the cancer site and the polyp. The locations of the fluorescent clips were confirmed intraoperatively using a full-color fluorescence laparoscope.

CASE 2

An 81-year-old male was scheduled for laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy for gastric cancer under fluorescent clip-guidance. Clip locations could not be confirmed during initial intraoperative observation. However, when the stomach wall was raised using forceps during a second observation attempt, the fluorescent clip locations were confirmed.

DISCUSSION

In case 1, it was easy to confirm clip location, facilitating complete resection of early gastric cancer without dissecting the polyp. In case 2, the fluorescent clip was located by raising the stomach and adjusting the angle between the stomach wall and the fluorescence laparoscope.

CONCLUSION

The positive results of these two cases warrant conducting feasibility studies for use of this method.

Effectiveness and safety of tumor site marking with near-infrared fluorescent clips in colorectal laparoscopic surgery: A case series study

BACKGROUND

In colorectal laparoscopic surgery, accuracy of tumor marking has been an important but not fully resolved issue. The tattoo marking technique or intraoperative endoscopy have been used but they either carry the risk of accidental intestinal puncture or require either longer operation times, a skilled endoscopist and/or intraoperative colon insufflation. We supposed that tumor site marking with the near-infrared fluorescent clips, ZEOCLIP FS clips (Zeon Medical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) might overcome disadvantages of both tattoo marking and intraoperative endoscopy-based tumor localization methods. This is the first report on the case series using near-infrared fluorescent marking clip. We summarize the early results in 30 patients, who underwent colorectal laparoscopic surgery; we focus particularly on effectiveness and safety of the method.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty consecutive patients, who underwent laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer after previous endoscopic ZEOCLIP FS placement were enrolled from May 2019 till October 2019. The primary endpoint was the rate of intraoperative clip detection and the secondary endpoints were: the rate of adverse effects, percentage of slipped clips and usefulness of plain abdominal radiography to preoperatively confirm the clip retention. Locations of fluorescent clips were identified with a full-color fluorescence laparoscope. All operations and clip placements were performed by the same senior surgeon with sufficient experience in both procedures.

RESULTS

Fluorescent clips could be detected in 94.1% of tumor lesions. Three (2.1%) clips dropped before surgery. Plain abdominal radiography was sufficient to assess clip retention in all cases. No adverse effects related to either clip placement or clip detection were observed.

CONCLUSION

The ZEOCLIP FS could be easily detected from the serosal side of the intestinal tract when placed 1-2 days before surgery. Fluorescent clip-guided laparoscopy may be considered a safe and effective method for localization of colorectal tumor sites. The Research Registry UIN: researchregistry5400.

Fluoroscopic balloon dilation for early jejunojejunostomy obstruction after gastrectomy with roux-en-Y reconstruction: a case series of three patients

BACKGROUND

Small bowel obstruction after gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (R-Y reconstruction) is not a rare complication. However, patients who need re-operation for this complication have a high rate of postoperative complications. We report a case series of three patients who underwent fluoroscopic balloon dilation (FBD) for early jejunojejunostomy obstruction (JJO) after gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (R-Y reconstruction).

CASE PRESENTATION

Three patients were referred to our hospital for surgery for gastric cancer. Robot-assisted distal gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection and antecolic R-Y reconstruction were performed in two patients, and robot-assisted total gastrectomy with D1+ lymph node dissection and antecolic R-Y reconstruction was performed in one patient. The jejunojejunostomy was created as a side-to-side anastomosis using a linear 45-mm stapler. The entry hole was closed with a knotless barbed suture, and serosal-muscle layer suture reinforcement with an absorbable suture was performed at the jejunojejunostomy. Subsequently, all the patients were diagnosed with JJO by computed tomography and upper gastrointestinal series. The average time to JJO from gastrectomy was 5 days (range 2-7); initial clinical symptoms were vomiting in all three cases, with simultaneous upper abdominal pain in one case. We successfully performed FBD in all three cases after unsuccessful conservative treatment using an ileus tube. The clinical symptoms improved soon after FBD, and all the patients were able to avoid re-operation. The average period to FBD from JJO was 10 days (range 4-14). The average procedure time was 46 min (range 29-68), and the average duration to oral intake from FBD was 4 days (range 2-5). The average duration of hospital stay after FBD was 12 days (range 9-15). There were no complications in any of the cases.

CONCLUSION

FBD might be a feasible procedure to avoid surgery for early small bowel obstruction after gastrectomy with R-Y reconstruction.

Magnetic compression anastomosis with atypical anastomosis for anastomotic stenosis of the sigmoid colon: a case report

Background

Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) is mainly applied in the gastrointestinal and biliary tracts through a nonsurgical procedure that can create an anastomosis similar to that obtained through surgery.

Magnets usually adsorb in the end-to-end direction (end-to-end anastomosis), exert a strong magnetic force and create an anastomosis according to the size of the magnets.

Regular endoscopic dilation is required to prevent restenosis when the anastomotic size is small.

We report a case in which MCA was successfully used to treat anastomotic stenosis of the sigmoid colon; the magnets adsorbed in the side-to-side direction rather than the end-to-end direction and generated a wide anastomosis in a short time that did not require endoscopic dilation.

Case presentation

An 81-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital to treat anastomotic stenosis of the sigmoid colon for closure of transverse colostomy. Two years prior, the Hartmann operation and drainage were performed at other hospitals due to perforated diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon. Obstruction of the sigmoid colostomy occurred, and a transverse colostomy was performed. One year after the first surgery, high anterior resection was performed, but anastomotic stenosis occurred, causing obstruction. MCA was planned because the patient had a history of multiple operations and was expected to have strong adhesions postoperatively. MCA was safely performed, but two magnets were accidently adsorbed in the side-to-side direction. The magnet position could not be changed. The two magnets were expected to move and adsorb in an end-to-end direction naturally due to bowel movements. The magnets that adsorbed in the side-to-side direction dropped from the anus 5 days after treatment, and the anastomosis was observed by colonoscopy. Three ileus tubes were placed from the transverse colostomy beyond the anastomosis to prevent restenosis. Colonoscopy showed that the anastomosis diameter was wider than expected at 14 days after treatment, and endoscopic dilation was not necessary. No complications were observed in this patient’s postoperative course. Finally, closure of the patient’s colostomy was successfully performed.

Conclusions

MCA with side-to-side anastomosis generated a wide anastomosis in a short time.