Routine Upper Gastrointestinal Series Post-bariatric Surgery: Predictors, Usage, and Utility

OBJECTIVE

To investigate usage and utility of routine upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series in the immediate post-operative period to evaluate for leak and other complications.

METHODS

Single institution IRB-approved retrospective review of patients who underwent bariatric procedure between 01/08 and 12/12 with at least 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Out of 135 patients (23%) who underwent routine UGI imaging, 32% of patients were post-gastric bypass (127) versus 4% of sleeve gastrectomy (8). In patients post-gastric bypass, 22 were found with delayed contrast passage, 3 possible obstruction, 4 possible leak, and only 1 definite leak. In patients post-sleeve gastrectomy, 2 had delayed passage of contrast without evidence of a leak. No leak was identified in 443 patients (77%) who did not undergo imaging. The sensitivity and specificity of UGI series for the detection of leak in gastric bypass patients were 100% and 97%, respectively, and the positive and negative predictive values were 20% and 100%, respectively. On univariate and multivariate analysis, sleeve gastrectomy patients (OR 0.4 sleeve vs bypass; P < 0.01) and male patients (OR 0.4 M vs F; P 0.02) were less likely to undergo routine UGI series (OR 0.4 M vs F; P 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Routine UGI series may be of limited value for the detection of anastomotic leaks after gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy and patients should undergo routine imaging based on clinical parameters. Gastric bypass procedure and female gender were factors increasing the likelihood of routine post-operative UGI. Further larger scale analysis of this important topic is warranted.

Technical outcomes of robotic-assisted surgery versus laparoscopic surgery for rectal tumors: a single-center safety and feasibility study

PURPOSE

Robot-assisted surgery has a multi-joint function, which improves manipulation of the deep pelvic region and contributes significantly to perioperative safety. However, the superiority of robot-assisted surgery to laparoscopic surgery remains controversial. This study compared the short-term outcomes of laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgery for rectal tumors.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective study included 273 patients with rectal tumors who underwent surgery with anastomosis between 2017 and 2021. In total, 169 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery (Lap group), and 104 underwent robot-assisted surgery (Robot group). Postoperative complications were compared via propensity score matching based on inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

RESULTS

The postoperative complication rates based on the Clavien-Dindo classification (Lap vs. Robot group) were as follows: grade ≥ II, 29.0% vs. 19.2%; grade ≥ III, 10.7% vs. 5.8%; anastomotic leakage (AL), 6.5% vs. 4.8%; and urinary dysfunction (UD), 12.1% vs. 3.8%. After adjusting for the IPTW method, although AL rates did not differ significantly between groups, postoperative complications of both grade ≥ II (odds ratio [OR] 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50-0.87, p < 0.01) and grade ≥ III (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.53, p < 0.01) were significantly less frequent in the Robot group than in the Lap group. Furthermore, urinary dysfunction also tended to be less frequent in the Robot group than in the Lap group (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.38-1.00; p = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted surgery for rectal tumors provides better short-term outcomes than laparoscopic surgery, supporting its use as a safer approach.

Minor impact of anastomotic leakage in anterior resection for rectal cancer on long-term male urinary and sexual function

PURPOSE

Anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer induces bowel dysfunction, but the influence on urinary and sexual function is largely unknown. This cross-sectional cohort study evaluated long-term effect of anastomotic leakage on urinary and sexual function in male patients.

METHODS

Patients operated with anterior resection for rectal cancer in 15 Swedish hospitals 2007-2013 were identified. Anastomotic leakage and other clinical variables were retrieved from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry and medical records. Urinary and sexual dysfunction were evaluated at 4 to 11 years after surgery using the International Prostate Symptom Score, International Index of Erectile Function, and European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire CR29. The effect of anastomotic leakage on average scores of urinary and sexual dysfunction was evaluated as a primary outcome, and the single items permanent urinary catheter and sexual inactivity as secondary outcomes. The association of anastomotic leakage and functional outcomes was analyzed using regression models with adjustment for confounders.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 84 months (interquartile range: 67-110), 379 out of 864 eligible men were included. Fifty-nine (16%) patients had anastomotic leakage. Urinary incontinence was more common in the leakage group, with an adjusted mean score difference measured by EORTC QLQ ColoRectal-29 of 8.69 (95% confidence interval: 0.72-16.67). The higher risks of urinary frequency, permanent urinary catheter, and sexual inactivity did not reach significance.

CONCLUSION

Anastomotic leakage after anterior resection had a minor negative impact on urinary and sexual function in men.

Association of omental pedicled flap with anastomotic leak following low anterior resection for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Anastomotic leak following colorectal anastomosis adversely impacts short-term, oncologic, and quality-of-life outcomes. This study aimed to assess the impact of omental pedicled flap (OPF) on anastomotic leak among patients undergoing low anastomotic resection (LAR) for rectal cancer using a multi-institutional database.

METHODS

Adult rectal cancer patients in the US Rectal Cancer Consortium, who underwent a LAR for stage I-III rectal cancer with or without an OPF were included. Patients with missing data for surgery type and OPF use were excluded from the analysis. The primary outcome was the development of anastomotic leaks. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association.

RESULTS

A total of 853 patients met the inclusion criteria and OPF was used in 106 (12.4%) patients. There was no difference in age, sex, or tumor stage of patients who underwent OPF versus those who did not. OPF use was not associated with an anastomotic leak (p = 0.82), or operative blood loss (p = 0.54) but was associated with an increase in the operative duration [β = 21.42 (95% confidence interval = 1.16, 41.67) p = 0.04].

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients undergoing LAR for rectal cancer, OPF use was associated with an increase in operative duration without any impact on the rate of anastomotic leak.

The impact of stapled compared to handsewn repair on anastomotic outcomes in trauma patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Approach to enteric anastomotic technique has been a subject of debate, with no clear consensus as to whether handsewn or stapled techniques are superior in trauma settings, which are influenced by unique perturbances to important processes such as immune function, coagulation, wound healing and response to infection. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares the risk of anastomotic complications in trauma patients with gastrointestinal injury requiring restoration of continuity with handsewn versus staples approaches.

METHODS

A comprehensive computer assisted search of electronic databases Medline, Embase and Cochrane Central was performed. Comparative studies evaluating stapled versus handsewn gastrointestinal anastomoses in trauma patients were included in this review. All anastomoses involving small intestine to small intestine, small to large intestine, and large intestine to large intestine were eligible. Anastomosis to the rectum was excluded. Outcomes evaluated were (1) anastomotic leak (AL) (2) a composite anastomotic complication (CAC) end point consisting of AL, enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) and deep abdominal abscess.

RESULTS

Eight studies involving 931 patients were included and of these patients, data from 790 patients were available for analysis. There was no significant difference identified for anastomotic leak between the two groups (OR = 0.77; 95% CI 0.24-2.45; P = 0.66). There was no significant improvement in composite anastomotic complication; defined as a composite of anastomotic leak, deep intra-abdominal abscess and intra-abdominal fistula, in the stapled anastomosis group (OR = 1.05; 95% CI 0.53-2.09; P = 0.90). Overall, there was limited evidence to suggest superiority with handsewn or stapled anastomosis for improving AL or CAC, however this was based on studies of moderate to high risk of bias with poor control for confounders.

DISCUSSION

This meta-analysis demonstrates no superiority improvement in anastomotic outcomes with handsewn or stapled repair. These findings may represent no effect in anastomotic outcome by technique for all situations. However, considering the paucity of information on potential confounders, perhaps there is a difference in outcome with overall technique or for specific subgroups that have not been described due to limited sample size and data on confounders. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to recommend an anastomotic technique in trauma.

The influence of postoperative outcomes on survival after esophageal cancer surgery: validation of a consensus-based updated textbook outcome parameter

BACKGROUND

Esophagectomy in combination with perioperative multimodal therapy is the cornerstone of modern curative treatment for esophageal adenocarcinoma. The primary aim of this study was to assess the influence of textbook outcome (TO) as a composite quality performance indicator (QPI) and its perioperative parameters on survival in patients who underwent esophagectomy with curative intent.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent an esophagectomy between January 2014 and December 2022 at Christchurch Hospital were identified from a prospectively maintained hospital database. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to assess prognostic factors for each composite and individual postoperative outcome. Survival analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of these outcomes on overall survival.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients underwent an esophagectomy during the study period. The overall and Clavien-Dindo (CD) grade ≥ 3 postoperative complication rates were 62% and 26%, respectively. The anastomotic leak rate was 6.5% (n = 7). The TO rate, 30-day readmission rate, and 30-day mortality rate were 20%, 13%, and 1%, respectively. Resection margin and nodal disease were found to be independent prognostic factors for reduced survival.

CONCLUSION

TO as originally defined and its postoperative parameters of 30-day postoperative complications and 30-day readmission are validated QPIs of esophageal cancer surgery. Updating the postoperative complication parameter to include CD grade ≥ 3 complications resulted in a positive association between achieving TO and increased survival. Our findings support the call to redefine TO based on an update to this parameter, making it a more precise QPI of esophageal cancer surgery.

Redefining Esophagectomy: The Manual Layered Insertion Method That May Reduce Anastomotic Leakage

INTRODUCTION

Anastomotic leakage post-esophagectomy remains a significant challenge. Despite the use of both mechanical and manual anastomosis, leakage rates remain high. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the manual layered insertion anastomosis technique in addressing this issue.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent this technique from September 2020 to December 2021. The process involved thoracoscopic release of the esophagus, mediastinal lymph node dissection, laparoscopic stomach release, and its transformation into a tube. The latter was then guided to the neck for anastomosis. The posterior anastomotic wall was reshaped in the neck first for optimal insertion, followed by layered suturing with the gastric conduit. The anterior wall was subsequently sutured and repositioned into the chest.

RESULTS

The study included 56 patients (51 men, five women, mean age 65.4 y), with nine having undergone neoadjuvant therapy. All received minimally invasive esophagectomy. Average intraoperative blood loss was 79.8 mL, operation time averaged 331 min, and feeding resumed after an average of 6.3 d. No anastomotic leakages were reported, with reduced incidences of anastomotic stenosis and gastric acid reflux compared to previous studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The manual layered insertion anastomosis technique may reduce anastomotic leakage and associated complications, improving the efficacy of esophagectomy, which may improve postoperative results and patient quality of life, suggesting the method's potential suitability for wider clinical application.

Fashioning esophagogastric anastomosis in robotic Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy: a multicenter experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study is to compare outcomes of the robotic hand-sewn, linear- and circular-stapled techniques performed to create an intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis in patients who underwent Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent a planned Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy were retrospectively analysed from prospectively maintained databases. Only patients who underwent a robotic thoracic approach with the creation of an intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups: hand-sewn-, circular stapled-, and linear-stapled anastomosis group. Demographic information and surgery-related data were extracted. The primary outcome was the rate of anastomotic leakages (AL) in the three groups. Moreover, the rate of grade A, B and C anastomotic leakage were evaluated. In addition, patients of each group were divided in subgroups according to the characteristics of anastomotic fashioning technique.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirty patients were enrolled in the study. No significant differences were found between the three groups about AL rate (p = 0.137). Considering the management of the AL for each of the three groups, no significant differences were found. Evaluating the correlation between AL rate and the characteristics of anastomotic fashioning technique, no significant differences were found.

CONCLUSIONS

No standardized anastomotic fashioning technique has yet been generally accepted. This study could be considered a call to perform ad hoc high-quality studies involving high-volume centers for upper gastrointestinal surgery to evaluate what is the most advantageous anastomotic technique.

Blood flow evaluation of reconstructed gastric tube in esophageal surgery using near-infrared imaging and retrospective time-intensity curve analysis

PURPOSE

Near-infrared fluorescence imaging using indocyanine green (ICG-NIFI) can visualize a blood flow in reconstructed gastric tube; however, it depends on surgeon's visual assessment. The aim of this study was to re-analyze the ICG-NIFI data by an evaluator independent from the surgeon and feasibility of creating the time-intensity curve (TIC).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 97 patients who underwent esophageal surgery with gastric tube reconstruction between January 2017 and November 2022. From the stored ICG videos, fluorescence intensity was examined in the four regions of interest (ROIs), which was set around the planned anastomosis site on the elevated gastric tube. After creation the TICs using the OpenCV library, we measured the intensity starting point and time constant and assessed the correlation between the anastomotic leakage.

RESULTS

Postoperative leakage occurred for 12 patients. The leakage group had significantly lack of blood flow continuity between the right and left gastroepiploic arteries (75.0% vs. 22.4%; P < 0.001) and tended to have slower ICG visualization time assessed by the surgeon's eyes (40 vs. 32 s; P = 0.066). TIC could create in 65 cases. Intensity starting point at all ROIs was faster than the surgeon's assessment. The leakage group tended to have slower intensity starting point at ROI 3 compared to those in the non-leakage group (22.5 vs. 19.0 s; P = 0.087).

CONCLUSION

A TIC analysis of ICG-NIFI by an independent evaluator was able to quantify the fluorescence intensity changes that the surgeon had visually determined.

Placing vacuum sponges in esophageal anastomotic leaks - how we do it

PURPOSE

Endoluminal vacuum sponge therapy has dramatically improved the treatment of anastomotic leaks in esophageal surgery. However, the blind insertion of vacuum sponge kits like Eso-Sponge® via an overtube and a pusher can be technically difficult.

METHODS

We therefore insert our sponges under direct visual control by a nonstandard "piggyback" technique that was initially developed for the self-made sponge systems preceding these commercially available kits.

RESULTS

Using this technique, we inserted or changed 56 Eso-Sponges® in seven patients between 2018 and 2023. Apart from one secondary sponge dislocation, no intraprocedural complications were encountered. One patient died due to unrelated reasons. In all others, the defects healed and they were dismissed from the hospital. Long-term follow-up showed three strictures that were successfully treated by dilatation.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that sponge placement via piggyback technique is a fast, safe, and successful alternative to the standard method of insertion.

Replogle Modified Endoscopic Vacuum-Assisted Closure (EVAC) Therapy: A New Strategy to Treat Anastomotic Leakage and Esophageal Perforation

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) and esophageal perforation are life-threatening complications following surgery or endoscopic dilations. "Replogle modified EVAC therapy" consists of placing a Replogle tube directly into the lumen or within an abscess cavity and remove by suction all intra-cavity fluids and secretion with a continuous low-pressure suction, promoting granulation tissue proliferation, thereby gradually decreasing the cavity size. The aim of our study was to evaluate the technical feasibility, safety, and efficacy of this technique in pediatric patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review charts of consecutive pediatric patients that were treated with "Replogle modified EVAC therapy" at our pediatric referral center between 2013 and 2022 was conducted. The clinical, endoscopic, radiological, and surgical information and data of patients were collected and revised as well as their follow-up and outcomes.

RESULTS

Ten patients (6/10 male; mean age: 7.8 y.o., range: 1.1-18 y.o.) were treated using the "Replogle modified EVAC therapy". Four out of ten patients developed esophageal perforations after endoscopic procedures. Six out of the ten enrolled patients had AL complications after surgical operations. All patients were successfully treated. There were no technical failures or complications with device placement. Mean treatment duration was 16 days (range 7-41 days). No additional treatment was needed for complete leak resolution.

CONCLUSIONS

"Replogle modified EVAC therapy" represents a promising and mini-invasive method to treat esophageal perforations and post-surgical leak in the paediatric age group. In our experience, the use of this technique was safe, effective, and particularly well suited also in complex paediatric patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Short-term Outcomes of Different Techniques for Gastric Ischemic Preconditioning Before Esophagectomy: A Network Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Ischemia at the anastomotic site plays a critical role determinant in the development of anastomosis-related complications after esophagectomy. Gastric ischemic conditioning (GIC) before esophagectomy has been described to improve the vascular perfusion at the tip of the gastric conduit with a potential effect on anastomotic leak (AL) and stenosis (AS) risk minimization. Laparoscopic (LapGIC) and angioembolization (AngioGIC) techniques have been reported.

PURPOSE

Compare short-term outcomes among different GIC techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systematic review and network meta-analysis. One-step esophagectomy (noGIC), LapGIC, and AngioGIC were compared. Primary outcomes were AL, AS, and gastric conduit necrosis (GCN). Risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were used as pooled effect size measures, whereas 95% credible intervals (CrIs) were used to assess relative inference.

RESULTS

Overall, 1760 patients (14 studies) were included. Of those, 1028 patients (58.4%) underwent noGIC, 593 (33.6%) LapGIC, and 139 (8%) AngioGIC. AL was reduced for LapGIC versus noGIC (RR=0.68; 95% CrI 0.47-0.98) and AngioGIC versus noGIC (RR=0.52; 95% CrI 0.31-0.93). Similarly, AS was reduced for LapGIC versus noGIC (RR=0.32; 95% CrI 0.12-0.68) and AngioGIC versus noGIC (RR=1.30; 95% CrI 0.65-2.46). The indirect comparison, assessed with the network methodology, did not show any differences for LapGIC versus AngioGIC in terms of postoperative AL and AS risk. No differences were found for GCN, pulmonary complications, overall complications, hospital length of stay, and 30-day mortality among different treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to noGIC, both LapGIC and AngioGIC before esophagectomy seem equivalent and associated with a reduced risk for postoperative AL and AS.

Will synchronous esophageal and lung resection increase the incidence of anastomotic leaks? A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Reports on combined resection for synchronous lung lesions and esophageal cancer (CRLE) cases are rare and mostly individual cases. Furthermore, the feasibility of CRLE has always been a controversial topic. In the current study, the authors retrospectively analyzed the feasibility of CRLE and established an individualized prediction model for esophageal anastomotic leaks after CRLE by performing a multicenter retrospective study.

METHODS

Patients who underwent esophagectomy between January 2009 and June 2021 were extracted from a four-center prospectively maintained database, and those with CRLE at the same setting were matched in a 1:2 propensity score-matched (PSM) ratio to esophagectomy alone (EA) patients. A nomogram was then established based on the variables involved in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Internal validation of the nomogram was conducted utilizing Bootstrap resampling. Decision and clinical impact curve analysis were computed to assess the practical clinical utility of the nomogram. A prognosis analysis for CRLE and EA patients by Kaplan-Meier curves was conducted.

RESULTS

Of the 7152 esophagectomies, 216 cases of CRLE were eligible, and 1:2 ratio propensity score-matched EA patients were matched. The incidence of anastomotic leaks following CRLE increased significantly ( P =0.035). The results of the multivariate analysis indicated the leaks varied according to the type of lung resection (anatomic>wedge resection, P =0.016) and site of resected lobe (upper>middle/low lobe; P =0.027), and a nomogram was established to predict the occurrence of leaks accurately (area under the curve=0.786). Although no statistically significant difference in overall survival (OS) was observed in the CRLE group ( P =0.070), a trend toward lower survival rates was noted. Further analysis revealed that combined upper lobe anatomic resection was significantly associated with reduced OS ( P =0.027).

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms that CRLE is feasible but comes with a significantly increased risk of anastomotic leaks and a concerning trend of reduced survival, particularly when upper lobe anatomic resections are performed. These findings highlight the need for careful patient selection and surgical planning when considering CRLE.

Anastomotic Leakage in Relation to Type of Mesorectal Excision and Defunctioning Stoma Use in Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer is more common after total mesorectal excision compared to partial mesorectal excision but might be mitigated by a defunctioning stoma.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to assess how anastomotic leakage is affected by type of mesorectal excision and defunctioning stoma use.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective multicenter cohort study evaluating anastomotic leakage after anterior resection. Multivariable Cox regression with HRs and 95% CIs was used to contrast mesorectal excision types and defunctioning stoma use with respect to anastomotic leakage, with adjustment for confounding.

SETTINGS

This multicenter study included patients from 11 Swedish hospitals between 2014 and 2018.

PATIENTS

Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer were included.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

Anastomotic leakage rates within and after 30 days of surgery are described up to 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

Anastomotic leakage occurred in 24.2% and 9.0% of 1126 patients operated with total and partial mesorectal excision, respectively. Partial compared to total mesorectal excision was associated with a reduction in leakage, with an adjusted HR of 0.46 (95% CI, 0.29-0.74). Early leak rates within 30 days were 14.9% with and 12.5% without a stoma, whereas late leak rates after 30 days were 7.5% with and 1.9% without a stoma. After adjustment, defunctioning stoma was associated with a lower early leak rate (HR 0.47; 95% CI, 0.28-0.77). However, the late leak rate was nonsignificantly higher in patients with defunctioning stomas (HR 1.69; 95% CI, 0.59-4.85).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective observational study design.

CONCLUSIONS

Anastomotic leakage is common up to 1 year after anterior resection for rectal cancer, where partial mesorectal excision is associated with a lower leak rate. Defunctioning stomas seem to decrease the occurrence of leakage, although partially by only delaying the diagnosis. See Video Abstract .

FUGA ANASTOMTICA SEGN EL TIPO DE EXCISIN MESORRECTAL Y LA CONFECCIN DE OSTOMA DE PROTECCIN EN LA RESECCIN ANTERIOR POR CNCER DE RECTO

ANTECEDENTES:La fuga anastomótica después de una resección anterior por cáncer de recto es más frecuente después de la excisión total del mesorrecto comparada con la excisión parcial del mismo, pero podría mitigarse con la confección de ostomías de protección.OBJETIVO:El objetivo es evaluar cómo la fuga anastomótica se ve afectada según el tipo de excisión mesorrectal y la confección de una ostomía de protección.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohortes multicéntrico y retrospectivo que evalúa la fuga anastomótica después de la resección anterior. Se aplicó la regresión multivariada de Cox con los índices de riesgo (HR) y los intervalos de confianza (IC) al 95% para contrastar los tipos de excisión mesorrectal y el uso de otomías de protección con respecto a la fuga anastomótica, realizando ajustes respecto a las variables de confusión.AJUSTES:El presente estudio multicéntrico incluyó pacientes de 11 hospitales suecos entre 2014 y 2018.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron todos aquellos sometidos a resección anterior por cáncer de recto.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADOS:Las tasas de fuga anastomótica dentro y después de los 30 días de la cirugía fueron descritos hasta un año mas tarde al acto quirúrgico.RESULTADOS:La fuga anastomótica ocurrió en el 24,2% y el 9,0% de 1126 pacientes operados por excisión total y parcial del mesorrecto respectivamente.La excisión parcial del mesorrecto en comparación con la total se asoció con una reducción de la fuga, HR ajustado de 0,46 (IC del 95 %: 0,29 a 0,74). Las tasas de fuga temprana dentro de los 30 días fueron del 14,9 % con y el 12,5 % sin estoma, mientras que las tasas de fuga tardía después de 30 días fueron del 7,5 % con y el 1,9 % sin estoma.Después del ajuste de variables de confusión, las ostomías de protección se asociaron con una tasa de fuga temprana más baja (HR 0,47; IC 95 %: 0,28-0,77). Sin embargo, la tasa de fuga tardía no fue significativamente mayor en pacientes ostomizados (HR 1,69; IC 95%: 0,59-4,85).LIMITACIONES:Las limitaciones del presente estudio estuvieron vinculadas con el diseño de tipo observacional y retrospectivo.CONCLUSIONES:La fuga anastomótica es común hasta un año después de la resección anterior por cáncer de recto, donde la excisión parcial del mesorrecto se asocia con una menor tasa de fuga. La confección de ostomías de protección parece disminuir la aparición de fuga anastomótica, aunque en parte sólo retrasen el diagnóstico. (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo ).

Effects of endoluminal vacuum sponge therapy on the perfusion of gastric conduit in a porcine model for esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

After esophagectomy, the postoperative rate of anastomotic leakage is up to 30% and is the main driver of postoperative morbidity. Contemporary management includes endoluminal vacuum sponge therapy (EndoVAC) with good success rates. Vacuum therapy improves tissue perfusion in superficial wounds, but this has not been shown for gastric conduits. This study aimed to assess gastric conduit perfusion with EndoVAC in a porcine model for esophagectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A porcine model (n = 18) was used with gastric conduit formation and induction of ischemia at the cranial end of the gastric conduit with measurement of tissue perfusion over time. In three experimental groups EndoVAC therapy was then used in the gastric conduit (- 40, - 125, and - 200 mmHg). Changes in tissue perfusion and tissue edema were assessed using hyperspectral imaging. The study was approved by local authorities (Project License G-333/19, G-67/22).

RESULTS

Induction of ischemia led to significant reduction of tissue oxygenation from 65.1 ± 2.5% to 44.7 ± 5.5% (p < 0.01). After EndoVAC therapy with - 125 mmHg a significant increase in tissue oxygenation to 61.9 ± 5.5% was seen after 60 min and stayed stable after 120 min (62.9 ± 9.4%, p < 0.01 vs tissue ischemia). A similar improvement was seen with EndoVAC therapy at - 200 mmHg. A nonsignificant increase in oxygenation levels was also seen after therapy with - 40 mmHg, from 46.3 ± 3.4% to 52.5 ± 4.3% and 53.9 ± 8.1% after 60 and 120 min respectively (p > 0.05). An increase in tissue edema was observed after 60 and 120 min of EndoVAC therapy with - 200 mmHg but not with - 40 and - 125 mmHg.

CONCLUSIONS

EndoVAC therapy with a pressure of - 125 mmHg significantly increased tissue perfusion of ischemic gastric conduit. With better understanding of underlying physiology the optimal use of EndoVAC therapy can be determined including a possible preemptive use for gastric conduits with impaired arterial perfusion or venous congestion.

Is proctoscopy sufficient for the evaluation of colorectal anastomosis prior to ileostomy reversal? A nationwide retrospective analysis of the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology Colorectal Cancer Network Collaborative group (SICO-CCN)

AIM

Several methods for assessing anastomotic integrity have been proposed, but the best is yet to be defined. The aim of this study was to compare the different methods to assess the integrity of colorectal anastomosis prior to ileostomy reversal.

METHOD

A retrospective cohort analysis on patients between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2020 with a defunctioning stoma for middle and low rectal anterior resection was performed. A propensity score matching comparison between patients who underwent proctoscopy alone and patients who underwent proctoscopy plus any other preoperative method to assess the integrity of colorectal anastomosis prior to ileostomy reversal (transanal water-soluble contrast enema via conventional radiology, transanal water-soluble contrast enema via CT, and magnetic resonance) was performed.

RESULTS

The analysis involved 1045 patients from 26 Italian referral colorectal centres. The comparison between proctoscopy alone versus proctoscopy plus any other preoperative tool showed no significant differences in terms of stenoses (p = 0.217) or leakages (p = 0.103) prior to ileostomy reversal, as well as no differences in terms of misdiagnosed stenoses (p = 0.302) or leakages (p = 0.509). Interestingly, in the group that underwent proctoscopy and transanal water-soluble contrast enema the comparison between the two procedures demonstrated no significant differences in detecting stenoses (2 vs. 0, p = 0.98), while there was a significant difference in detecting leakages in favour of transanal water-soluble contrast enema via CT (3 vs. 12, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

We can confirm that proctoscopy alone should be considered sufficient prior to ileostomy reversal. However, in cases in which the results of proctoscopy are not completely clear or the surgeon remains suspicious of an anastomotic leakage, transanal water-soluble contrast enema via CT could guarantee its detection.

Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Choosing an optimal reconstruction method is pivotal for patients with gastric cancer undergoing distal gastrectomy. The uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction, a variant of the conventional Roux-en-Y approach (or variant of the Billroth II reconstruction), employs uncut devices to occlude the afferent loop of the jejunum. This modification is designed to mitigate postgastrectomy syndrome and enhance long-term functional outcomes. However, the comparative benefits and potential harms of this approach compared to other reconstruction techniques remain a topic of debate.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction after distal gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, WanFang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and clinical trial registries for published and unpublished trials up to November 2023. We also manually reviewed references from relevant systematic reviews identified by our search. We did not impose any language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus other reconstructions after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The comparison groups encompassed other reconstructions such as Billroth I, Billroth II (with or without Braun anastomosis), and Roux-en-Y reconstruction.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures. The critical outcomes included health-related quality of life at least six months after surgery, major postoperative complications within 30 days after surgery according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification (grades III to V), anastomotic leakage within 30 days, changes in body weight (kg) at least six months after surgery, and incidence of bile reflux, remnant gastritis, and oesophagitis at least six months after surgery. We used the GRADE approach to evaluate the certainty of the evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified eight trials, including 1167 participants, which contributed data to our meta-analyses. These trials were exclusively conducted in East Asian countries, predominantly in China. The studies varied in the types of uncut devices used, ranging from 2- to 6-row linear staplers to suture lines. The follow-up periods for long-term outcomes spanned from 3 months to 42 months, with most studies focusing on a 6- to 12-month range. We rated the certainty of evidence from low to very low. Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus Billroth II reconstruction In the realm of surgical complications, very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Billroth II reconstruction may make little to no difference to major postoperative complications (risk ratio (RR) 0.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24 to 4.05; I² = 0%; risk difference (RD) 0.00, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.04; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 282 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and incidence of anastomotic leakage (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.44; I² not applicable; RD -0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.02; I² = 32%; 3 studies, 615 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain about these results. Focusing on long-term outcomes, low- to very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Billroth II reconstruction may make little to no difference to changes in body weight (mean difference (MD) 0.04 kg, 95% CI -0.84 to 0.92 kg; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 233 participants; low-certainty evidence), may reduce the incidence of bile reflux into the remnant stomach (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.83; RD -0.29, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.16; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 4, 95% CI 3 to 7; 1 study, 141 participants; low-certainty evidence), and may have little or no effect on the incidence of remnant gastritis (RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.01 to 5.06; I2 = 78%; RD -0.15, 95% CI -0.23 to -0.07; I2 = 0%; NNTB 7, 95% CI 5 to 15; 2 studies, 265 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No studies reported on quality of life or the incidence of oesophagitis. Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus Roux-en-Y reconstruction In the realm of surgical complications, very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Roux-en-Y reconstruction may make little to no difference to major postoperative complications (RR 4.74, 95% CI 0.23 to 97.08; I² not applicable; RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.04; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 256 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and incidence of anastomotic leakage (RR 0.34, 95% CI 0.05 to 2.08; I² = 0%; RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.02; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 213 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain about these results. Focusing on long-term outcomes, very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Roux-en-Y reconstruction may increase the incidence of bile reflux into the remnant stomach (RR 10.74, 95% CI 3.52 to 32.76; RD 0.57, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.71; NNT for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) 2, 95% CI 2 to 3; 1 study, 108 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and may make little to no difference to the incidence of remnant gastritis (RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.69 to 2.01; I² = 60%; RD 0.03, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.08; I² = 0%; 3 studies, 361 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and incidence of oesophagitis (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.26; I² = 0%; RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.07 to 0.03; I² = 0%; 3 studies, 361 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain about these results. Data were insufficient to assess the impact on quality of life and changes in body weight.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Given the predominance of low- to very low-certainty evidence, this Cochrane review faces challenges in providing definitive clinical guidance. We found the majority of critical outcomes may be comparable between the uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction and other methods, but we are very uncertain about most of these results. Nevertheless, it indicates that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction may reduce the incidence of bile reflux compared to Billroth-II reconstruction, albeit with low certainty. In contrast, compared to Roux-en-Y reconstruction, uncut Roux-en-Y may increase bile reflux incidence, based on very low-certainty evidence. To strengthen the evidence base, further rigorous and long-term trials are needed. Additionally, these studies should explore variations in surgical procedures, particularly regarding uncut devices and methods to prevent recanalisation. Future research may potentially alter the conclusions of this review.

Outcomes of transanal total mesorectal excision compared to laparoscopic total mesorectal excision: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Transanal dissection is increasingly used in laparoscopic surgery for total mesorectal excision of lower rectal cancers. Several studies compared outcomes of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with and without transanal dissection, yet there is a paucity of high-quality evidence. This meta-analysis aimed to provide a pooled comparative analysis of outcomes of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with and without transanal dissection based on evidence from randomized controlled trials.

METHODS

This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2022-compliant systematic review of randomized controlled trials compared laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with and without transanal dissection. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched through March 2023. The Medical Subject Headings terms used in the search were Rectal neoplasms, Proctectomy, Laparoscopy, and Transanal. The main outcomes included operative and pathologic outcomes. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias version 2 tool, and certainty of the evidence was graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. The primary study outcome was conversion to open surgery.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials (1,339 patients; median age 61.2 years) were included; 671 patients underwent laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with transanal dissection, and 668 underwent laparoscopic total mesorectal excision without transanal dissection. Both groups were similar in age, body mass index, and disease stage, but the laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with transanal dissection group had a higher male-to-female ratio, received neoadjuvant therapy and had a hand-sewn anastomosis more often. Patients who underwent laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with transanal dissection had lower conversion rates (odds ratio = 0.179; P = .001), a higher likelihood of achieving complete total mesorectal excision (odds ratio = 1.435; P = .025), and fewer harvested lymph nodes (weighted mean difference = -1.926; P = .035). The groups had similar operative times (weighted mean difference = -3.476; P = .398), total complications (odds ratio = 0.94; P = .665), major complications (odds ratio = 1.112; P = .66), anastomotic leak (odds ratio = 0.67; P = .432), positive circumferential resection margin (odds ratio = 0.549; P = .155), and positive distal margins (odds ratio = 0.559; P = .171).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with transanal dissection was associated with lower odds of conversion to open surgery, greater likelihood of achieving complete total mesorectal excision, and fewer harvested lymph nodes than laparoscopic total mesorectal excision without transanal dissection.

A Novel Vascular Anastomotic Coupling Device for End-to-End Anastomosis of Arteries and Veins

OBJECTIVE

Hand-sutured (HS) techniques remain the gold standard for most microvascular anastomoses in microsurgery. HS techniques can result in endothelial lacerations and back wall suturing, leading to complications such as thrombosis and free tissue loss. A novel force-interference-fit vascular coupling device (FIF-VCD) system can potentially reduce the need for HS and improve end-to-end anastomosis. This study aims to describe the development and testing of a novel FIF-VCD system for 1.5 to 4.0 mm outside diameter arteries and veins.

METHODS

Benchtop anastomoses were performed using porcine cadaver arteries and veins. Decoupling force and anastomotic leakage were tested under simulated worst-case intravital physiological conditions. The 1.5 mm FIF-VCD system was used to perform cadaver rat abdominal aorta anastomoses.

RESULTS

Benchtop testing showed that the vessels coupled with the FIF-VCD system could withstand simulated worst-case intravital physiological conditions with a 95% confidence interval for the average decoupling force safety factor of 8.2 ± 1.0 (5.2 ± 1.0 N) and a 95% confidence interval for the average leakage rate safety factor of 26 ± 3.6 (8.4 ± 0.14 and 95 ± 1.4 μL/s at 150 and 360 mmHg, respectively) when compared to HS anastomotic leakage rates (310 ± 14 and 2,100 ± 72 μL/s at 150 and 360 mmHg, respectively). The FIF-VCD system was successful in performing cadaver rat abdominal aorta anastomoses.

CONCLUSION

The FIF-VCD system can potentially replace HS in microsurgery, allowing the safe and effective connection of arteries and veins. Further studies are needed to confirm the clinical viability and effectiveness of the FIF-VCD system.

The Therapeutic Effect of Laparoscopic Combined with Plasma Electric Cutting Knife on Patients with Rectal Cancer and its Impact on Serum Inflammatory Factors: A Retrospective Study

Objective

This study investigated the therapeutic effect of laparoscopic surgery combined with the plasma electric cutting knife on patients diagnosed with rectal cancer and its impact on serum inflammatory factors in the bloodstream.

Methods

The researchers examined the clinical data of 85 patients who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer in our hospital from April 2020 to December 2021. The patients comprised two groups: an observation group of 40 cases and a control group of 45 cases. The CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+ levels in both groups were detected using flow cytometry. The levels of relevant inflammatory factors in serum were measured using an automatic biochemical analyzer. The researchers then compared the perioperative outcomes between the two groups.

Results

The observation group demonstrated significantly shorter duration for the first time passing gas after surgery (P = .029) and hospital stays (P = .002) than the control group. Both groups experienced decreased levels of CD8+ cells following treatment, with the observation group exhibiting lower levels than the control group (P < .05). After three months of treatment, both groups showed reduced levels of relevant serum inflammatory factors, TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, and IL-8; however, the observation group was significantly lower than the control group with statistical significance (P < .05). Similarly, after three months of treatment, both groups exhibited lower levels of relevant serum electrolytes K+, Na+, and Cl-, with the observation group having lower levels than the control group (P < .05). Throughout the 12-month follow-up period, the two groups had no significant differences (P > .05) in complications such as urinary tract infection, anastomotic leakage, or anastomotic bleeding.

Conclusion

Using a combination of laparoscopic techniques and a plasma electric cutting knife proved a highly effective surgical approach in treating rectal cancer. The method has numerous advantages, such as enhanced safety and few complications. When considering perioperative complications, it was evident that laparoscopic combined with the plasma electric cutting knife surpassed other surgical methods in treating rectal cancer.

What Proportion of Children With Complex Oesophageal Atresia Require Oesophageal Lengthening Procedures?

INTRODUCTION

Babies with oesophageal atresia (OA) who cannot achieve a primary anastomosis (complex OA) may be treated by attempted oesophageal lengthening. We contrast reported outcomes of lengthening with our experience of managing complex OA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A consecutive series treated in an English regional centre was completed. Outcomes of interest were the rate of retention of the native oesophagus, complications requiring thoracotomy, rates of anastomotic leak, stricture, fundoplication, and mortality. Possible explanatory variables were the surgical techniques applied.

RESULTS

29/215 (13%) OA were complex, and 25/207 survived to repair. 14/25 (56%) had no distal fistula, pure OA, while 11/25 (44%) had a long gap with distal fistula. 18/25 (72%) had delayed primary anastomosis, while 7/25 (28%) required oesophageal replacement. However, 2 of the replacements were salvage procedures following failed traction. Only 4/207 (2%) of OA were potentially treatable by traction. Salvage surgery was required in 2/23 (9%) complex OA not subjected to lengthening. The native oesophagus was retained without utilising lengthening in 200/207 (97%). Amongst complex OA where traction techniques had not been attempted, the native oesophagus was retained in 18/23 (78%) of cases, with median time to oesophageal continuity of 77 days. There was no in hospital mortality following treatment of complex OA, and overall survival was identical to non-complex OA among cases surviving to anastomosis.

DISCUSSION

Management of complex OA without lengthening procedures leads a similar rate of retention of the native oesophagus as reports describing lengthening, but with significantly less morbidity. We see little need for oesophageal lengthening in the management of complex OA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

A Novel Method for Thoracoscopic Overlap Esophagogastric Reconstruction With Pleural Closure following Minimally Invasive Ivor-Lewis Esophagectomy for Esophagogastric Junction Cancer

BACKGROUND

Intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis following minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is a technically demanding surgical technique that can result in serious intrathoracic infections when anastomotic leakage occurs. Herein, we report a novel side-overlap esophagogastric anastomosis with pleural closure for esophagogastric junction cancer.

METHODS

The 3 key points of our novel technique were the following: (1) overlap esophagogastric anastomosis and closure of the entry hole were all performed using a linear stapler; (2) the pleura was closed to separate the anastomotic site from the thoracic cavity; and (3) the mediastinal drain was inserted transhiatally from the abdominal cavity.

RESULTS

This modified anastomosis procedure was performed on 8 consecutive patients at our institution. The median overall/thoracoscopic operating time and estimated blood loss were 652.5/241.5 min and 89 mL, respectively. No mortality or serious postoperative complications occurred, and the median postoperative hospital stay was 22 days (range, 17 to 37 d).

CONCLUSION

This novel thoracoscopic overlap esophagogastric reconstruction procedure with pleural closure is safe and feasible.

A novel laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenal training model: optimization of the learning curve and simplification of postoperative complications

PURPOSE

Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy requires a long learning curve. A preoperative training system was established to optimize the surgeons' learning curve and reduce the incidence rate of complications at the beginning of the curve.

METHODS

The laparoscopic pancreaticojejunostomy model, and choledochojejunostomy and gastrojejunostomy training systems were developed, and corresponding evaluation systems were also defined. Surgeons B and C performed laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy after completing training session. Surgical outcomes, postoperative complications and their learning curves were analyzed.

RESULTS

Patients operated by surgeons B and C experienced shorter operative durations following training session than those in nontrained group (called A) ( P <0.001). B and C began entering the inflection point at the 26th and 20th case in learning curve, respectively. The incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula in group B was 3.3%, significantly lower than 13.1% in group A ( P =0.047). Patients in group B showed significantly lower incidence of biliary-enteric anastomosis leakage (0% vs. 8.2%, P =0.029) and Clavien-Dindo classification greater than or equal to 3 (3.3% vs. 14.8%, P =0.027) compared with those in group A. The incidence of surgical site infection in groups B (3.3%, P =0.004) and C (4.9%, P =0.012) was significantly lower than that in group A (19.7%). Moreover, the length of postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in groups B (12.5±5.9 days, P =0.002) and C (13.7±6.5 days, P =0.002) compared with group A (16.7±8.5 days).

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopic pancreaticojejunostomy training model and evaluation system can shorten the operative duration, lower the risk of postoperative complications, and shorten the length of hospital stay.

National trends in technique use for esophagectomy: Does primary surgeon specialty matter?

BACKGROUND

Cardiothoracic surgeons and general surgeons (including surgical oncologists) perform most esophagectomies. The purpose of this study was to explore whether specialty-driven differences in surgical techniques and the use of minimally invasive surgical approaches exist and are associated with postoperative outcomes after esophagectomy.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program esophagectomy-targeted participant user file (2016-2018). Patients who underwent esophagectomy were sorted into cardiothoracic and general surgeon cohorts based on surgeon specialty. Perioperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes were compared using the χ2 analysis or independent t test. Multivariable logistic regression controlling for perioperative variables was performed to generate risk-adjusted rates of postoperative outcomes compared by surgical specialty.

RESULTS

Of 3,247 patients included, 1,792 (55.2%) underwent esophagectomy by cardiothoracic surgeons and 1,455 (44.5%) by general surgeons as the primary surgeon. Cardiothoracic surgeons were more likely to use traditional minimally invasive surgical (P = .0004) or open approaches (P < .0001) and less likely to use robotic (P = .04) or a hybrid robotic and traditional approaches (P < .0001). Cardiothoracic surgeons performed more Ivor Lewis esophagectomies and fewer transhiatal and McKeown esophagectomies (P < .0001). After risk adjustment, there were no differences in rates of postesophagectomy complications, such as anastomotic leaks or positive margins, between cardiothoracic surgeons and general surgeons (all P > .05). However, cardiothoracic surgeons were more likely than general surgeons to treat anastomotic leaks with surgery rather than procedural interventions (odds ratio = 1.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-2.52).

CONCLUSION

Cardiothoracic surgeons and general surgeons use minimally invasive surgical subtypes differently when performing esophagectomy. However, there were no risk-adjusted differences in postoperative complications when compared by surgical subspecialty. Esophagectomy is being performed safely by surgeons with different specialties and training pathways.

Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision versus transanal total mesorectal excision for mid and low rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LaTME) and transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) are popular mid and low rectal cancer trends. However, there is currently no systematic comparison between LaTME and TaTME of mid and low rectal cancer. Therefore, we systematically study the perioperative and pathological outcomes of LaTME and TaTME in mid and low rectal cancer.

METHODS

Articles included searching through the Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Medline, and Web of science for articles on LaTME and TaTME. We calculated pooled standard mean difference (SMD), relative risk (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The protocol for this review has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022380067).

RESULTS

There are 8761 participants included in 33 articles. Compared with TaTME, patients who underwent LaTME had no statistical difference in operation time (OP), estimated blood loss (EBL), postoperative hospital stay, over complications, intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, anastomotic stenosis, wound infection, circumferential resection margin, distal resection margin, major low anterior resection syndrom, lymph node yield, loop ileostomy, and diverting ileostomy. There are similarities between LaTME and TaTME for 2-year DFS rate, 2-year OS rate, distant metastasis rat, and local recurrence rate. However, patients who underwent LaTME had less anastomotic leak rates (RR 0.82; 95% CI: 0.70-0.97; I2 = 10.6%, P = .019) but TaTME had less end colostomy (RR 1.96; 95% CI: 1.19-3.23; I2 = 0%, P = .008).

CONCLUSION

This study comprehensively and systematically evaluated the differences in safety and effectiveness between LaTME and TaTME in the treatment of mid and low rectal cancer through meta-analysis. Patients who underwent LaTME had less anastomotic leak rate but TaTME had less end colostomy. There is no difference in other aspects. Of course, in the future, more scientific and rigorous conclusions need to be drawn from multi-center RCT research.

Impact of intraoperative fluid management on postoperative complications in patients undergoing minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: a retrospective single-center study

BACKGROUND

Esophagectomy is a high-risk procedure that can involve serious postoperative complications. There has been an increase in the number of minimally invasive esophagectomies (MIEs) being performed. However, the relationship between intraoperative management and postoperative complications in MIE remains unclear.

METHODS

After the institutional review board approval, we enrolled 300 patients who underwent MIE at Tohoku University Hospital between April 2016 and March 2021. The relationships among patient characteristics, intraoperative and perioperative factors, and postoperative complications were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was the relationship between intraoperative fluid volume and anastomotic leakage, and the secondary outcomes included the associations between other perioperative factors and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Among 300 patients, 28 were excluded because of missing data; accordingly, 272 patients were included in the final analysis. The median [interquartile range] operative duration was 599 [545-682] minutes; total intraoperative infusion volume was 3,747 [3,038-4,399] mL; total infusion volume per body weight per hour was 5.48 [4.42-6.73] mL/kg/h; and fluid balance was + 2,648 [2,015-3,263] mL. The postoperative complications included anastomotic leakage in 68 (25%) patients, recurrent nerve palsy in 91 (33%) patients, pneumonia in 62 (23%) patients, cardiac arrhythmia in 13 (5%) patients, acute kidney injury in 5 (2%) patients, and heart failure in 5 (2%) patients. The Cochrane-Armitage trend test indicated significantly increased anastomotic leakage among patients with a relatively high total infusion volume (P = 0.0085). Moreover, anastomotic leakage was associated with male sex but not with peak serum lactate levels. Patients with a longer anesthesia duration or recurrent nerve palsy had a significantly higher incidence of postoperative pneumonia than those without. Further, the incidence of postoperative pneumonia was not associated with the operative duration, total infusion volume, or fluid balance. The operative duration and blood loss were related to the total infusion volume. Acute kidney injury was not associated with the total infusion volume or serum lactate levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients who underwent MIE, the total infusion volume was positively correlated with the incidence of anastomotic leakage. Further, postoperative pneumonia was associated with recurrent nerve palsy but not total infusion volume or fluid balance.

Risk factors for anastomotic leak and postoperative morbidity after right hemicolectomy for colon cancer: results from a prospective, multi-centre, snapshot study in China

BACKGROUND

Right hemicolectomy is the standard treatment for right-sided colon cancer. There is variation in the technical aspects of performing right hemicolectomy as well as in short-term outcomes. It is therefore necessary to explore best clinical practice following right hemicolectomy in expert centres.

METHODS

This snapshot study of right hemicolectomy for colon cancer in China was a prospective, multicentre cohort study in which 52 tertiary hospitals participated. Eligible patients with stage I-III right-sided colon cancer who underwent elective right hemicolectomy were consecutively enrolled in all centres over 10 months. The primary endpoint was the incidence of postoperative 30-day anastomotic leak.

RESULTS

Of the 1854 patients, 89.9 per cent underwent laparoscopic surgery and 52.3 per cent underwent D3 lymph node dissection. The overall 30-day morbidity and mortality were 11.7 and 0.2 per cent, respectively. The 30-day anastomotic leak rate was 1.4 per cent. In multivariate analysis, ASA grade > II (P < 0.001), intraoperative blood loss > 50 ml (P = 0.044) and D3 lymph node dissection (P = 0.008) were identified as independent risk factors for postoperative morbidity. Extracorporeal side-to-side anastomosis (P = 0.031), intraoperative blood loss > 50 ml (P = 0.004) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (P = 0.004) were identified as independent risk factors for anastomotic leak.

CONCLUSION

In high-volume expert centres in China, laparoscopic resection with D3 lymph node dissection was performed in most patients with right-sided colon cancer, and overall postoperative morbidity and mortality was low. Further studies are needed to explore the optimal technique for right hemicolectomy in order to improve outcomes further.

Surgical treatment of esophago-tracheobronchial fistulas after esophagectomy

The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical treatment of esophago-tracheobronchial fistulas (ETBFs) that occurred after esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction in a tertiary referral center for esophageal surgery. All patients who underwent surgical repair for an ETBF after esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction were included in a tertiary referral center. The primary outcome was successful recovery after surgical treatment for ETBF, defined as a patent airway at 90 days after the surgical fistula repair. Secondary outcomes were details on the clinical presentation, diagnostics, and postoperative course after fistula repair. Between 2007 and 2022, 14 patients who underwent surgical repair for an ETBF were included. Out of 14 patients, 9 had undergone esophagectomy with cervical anastomosis and 5 esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis after which 13 patients had developed anastomotic leakage. Surgical treatment consisted of thoracotomy to cover the defect with a pericardial patch and intercostal flap in 11 patients, a patch without interposition of healthy tissue in 1 patient, and fistula repair via cervical incision with only a pectoral muscle flap in 2 patients. After surgical treatment, 12 patients recovered (86%). Mortality occurred in two patients (14%) due to multiple organ failure. This study evaluated the techniques and outcomes of surgical repair of ETBFs following esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction in 14 patients. Treatment was successful in 12 patients (86%) and generally consisted of thoracotomy and coverage of the defect with a bovine pericardial patch followed by interposition with an intercostal muscle.

Fact or fiction? Does the position of the end-to-end (EEA) stapler spike matter for colorectal anastomoses using a double-stapled technique?

AIM

Surgeons often have strong opinions about how to perform colorectal anastomoses with little data to support variations in technique. The aim of this study was to determine if location of the end-to-end (EEA) stapler spike relative to the rectal transection line is associated with anastomotic integrity.

METHOD

This study was a retrospective analysis of a quality collaborative database at a quaternary centre and regional hospitals. Patients with any left-sided colon resection with double-stapled anastomosis were included (December 2019 to August 2022). Our primary endpoint was a composite outcome including positive air insufflation test, incomplete anastomotic donut, or thin/eccentric donut. Our secondary endpoint was clinical leak.

RESULTS

Overall, 633 patients were included and stratified by location of the stapler spike relative to the rectal transection line. Of note, 86 patients had an end-colon to anterior rectum ("reverse Baker") anastomosis with no crossing staple lines. The rates of the composite endpoint based on position of the stapler spike were 12.4% (anterior), 8.1% (through), 12.8% (posterior), 5.1% (corner), and 2.3% for the "reverse Baker" (p = 0.03). The overall rate of clinical leak was 3.8% and there were no differences between methods. In a multivariate analysis, the "reverse Baker" anastomosis was associated with decreased odds of poor anastomotic integrity when compared to anastomoses with crossing staple lines (OR 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05-0.87, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

For anastomoses with crossing staple lines, the position of the stapler spike relative to the rectal staple line is not associated with differences in anastomotic integrity. In contrast, anastomoses with no crossing staple lines resulted in significantly lower rates of poor anastomotic integrity, but no difference in clinical leaks.

Risk Factors for Rectal Stump Leakage After Discontinuity Resection: Stump Length Matters Most

BACKGROUND

Discontinuity resection is commonly conducted to avoid anastomotic leakage in high-risk patients but potentially results in rectal stump leakage. Although risk factors for anastomotic leakage have been widely studied, data on rectal stump leakage rates and underlying risk factors are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To determine rectal stump leakage rates following Hartmann's procedure and to identify patient-and surgery-associated risk factors.

DESIGN

A retrospective study with univariate and multivariate analyses was performed to identify risk factors of rectal stump leakage. A subgroup analysis of scheduled operations was performed.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany.

PATIENTS

Patients were included who underwent discontinuity resection with rectal stump formation between 2010 and 2020.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measures included rectal stump leakage rates, 30-day mortality, length of hospitalization, and necessity for further invasive treatment.

RESULTS

Rectal stump leakage occurred in 11.78% of patients. Rectal stump leakage rates varied considerably depending on the surgical procedure performed and were highest following subtotal pelvic exenteration (34%). Diagnosis of rectal stump leakage peaked on postoperative day 7. A short rectal stump ( p = 0.001), previous pelvic radiotherapy ( p = 0.04), chemotherapy ( p = 0.004), and previous laparotomy ( p = 0.03) were independent risk factors for rectal stump leakage in the entire patient collective. In patients undergoing scheduled surgery, a short rectal stump was the only independent risk factor ( p = 0.003). Rectal stump leakage was not associated with increased 30-day mortality but prolonged length of hospitalization and frequently necessitated further invasive treatment.

LIMITATIONS

Study results are limited by the retrospective design, a high number of emergency operations, and the mere inclusion of symptomatic leakages.

CONCLUSIONS

Rectal stump leakage is a relevant complication after discontinuity resection. Risk factors should be considered during surgical decision-making when both discontinuity resection and abdominoperineal resection are feasible. See Video Abstract.

FACTORES DE RIESGO PARA LA FUGA DEL MUN RECTAL DESPUS DE UNA RESECCIN POR DISCONTINUIDAD LA LONGITUD DEL MUN ES LO MS IMPORTANTE

ANTECEDENTES:La resección de discontinuidad se realiza comúnmente para evitar la fuga anastomótica en pacientes de alto riesgo, pero potencialmente da como resultado una fuga del muñón rectal. Si bien los factores de riesgo de fuga anastomótica se han estudiado ampliamente, los datos sobre las tasas de fuga del muñón rectal y los factores de riesgo subyacentes son escasos.OBJETIVO:Determinar las tasas de fuga del muñón rectal después del procedimiento de Hartmann e identificar los factores de riesgo asociados con el paciente y la cirugía.DISEÑO:Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo con análisis univariado y multivariado para identificar los factores de riesgo de fuga del muñón rectal. Se llevó a cabo un análisis de subgrupos de las operaciones programadas.AJUSTES:El estudio se realizó en el Hospital Universitario de Heidelberg, Alemania.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes que se sometieron a resección de discontinuidad con formación de muñón rectal entre 2010 y 2020.MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO PRINCIPALES:Las principales medidas de resultado incluyeron las tasas de fuga del muñón rectal, la mortalidad a los 30 días, la duración de la hospitalización y la necesidad de un tratamiento invasivo adicional.RESULTADOS:La fuga del muñón rectal ocurrió en el 11,78% de los pacientes. Las tasas de fuga del muñón rectal variaron considerablemente según el procedimiento quirúrgico realizado y fueron más altas después de la exenteración pélvica subtotal (34%). El diagnóstico de fuga del muñón rectal alcanzó su punto máximo en el día 7 del postoperatorio. Un muñón rectal corto (p = 0,001), radioterapia pélvica previa (p = 0,04), quimioterapia (p = 0,004) y laparotomía previa (p = 0,03) fueron factores de riesgo independientes de fuga rectal. Fuga del muñón en todo el colectivo de pacientes. En los pacientes sometidos a cirugía programada, el muñón rectal corto fue el único factor de riesgo independiente (p = 0,003). La fuga del muñón rectal no se asoció con un aumento de la mortalidad a los 30 días, pero con una duración prolongada de la hospitalización y con frecuencia requirió un tratamiento invasivo adicional.LIMITACIONES:Los resultados del estudio están limitados por el diseño retrospectivo, un alto número de operaciones de emergencia y la mera inclusión de fugas sintomáticas.CONCLUSIONES:La fuga del muñón rectal es una complicación relevante tras la resección por discontinuidad. Se deben considerar los factores de riesgo durante la toma de decisiones quirúrgicas cuando son factibles tanto la resección por discontinuidad como la resección abdominoperineal. (Traducción-Yesenia Rojas-Khalil ).

One anastomosis gastric bypass as a primary bariatric surgery: MBSAQIP database analysis of short-term safety and outcomes

BACKGROUND

One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is described as a simpler, potentially safe, and effective bariatric-metabolic procedure that has been recently endorsed by the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

OBJECTIVES

First, we aim to compare the 30-day outcomes between OAGB and other bypass procedures: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and single anastomosis duodenoileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S). Second, identify the odds between postoperative complications and each surgical procedure.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary OAGB, RYGB, and SADI-S were identified using the MBSAQIP database of 2020 and 2021. An analysis of patient demographics and 30-day outcomes were compared between these three bypass procedures. In addition, a multilogistic regression for overall complications, blood transfusions, unplanned ICU admissions, readmission, reoperation, and anastomotic leak stratified by surgical procedure was performed.

RESULTS

1607 primary OAGBs were reported between 2020 and 2021. In terms of patient demographics, patients who underwent RYGB and SADI-S showed a higher incidence of comorbidities. On the other hand, OAGB had shorter length of stay (1.39 ± 1.10 days vs 1.62 ± 1.42 days and 1.90 ± 2.04 days) and operative times (98.79 ± 52.76 min vs 125.91 ± 57.76 min and 139.85 ± 59.20 min) than RYGB and SADI-S. Similarly, OAGB showed lower rates of overall complications (1.9% vs 4.5% and 6.4%), blood transfusions (0.4% vs 1.1% and 1.8%), unplanned ICU admission (0.3% vs 0.8% and 1.4%), readmission (2.4% vs 4.9% and 5.0%), and reoperation (1.2% vs 1.9% and 3.1%). A multilogistic regression analysis was performed, RYGB and SADI-S demonstrated higher odds of 30-day complications.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of primary OAGB has increased since its approval by ASMBS, from 0.05% reported between 2015 and 2019 to 0.78% between 2020 and 2021. OAGB had better 30-day outcomes and shorter operative times than RYGB and SADI-S and therefore, could be considered a viable alternative.

Endoscopic Administration of Combined Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Gastric Staple Line Leaks After Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Gastric staple line leak treatment after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) remains challenging. Regenerative medicine is gaining place in the accelerated treatment of damaged tissues. This study presents the first series of gastric leak treatment after LSG using endoscopic intragastric administration of combined autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

METHODS

MSC-PRP harvesting and endoscopic administration techniques are described in detail. Data were prospectively gathered and analyzed. Primary endpoints were morbidity/mortality rates and fistula closure time.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (9 women, 3 men) were included. Median age was 41.5 years, median weight 105.5 kg and median BMI 38.9 kg/m2. Median time to gastric staple line leak detection was 10 days post-LSG. Median time between re-laparoscopy and MSC-PRP administration was 5 days. MSC-PRP endoscopic administration was successfully performed and tolerated by all patients, with median procedure duration of 27 min and minimal blood loss. Four postoperative complications were noted: two patients with increased tibial pain at tibial puncture site, one with tibial hematoma, and one with epigastric pain/dysphagia. Median length of hospital stay was 1 day. Gastric leak healing occurred after a median of 14 days, only two patients requiring a second MSC-PRP endoscopic injection. Median follow-up was 19 months, all patients being in good health at last contact.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic administration of combined autologous MSC-PRP seems to be a good option for treatment of gastric leaks after sleeve gastrectomy. It is a challenging procedure that should be performed in specialized bariatric centers by expert bariatric surgeons and endoscopists after meticulous patient selection.

[Prospects of qualitative and quantitative assessment of bowel perfusion by fluorescent angiography with indocyanine green in colorectal surgery. First experience]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the possibilities of fluorescent detection system in qualitative and quantitative assessment of bowel perfusion in colorectal resections.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From May to August 2023, a single-center pilot cross-sectional unblinded study with inclusion of 18 patients with colon cancer (of left-sided - 12, of right-sided - 6, mean age - 72.9 years, m/w - 61/39%) was conducted. All patients underwent laparoscopic colorectal resections with extracorporeal stage of bowel transection. The evaluation of the bowel's ICG perfusion was conducted to assist in decision making about the level of its resection. Qualitative (visual) assessment was carried out in all 18 patients, in one patient twice, quantitative assessment of perfusion was conducted in 8 patients (left-sided resections - 6, right-sided hemicolectomy - 2). The qualitative evaluation was performed in real time on the analysis of the color gradient. The time parameters and fluorescence intensity at different level proximally and distally from the resection line were quantitatively estimated: Tstart - time of occurrence of minimal fluorescence in the areas of interest after the ICG injection (sec); Tmax - time to achieve maximum fluorescence intensity after the ICG injection (sec); Tmax-start - time interval between Tstart and Tmax, Imax - level of maximum fluorescence intensity (I).

RESULTS

Visual qualitative analysis of fluorescence revealed unsatisfactory perfusion characteristics (black, dark-gray color) in the area planned by the surgeon to anastomose the bowel in 3 of 18 patients (16.6%). When analyzing the quantitative data of this group of patients, there was a 2-6-fold decrease in Imax level, and one patient had an increase in Tmax-start at the level of intended resection compared to the bowel's sections in the favorable zone. In all cases, the final bowel transection was conducted in the area of good perfusion. There was no clinical evidence of anastomotic dehiscence in the study group.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative evaluation of bowel perfusion is an important component of safe anastomosis formation in colorectal surgery. The use of ICG-FA allows to conduct qualitative and quantitative assessment of tissue perfusion of the bowel in order to assist in making intraoperative decisions. Quantitative evaluation of fluorescence provides more objective information about perfusion parameters. Imax and Tmax-start are the most promising quantitative indicators of local bowel's perfusion. Nevertheless, the precise interpretation of the quantitative indicators of ICG perfusion needs to be clarified.

Esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula: two case reports

BACKGROUND

The incidence of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula is 1 out of 3000-5000 live births. Its incidence in lower middle income countries is not known. The infants usually present with excessive secretions or choking while feeding and are at risk for aspiration. The outcome of these infants in lower middle income countries is not encouraging due to delays in referral, sepsis at presentation requiring preoperative stabilization, postoperative complications such as anastomosis leaks, pneumonia, and pneumothorax.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present two African babies who were term infants at age 2 days (male) and 5 days (female) with diagnosis of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula. The 5-day-old infant required preoperative stabilization due to sepsis and delayed surgery with a poor postoperative outcome. The 2-day-old infant was preoperatively stable and had a good postoperative outcome. The challenges faced in management of these two cases have been highlighted.

CONCLUSION

Outcome of infants with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula in lower middle income countries is not encouraging due to delays in referral and poor postoperative healing attributed to sepsis and recurrent pneumothorax. Timely referral, preoperative condition of the infant, and timely management has shown to be a contributory factor for an improved outcome.

Multicentre positive deviance seminar to generate best practice recommendations to reduce anastomotic leak and length of stay for patients undergoing oesophagectomy

BACKGROUND

We describe a novel process using positive deviance (PD) with the Canadian Association of Thoracic Surgeons members, to identify perioperative best practice to minimise anastomotic leak (AL) and length of stay (LOS) following oesophagectomy. To our knowledge, this is the first National combination of level 1 evidence with expert opinion (ie, PD seminar) aimed at reducing AL and LOS in oesophageal surgery. Our primary hypothesis is that a multicentre National PD seminar is feasible, and could lead to the generation of best practices recommendations aimed at reducing AL and LOS in patients with oesophageal cancer.

METHODS

Adverse events, LOS and AL incidence/severity following oesophagectomy were prospectively collected from seven Canadian thoracic institutions using Thoracic Morbidity and Mortality classification system (2017-2020). Anonymised display of centre's data were presented, with identification of centres demonstrating PD. Surgeons from PD sites discussed principles of care, culminating in the consensus recommendations, anonymously rated by all (5-point Likert scale).

RESULTS

Data from 795 esophagectomies were included, with 25 surgeons participating. Two centres were identified as having the lowest AL rates 44/395 (11.1%) (vs five centres 71/400 (17.8%) (p<0.01)) and shortest LOS 8 days 45 (IQR: 6-14) (vs 10 days (IQR: 8-18) (p<0.001)). Recommendations included preoperative (prehabilitation, smoking cessation, chemotherapy for patients with dysphagia, minimise stents/feeding tubes), intraoperative (narrow gastric conduit, intrathoracic anastomosis, avoid routine jejunostomy, use small diameter closed-suction drains), postoperative day (POD) (early (POD 2-3) enteral feeding initiation, avoid routine barium swallow studies, early removal of tubes/drains (POD 2-3)). All ranked above 80% (4/5) in agreement to implement recommendations into their practice.

CONCLUSION

We report the feasibility of a National multicentre PD seminar with the generation of best practice recommendations aimed at reducing AL and LOS following oesophagectomy. Further research is required to demonstrate whether National PD seminars can be an effective quality improvement tool.

Applications of indocyanine greenenhanced fluorescence in the laparoscopic treatment of colonic stricture after necrotizing enterocolitis

BACKGROUND

The status of anastomotic blood perfusion is associated with the occurrence of anastomotic leakage after intestinal anastomosis. Fluorescence angiography (FA) with indocyanine green (ICG) can objectively assess intestinal blood perfusion. This study aims to investigate whether anastomotic perfusion assessment with ICG influences surgical decision-making during laparoscopic intestinal resection and primary anastomosis for colonic stricture after necrotizing enterocolitis.

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic intestinal resection and primary anastomosis between January 2022 and December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Before intestinal anastomosis, the ICG fluorescence technology was used to evaluate the blood perfusion of intestinal tubes on both sides of the anastomosis. After the completion of primary anastomosis, the anastomotic blood perfusion was assessed again.

RESULTS

Of the 13 cases, laparoscopy was used to determine the extent of the diseased bowel to be excised, and the normal bowel was preserved for anastomosis. The anastomosis was established under the guidance of ICG fluorescence technology, and FA was performed after anastomosis to confirm good blood flow in the proximal bowel. The anastomotic intestinal tube was changed in one case because FA showed a difference between the normal range of intestinal blood flow and the macroscopic prediction. There was no evidence of ICG allergy, anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, or other complications. The median follow-up was 6 months, and all patients recovered well.

CONCLUSIONS

The ICG fluorescence technology is helpful in precisely and efficiently determining the anastomotic intestinal blood flow during stricture resection and in avoiding anastomotic leakage caused by poor anastomotic intestinal blood flow to some extent, with satisfactory short-term efficacy.

Comparison of the short-term and long-term outcomes of three different types of inferior mesenteric artery ligation in left colonic and rectal cancers: a network meta-analysis

To perform a network meta-analysis of the literature to assess the short-term and long-term outcomes of three operations for left colon and rectal cancer. Electronic literature searches were performed in the PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases up to August 2022. A Bayesian network meta-analysis using R software, ADDIS, and Review Manager 5.4 was conducted to compare outcomes of high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery(IMA),low ligation of the IMA with D2 dissection (LLD2), and low ligation of the IMA with D3 dissection (LLD3). Sensitivity analysis was applied to investigate the influence of each primary study on the final result of the meta-analysis. Asymmetry of data was estimated by using Egger's tests. Publication bias corrected by trimming and filling method. A total of 44 studies, 5 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and 39 non-RCTs, were included in this meta-analysis. HL was associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leakage (HL vs. LLD2, OR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.13-3.25, P = 0.001; HL vs. LLD3, OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.35-2.01, P < 0.001), and required a longer postoperative hospital stay (HL vs. LLD3, SMD = 0.28, 95%CI 0.09-0.48, P = 0.01).However HL showed an advantage in terms of operation time(HL vs. LLD3, SMD = - 0.13, 95%CI - 0.26 to 0.01, P = 0.04). LLD3 is most likely to rank best in terms of short-term and long-term outcomes after surgery for left colon and rectal cancer. Caution should be taken in the risk of anastomotic leakage when treating colorectal cancer with LLD2. HL, LLD2 and LLD3 provide similar overall survival rates for left colon and rectal cancer.

Comparison of Clinical Efficacy Between Da Vinci Robot-Assisted Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy and McKeown Esophagectomy for Middle and Lower Thoracic Esophageal Cancer: A Multicenter Propensity Score-Matched Study

BACKGROUND

We compared the perioperative efficacy and safety of da Vinci robot-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy and McKeown esophagectomy for middle and lower thoracic esophageal cancer.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study method was used. A total of 181 patients with esophageal cancer admitted to three medical centers in China from February 2018 to October 2022 were collected and divided into two groups according to surgical method: da Vinci robot-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (Ivor Lewis group) and RATS McKeown esophagectomy (McKeown group), respectively. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to reduce selection bias caused by confounding factors. The perioperative indicators of the two groups were compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant difference in age and tumor location between the Ivor Lewis group and the McKeown group. After PSM, the above factors were no longer statistically significant. There were 80 patients in each group after PSM. In terms of operative time (P = 0.005), anastomotic leakage (P = 0.029), and pulmonary infection (P = 0.035), the Ivor Lewis group has significant advantages; in terms of the number of lymph nodes dissected around the recurrent laryngeal nerve (P = 0.010), the McKeown group has significant advantages.

CONCLUSION

Both RATS Ivor Lewis esophagectomy and McKeown esophagectomy are safe and effective for treatment of middle and lower thoracic esophageal cancer. Ivor Lewis has advantages in operative time, anastomotic leakage, and pulmonary infection, while McKeown has advantage in lymph node dissection around the recurrent laryngeal nerve.

Superior rectal artery preservation to reduce anastomotic leak rates in familial adenomatous polyposis patients treated with total colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (TC/IRA) is one of the prophylactic surgical options in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). This study investigated the effectiveness of superior rectal artery (SRA) preservation during TC/IRA in reducing anastomotic leakage (AL).

METHODS

This retrospective study was based on prospectively collected data (01/2000 - 12/2022) at the National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy. FAP patients undergoing TC/IRA were enrolled. A 1:1  propensity score matching (PSM) was performed. Associations between SRA preservation and complications were investigated using univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The study population included 211 patients undergoing TC/IRA (Sex: 106 Male, 105 Female; Age: median 30 yrs, IQR: 20-48 yrs), 82 with SRA preservation (SRA group) and 129 without SRA preservation (controls). After PSM, 75 patients were considered for each group. SRA preservation was associated with fewer complications (OR 0.331, 95% CI 0.116; 0.942) in univariate logistic regression analysis. AL events were significantly fewer in the SRA group than in the control group (0 vs 12, p = 0.028). The SRA group had fewer overall surgical complication and pelvic sepsis rates (p = 0.020 and p = 0.028, respectively). Median operative time was significantly longer in the SRA group (340 min vs 240 min, p<0.001), and median hospital stay was significantly shorter (6 vs 7 days, p=0.017). Twenty-seven patients in the SRA group experienced intraoperative anastomotic bleeding, which was controlled endoscopically. Superimposable results were obtained analyzing the whole patient cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

SRA preservation can be considered an advantage in this patient population, despite adding a further technical step during surgery and thereby prolonging the operative time. Intraoperative endoscopic checking of possible anastomotic bleeding sites is recommended.