Palliative gastrojejunostomy versus endoscopic stent placement for gastric outlet obstruction in patients with unresectable gastric cancer: a propensity score-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

It remains unclear whether selection of treatment modality affects the survival of patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). We compared the effect of gastrojejunostomy (GJ) and endoscopic self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement on the long-term outcomes of patients with malignant GOO caused by unresectable gastric cancer.

METHOD

We conducted a retrospective study of gastric cancer patients undergoing GJ or endoscopic SEMS placement for the palliation of malignant GOO. To reduce the effect of selection bias, we performed a propensity score-matching analysis between two groups.

RESULTS

In a propensity-matched analysis (45 and 99 in GJ and SEMS groups, respectively), clinical success rates were comparable between the GJ and SEMS groups (95.6 and 96.0%), while the SEMS group showed significantly shorter hospital stays than the GJ group. The GJ group showed a significantly longer reintervention period and overall survival (393 and 129 days) compared to the SEMS group. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, GJ, low ECOG scale (good performance status), and additional chemo- or radiation therapy were identified as independent favorable predictors of overall survival. GJ was also identified as an independent protective predictor against reintervention.

CONCLUSION

We found that palliative GJ was significantly associated with longer overall survival and lower risk of reintervention than SEMS placement in patients with malignant GOO caused by unresectable gastric cancer. Given very limited expected survival in selected patients with unresectable gastric cancer and more favorable short-term outcomes in cases of SEMS placement, individualized approach might be required in treatment decision between palliative GJ and SEMS placement.

Surgical outcomes of colonic stents as a bridge to surgery versus emergency surgery for malignant colorectal obstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of high quality prospective and randomised controlled trials

Self-expanding metallic stent placement as a bridge to surgery has been reported as an alternative to emergency surgery for acute malignant colorectal obstruction. However, results from clinical trials and previous meta-analyses are conflicting. We carried out a meta-analysis to compare the surgical and oncological outcomes between emergency surgery and self-expanding metallic stents for malignant large bowel obstruction. Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science and Cochrane were searched for prospective and randomised controlled trials. The outcomes of focus included 3- and 5-year overall and disease-free survival, overall tumour recurrence, overall complication and 30-day mortality rate, length of hospital and ICU stay, overall blood loss, number of patients requiring transfusion, total number of lymph nodes harvested, stoma and primary anastomosis rate. Twenty-seven studies were included with a total of 3894 patients. There was no significant difference in terms of 3-year and 5-year disease-free and overall survival. Stenting resulted in less blood loss (mean difference -234.72, P < 0.00001) and higher primary anastomosis rate (RR 1.25, P < 0.00001). For curative cases, bridge to surgery groups had lower 30-day mortality rate (RR 0.65, P = 0.01), lower overall complication rate (RR 0.65, P < 0.0001), more lymph nodes harvested (mean difference 2.51, P = 0.005), shorter ICU stay (mean difference -2.27, P = 0.02) and hospital stay (mean difference -7.24, 95% P < 0.0001). Compared to emergency surgery, self-expanding metallic stent interventions improve short-term surgical outcomes, especially in the curative setting, but have similar long-term oncological and survival outcomes.

Efficacy and safety of self-expanding metallic stent placement followed by neoadjuvant chemotherapy and scheduled surgery for treatment of obstructing left-sided colonic cancer

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) followed by neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to elective surgery for obstructing left-sided colon cancer.

Methods

Eleven consecutive patients with obstructing left-sided colon cancer between May 2014 and November 2015 were included retrospectively. All patients received SEMS followed by neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The primary outcome measure was stoma and laparoscopic surgery.

Results

Chemotherapy was with two cycles of CAPOX (54.5%) or three cycles mFOLFOX6 (45.5%). Median serum albumin and hemoglobin levels before surgery were significantly higher than before neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.01 and p = 0.008 respectively) and before SEMS (p = 0.01 and p = 0.003 respectively). Median bowel wall thickness proximal to the upper edge of tumor was significantly more before neoadjuvant chemotherapy than before stent (p = 0.003), and significantly less before surgery than before neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.003). No patient underwent stoma creation. Laparoscopic surgery was performed in nine (81.8%) patients. No local recurrence or metastases developed over median cancer-specific follow-up of 44 months (range, 37–55 months).

Conclusion

SEMS followed by neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to elective surgery appears to be safe and well tolerated in patients with obstructing left-sided colon cancer.

Comparison of survival and perioperative outcome of the colonic stent and the transanal decompression tube placement and emergency surgery for left-sided obstructive colorectal cancer: a retrospective multi-center observational study "The CODOMO study"

PURPOSE

Advances in endoscopic technology have led to the reevaluation of self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement as a bridge-to-surgery (BTS) in patients with obstructive colorectal cancer. In Japan, after inclusion of SEMS placement as a BTS in the medical insurance coverage in 2012, this procedure has been increasingly performed. However, a transanal decompression tube (TADT) placement has been used as a BTS. We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the optimal strategy for obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer (OLCRC) by comparing SEMS and TADT placement with emergency surgery.

METHODS

We included 301 patients with stage II and III OLCRC from 27 institutions. The study patients were divided into Surgery group (emergency surgery, n = 103), SEMS group (BTS by SEMS, n = 113), and TADT group (BTS by TADT, n = 85). We compared the survival and perioperative outcomes of patients in the Surgery group as a standard treatment with those in the SEMS and TADT groups.

RESULTS

The 3-year relapse-free survival rate in patients in the Surgery group was 74.8%, while that in patients in the SEMS group and TADT group were 69.0% (p = 0.39) and 55.3% (p = 0.006), respectively. The technical success rate was not statistically different, but the clinical success rate was significantly higher in the SEMS group than in the TADT group (p = 0.0040). With regard to postoperative complications after curative surgery, the SEMS group had significantly lower of complications (≥ grade 2) than the Surgery group (p = 0.022).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent SEMS placement for OLCRC had similar oncological outcomes to patients who underwent emergency surgery.

How to decide on stent insertion or surgery in colorectal obstruction?

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in western society and malignant obstruction of the colon accounts for 8%-29% of all large bowel obstructions. Conventional treatment of these patients with malignant obstruction requiring urgent surgery is associated with a greater physiological insult on already nutritionally replete patients. Of late the utility of colonic stents has offered an option in the management of these patients in both the palliative and bridge to surgery setting. This has been the subject of many reviews which highlight its efficacy, particulary in reducing ostomy rates, allowing quicker return to oral diet, minimising extended post-operative recovery as well as some quality of life benefits. The uncertainity in managing patients with malignant colonic obstructions has lead to a more cautious use of stenting technology as community equipoise exists. Decision making analysis has demonstrated that surgeons’ favored the use of stents in the palliative setting preferentially when compared to the curative setting where surgery was preferred. We aim to review the literature regarding the use of stent or surgery in colorectal obstruction, and then provide a discourse with regards to the approach in synthesising the data and applying it when deciding the appropriate application of stent or surgery in colorectal obstruction.

Controversies of colonic stenting in obstructive left colorectal cancer: a critical analysis with meta-analysis and meta-regression

PURPOSE

After almost three decades since the first description of colonic stents, the controversies of its safe application continue to impede the readiness of adoption by clinicians for malignant left bowel obstruction. This review seeks to address some of the controversial aspects of stenting and its impact on surgical and oncological outcomes.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, and CNKI were searched for articles employing SEMS for left colonic obstruction. Outcomes analyzed include success rates, complications, and long-term survival. Pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated.

RESULTS

36 studies were included with 2002 patients across seven randomized controlled trials and 29 observational studies. High technical (92%) and clinical (82%) success rates, and low rates of complications, including perforation (5%), were found. Those with > 8% perforation rates had poorer technical success rates than those with ≤ 8%, but there were no significant differences in 90-day in-hospital mortality and three and 5-year overall and disease-free survival. A significant increase was found in technical (RR = 1.094; CI, 1.041-1.149; p < 0.001) and clinical (RR = 1.158; CI, 1.064-1.259; p = 0.001) success rates when the duration between stenting and surgery was ≥ 2 weeks compared to < 2 weeks, but there were no significant differences in perforation rates, 90-day in-hospital mortality, and long-term survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Colonic stenting is safe and effective with high success rates and low complication rates. However, outcomes of higher perforation rates and optimal timing from stent till surgery remain unclear, with only a few studies reporting on these outcomes, leaving areas for future research.

Long-term outcomes after stenting as a “bridge to surgery” for the management of acute obstruction secondary to colorectal cancer

Obstructive symptoms are present in 8% of cases at the time of initial diagnosis in cases of colorectal cancer. Emergency surgery has been classically considered the treatment of choice in these patients. However, in the majority of studies, emergency colorectal surgery is burdened with higher morbidity and mortality rates than elective surgery, and many patients require temporal colostomy which deteriorates their quality of life and becomes permanent in 10%-40% of cases. The aim of stenting by-pass to surgery is to transform emergency surgery into elective surgery in order to improve surgical results, obtain an accurate tumoral staging and detection of synchronous lesions, stabilization of comorbidities and performance of laparoscopic surgery. Immediate results were more favourable in patients who were stented concerning primary anastomosis, permanent stoma, wound infection and overall morbidity, having the higher surgical risk patients the greater benefit. However, some findings laid out the possible implication of stenting in long-term results of oncologic treatment. Perforation after stenting is related to tumoral recurrence. In studies with perforation rates above 8%, higher recurrences rates in young patients and lower disease free survival have been shown. On the other hand, after stenting the number of removed lymph nodes in the surgical specimen is larger, patients can receive adjuvant chemotherapy earlier and in a greater percentage and the number of patients who can be surgically treated with laparoscopic surgery is larger. Finally, there are no consistent studies able to demonstrate that one strategy is superior to the other in terms of oncologic benefits. At present, it would seem wise to assume a higher initial complication rate in young patients without relevant comorbidities and to accept the risk of local recurrence in old patients (> 70 years) or with high surgical risk (ASA III/IV).

Oncologic safety of laparoscopic surgery after metallic stent insertion for obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer: a multicenter comparative study

BACKGROUND

Self-expanding metallic stents (SEMSs) are used as a bridge to surgery in patients with obstructive colorectal cancer. However, the role of laparoscopic resection after successful stent deployment is not well established. We aimed to compare the oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic vs open surgery after successful colonic stent deployment in patients with obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer.

METHODS

In this multicenter study, 179 (97 laparoscopy, 82 open surgery) patients with obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer who underwent radical resection with curative intent after successful stent deployment were retrospectively reviewed. To minimize bias, we used inverse probability treatment-weighted propensity score analysis. The short- and long-term outcomes between the groups were compared.

RESULTS

Both groups had similar demographic and tumor characteristics. The operation time was longer, but the degree of blood loss was lower in the laparoscopy than in the open surgery group. There were nine (9.3%) open conversions. After adjustment, the groups showed similar patient and tumor characteristics. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) (laparoscopic vs open: 68.7% vs 48.5%, p = 0.230) and overall survival (OS) (laparoscopic vs open: 79.1% vs 69.0%, p = 0.200) estimates did not differ significantly across a median follow-up duration of 50.5 months. Advanced stage disease (DFS: hazard ratio [HR] 1.825, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.072-3.107; OS: HR 2.441, 95% CI 1.216-4.903) and post-operative chemotherapy omission (DFS: HR 2.529, 95% CI 1.481-4.319; OS: HR 2.666, 95% CI 1.370-5.191) were associated with relatively worse long-term outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Stent insertion followed by laparoscopy with curative intent is safe and feasible; the addition of post-operative chemotherapy should be considered after successful treatment.

Complications from the primary tumour are not related with survival in patients with synchronous stage IV colorectal cancer receiving chemotherapy without primary tumour resection

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of complications from the primary tumour (CPT) requiring surgical or endoscopic intervention during chemotherapy treatment in patients with incurable synchronous stage IV colorectal cancer, the possibility of predicting such complications and their influence on survival.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty-five patients were initially treated with chemotherapy. Patients were grouped on the basis of appearance or not of CPT. We assessed the relation between age, gender, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, primary tumour location, alkaline phosphatase level, unilobar or bilobar liver involvement, presence of peritoneal carcinomatosis, the number of sites of metastatic disease, the addition of target therapies to chemotherapy, the ability to traverse the tumour with an endoscope and the appearance of complications due to the primary tumour and overall survival.

RESULTS

Mean age was 64.9 years, and 89 patients were men. Over a mean of 234 days, 25 patients (20 %) developed a CPT. Eighteen patients required surgery, and seven were treated exclusively by an endoscopic procedure. Mean survival was 15.8 months. We found a statistically relevant correlation between the inability to traverse the tumour with an endoscope and the occurrence of a CPT. There was no statistical differences in survival between both groups, but patients receiving target therapies had better survival.

CONCLUSION

Twenty percent of patients will suffer a CPT during chemotherapy treatment. The inability to pass the tumour with an endoscope can predict the CPT. Survival was only related to the addition of target therapies to chemotherapy.

Short-term outcomes following the use of self-expanding metallic stents in acute malignant colonic obstruction--a single centre experience

BACKGROUND

Colonic self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) may provide prompt relief of acute malignant colorectal obstruction (AMCO) and are increasingly used either palliatively or as a bridge to surgery (BTS) in patients in whom a definitive surgical approach is unsuitable. We evaluated short-term outcomes of malignant colorectal obstructive patients who underwent SEMS insertion in our institution over a 3-year period.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database was reviewed to identify all patients who presented to our institution with AMCO between August 2010 and 2013 and who were treated with a SEMS either temporarily or permanently. Additional data was retrieved from chart reviews and operation notes.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (12 males, 4 females) each had a single stent inserted during the study period, either palliatively (n = 11) or as a BTS (n = 5). The technical and clinical success rates were both 87.5% (14/16). The two unsuccessful stenting cases both had disseminated disease and required emergency surgery while five patients with curable disease proceeded to elective resections. There was no procedure-related mortality or stent-related perforations. The mean (standard deviation) length of stay post acute surgery was longer than elective surgery [45 ± 21.2 vs. 15.8 ± 4.0, days]. All patients in the BTS group were stoma-free post-operatively, while both patients who had emergency surgery ended up with permanent stomas. Finally, the stent complication rate was 6.2% (1/16), secondary to migration.

CONCLUSIONS

Although limited by a small sample size, the study shows that SEMS have favourable short-term outcomes. Further adequately powered trials are needed to confirm those findings.

A multicenter case-control study of self-expanding metallic stent versus trans-anal colorectal tube for stage II/III non-right-sided obstructive colon cancer

BACKGROUND

Self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) and trans-anal colorectal tube (TCT) are alternative treatments to conventional emergency surgery for non-right-sided obstructive colon cancer (NROCC). However, the one with better short- and long-term outcomes remains controversial. Thus, this multicenter case-control study aimed to analyze and compare SEMS and TCT for NROCC.

METHODS

Patients with stage II/III NROCC who underwent surgery between January 2010 and December 2019 at either of the eight selected Japanese affiliate hospitals were, retrospectively, reviewed. Baseline characteristics between the SEMS and TCT groups were adjusted by propensity score (PS) matching.

RESULTS

Among 239 reviewed patients (SEMS: 76, TCT: 163), 180 were finally included in two well-balanced cohorts through PS: SEMS group (65 patients) and TCT group (115 patients). Technical success, clinical success, morbidity, and short-term mortality were not significantly different between the two groups. SEMS placement achieved significantly higher rates for primary resection/anastomosis without stoma (SEMS: 90.8% vs. TCT: 77.4%, p < 0.001) and laparoscopic surgery (SEMS: 64.6% vs. TCT: 43.5%, p < 0.001) than TCT placement. However, 5-year overall survival (SEMS: 83.7% vs. TCT: 86.4%; p = 0.822) and 5-year relapse-free survival (SEMS: 64.7% vs. TCT: 66.4%; p = 0.854) showed no significant differences between these groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Both SEMS and TCT revealed similar long-term outcomes, but SEMS placement was better in achieving primary resection/anastomosis and laparoscopic surgery in patients with stage II/III NROCC.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery after placing a self-expanding metallic stent for malignant rectal obstruction: a case report

BACKGROUND

Approximately 20% of colorectal cancer patients show complete or incomplete bowel obstruction as an early symptom. Preoperative nonsurgical decompression such as placing a self-expanding metallic stent for malignant colorectal obstruction has been shown to be effective for reducing perioperative morbidity and mortality. However, there is a lack of published studies reporting robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) after self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) placement for malignant rectal obstruction (MRO). To our knowledge, this is the first report to do so.

CASE PRESENTATION

An 80-year-old man with incomplete paralysis of the lower limbs as well as bladder-rectal disorder due to a spine fracture sustained in a fall accident 26 years ago presented with lower abdominal pain and vomiting. Abdominal multi-detector computed tomography revealed an obstructive rectal tumor with distended bowel on the oral side. Emergency colonoscopy was performed, and an SEMS placed. The patency of SEMS and decompression of the distended bowel was confirmed, and elective RALS was performed 29 days after SEMS placement. To our knowledge, this is the first report of RALS after decompression with SEMS placement for MRO.

CONCLUSIONS

RALS after SEMS placement is a safe and feasible therapeutic strategy for MRO.

Therapeutic effect of a temporary transpyloric stent in refractory post-surgical gastroparesis: a case report

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is a syndrome characterized by delayed gastric emptying with associated symptoms. It was reported that the symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis had been greatly improved by transpyloric stent placement. However, the use of stents in benign conditions is considered to be contraindicated because of the increasing risk of complications, such as stent migration, reflux, perforation, bleeding, and, most importantly, new strictures caused by stent-induced tissue hyperplasia. While temporary placement of a self-expanding metallic stent (SEMC) can drastically reduce the risk of complications, few reports are available on the treatment of refractory PSG by temporary transpyloric stent. Does it have a long-term clinical effect after the stent being retrieved?

CASE PRESENTATION

After accepting partial resection of the lesser curvature in another hospital, a patient developed refractory gastroparesis. The symptoms hadn't been improved after long-term drug therapy and balloon dilation therapy. Four months after surgery, a fully covered SEMC was placed by endoscopy in our hospital. Gastroparesis had been greatly improved. Two weeks later, the transpyloric stent was retrieved and the patient didn't show recurrent symptoms. Follow-ups were arranged at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year respectively, and there was no evidence of recurrence was found.

CONCLUSIONS

This case indicates that temporary transpyloric SEMC is a safe, effective and less invasive alternative for post-surgical gastroparesis patients.

Pathological impact of transanal colorectal tube for obstructive colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) with acute colorectal obstruction (ACO) is an emergency. Transanal colorectal tube (TCT) use can be a safe single-stage surgery with laparoscopy-assisted colectomy; it offers long-term outcomes equivalent to emergency surgery for stage-II/III CRC with ACO. Self-expanding metallic stent use, another alternative, may have detrimental pathological and molecular effects, whereas the pathological impact of TCT placement remains unclear. We hypothesized that TCT placement might exert little damage on primary tumor. Hence, the current study analyzed the pathological impact of TCT placement for CRC with ACO compared to emergency surgery.

METHODS

Data from consecutive patients with stage-II/III distal CRC with ACO who underwent surgery between January 2007 and December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed at two Japanese affiliate hospitals. Inflammatory and malignant potential-related parameters were analyzed by a single blinded pathologist. We extracted mRNA from tumor tissues to analyze inflammatory cytokines.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients with stage-II/III distal CRC with ACO were identified (surgery: 25 patients; TCT: 43 patients). Baseline characteristics were well balanced between the two groups. TCT showed a significantly lower frequency of abscess (surgery vs TCT, 36.0% vs 11.6%; P = 0.017) and a lower tendency of pathological perforation (surgery vs TCT, 20.0% vs 4.7%, respectively; P = 0.091), compared to the surgery group. There were no significant intergroup differences in oncological factors, including perineural invasion (surgery vs TCT, 52.0% vs 62.8%; P = 0.383), microlymphatic involvement (surgery vs TCT, 52.0% vs 58.1%; P = 0.623), and microvascular involvement (surgery vs TCT, 32.0% vs 25.6%; P = 0.570). No significant intergroup differences were found in interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, or IL-1β gene expression levels (P = 0.580, 0.250, 0.941).

CONCLUSIONS

TCT placement had no pathologically detrimental effects on the tumor or surrounding tissues and might be an attractive non-invasive strategy for cases of curative distal CRC with ACO.

Fluoroscopic removal of fractured, retained, embedded Z self-expanding metal stent using a guidewire lasso technique: A case report

BACKGROUND

There are few reports of a fractured esophageal self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) and the lasso retrieval technique, forming a guidewire loop by directing the guidewire back up the external stent for retrieval.

CASE SUMMARY

A 74-year-old man complained of dysphagia approximately 6 mo after radical resection of esophageal cancer. Benign anastomotic stenosis was diagnosed, and a 20 mm in diameter and 60 mm in length esophageal covered SEMS was inserted after repeated balloon dilatation. About 13.5 mo after stenting, dysphagia recurred and esophagography showed severe stenosis above the proximal stent and stent removal was performed. One-third of the stent was removed and the fractured stent remained in the proximal esophagus. A suction tube was introduced through the guidewire and then the guidewire was grabbed, acting like a “lasso” on tightening. The remaining fractured stent was successfully removed by slowly pulling back the guidewire, with no fragments of stent wires retained.

CONCLUSION

The guidewire lasso technique is a simple, effective method of removing esophageal SEMS in rare cases of stent fracture.

Successful adjustment for self-expanding metallic stent migration using a flexible bronchoscope with two biopsy forceps technique

Although tracheobronchial stents are widely used for tracheal obstruction due to malignant or benign stenosis, stent migration has been reported as a major postoperative complication. A self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is more easily introduced compared with silicone stents. However, it is also difficult to remove or replace without complications. We report a new technique for successful SEMS adjustment using a flexible bronchoscope with two biopsy forceps.

Predictors of self-expanding metallic stent dysfunction in malignant gastric outlet obstruction

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) are the ideal treatment for malignant gastric outlet obstruction (MGOO) in patients with a short life expectancy, but stent dysfunction is frequent. The primary aim of our study was to identify the predictive factors of SEMS dysfunction in MGOO and the secondary aim was to determine the technical success, clinical success, and nutritional impact after SEMS placement.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective, longitudinal study was conducted at the gastrointestinal endoscopy department of the Instituto Nacional de Cancerología in Mexico City. Patients diagnosed with MGOO that underwent SEMS placement within the time frame of January 2015 to May 2018 were included. We utilized the gastric outlet obstruction scoring system (GOOSS) to determine clinical success and SEMS dysfunction.

RESULTS

The study included 43 patients, technical success was 97.7% (n=42), and clinical success was 88.3% (n=38). SEMS dysfunction presented in 30.2% (n=13) of the patients, occurring in<6 months after placement in 53.8% (n=7) of them. In the univariate analysis, the histologic subtype, diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma (p=0.02) and the use of uncovered SEMS (p=0.02) were the variables associated with dysfunction. Albumin levels and body mass index did not increase after SEMS placement. Medical follow-up was a mean 5.8 months (1-24 months).

CONCLUSIONS

SEMS demonstrated adequate technical and clinical efficacy in the treatment of MGOO. SEMS dysfunction was frequent and diffuse type gastric cancer and uncovered SEMS appeared to be dysfunction predictors.

Which treatment strategy is optimal for acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction? A Bayesian meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the best treatment for acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction (ALMCO) among emergency surgery (ES), self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS), transanal drainage tube (TD), and decompressive stoma (DS).

METHOD

Articles that compared two or more treatments of ALMCO were searched from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. Network meta-analyses were performed to calculate the outcomes of primary anastomosis, stoma creation, morbidity, mortality, and 5-year survival.

RESULTS

Fifty-one articles met inclusion criteria. TD was the optimal treatment in performing primary anastomosis [probability of ranking first (Pro-1) 0.96], while ES was the worst [probability of ranking fourth (Pro-4) 0.99]. More permanent stoma was formed in ES and TD groups than in SEMS and DS groups [OR (95%CI): TD vs SEMS: 4.12 (1.89, 9.45); TD vs DS: 3.39 (1.46, 8.75); ES vs DS: 2.55 (1.73, 4.17); SEMS vs ES: 0.33 (0.24, 0.42)]. More morbidity occurred in ES group than in SEMS group [OR (95%CI): ES vs SEMS: 1.44 (1.14, 1.82)]. Besides, SEMS was ranked first in avoiding infection (Pro-4 0.95). For in-hospital mortality, ES was ranked first (Pro-1 0.93). TD was ranked first in recurrence (Pro-1 0.97) and metastasis (Pro-1 0.98). There was no discrepancy in 5-year overall and disease-free survival among all strategies.

CONCLUSION

SEMS as a bridge to surgery reduces stoma formation, and morbidity especially the infection rate with relatively great oncological outcomes. Therefore, SEMS should be recommended first for ALMCO in the medical center with experience and conditions.

Safety of early surgery after self-expandable metallic stenting for obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Self-expanding metallic stenting (SEMS) is usual for the temporary resolution of obstructive left-sided colorectal cancer (CRC) as a bridge to elective surgery. However, there is no consensus regarding adequate time intervals from stenting to radical surgery. The aim of this study was to identify the optimal time interval that results in favorable short- and long-term outcomes.

METHODS

Data on patients with obstructive left-sided CRC who underwent elective radical surgery after clinically successful SEMS deployment in five tertiary referral hospitals from 2004 to 2016 were analyzed, retrospectively. An inverse probability treatment-weighted propensity score analysis was used to minimize bias. Postoperative short- and long-term outcomes were compared between two groups: an early surgery (within 8 days) group and delayed surgery (after 8 days) group.

RESULTS

Of 311 patients, 148 (47.6%) underwent early and 163 (52.4%) underwent delayed surgery. The median surgery interval was 9.0 days. After adjustment, the groups had similar patient and tumor characteristics. In terms of short-term outcomes, there was no difference in hospitalization length or postoperative complications. No deaths were observed. With a median follow-up of 71.0 months, no significant difference was observed between the groups in 5-year overall survival (early vs. delayed surgery: 79.6% vs. 71.3%, P = 0.370) and 5-year disease-free survival (early vs. delayed surgery: 59.1% vs. 60.4%, P = 0.970).

CONCLUSIONS

In obstructive left-sided CRC, the time interval between SEMS and radical surgery did not significantly influence short- and long-term outcomes. Therefore, early surgery after SEMS could be suggested if there is no reason to postpone surgery for preoperative medical optimization.

Effect of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio on the prognosis of patients with obstructive colorectal cancer with a colonic stent: a retrospective multicenter study in Japan

PURPOSE

The prognostic value of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte (LMR) ratio has been reported for various cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). The insertion of colonic stents is considered effective for patients with surgically indicated obstructive CRC, but their LMR can vary depending on factors such as inflammation associated with stent dilation and improvement of obstructive colitis. However, the usefulness of the LMR in patients with obstructive CRC and colonic stents and the optimal timing for its measurement remain unclear. We conducted this study to investigate the relationship between the pre-stent LMR and the mid-term prognosis of patients with obstructive CRC and stents as a bridge to surgery (BTS).

METHODS

The subjects of this retrospective multicenter study were 175 patients with pathological stage 2 or 3 CRC. Patients were divided into a low pre-stent LMR group (n = 87) and a high pre-stent LMR group (n = 83).

RESULTS

Only 3-year relapse-free survival differed significantly between the low and high pre-stent LMR groups (39.9% vs. 63.6%, respectively; p = 0.015). The pre-stent LMR represented a prognostic factor for relapse-free survival in multivariate analyses (hazard ratio 2.052, 95% confidence interval 1.242-3.389; p = 0.005), but not for overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

A low pre-stent LMR is a prognostic factor for postoperative recurrence in patients with obstructive CRC and a colonic stent as a BTS.

Successful management of malignant colovesical fistula using covered colonic self-expanding metallic stent: a case report

BACKGROUND

A colovesical fistula (CVF) is commonly treated by resection of the intestine containing the fistula or creation of a defunctioning stoma. We herein report a case of successful fistula closure and avoidance of colostomy after placement of a covered colonic self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) as a palliative treatment for a malignant CVF.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 75-year-old man undergoing infusional 5-fluorouracil and irinotecan chemotherapy plus bevacizumab for recurrent peritoneal dissemination of rectal cancer was admitted to our hospital because of fecaluria with a high-grade fever. Blood tests showed a moderate inflammatory reaction (white blood cell count, 9200/mm3; C-reactive protein, 11.03 mg/dL; procalcitonin, 1.33 ng/mL). Urinary sediment examination showed severe bacteriuria. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed intravesical gas, thickening of the posterior wall of the bladder, and irregular thickening of the sigmoid colon wall contiguous with the posterior bladder wall. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) clearly showed a fistula between the bladder and sigmoid colon. Colonoscopy revealed a circumferential malignant stricture 15 cm from the anal verge, and a fistula to the bladder was identified by water-soluble contrast medium. We diagnosed a complicated urinary tract infection (UTI) associated with a CVF due to peritoneal dissemination and started empirical treatment with sulbactam/ampicillin. Given the absence of active inflammatory findings around the fistula on MRI and the patient's physical frailty, we decided to place a covered SEMS to close the fistula. Under fluoroscopic and endoscopic guidance, a covered colonic SEMS of 80-mm length and 20-mm diameter was successfully deployed, and the fistula was sealed immediately after placement. Urine culture on day 3 after stenting was negative for bacteria, and a contrast study on day 5 showed no fistula. The patient was discharged home on day 6 with no complications. The UTI did not recur for 4 months after discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

A covered colonic SEMS was useful for sealing a malignant CVF in a patient unfit for surgery, and MRI was valuable to determine the status of the fistula. A covered colonic SEMS could be an alternative to surgical treatment for CVFs in patients who require palliative care.

Impact of endoscopic metallic stent placement and emergency surgery on detection of viable circulating tumor cells for acute malignant left-sided colonic obstruction

BACKGROUND

Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) served as a bridge to surgery (BTS). However, this method may be associated with worse long-term prognosis and relapse of CRC patients. Therefore, we attempted to clarify this in the angle of circulating tumor cells (CTCs).

METHODS

A multicenter study was performed from March 2018 to January 2021. Thirty-two colorectal cancer patients with obstruction were selected, of which 21 patients were performed SEMS as a BTS while 11 patients were performed emergency surgery. Bloods samples were collected in two groups of patients for further detecting CTCs. In the SEMS group, the samples were collected before and after stent insert and after radical surgery performed. In the ES group, the samples were collected before stent insert and after emergency surgery performed.

RESULTS

The number of CTCs did not show statistically significant differences before and after stent placement (34.90 vs 38.33, p=0.90), neither between the SEMS group and ES group in initial CTC levels (34.90 vs 58.09, p=0.394). No significant differences (38.33 vs 58.09, p=0.632) were observed after stent insert in the SMES group and the initial CTC levels in the ES group. Moreover, no major differences (24.17 vs 42.27, p=0.225) were observed after radical operation performed in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of SEMS does not cause an increase in the number of CTC after stent insertion. Furthermore, there are may be other factors besides CTC to cause these poorer oncologic outcomes after SEMS placement.

Choosing the appropriate strategy in managing malignant biliary obstruction

Most patients with pancreatic cancer develop malignant biliary obstruction. Treatment of obstruction is generally indicated to relieve symptoms and improve morbidity and mortality. First-line therapy consists of endoscopic biliary stent placement. Recent data comparing plastic stents to self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) have shown improved patency with SEMS. The decision of whether to treat obstruction and the means for doing so depend on the clinical scenario. For patients with resectable disease, preoperative biliary decompression is only indicated when surgery will be delayed or complications of jaundice exist. For patients with locally advanced disease, self-expanding metal stents are superior to plastic stents for long-term patency. For patients with advanced disease, the choice of metallic or plastic stent depends on life expectancy. When endoscopic stent placement fails, EUS guided biliary drainage, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage or surgical treatments are appropriate.

How risky is it to remove an airway stent?

BACKGROUND

Airway stent removal has traditionally been associated with a high complication rate. Most studies on stent removal are over a decade old, prior to newer anti-cancer therapies, and by including non-contemporary and uncovered metal stents, may not reflect the current practices. We review our experience at Mount Sinai Hospital to report outcomes of stent removal with more contemporary practices.

METHODS

A retrospective review was carried out of all the airway stent removals performed between 2018 to 2022, in adult patients with benign or malignant airway diseases. Stents inserted and removal for stent trials for tracheobronchomalacia were excluded from the final analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-three airway stents removals in 25 patients were included. Twenty-five (58%) stents were removed in 10 patients with benign diseases, and 18 (42%) stents were removed in the remaining 15 patients with malignant diseases. Patients with benign disease were more likely to have their stent removed (OR 3.88). 63% of the stents removed were silicone. The most common reasons for stent removal were migration (n = 14, 31.1%) and treatment response (n = 13, 28.9%). Rigid bronchoscopy was used in 86% of cases. Ninety-eight percent of removals were accomplished in a single procedure. The median time to removal of stents was 32.5 days. Three complications were noted: hemorrhage (n = 1, 2.3%) and stridor (n = 2, 4.6%); one not directly related to the stent removal.

CONCLUSIONS

Covered metal or silicone airway stents, in the era of contemporary stents, better cancer-directed therapies and surveillance bronchoscopies, can be removed safely with the use of rigid bronchoscopy.

Clinical Outcomes of Fully Covered Self-expanding Metallic Stent Placement for Palliation of Incurable Esophageal Cancer With or Without Radiotherapy

BACKGROUND/AIM

A combination therapy of esophageal stent and chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is currently considered risky for severe complications. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a fully covered self-expandable metallic stent (FCSEMS) placement in palliating incurable esophageal cancer before and/or after CRT.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed clinical outcomes of 64 incurable advanced esophageal cancer patients with FCSEMS placement. Forty-two of 64 patients had FCSEMS placement with RT.

RESULTS

The rate of all of stent-related complications tended to be higher in patients who had RT, although no significant difference was observed. The stent-related deaths occurred in one patient due to hemorrhage after FCSEMS placement in the RT-negative group.

CONCLUSION

Palliation of dysphagia or fistulas with FCSEMS in patients with incurable esophageal cancer before and/or after RT is not associated with an increased risk of life-threatening complications.