Multidimensional analysis of the learning curve for cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in peritoneal surface malignancies. Ann Surg. 2012;255:348-356. [PMID: 22202584 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e3182436c28]

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the management of pseudomyxoma peritonei: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) results from perforated appendiceal tumors. It is usually diagnosed preoperatively by imaging. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), although aggressive long procedure with high complications rate, was considered the optimal treatment. This study is aiming to study the role of CRS and HIPEC in the management of PMP and assess the outcome.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study which was conducted at King Faisal Hospital and Research Center, a tertiary care hospital during the period from November 2008 to June 2016. Approval of the Research Advisory Council was obtained. Forty-one procedures of CRS and HIPEC were performed in 38 patients. Using the open abdomen technique, CRS was performed using standard peritonectomy procedures and visceral resections directed toward the complete elimination of tumors from abdominopelvic cavity. HIPEC was performed using mitomycin C in a dose of 30 mg/m2 and allowed to circulate in abdominopelvic cavity for 90 min at 41.0 to 42.2 °C.

RESULTS

Forty-one procedures were performed in 38 patients. Three procedures were done as repeat CRS and HIPEC. No perioperative mortality. Cystoscopy and bilateral ureteric stents in 35 procedures (85.5%). Hospital stay (range 9-85 days) average is 21 days. Follow up period is 1-84 months, and median follow up is 54 months. Five-year survival rate is 92%. Median 5-year disease-free survival rate is 60%. Two patients died during the follow up period by septic shock and one patient died from disease progression.

CONCLUSION

CRS and HIPEC is well-tolerated and feasible management for PMP.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendix tumours in elderly patients: Is it justified?

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendix tumours are widespread in the world. It is unclear what should be the attitude in elderly patients.

METHODS

This retrospective multicenter study collected the database from ten Spanish centers from Spanish Group of Peritoneal Cancer Surgery. The study period was between November 2002 and March 2014. Seventeen patients with age greater than or equal to 75 years with peritoneal carcinomatosis from pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendix tumours met the selection criteria for the study. Outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality such as disease-free and overall survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

Median PCI was 16 (range 6-39). Ten postoperative adverse events were detected in nine patients (44.4%). 28% were grade I-II and 17% were grade III-IV. Disease-free survival at 1 and 3 years was 67 and 44%, respectively. Overall survival at 1 and 3 years was 100 and 88%, respectively. Only cytoreduction was related to worst disease free survival after univariate (p = 0.007) and multivariate (OR 11.639, 95% CI 1.24-109.74, p = 0.03) analyses. Cytoreduction was related to the worst overall survival after univariate analysis (p = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

Cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC for pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendix tumours in elderly patients it is a procedure with feasible postoperative morbi-mortality and survival outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

researchregistry1587 (retrospectively registered).

CRS and HIPEC for PMP-Use of the LC-CUSUM to Determine the Number of Procedures Required to Attain a Minimal Level of Proficiency in Delivering the Combined Modality Treatment

The learning curve for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) which peaks at 90 procedures for the surgeon may take several years to reach. The cumulative summation (CUSUM) test of the learning curve (LC-CUSUM) was used to assess the safety of the procedure (minimal level of proficiency for the surgeon) in terms of morbidity, mortality, and completeness of cytoreduction and early oncological failure before the peak of the learning curve had been reached. The limits for h0 and h1 were set based on the results of large series of such cases published before. From 2011 to 2016, 77 patients with PMP underwent CRS and HIPEC. The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 28 and 75% of the patients had a CC-0/1 resection. The grade 3-4 morbidity was 42.6% and the mortality was 5.2%. The 5-year overall survival (OS) was 62.3% and the 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 71%. The LC-CUSUM analysis showed that for in-hospital mortality, acceptable limits are reached after the 57th case, after the 38th case for the grade 3-4 morbidity and CC-2/3 resections both and after the 70th case for early oncological failure. The number of cases required to attain a minimal level of proficiency for each prognostic variable is different. Using the CUSUM test, surgeons can analyze their performance and determine the areas in which they need to improve before the peak of the learning curve is reached. These outcomes reflect the performance of the multidisciplinary team and not the surgeon alone.

Registries on peritoneal surface malignancies throughout the world, their use and their options

AIM

The treatment of peritoneal surface malignancies ranges from palliative care to full cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy, HIPEC. Ongoing monitoring of patient recruitment and volume is usually carried out through dedicated registries. With multiple registries available worldwide, we sought to investigate the nature, extent and value of existing worldwide CRS and HIPEC registries.

METHODS

A questionnaire was sent out to all known major treatment centres. The questionnaire covers: general purpose of the registry; inclusion criteria in the registry; the date the registry was first established; volume of patients in the registry and description of the data fields in the registries. Finally, the population size of the catchment area of the registry was collected.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven questionnaires where returned. National databases are established in northwest European countries. There are five international general databases. Most database collect data on patients who have undergone an attempt to CRS and HIPEC. Two registries collect data on all patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis regardless the treatment. Most registries are primarily used for tracking outcomes and complications. When correlating the number of cases of CRS and HIPEC that are performed to the catchment area of the various registry, a large variation in the number of performed procedures related to the overall population was noted, ranging from 1.3 to 57 patients/million year with an average of 15 patients/1 million year.

CONCLUSIONS

CRS and HIPEC is a well-established treatment for peritoneal surface malignancies worldwide. However, the coverage as well as the registration of treatment procedures differs widely. The most striking difference is the proportion of HIPEC procedures per capita which ranges from 1.3 to 57 patients per million. This suggests either a difference in patient selection, lack of access to HIPEC centres or lack of appropriate data collection.

Does having a gastrectomy delay time to feeding and prolong hospital stay in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy?

AIM

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is routinely used to treat selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis, but can be associated with prolonged hospital stay, significant morbidity and mortality. Our objective was to assess whether patients undergoing gastrectomy as part of CRS/HIPEC were at increased risk of delayed feeding time and prolonged hospital stay.

METHODS

Two hundred and fourteen consecutive patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis treated with CRS/HIPEC between 2001 and 2016 were stratified by whether CRS included gastrectomy (n = 19, 9%) and compared. Primary outcomes were time to full feeds and rate of serious morbidity (Clavien-Dindo grades III-V). Secondary outcomes were durations of ICU and hospital stays.

RESULTS

Of 214 patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC, those undergoing gastrectomy (19, 8.9%) had increased time to full feeds (8 vs. 5 days, p < 0.01), and duration of ICU (2 vs. 1 days, p < 0.01) and total hospital stays (16 vs. 14 days, p = 0.013). There was no significant increase in serious complications, although increased risk of pneumonia was noted (21% vs. 4.1%, p = 0.011). Undergoing gastrectomy was not independently prognostic in multivariable analysis including high peritoneal tumour load (PCI >12), multiple CRS procedures (number >2) and operation duration (>480 min) in which operative duration remained independently prognostic (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

After surgery, early oral refeeding may be beneficial in the majority of patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC. However, patients found to have high peritoneal tumour load with extended surgery and those who underwent gastrectomy should be considered for early post-operative TPN due to the significant risk of delayed time to full feeds.

The Impact of Early Recurrence on Quality of Life after Cytoreduction with HIPEC

Improved oncological outcomes after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in highly selected patients have been well documented. The extensive nature of the procedure adversely affects quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study is to longitudinally evaluate QoL following CRS/HIPEC. This is a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients with peritoneal malignancies undergoing CRS/HIPEC. Clinicopathological data, oncologic outcomes, and QoL were analyzed preoperatively and post-operatively at 2 weeks, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal instrument was used to determine changes in QoL after CRS/HIPEC and the impact of early recurrence (<12 months) on QoL. Thirty-six patients underwent CRS/HIPEC over 36 months. The median peritoneal cancer index score was 18 and the completeness of cytoreduction-0/1 rate was 97.2 per cent. Postoperative major morbidity was 16.7 per cent with one perioperative death. Disease-free survival was 12.6 months in patients with high-grade tumors versus 31.0 months in those with low-grade tumors (P = 0.03). QoL decreased postoperatively and improved to baseline in six months. Patients with early recurrence had a decrease in global QoL compared with preoperative QoL at 6 (P < 0.03) and 12 months (P < 0.05). This correlation was not found in patients who had not recurred. Patients who undergo CRS/HIPEC have a decrease in QoL that plateaus in 3 to 6 months. Early recurrence adversely impacts QoL at 6 and 12 months. This study emphasizes the importance of patient selection for CRS/HIPEC. The expected QoL trajectory in patients at risk for early recurrence must be carefully weighed against the potential oncological benefit of CRS/HIPEC.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for appendiceal and colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis: Clinical outcomes at 2 tertiary referral centers in Korea

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is regarded as effective surgical treatments in patients with peritoneal metastasis. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of CRS and HIPEC in patients with appendiceal or colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis.A total of 66 patients who underwent CRS with HIPEC for appendiceal or colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastasis at 2 tertiary referral centers in Korea were evaluated between July 2014 and March 2016. The perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications were evaluated prospectively.The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 15.3 ± 10.5. The distributions thereof were as follows: PCI < 10, 33.3%; PCI 10-19, 36.4%; and PCI≥20, 30.3%. Regarding completeness of cytoreduction (CC), 59.1% of patients achieved CC-0, with 18.2% showing CC-1 and 22.7% showing CC-2. The mean operation time was 9.4 hours, and the mean hospital stay was 20.2 days. The overall rate of short-term complications was 74.2%; the rate of long-term complications was 10.6%. In the short-term period, most complications were grades I-II complications (62.1%), compared to grades III-V (12.1%). All long-term complications, occurring in 10.6% of patients, were grades III-V.In this study, CRS with HIPEC was deemed feasible and safe for treating stage IV appendiceal or colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis in Koreans.

Postoperative complications affect long-term outcomes after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Morbidity after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC) for colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) may negatively affect survival. The objective was to determine the impact of postoperative complications (CX) on survival in patients undergoing CRS + HIPEC for colorectal PC.

METHODS

All patients undergoing laparotomy for planned CRS + HIPEC for colorectal PC at a single institution from 1999 to 2014 were included. Patients were divided into three groups: CRS + HIPEC without CX (+HIPEC-CX); CRS + HIPEC with postoperative complication (+HIPEC + CX); and aborted CRS and HIPEC due to unresectable disease (-HIPEC). Postoperative morbidity were defined as Clavien II+ complications. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses and multivariable Cox proportional hazard modeling were used to describe the disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-two patients were included in the analysis (50 +HIPEC - CX, 40 +HIPEC + CX, 32-HIPEC). Overall complication rate was 42%. OS at 1-, 3-, and 5-years in patients undergoing successful CRS + HIPEC were 97%, 67%, and 45%. CX after successful CRS + HIPEC was independently associated with worsened OS (HR1.58, 95%CI, 1.19-1.97) but not DFS (HR1.11, 95%CI, 0.56-2.20). PCI also independently predicted worsened DFS (HR1.12, 95%CI, 1.06-1.18) and OS (HR1.08, 95%CI, 1.04-1.12). Patients with unresectable disease had significantly worse OS (HR6.50, 95%CI, 1.37-7.01).

CONCLUSIONS

CX after CRS + HIPEC significantly affect OS. Patient selection and perioperative care are of paramount importance in the management of CRS + HIPEC for colorectal PC.

Learning curve for cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal carcinomatosis

Background

Combined cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) has been considered as a standard approach for peritoneal surface malignancy. This study aims to assess the learning curve of this combined approach.

Methods

Prospectively collected data of our first 800 consecutive patients treated by CRS and PIC between January 1996 and July 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Eight hundred patients were divided into two groups and eight groups for comparison. A significant difference was defined as P < 0.05.

Results

A significant increase in the rate of the completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score‐0 from 74.0% to 83.0% was seen with a reduction in rates of other CC scores. Also, there was a decreasing trend in mean blood transfusion units. The rate of viscus perforation, fistula formation and small bowel obstruction was significantly lower in the recent 400 patients. However, there was a significant increase in the incidence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. There was an improvement in the 5‐year survival rate for patients with colorectal cancer, pseudomyxoma peritonei and mesothelioma.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate a learning curve associated with the combined approach of CRS and PIC. With adequate experience, CRS and PIC can be safely performed with acceptable mortality and morbidity.

Outcomes of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastasis

In Taiwan, colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis is considered a terminal condition. We examined the clinical outcomes of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) treatment for colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis in Taiwan.We enrolled patients with colorectal cancer and peritoneal metastasis from Taipei Medical University, Wanfang Hospital between January 1999 and December 2014. Of the enrolled patients, 3 had mucinous-type tumors. In total, we enrolled 31 patients who underwent a total of 33 procedures. Of the 31 patients, 2 received the HIPEC procedure twice. Cytoreductive surgery was performed followed by HIPEC. The hazard ratios of death following cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC were calculated using the Cox proportional hazards model.The 2- and 5-year overall survival rates of these patients following cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC were 57% and 38%, respectively. The completeness of cytoreduction (CC) scores were CC-0, CC-1, CC-2, and CC-3 in 18 (54.5%), 3 (9%), 7 (21.2%), and 5 (15.2%) patients, respectively. The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 16.20, and the mean postoperative PCI (PPCI) was 4.6. The major risk factors for death in these patients were a total PCI score > 20, total PPCI score > 0, and CC score ≥ 2 (P = 0.022, 0.031, and 0.0001, respectively; log-rank test). Multivariate analysis revealed that the total PPCI score was the strongest predictor of death following cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC in these patients.In Taiwan, performing cytoreductive surgery and administering HIPEC for treating colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastasis are feasible and resulted in long-term survival. In addition, the total PPCI score was related to poor prognosis following cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC in patients with colorectal cancer and peritoneal metastasis.

Intraperitoneal free cancer cells in gastric cancer: pathology of peritoneal carcinomatosis and rationale for intraperitoneal chemotherapy/hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in gastric cancer

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) is one of the most common causes of death in gastric cancer patients. Intraperitoneal free cancer cells (IFCCs) play a very important role in forming PC, but the administration of intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) and/or hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) could be an effective treatment for IFCCs. This review focuses on the origin of IFCCs, the mechanism of PC formatting, the rationale of IPC/HIPEC, and the current clinical trials on IPC/HIPEC to treat advanced gastric cancer patients.

Treatment of peritoneal surface malignancies with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy-current perspectives

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (ptc) represents advanced malignant disease and has generally been associated with a grim prognosis. Peritoneal surface malignancy is often the major source of morbidity and mortality; it is of major concern in cancer management. Although ptc is categorized as metastatic disease, it represents a special disease pattern considered to be a locoregional disease limited to the abdominal cavity. The combination of cytoreductive surgery (crs) and intraoperative hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (hipec) has successfully been used as locoregional treatment for selected patients with ptc from gastric, colorectal, and ovarian cancer; with mesothelioma; and with pseudomyxoma peritonei. In the prophylactic setting, hipec can also be used to prevent ptc in high-risk patients, and the first results of the "second-look" approach are promising. Patient selection-in which the risks of perioperative morbidity and mortality, which are analogous to those for any other major gastrointestinal surgery, are assessed-is of utmost importance. Those risks have to be weighed against the anticipated survival benefit, which depends mainly on tumour biology, extent of disease, and probability of achieving complete crs. The present review discusses the principles of crs and hipec, the most significant recent clinical data, and current perspectives concerning the application of this treatment modality in various malignancies. Ongoing trials and future directions are noted. It appears that the combination of crs and hipec is an indispensable tool in the oncologist's armamentarium.

Morbidity and mortality outcomes after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients aged 75 years and over: Spanish group of peritoneal cancer surgery (GECOP) multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to report the perioperative outcomes of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients ≥75 years from a Spanish multi-institutional experience.

METHODS

This multi-institutional retrospectively analyzed a prospectively collected clinical data from 10 Spanish hospitals that are part of the Spanish Group Peritoneal Cancer Surgery (GECOP). We assessed postoperative morbidity rates and performed univariate and multivariate analyses of factors associated with overall (grade I-IV) and major (grade III-IV) postoperative morbidity.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients aged ≥75 years were included. Forty six postoperative adverse events were detected in 37 patients (43.5%). Twenty five complications in 20 patients (23.5%) were mild (grade I-II) and 16 complications in 12 patients (14.1%) were moderate-severe (grade III-IV). Five patients died in the first 90 days after the procedure (5.9%). After multivariate analysis, independent factors associated with postoperative complications were: PCI> 12 (OR: 4.14, 95% CI 1.22-14.12, p = 0.043) and the need for perioperative blood transfusion (OR: 14.91, 95% CI 3.87-57.46, p < 0.001). Regarding grade III-IV complications, after multivariate analysis, the presence of preoperative albumin levels <3.5 mgr/dl (OR: 9.15, 95% CI 1.38-60.57, p = 0.017), need for diaphragmatic peritonectomy procedures (OR: 11.32, 95% CI 1.40-91.32, p = 0.023) and perioperative blood transfusion (OR: 8.58, 95% CI 1.44-51.16, p = 0.018) were independent factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytoreductive surgery and performing HIPEC by experienced groups in selected patients aged ≥75 years can be performed with morbidity and mortality similar to that described in the literature.

Evaluation of Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Carcinomatosis of Colorectal Origin in the Era of Value-Based Medicine

Peritoneal spread from colorectal cancer is second only to the liver as a site for metastasis. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) is a well-established treatment option for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) of colorectal origin. However, due to concerns regarding both its clinical benefit and high cost, its universal adoption as the standard of care for patients with limited peritoneal dissemination has been slow. The purpose of this review was to clarify the clinical utility and cost effectiveness of CRS-HIPEC in the treatment of colorectal PC using the framework of value-based medicine, which attempts to combine both benefit and cost into a single quantifiable metric. Our comprehensive review of the clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness of CRS-HIPEC demonstrate that it is a highly valuable oncologic therapy and a good use of healthcare resources.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: a review of factors contributing to morbidity and mortality

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is associated with prolonged survival for appropriately selected patients with peritoneal dissemination of abdominal malignancies. CRS and HIPEC has been criticized for perceived high rates of morbidity and mortality. Morbidity and mortality rates of CRS and HIPEC, however, do not appear dissimilar to those of other large abdominal surgeries, particularly when relevant patient and operative factors are accounted for. The risk of morbidity and mortality following this surgery for a given individual can be predicted in part by a variety of patient and operative factors. While strong data are lacking, the limited data that exists on the matter suggests that the independent contribution of the heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy to CRS and HIPEC morbidity is relatively small. A more thorough understanding of the patient and operative factors associated with CRS and HIPEC morbidity and mortality, as well as the specific complications related to the intraperitoneal chemotherapy, can better inform clinicians in multidisciplinary teams and patients alike in the decision-making for this surgery.

Treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin

The management of peritoneal carcinomatosis from colon cancer remains a controversial issue. Peritoneal carcinomatosis is associated with worse survival and has led to an aggressive treatment that combines surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC). This review will describe the rationale behind this treatment and the current controversy surrounding it.

Impact of surgical volume of centers on post-operative outcomes from cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intra-peritoneal chemoperfusion

Complex surgical operations performed at centers of high volume have improved outcomes due to improved surgical proficiency, and betters systems of care including avoidance of errors. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intra-peritoneal chemoperfusion (HIPEC), which has been shown to be an oncologically effective strategy for peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC), is one such procedure with significant morbidity and mortality. The learning curve to reach technical proficiency in CRS + HIPEC is about 140-220 cases for a center. Focus on improving surgical proficiency through training, improving systems of care through partnerships and reporting mechanisms for quality could reduce the time to proficiency.

Progress in treatments for colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases during the years 2010-2015. A systematic review

Peritoneal metastases (PM) from colorectal cancer (CRC) were traditionally associated with bad prognosis. Only recently, cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has resulted in survival improvements. A systematic literature search between January 2010 and June 2015 was performed. Studies were selected and appraised according to predetermined criteria. Nineteen cohort studies, and thirteen comparative studies of CRS/HIPEC were included. The weighted median overall survival was 31.6 months (range 16-51). Major morbidity was 17.6-52.4% (weighted average 32.6%). Mortality was 0-8.1% (weighted average 2.9%). Additional relevant topics, such as CRC-PM prevalence, results by systemic therapies, preoperative work-up, and technical aspects were summarized through a narrative review. The recent literature suggests that CRS/HIPEC is gaining acceptance as standard of care for selected CRC-PM patients. Refinement of selection criteria, and rationalization of comprehensive systemic and local-regional management is ongoing. Prevention and early treatment of PM are new and promising options.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer associated peritoneal carcinomatosis (GCPC) has a poor prognosis with a median survival of less than one year. Systemic chemotherapy including targeted agents has not been found to significantly increase the survival in GCPC. Since recurrent gastric cancer remains confined to the abdominal cavity in many patients, regional therapies like aggressive cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have been investigated for GCPC. HIPEC has been used for three indications in GC- as an adjuvant therapy after a curative surgery, HIPEC has been shown to improve survival and reduce peritoneal recurrences in many randomised trials in Asian countries; as a definitive treatment in established PC, HIPEC along with CRS is the only therapeutic modality that has resulted in long-term survival in select groups of patients; as a palliative treatment in advanced PC with intractable ascites, HIPEC has been shown to control ascites and reduce the need for frequent paracentesis. While the results of randomised trials of adjuvant HIPEC from western centres are awaited, the role of HIPEC in the treatment of GCPC is still evolving and needs larger studies before it is accepted as a standard of care.

Cytoreductive surgery with a hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy program: Safe after 40 cases, but only controlled after 140 cases

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), used to treat peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM), is a complex procedure with significant major morbidity (MM).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the learning curve (LC) of CRS with HIPEC in a new specialized surgical unit with a fully trained senior surgeon and individualize the variables associated with morbidity and oncological results.

METHODS

A total of 290 consecutive patients with PSM were included. Complete CRS with HIPEC was performed in 204 patients. A risk-adjusted sequential probability ratio test was used to assess the LC on the basis of rates of incomplete cytoreduction (IC) and MM.

RESULTS

Complete CRS, MM, and mortality rates were 70.4%, 30.4%, and 2.5%, respectively. Tumor histotype, a high peritoneal cancer index (PCI) and the invaded region were the major independent risk factors for IC, whereas previous surgery, high PCI, stomia realization and blood transfusion were predictors of MM. RA-SPRT showed that 140 and 40 cases were needed to achieve the lowest risk of IC and MM, respectively.

CONCLUSION

CRS with HIPEC to treat PSM has a steep LC. Drastic selection has to be made at the beginning, excluding high PCI, rare peritoneal disease and patients previously operated on.

Implementation of a standardized HIPEC protocol improves outcome for peritoneal malignancy

BACKGROUND

Experience with Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in a pioneer hospital resulted in a treatment protocol that has become the standard in the Netherlands. Outcome of CRS and HIPEC was reviewed to assure differences between the pioneer phase and the period wherein the Dutch HIPEC protocol was clinically implemented.

METHODS

The first consecutive 100 CRS and HIPEC procedures performed in the Netherlands were included as pioneer cohort (1995-1999). Two-hundred and seventy-two procedures that were performed in three participating HIPEC centres after the implementation of the Dutch HIPEC protocol were included as the implementation cohort (2005-2012). Another 100 recent patients of the first centre were included as a control group (2009-2011). Indications for the CRS and HIPEC treatment were peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal carcinoma and pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP).

RESULTS

Of the 472 included procedures, 327 (69 %) procedures were performed for PC from colorectal carcinoma and 145 for PMP (31 %). Compared with the implementation phase, the pioneer phase was characterized by more affected abdominal regions (mean 4.3 vs. 3.5, p < 0.001), more resections (mean 3.8 vs. 3.4, p < 0.001), less macroscopic radical cytoreductions (66 vs. 86 %, p < 0.001) and more patients with major morbidity (grade III-V) (64 vs. 32 %, p < 0.001). Other determinants of morbidity were high tumour load and multiple organ resections. Outcome of the implementation phase was similar to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study determined that outcome had improved ever since the Dutch HIPEC protocol has been implemented based on completeness of cytoreduction and decreasing morbidity.

Cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: The learning curve reassessed

BACKGROUND

CytoReductive Surgery and Hyperthermic IntraPEritoneal Chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) is now the preferred treatment of many peritoneal surface malignancies. In this retrospective study we aimed to analyze how several performance indicators changed during the first 100 CRS-HIPEC procedures in hospitals which recently introduced this treatment, and compare those with an experienced institution.

METHODS

The first consecutive 100 CRS-HIPEC procedures of three institutions were compared to those of the pioneer hospital. The training provided by the pioneer hospital consisted of hands-on training during the first ten procedures; hereafter guidance was available on consult basis. Operation characteristics, morbidity and completeness of cytoreduction were evaluated by case sequence. Locally-estimated-scatter-plot smoothing was used to evaluate the learning curve.

RESULTS

From four institutions 372 cases were included. A macroscopic complete cytoreduction was reached in 66% of the cases in the pioneer hospital and in 86% in the new hospitals (p < 0.001). Complete cytoreduction rates were higher at start off in the new institutions compared with the experienced institution and increased significantly in the first 100 procedures. The new hospitals started with lower morbidity than the experienced hospital, which did not significantly decrease during the study period.

CONCLUSION

New institutions that were trained and mentored by an experienced CRS-HIPEC hospital performed better from the beginning with regard to complete cytoreduction and morbidity rate with than the experienced center. An improvement in complete cytoreduction rate during the first 100 procedures was observed in the new institutions.

High-quality results of cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy perfusion for carcinomatosis at a low volume institution

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Maximal cytoreductive surgery (CS) with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy perfusion (HIPEC) for peritoneal carcinomatosis can improve oncologic outcomes, but is associated with significant morbidity. Whether low-volume experience with CS/HIPEC results in acceptable outcomes is unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing CS/HIPEC by a single surgeon. Experience was divided into first versus second 50 cases, and patient characteristics, operative details, and outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

Ninety patients underwent 100 CS/HIPEC procedures (mean age 57 years, 68% female). -Compared to the initial experience, the second 50 cases included more high grade tumors (68 vs. 52%) and greater disease burden (PCI 14.2 vs. 12.4). Operative times remained unchanged and mean blood loss decreased (978 vs. 684 ml). Hospital stay (mean 18.1 vs. 12.6 days), major complications (24 vs. 16%), and perioperative mortality (8 vs. 2%) declined. Overall median survival was 18 months and was longer with low grade tumors (26 vs. 16 months, P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients experienced reduced EBL, fewer major complications, and shorter hospital stay, despite having higher disease burden and higher grade tumors. This suggests that even low-volume experience with CS/HIPEC can lead to a trend in reduction of adverse perioperative events with acceptable oncologic outcomes.

Looking up: Recent advances in understanding and treating peritoneal carcinomatosis

Until recently, a diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis was uniformly accompanied by a grim prognosis that was typically measured in weeks to months. Consequently, the management of carcinomatosis revolves largely around palliation of symptoms such as bowel obstruction, nausea, pain, fatigue, and cachexia. A prior lack of effective treatment options created the nihilistic view that currently exists and persists despite improvements in the efficacy of systemic therapy and the evolution of multimodality approaches including surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This article reviews the evolution and current state of treatment options for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. In addition, it highlights recent advances in understanding the molecular biology of carcinomatosis and the focus of current and future clinical trials. Finally, this article provides practical management options for the palliation of common complications of carcinomatosis. It is hoped that the reader will recognize that carcinomatosis is no longer an imminent death sentence and that through continued research and therapeutic innovation, clinicians can make an even greater impact on this form of metastatic cancer.

Preliminary Experience and Morbidity Analysis of Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) from a Tertiary Cancer Center in India

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) can arise directly from peritoneum (primary) or from regional spread of gastrointestinal and gynecological malignancies. It is often considered a terminal event. CRS/HIPEC procedure provides encouraging outcomes in select sub-set of patients with PC. In this study we present our initial experience of this combined procedure from a tertiary cancer care center in India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2014 to January 2015, 13 patients underwent CRS + HIPEC procedure at our center. Preoperative assessment for cytoreduction was done using contrast CT-scan of the abdomen and staging laparoscopy. All procedures were performed by the same surgical team. After cytoreduction, HIPEC was performed by closed method.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 52 and median PCI was 13.5 (5-21). Ovarian cancers were commonest origin of PC in our series. All patients had a complete cytoreduction with a median operative time of 8.3 hours. Postoperative ileus was the commonest adverse event. In the immediate postoperative period, major complications were observed in 23% (3/13) of our patients (1. intra-abdominal abscess 2. Septicemia and liver function derangement 3. Bowel obstruction which required a re-operation. Median hospital stay was 12 days (range 9-45 days) and there was no perioperative mortality.

CONCLUSION

Our initial results indicate that CRS + HIPEC procedure can be performed with acceptable morbidity and no mortality. Appropriate case selection by a multi-disciplinary team is vital to achieve complete cytoreduction and optimize outcomes.

Immunohistochemical Evaluation of Minichromosome Maintenance Protein 7 (MCM7), Topoisomerase IIα, and Ki-67 in Diffuse Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma Patients Using Tissue Microarray

PURPOSE

Immunohistochemistry and tissue microarray (TMA) were used to perform a prognostic analysis of markers related to cell proliferation in diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM).

METHODS

Clinicopathologic data were extracted from a prospectively collected database containing cases of peritoneal mesothelioma treated with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the National Cancer Institute of Milan from 1995 to 2013. Eighty-one DMPM patients were recruited and their tissue samples were used to construct TMAs. We evaluated the immunoexpressions of markers related to cell proliferation-topoisomerase IIα, minichromosome maintenance protein 7 (MCM7), and Ki-67-and then conducted a multivariate Cox model to identify the predictors of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) among the following parameters: age, sex, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, baseline serum albumin, Charlson Comorbidity Index, previous systemic chemotherapy, histological subtype (epithelioid vs. biphasic/sarcomatoid), peritoneal cancer index, completeness of cytoreduction (CC), and proliferative biological markers.

RESULTS

The rates of high/intermediate immunoreactivity were 95 % for topoisomerase IIα and 90 % for MCM7, and the median Ki-67 labeling index was 5 %. The independent predictors of OS were baseline serum albumin >3.5 g/dl, CC, and Ki-67 >5 %, whereas those for PFS were an ECOG performance status of 0, baseline serum albumin >3.5 g/dl, Charlson Comorbidity Index >3, previous systemic chemotherapy, morbidity G3-5, and Ki-67 >5 %. The remaining biological markers were not associated with outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Ki-67 was found to be a new powerful determinant of outcome. Patients with a Ki-67 labeling index >5 % carry a very poor prognosis and do not benefit from the combined procedure. Further studies should be conducted to confirm the present data.

Peritonectomy and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: cost analysis and sustainability

BACKGROUND

Malignancies of the peritoneum remain a challenge in any hospital that accepts to manage them, due not only to difficulties associated with the complexity of the procedures involved but also the costs, which - in Italy and other countries that use a diagnosis-related group (DRG) system - are not adequately reimbursed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed data relative to 24 patients operated on between September 2010 and May 2013 with special regard to operating room expenditure, ICU stay, duration of hospitalization, and DRG reimbursement. The total costs per patient included clinical, operating room, procedure, pathology, imaging, ward care, allied healthcare, pharmaceutical, and ICU costs.

RESULTS

Postoperative hospital stay, drugs and materials, and operating room occupancy were the main factors affecting the expenditure for cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. We had a median hospitalization of 14 days, median ICU stay of 2.4 days, and median operating room occupancy of 585 min. The median expenditure for each case was € 21,744; the median reimbursement by the national health system € 8,375.

CONCLUSIONS

In a DRG reimbursement system, the economic effort in the management of patients undergoing peritonectomy procedures may not be counterbalanced by adequate reimbursement. Joint efforts between medical and administration parties are mandatory to develop appropriate treatment protocols and keep down the costs.

Multicentre study of the learning curve and surgical performance of cytoreductive surgery with intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei

Background

The learning curves for cytoreductive surgery with intraperitoneal chemotherapy for treatment of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) were explored between international centres/surgeons to identify institutional or other factors that might affect performance.

Methods

Data from patients with PMP treated with the combined procedure across 33 international centres between 1993 and 2012 were analysed retrospectively. A risk-adjusted sequential probability ratio test was conducted after defining the target outcome as early oncological failure (disease progression within 2 years of treatment), an acceptable risk for the target outcome (odds ratio) of 2, and type I/II error rates of 5 per cent. The risk prediction model was elaborated and patients were evaluated sequentially for each centre/surgeon. The learning curve was considered to be overcome and proficiency achieved when the odds ratio for early oncological failure became smaller than 2.

Results

Rates of optimal cytoreduction, severe postoperative morbidity and early oncological failure were 84·4, 25·7 and 29·0 per cent respectively. The median annual centre volume was 17 (range 6–66) peritoneal malignancies. Only eight of the 33 centres and six of 47 surgeons achieved proficiency after a median of 100 (range 78–284) and 96 (86–284) procedures respectively. The most important institutional factor affecting surgical performance was centre volume.

Conclusion

The learning curve is extremely long, so centralization and/or networking of centres is necessary to assure quality of services. One centre for every 10–15 million inhabitants would be ideal.

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy from Armstrong to HIPEC: challenges and promise

OPINION

The treatment of advanced stage ovarian, primary peritoneal and fallopian tube cancer represents a therapeutic challenge as evidenced by the 70 %-80 % recurrence rate. Our understanding of the synergy between surgical cytoreduction and effective systemic chemotherapy continues to evolve, with research supporting maximal cytoreductive effort followed by intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Specifically, analysis of phase III clinical trials has shown a median survival of 110 months in those treated with intraperitoneal chemotherapy, when surgery results in no visible residual disease. Additionally, incorporation of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy at the time of surgical resection has gained attention as an alternate therapeutic option, in an attempt to obviate toxicities encountered with repetitive cycles of intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Currently, surgical cytoreduction in the hands of an experienced gynecologic oncologist, followed by intraperitoneal chemotherapy is thought to portend the greatest survival benefit in patients with advanced stage ovarian cancer spectrum cancers. Additional investigation regarding the oncologic outcomes and morbidity of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is warranted.

Postoperative complications after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy affect long-term outcome of patients with peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer: a two-center study of 101 patients

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is an effective but potentially morbid treatment for colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases. The impact of treatment-related morbidity on long-term survival has been reported in various malignancies, but it has never been assessed in this clinical setting.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of major postoperative complications on oncological outcomes after cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for colorectal peritoneal metastases.

DESIGN

Two prospective databases were reviewed. Major complications were defined as grade 3 to 5 according to the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0. The extent of peritoneal involvement was scored by the use of the Peritoneal Cancer Index.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted in 2 high-volume peritoneal malignancy management centers.

PATIENTS

One hundred one consecutive patients with peritoneal metastases potentially amenable to macroscopically complete cytoreduction were selected.

INTERVENTIONS

Peritonectomy procedures and multivisceral resections were used to remove all macroscopic tumor, and mitomycin-C plus cisplatin-based hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy was used to control microscopic residual disease.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were overall and disease-specific survival.

RESULTS

Mortality and major morbidity were 3.0%, and 23.8%. Median follow-up was 44.9 months (95% CI, 24.1-65.7). Five-year disease-specific survival was 14.3% for patients who experienced major complications and 52.3% for those who did not (p = 0.001). Five-year overall survival was 11.7% for patients who experienced major complications, and 58.8% for those who did not (p = 0.003). At multivariate analysis, major morbidity correlated to both worse overall and disease-specific survival, along with a Peritoneal Cancer Index >19, and suboptimal cytoreduction. Poor performance status correlated only to worse disease-specific survival, and liver metastases correlated to worse overall survival. Longer operative time (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.3-12.6; p = 0.01) and Peritoneal Cancer Index >19 (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.1-6.0; p = 0.02) were independent risk factors for major morbidity.

LIMITATIONS

This study is limited by its observational design.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevention of major complications, by refining surgical technique and patient selection, is crucial because it affects oncologic outcome.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for managing peritoneal carcinomatosis from endometrial carcinoma: a single-center experience of 6 cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Endometrial carcinoma is the most common gynecologic malignancy worldwide. Prognosis of patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from endometrial carcinoma is deadly, with an estimated median survival not exceeding 12 months. The objective of this study was to report our experience with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for managing PC from primary and recurrent endometrial carcinoma.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

A retrospective analysis of 6 patients with PC arising from endometrial cancer, who were managed with CRS and HIPEC at our referral tertiary care center, from November 2010 to August 2013.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six patients underwent CRS and HIPEC. CRS was performed using standard peritonectomy procedures and visceral resections directed toward the complete elimination of tumors from ab.dominopelvic cavity. HIPEC was performed with cisplatin (50 mg/m2) and doxorubicin (15 mg/m2) and allowed to circulate in abdominopelvic cavity for 90 minutes at 41.0 to 42.2°C.

RESULTS

Two patients with primary endometrial carcinoma and 4 patients with recurrent endometrial carcino.ma confined to peritoneal cavity were studied. Complete cytoreduction (CC-0) was achieved in 5 patients. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stages and histopathological types were as follows: IB endometrioid adenocarcinomas (n=1), IC mesonephric carcinomas (n=1), IIIA endometrioid adenocarcino.mas (n=2), IIIA papillary serous carcinomas (n=1), and IIIC clear-cell carcinomas (n=1). Anastomotic leak (grade I) was the most commonly encountered postoperative complication. Two patients developed grade IV compli.cations due to septicemia and pulmonary embolism. No intraoperative mortality occurred. Postoperatively, all patients received chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel). In 1 patient, the clear-cell carcinoma histologic lesion relapsed within 6 months; the metastases spread to hepatic, pelvic, and mesenteric lymph nodes, and the patient died 5 months later. One patient with cytoreduction completeness of CC-2 developed hepatic metastases within 3 months and is still alive at a follow-up up 6 months. Remaining patients (n=4) are alive and disease free without evidence of recurrence of follow-ups at 35, 34, 19, and 7 months.

CONCLUSION

CRS and HIPEC are well-tolerated and feasibly promising management modalities in PC from primary and recurrent endometrial carcinoma. Further research is needed for in-depth analysis.

Patient- and surgeon-adjusted control charts for monitoring performance

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether an innovative graphical tool for accurate measurement of individual surgeon performance metrics, adjusted for both surgeon-specific and patient-specific factors, significantly alters interpretation of performance data.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of all total knee replacements (TKRs) conducted at the host institution between 1996 and 2009. The database was randomly divided into training and testing datasets. Using multivariate generalised estimating equation regression models, the training dataset enabled generation of patient-risk and surgeon-experience adjustment factors. To simulate prospective monitoring of individual surgeon outcomes, the testing dataset was mapped on control charts. Weighted κ statistics were calculated to measure the agreement between patient-risk adjusted and fully adjusted control charts.

SETTING

Tertiary care academic hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

All patients undergoing TKR at the host institution 1996-2009.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Operative efficiency.

RESULTS

5313 procedures were analysed. Adjusted control charts were generated using a training dataset comprising 3756 procedures performed by 13 surgeons. The operative time gradually declined by 121 min with 25 years of experience (p<0.0001). Charts were tested by monitoring four other surgeons, performing an average of 389 procedures each. Adjustment for surgeon experience significantly altered the interpretation of operative efficiency (κ=0.29 (95% CI 0.11 to 0.47)), and enhanced assessment of a surgeon's improvement or diminishment in efficiency over time. Specifically, experience adjustment inverted the interpretation of surgeon efficiency from above average to below average, or from improving to declining performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjustment for surgeon experience is necessary for accurate interpretation of metrics over the course of a surgeon's career. Patient-adjusted and surgeon-adjusted control charts provide an accurate method of monitoring individual operative efficiency.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in epithelial ovarian cancer: State of the art

Advanced stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is difficult to treat with low overall cure rates. A new strategy combining maximal cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with intra-operative hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been proposed to treat advanced stage EOC in the primary setting. Numerous small, heterogeneous studies have been conducted exploring outcomes in patients with predominantly advanced, recurrent or refractory disease treated with CRS + HIPEC. Although morbidity rates approaching 35% have been reported, oncologic outcomes are promising. Incorporation of HIPEC for the treatment of primary EOC has continued to gain interest. Several prospective phase 2 clinical trials were recently completed evaluating the impact of CRS + HIPEC in the primary setting. This article will briefly discuss the benefits of optimal surgical cytoreduction and the theoretical basis of intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients with advanced stage EOC, and will then review existing literature describing oncologic outcomes in EOC patients treated with HIPEC in the primary setting.

Safe temperature range for intraoperative and early postoperative continuous hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion in a swine model of experimental distal gastrectomy with Billroth II reconstruction

Background

The current study sought to investigate the safety of intraoperative and early postoperative continuous hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion (IEPCHIP) at different temperatures in a swine model of experimental distal gastrectomy with Billroth II reconstruction.

Methods

Thirty pigs were randomly divided into 5 groups. Two groups were used as the control groups (groups A1 and A2), and 3 groups were used as the perfusion groups (groups B, C and D). Pigs in group A1 received distal gastrectomy with Billroth II reconstruction only. Pigs in groups A2, B, C and D received the same surgery as group A1, followed by IEPCHIP at 37 ± 0.5°C, 42.5 ± 0.5°C, 43.5 ± 0.5°C or 44.5 ± 0.5°C, respectively. The perfusion time was assessed for each pig in group A2 as well as in the perfusion groups, and the perfusions were performed twice for each group. The first perfusion was conducted intraoperatively, and the second perfusion was initiated 1 day after surgery. Data concerning vital signs and hepatic and renal function were collected. Parameters concerning anastomotic healing, the pathology of the anastomotic tissue and abdominal adhesion were compared.

Results

The vital signs and hepatic and renal functions of the pigs in groups A1, A2, B and C were not significantly affected by this procedure. In contrast, the vital signs and hepatic and renal functions of the pigs in group D were significantly affected. Compared to the pigs in groups A1, A2 or B, the anastomotic bursting pressure, breaking strength and hydroxyproline content in group C and D pigs were significantly lower. No significant differences were observed in these parameters between groups A1, A2 and B. Abdominal adhesion was more severe in group D pigs. Collagen deposition in group A1, A2 and B pigs was dense in the anastomosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in group D.

Conclusions

IEPCHIP at 42.5 ± 0.5°C was safe and caused minimal impairments. However, anastomotic healing was affected by perfusion at 43.5 ± 0.5°C and 44.5 ± 0.5°C, and abdominal adhesion was most severe in the group D animals, which were perfused at 44.5 ± 0.5°C.

A monitoring tool for performance improvement in plastic surgery at the individual level

BACKGROUND

The assessment of performance in surgery is expanding significantly. Application of relevant frameworks to plastic surgery, however, has been limited. In this article, the authors present two robust graphic tools commonly used in other industries that may serve to monitor individual surgeon operative time while factoring in patient- and surgeon-specific elements.

METHODS

The authors reviewed performance data from all bilateral reduction mammaplasties performed at their institution by eight surgeons between 1995 and 2010. Operative time was used as a proxy for performance. Cumulative sum charts and exponentially weighted moving average charts were generated using a train-test analytic approach, and used to monitor surgical performance. Charts mapped crude, patient case-mix-adjusted, and case-mix and surgical-experience-adjusted performance.

RESULTS

Operative time was found to decline from 182 minutes to 118 minutes with surgical experience (p < 0.001). Cumulative sum and exponentially weighted moving average charts were generated using 1995 to 2007 data (1053 procedures) and tested on 2008 to 2010 data (246 procedures). The sensitivity and accuracy of these charts were significantly improved by adjustment for case mix and surgeon experience.

CONCLUSIONS

The consideration of patient- and surgeon-specific factors is essential for correct interpretation of performance in plastic surgery at the individual surgeon level. Cumulative sum and exponentially weighted moving average charts represent accurate methods of monitoring operative time to control and potentially improve surgeon performance over the course of a career.

Diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: long-term survival with complete cytoreductive surgery followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)

BACKGROUND

Prognosis of diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) has been recently improved by cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). As with other peritoneal surface malignancies, the survival benefit is maximal when a complete surgical cytoreduction is achieved, but additional factors predicting long-term outcome are still poorly understood. We sought to investigate outcome and prognostic factors in patients with DMPM treated by complete cytoreduction and HIPEC.

METHODS

From a prospective database, we selected 108 patients with DMPM undergoing complete cytoreduction (residual tumour nodules ≤2.5 mm) and closed-abdomen HIPEC with cisplatin and doxorubicin or mitomycin-C. Twenty-seven patient-, tumour- and treatment-related variables were assessed by multivariate analysis with respect to overall (OS) and progression-free (PFS) survival. A panel of immunohistochemical markers was tested.

RESULTS

Operative mortality was 1.9% and major morbidity 38.9%. Median follow-up was 48.8 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 37.1-60.6). Median OS and PFS were 63.2 months (95%CI 29.6-96.7) and 25.1 months (95%CI 5.1-45.1). The survival curve reached a plateau after 7 years, representing 19 actual survivors of 39 patients (43.6%) with potential follow-up ≥7 years. Cytokeratin 5/6, calretinin, Wilms tumour-1 (WT-1), podoplanin and epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) were mostly positive. At multivariate analysis, epithelial histological subtype, negative lymph-nodes, ≤10% Ki67-positive cells correlated with both increased OS and PFS. Positive podoplanin correlated to increased PFS.

CONCLUSIONS

After complete cytoreduction and HIPEC, prognosis of DMPM is primarily dependent on pathologic and biologic features. Patients with DMPM surviving ≥7 years appeared to be cured. Cure rate was 43.6%. Proliferative index and podoplanin may be used for prognostic stratification.

Outcomes of Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients older than 70 years; survival benefit at considerable morbidity and mortality

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS)/Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is associated with prolonged survival in selected patients with peritoneal surface disease. Yet, for elderly patients (older than 70 years of age) CRS/HIPEC is controversial, due to associated morbidity.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a prospective database of 950 procedures was performed. Type of malignancy, demographics, performance and resection status, hospitalization, morbidity, mortality, and survival were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 81 patients (median age 73, range 70-87) underwent CRS/HIPEC between 1991 and 2011. Median follow-up was 48.1 months. Complete cytoreduction was achieved in 44 %. Median survival was 31.8 months for appendiceal cancer, 41.5 for mesothelioma, 54.0 for ovarian cancer, 13.2 for colon cancer, and 7.6 for gastric cancer. The 30-day mortality was 13.6 %. The combined grade III and IV morbidity was 38 %. Median ICU and hospital stay for uncomplicated patients was 1 and 8 days, respectively. The 3-month mortality was 27.4 %. There were no deaths in the octogenarian group. In stepwise multivariate analysis, type of primary (p = 0.03), albumin (p = 0.02), and R status (p = 0.007) were predictive of survival only in the absence of complications. Splitting the data at the midpoint of surgical experience, there was a drop in 1- and 3-month mortality over time to 9.5 and 19.3 %, respectively, while the median survival increased from 11.2 (N = 39) to 46.9 months (N = 42).

CONCLUSIONS

HIPEC in the elderly is associated with a steep learning curve and considerable morbidity and mortality. However, age alone is not a contraindication for the procedure. Institutional experience and stringent patient selection are key factors for prolonged survival.

Iterative cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for recurrent peritoneal metastases

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) achieves disease control within the peritoneum but recurrences occur. This study examines the outcomes of iterative CRS (iCRS) HIPEC for treatment of recurrent peritoneal metastases.

METHODS

Patients who underwent iCRS in a single tertiary referral center were identified from a prospective database. Safety analysis was performed and clinicopathological variables were analyzed to assess factors predictive of major morbidity and survival.

RESULTS

The demographics of patients who underwent primary cytoreductive surgery (pCRS) (n = 466) and iCRS (n = 79) were balanced between groups. pCRS was shown to require more blood transfusion (P = 0.019) and albumin use (P = 0.013). The mortality and major complication rates were comparable (1.2% vs. 0%; P = 0.600, and 42% vs. 41%; P = 0.806). Residual pneumothorax occurred more frequently after pCRS (12% vs. 4%; P = 0.030). Factors associated with major complications after iCRS include use of HIPEC (P = 0.042) and length of hospital stay (P = 0.024). The overall median survival was 48 months and 5-year survival was 34%. By cancer type, the 3-year survival was 0%, 74%, 80%, and 72% for colorectal, appendiceal pseudomyxoma, peritoneal mesothelioma, and appendix cancer, respectively. Independent predictors of survival include age (P = 0.049), interval between pCRS and iCRS (P = 0.008), small bowel resection (P < 0.001), and use of HIPEC (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Iterative CRS achieved further peritoneal disease control without adverse effects on morbidity. Patients with appendiceal tumors and peritoneal mesothelioma appear to benefit most after iCRS. Intraoperative HIPEC remains important in the repetoire of managing these patients.