Clinical risk factors for anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Development of a Risk Scoring System for Predicting Anastomotic Leakage Following Laparoscopic Rectal Cancer Surgery

Purpose

To develop a risk scoring system that can predict the incidence of anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery.

Patients and Methods

The clinical data of 387 patients with rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection were retrospectively collected. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate independent risk factors for postoperative anastomotic leakage. A simplified points system was then developed based on the corresponding regression coefficient β of each risk factor. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the performance and the optimal cut-off value in predicting anastomotic leakage. The performance of the points system was then externally validated in an independent cohort of 192 patients based in another institution.

Results

Anastomotic leakage occurred in 36 of 387 patients with rectal cancer (9.30%). Logistic multivariable regression analysis showed that males, maximum tumor diameter (≥5cm), operation time (≥180min), preoperative chemoradiation, intraoperative blood transfusion and the anastomosis level from the anal verge (≤5cm) were independent risk factors for the incidence of anastomotic leakage. According to the scoring standard, the risk points of each patient were calculated. ROC analysis based on the risk points showed that the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.795 (95% CI:0.752-0.834) and the optimal cut-off value was 6, yielding a sensitivity of 88.89% and a specificity of 62.96%. Using this risk points system, the AUC of another cohort of 192 patients from another institution who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer was 0.853 (95% CI:0.794-0.900, p<0.001) and patients with risk points ≥6 had a 21.05% chance of developing anastomotic leakage.

Conclusion

This risk points system for predicting anastomotic leakage following laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery may be useful for surgeons in their decisions to perform intraoperative diversion stoma, which can reduce the incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage.

The usefulness of transanal tube for reducing anastomotic leak in mid rectal cancer: compared to diverting stoma

Purpose

Diverting stoma (DS) and transanal tube (TAT) are the 2 main procedures for reducing anastomotic leak (AL) in rectal cancer surgery. However, few studies have compared the protective effect of the 2 modalities against AL.

Methods

Total of 165 patients with mid rectal cancer, who underwent curative resection from 2012 to 2017, were included. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared. Risk factors for AL were identified using multivariate analysis.

Results

The DS group had lower tumor location, higher rates of neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and longer operative time than the TAT group. However, the level of the anastomosis did not show statistically significant differences (DS: 4.6 cm vs. TAT: 4.9 cm, P = 0.061). AL occurred in 14 of the 165 patients (8.5%), with 10 (10.2%) in the DS group and 4 (6.0%) in the TAT group (P = 0.405). On multivariate analysis, only low body mass index (BMI) and smoking were significantly related to AL. Neither the protection method nor neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy demonstrated statistical differences in AL. Seven of 10 patients in the DS group who experienced AL were treated conservatively, while all 4 in the TAT group underwent reoperation.

Conclusion

TAT seems to have comparable protective effect against AL to DS. However, in AL, DS appeared to be more effective in preventing reoperation. Therefore, DS is recommended in patients with low BMI or smoking, and with an expected higher probability of morbidity or mortality in case of reoperation. In other cases, TAT may be considered as an alternative to DS.

Evidence of negative pressure therapy for anastomotic leak: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak (AL) is a devastating complication. Several new treatment options are available, endoluminal negative pressure therapy is one. The aims of this systematic review are; to report success rates and stoma closure rates following endoluminal negative pressure therapy in colorectal AL patients.

METHODS

A systematic review of MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane and Embase databases from inception to June 2018. Search limits were; English language, humans, sample >5 and >18 years. Search terms were Endospong* OR Endo-spong* OR Endo spong* OR Endoluminal negative pressure OR Endoluninal vac* OR Vacuum assisted OR negative pressure. Combined with colon OR rectum OR colorect* AND anastomotic leak OR leak*.

RESULTS

Twenty articles met inclusion criteria. There were 334 patients. Reported success rates ranged from 60% to 100%. However, success definition varied considerably. The most widely used definition was endoscopic assessment of residual cavity size, but this also varied from 0.5 cm to 3 cm. Stoma closure rates were only reported in 11 studies and ranged from 31% to 100%. Complication rates were reported in 13 studies (65%). The most common was on-going sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

Included studies suggest that 60-100% of ALs heal with endoluminal negative pressure therapy. However, results from this review need to be interpreted with caution because of the variable definition of success. A more objective assessment of success may be stoma closure but this is only reported in 60% of studies. Further studies are needed to assess the benefit of negative pressure therapy in anastomotic leaks.

Colorectal anastomosis during cytoreductive radical surgery in patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. Validation of a new technique (without stoma) to prevent anastomosis leakage in more than 1000 procedures

OBJECTIVE

To describe a novel end-to-end "true" reinforced stapling colorectal anastomosis and to assess surgical outcomes in a large case series of advanced cancer patients undergoing this procedure. Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains the main concern following surgery for colorectal cancer.

METHODS

Between September 2006 and May 2018, in the context of the Catalonian Program of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis, 1193 consecutive patients with advanced abdominal and/or pelvic tumors were included in a prospective single-center study. They underwent cytoreductive radical surgery (CRS) in most cases combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Among other surgical procedures, 374 patients underwent rectal resection and colorectal/ileorectal anastomosis, whether alone or associated to other digestive anastomosis. Key aspects of colorectal anastomosis technique were: (1) complete dissection and mobilization of the distal third of the rectum, (2) placement of a stitch that included both ends of the linear stapling of the rectal stump that was knotted on the anvil of the circular stapler, (3) "cleaning" the fatty tissue of the intestinal ends, (4) adjustment of the height of staples to the thickness of the intestinal wall, and (5) a second layer of interrupted nonperforating sutures placed circumferentially to reinforce the stapled anastomoses. A diverting stoma was not performed.

RESULTS

According to clinical criteria, of the 1193 patients included, 296 cases underwent CRS (group 1) and 897 cases CRS + HIPEC (group 2). In group 1, 332 surgical procedures were performed, with 248 digestive anastomoses, of which 98 (39.5%) were colorectal anastomoses, associated to other digestive anastomosis in 37 cases. In group 2, 972 surgical procedures were performed, with 707 digestive anastomoses, of which 263 were colorectal (37.2%), 116 were associated with other digestive anastomosis. Ileocolic anastomosis was the most frequently associated digestive anastomosis. 71 major urinary reconstructions, 283 radical hysterectomies and no diverting stoma were performed. Globally, there was only three colo-ileorectal AL (3/374 = 0.8%). The overall 90-day mortality rate was 0.25%.

CONCLUSIONS

A technical modification to create a "true" end-to-end and completely circular reinforced anastomosis effectively prevents anastomotic leakage in patients with advanced tumors undergoing radical resection of the rectum, with no need of diverting stoma.

Laparoscopic anterior resection with or without transanal tube for rectal cancer patients - A multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In rectal cancer surgery, insertion of transanal tube has been shown to have efficacy to prevent anastomotic leakage. This randomized controlled study aims to clarify the incidence of anastomotic leakage with or without transanal tube in patients with rectal cancer.

METHODS

Patients who underwent elective low anterior resection were randomly allocated to either have transanal tube insertion or not for five days after surgery. We examined the incidence of anastomotic leakage, postoperative 30-day morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

157 patients were randomized to the transanal tube group or the no-transanal tube group. Symptomatic anastomotic leakage occurred in six patients (7.6%) of the former group and eight patients (10.3%) in the latter group, without significant difference (p = 0.559). There was also no significant difference in morbidity between groups (p = 0.633) and no mortality was detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Transanal tube insertion had no significant benefit towards prevention of anastomotic leakage in rectal cancer surgery.

Early postoperative pain as a marker of anastomotic leakage in colorectal cancer surgery

PURPOSE

Even though anastomotic leakage after colorectal surgery is a major clinical problem in need of a timely diagnosis, early indicators of leakage have been insufficiently studied. We therefore conducted a population-based observational study to determine whether the patient's early postoperative pain is an independent marker of anastomotic leakage.

METHODS

By combining the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry and the Swedish Perioperative Registry, we retrieved prospectively collected data on 3084 patients who underwent anastomotic colorectal surgery for cancer in 2014-2017. Postoperative pain, measured with the numerical rating scale (NRS), was considered exposure, while anastomotic leakage and reoperation due to leakage were outcomes. We performed logistic regression to evaluate associations, estimating odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), while multiple imputation was used to handle missing data.

RESULTS

In total, 189 patients suffered from anastomotic leakage, of whom 121 patients also needed a reoperation due to leakage. Moderate or severe postoperative pain (NRS 4-10) was associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.21-2.38), as well as reoperation (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.41-3.32). Severe pain (NRS 8-10) was more strongly related to leakage (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.44-3.93). These associations were confirmed in multivariable analyses and when reoperation due to leakage was used as an outcome.

CONCLUSION

In this population-based retrospective study on prospectively collected data, increased pain in the post-anaesthesia care unit is an independent marker of anastomotic leakage, possibly indicating a need for further diagnostic measures.

Laparoscopic anterior resection: Analysis of technique over 1000 cases

Purpose:

Laparoscopic rectal surgery has moved from being experimental to getting established as a mainstream procedure. We aimed at analysing how rectal cancer surgery has evolved at our institute.

Methods:

A retrospective review of 1000 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal adenocarcinoma over a period of 15 years (January 2005 to December 2019) was performed. Technical modifications were made with splenic flexure mobilisation, intersphincteric dissection and anastomotic technique. The data collected included type of surgery, duration of surgery, conversion to open, anastomotic leak, defunctioning stoma and duration of hospital stay. The first 500 and the next 500 cases were compared.

Results:

The study patients were predominantly males comprising 68% (n = 680). The mean age of the patients was 58.3 years (range: 28–92 years). Majority of the procedures performed were high anterior resection (n = 402) and low anterior resection (LAR) (n = 341) followed by ultra-LAR (ULAR) (n = 208) and ULAR + colo-anal anastomosis (n = 49). A total of 42 patients who were planned for laparoscopic surgery needed conversion to open procedure. Forty-one patients (4.1%) had an anastomotic leak. The mean duration of stay was 5.3 + 2.8 days. The rate of conversion to open procedure had reduced from 5.4% to 3.0%. The rate of defunctioning stoma had reduced by >50% in the recent group. The anastomotic leak rate had reduced from 5.0% to 3.2%. The average duration of stay had reduced from 5.8 days to 4.9 days.

Conclusion:

This is one of the largest single-centre experiences of laparoscopic anterior resection. We have shown the progressive benefits of an evolving approach to laparoscopic anterior resection.

Does intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography decrease the incidence of anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal anastomoses in patients with colorectal cancer carry a high risk of leakage. Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA) is a new technique that allows surgeons to assess the blood perfusion of the anastomosis during operation. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether ICG-FA could prevent anastomotic leakage (AL) in colorectal surgery.

METHODS

Four databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) were searched to identify suitable literatures until March 2020 that compared AL rates between intraoperative use and non-use of ICG-FA in colorectal surgery for cancer. The Review Manager 5.3 software was used to perform the statistical analysis. Evaluation of articles quality and analysis for publication bias were also conducted.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies of 4037 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The study included 1806 patients in the ICG group and 2231 patients in the control group. The pooled incidence of AL in ICG group was 3.8% compared with 7.8% in control group. There was a significant difference in AL rate with or without use of ICG-FA (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.33-0.59; P < 0.00001). Reoperation rates were 2.6% and 6.9% in ICG and control groups, respectively. Application of intraoperative ICG-FA was associated with a lower risk of reoperation (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.16-0.94; P = 0.04). Overall complication rate was 15.6% in the ICG group compared with 21.2% in the control group. Overall complications were significantly reduced when using ICG-FA (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.47-0.82; P = 0.0008). Mortality rate was not statistically different with or without the use of ICG-FA (OR 1.22; 95% CI 0.20-7.30; P = 0.83).

CONCLUSION

The results revealed that ICG-FA reduced risks of AL, reoperation, and overall complications for colorectal cancer patients undergoing colorectal surgery. Well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the usefulness of intraoperative ICG-FA for preventing surgical complications like AL and reoperation.

Assessment of a circular powered stapler for creation of anastomosis in left-sided colorectal surgery: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Circular staplers perform a critical function for creation of anastomoses in colorectal surgeries. Powered stapling systems allow for reduced force required by surgeons to fire the device and may provide advantages for creating a secure anastomosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of a novel circular powered stapler in a post-market setting, during left-sided colectomy procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive subjects underwent left-sided colorectal resections that included anastomosis performed with the ECHELON CIRCULAR™ Powered Stapler (ECP). The primary endpoint was the frequency in which a stapler performance issue was observed. Secondary endpoints included evaluation of ease of use of the device via a surgeon satisfaction questionnaire, and monitoring/recording of procedure-related adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

A total of 168 anastomoses were performed with the ECP. Surgical approaches included robotic-assisted (n = 74, 44.0%), laparoscopic (n = 71, 42.3%), open (n = 20, 11.9%), and hand-assisted minimally invasive (n = 3, 1.8%) procedures. There were 22 occurrences of device performance issues in 20 (11.9%) subjects during surgery. No positive intraoperative leak tests were observed, and only 1 issue was related to a procedure-related AE or surgical complication, which was an instance of incomplete surgical donut necessitating re-anastomosis. Postoperative anastomotic leaks were experienced in 4 (2.4%) subjects. Clavien-Dindo classification of all AEs indicated that 92.0% were Grades I or II. Participating surgeons rated the ECP as easier to use compared to previously used manual circular staplers in 85.7% of procedures.

CONCLUSION

The circular powered stapler exhibited few clinically relevant performance issues, an overall favorable safety profile, and ease of use for creation of left-sided colon anastomoses.

Clinical utility of transanal indocyanine green near-infrared fluorescence imaging for evaluation of colorectal anastomotic perfusion

BACKGROUND

Although indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging has been reported to be useful for assessing colorectal perfusion, unstable quantification remains an issue. We performed ICG fluorescence observation from the luminal side and examined the usefulness of the transanal approach.

METHODS

A total of 69 patients who underwent left-side colon surgery were enrolled in this cohort study. After the anastomosis had been constructed, ICG 0.2 mg/kg was injected intravenously. The anastomotic site was then observed by a scope inserted transanally. The following items were examined in the areas of the anastomotic site with the highest- and lowest-fluorescence intensity: maximum fluorescence (Fmax), time from ICG injection to Fmax (Tmax), time from start of dyeing to Fmax (ΔT), and the contrast pattern of the mucosa.

RESULTS

Anastomotic leakage (AL) occurred in nine cases. Tmax and ΔT values of the lowest-fluorescence area in the distal intestine showed significant differences in the cases with AL (P = 0.015 and P = 0.040, respectively). Regarding the contrast pattern of the mucosa of the lowest-fluorescence area in the proximal and distal intestine, the patients in whom the vessels were not depicted in the area had a significantly higher incidence of AL than those in whom vessels were depicted in the area (P = 0.031 and P = 0.030, respectively). Some of the areas in which vessels were not depicted by ICG fluorescence observation from the luminal side corresponded to the points of leakage. There were heterogeneous changes that might not be grasped by observation from the serosal side.

CONCLUSION

Transanal ICG fluorescence imaging can evaluate perfusion over the entire circumference of the anastomosis in detail and aid in assessing the risk of AL. Therefore, the examination of the detailed low-perfusion area enables us to take measures for AL and to search for safer operative managements.

Effective implementation and adaptation of structured robotic colorectal programme in a busy tertiary unit

BACKGROUND

Safety and feasibility of robotic colorectal surgery has been reported as increasing over the last decade. However safe implementation and adaptation of such a programme with comparable morbidities and acceptable oncological outcomes remains a challenge in a busy tertiary unit. We present our experience of implementation and adaptation of a structured robotic colorectal programme in a high-volume center in the United Kingdom.

METHODS

Two colorectal surgeons underwent a structured robotic colorectal training programme consisting of time on simulation console, dry and wet laboratory courses, case observation, and initial mentoring. Data were collected on consecutive robotic colorectal cancer resections over a period of 12 months and compared with colorectal cancer resections data of the same surgeons' record prior to the adaptation of the new technique. Patient demographics including age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologist score (ASA), Clavien-Dindo grading, previous abdominal surgeries, and BMI were included. Short-term outcomes including conversion to open, length of stay, return to theatre, 30- and 90-days mortality, blood loss, and post-operative analgesia were recorded. Tumour site, TNM staging, diverting stoma, neo-adjuvant therapy, total mesorectal excision (TME) grading and positive resection margins (R1) were compared. p values less than or equal to 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Ninety colorectal cancer resections were performed with curative intent from June 2018 to June 2020. Thirty robotic colorectal cancer resections (RCcR) were performed after adaption of programme and were compared with 60 non-robotic colorectal cancer resections (N-RCcR) prior to implementation of technique. There was no conversion in the RCcR group; however, in N-RCcR group, five had open resection from start and the rest had laparoscopic surgery. In laparoscopic group, there were six (10.9%) conversions to open (two adhesions, three multi-visceral involvements, one intra-operative bleed). Male-to-female ratio was 20:09 in RCcR group and 33:20 in N-RCcR groups. No significant differences in gender (p = 0.5), median age (p = 0.47), BMI (p = 0.64) and ASA scores (p = 0.72) were present in either groups. Patient characteristics between the two groups were comparable aside from an increased proportion of rectal and sigmoid cancers in RCcR group. Mean operating time, and returns to theaters were comparable in both groups. Complications were fewer in RCcR group as compared to N-RCcR (16.6% vs 25%). RCcR group patients have reduced length of stay (5 days vs 7 days) but this is not statistically significant. Estimated blood loss and conversion to open surgery was significantly lesser in the robotic group (p < 0.01). The oncological outcomes from surgery including TNM, resection margin status, lymph node yield and circumferential resection margin (for rectal cancers) were all comparable. There was no 30-day mortality in either group.

CONCLUSION

Implementation and integration of robotic colorectal surgery is safe and effective in a busy tertiary center through a structured training programme with comparable short-term survival and oncological outcomes during learning curve.

Tolerability and Adverse Events of Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Rectal Cancer in Patients With Diverting Ileostomy

BACKGROUND/AIM

The impact of diverting ileostomy on the feasibility of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) remains unclear. We retrospectively investigated the tolerability and adverse events of ACT for rectal cancer in patients with diverting ileostomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-three patients who received ACT after curative resection with ileostomy construction for rectal cancer were analyzed. We assessed completion rate, the mean relative dose intensities, and the factors affecting the tolerability of ACT.

RESULTS

The completion rate of each chemotherapy regimen was 10 out of 16 patients in oral uracil-tegafur plus leucovorin (UFT/LV), 1 out of 3 patients in oral capecitabine (Capecitabine) and 2 out of 14 patients in capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (CAPOX). The mean relative dose intensities were 77% in UFT/LV, 48% in Capecitabine, and 57% of capecitabine and 42% of oxaliplatin in CAPOX. In multivariate analysis, laparoscopic surgery (Odds ratio=11.6, p=0.021) and receiving preoperative chemoradiotherapy (Odds ratio=32.4, p=0.021) were associated with treatment completion.

CONCLUSION

Completion rate of ACT in patients with diverting ileostomy was lower than that of colorectal cancer patients in the previous studies. UFT/LV may be a more tolerable regimen than Capecitabine or CAPOX in colorectal cancer patients with diverting ileostomy.

Short-term outcomes of pelvic floor peritoneum closure in endoscopic low anterior resection of rectal cancer: A propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of pelvic floor peritoneum closure (PC) during endoscopic low anterior resection (E-LAR) of rectal cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify whether pelvic floor PC affected short-term outcomes.

METHODS

The study group comprised patients with the pathologically confirmed diagnosis of rectal cancer who underwent E-LAR with pelvic floor PC or with no PC (NPC) between January 2013 and December 2018 in Southwest Hospital. After propensity score matching (PSM), 584 patients (292 who underwent PC and 292 who underwent NPC) were evaluated. Postoperative indicators, including the rates of complications, anastomotic leakage (AL), reoperation, and inflammation, were observed in the two groups.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed in the rates of postoperative complications between the PC and NPC groups. The rates of AL were similar (11.3% vs. 9.2%, p = .414). However, the reoperation rate of patients in the PC group was significantly lower than that of patients in the NPC group after AL (36.4% vs. 11.1%, p = .025). The hospital costs were higher in the NPC leakage subgroup (p = .001). Additionally, the serum C-reactive protein levels were lower in the PC group on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, and 5, whereas procalcitonin levels on POD 1 and 3 were lower in the PC group but did not differ significantly on POD 5.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic peritonization did not affect the rate of complications, especially AL; however, it effectively reduced the reoperation and inflammation rates and reduced hospitalization costs. Other short-term outcomes were similar, which warrant the increased use of pelvic peritonization in endoscopic surgery.

Simultaneous triple cancer of the esophagus, pancreas and rectum treated with multimodal strategies: a case report

BACKGROUND

Due to the development of diagnostic imaging technology, we have increased chance of detecting multiple primary cancers. However, simultaneous triple cancer is still a very rare finding whose frequency is not yet known. Treatment of simultaneous triple cancer is a clinical challenge because it requires multimodal strategies including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we present the case of a 74-year-old male with triple cancer involving esophageal and pancreatic cancer, and rectal carcinoma. Each cancer was surgically resectable, but simultaneous resection of all cancers seemed to cause too much surgical stress for the patient. First, we performed a laparoscopic Hartmann's operation for rectal cancer to minimize the risk of postoperative complications. Then treatment for pancreatic cancer was initiated by administering neoadjuvant chemotherapy with gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel. The pancreatic tumor shrank in size, so pancreatoduodenectomy was performed. We chose S-1 as adjuvant chemotherapy. The esophageal cancer showed regression during the treatment of the other two cancers, likely because the chemotherapeutic agents administered for pancreatic cancer had some effect on the esophageal cancer. Definitive chemoradiotherapy was selected instead of esophagectomy because the patient had already undergone two major surgeries. The patient is still alive nine months after the whole course of treatment with no sign of recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of triple cancer requires an elaborate strategy to determine which cancer has to be dealt with first and which can be treated later. An aggressive multimodal treatment strategy may be an important option for a patient with triple cancer.

Impact of the novel powered circular stapler on risk of anastomotic leakage in colorectal anastomosis: a propensity score-matched study

BACKGROUND

Several risk factors for anastomotic leakage (AL) following colorectal surgery have been described. Improvement in devices for performing anastomosis is a modifiable factor that could reduce AL rates. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of technical improvements in the Echelon Circular™ powered stapler (ECPS) on the left-sided colorectal AL rate compared to current manual circular staplers (MCS).

METHODS

A cohort study was carried out on consecutive patients between January 2017 and February 2020 in whom left-sided stapled colorectal anastomosis above 5 cm from anal verge was performed. The primary end point was the risk of AL depending on the type of circular stapler used. The ECPS cases were matched to MCS cases by propensity score matching to obtain comparable groups of patients.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-nine patients met the inclusion criteria. A MCS anastomosis was performed in 218 patients and ECPS anastomosis in 61 (21.9%). Overall, AL was observed in 25 (9%) cases. Factors significantly associated with AL were American Society of Anesthesiologists score (p = 0.025) and type of circular stapler used (p = 0.021). After adjusting the cases with propensity score matching (119 cases MCS versus 60 ECPS), AL was observed in 14 (11.8%) patients in MCS group and in 1 (1.7%) patient in the ECPS group (p = 0.022). AL in the MCS group required reoperation in seven cases (5.8%), the remaining seven patients were treated conservatively. The patient in the ECSP group required an urgent Hartmann's procedure CONCLUSIONS: The ECPS device could have a positive impact by reducing AL rates in left-sided colorectal anastomosis. Multicenter controlled trials are needed for stronger evidence to change practice.

Impact of the number of stapler firings on anastomotic leakage in laparoscopic rectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Several univariate and multivariate studies have already identified the number of stapler firings for laparoscopic rectal transection for rectal cancer as an independent risk factor for anastomotic leakage. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the anastomotic leakage rate in laparoscopic rectal surgery according to the need of using one or two stapler firings for rectal transection.

METHODS

PubMed, Ovid, the Cochrane Library database and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched. All of the statistical analyses were performed using Revman software.

RESULTS

Five studies were included (1267 patients). The overall anastomotic leakage rate was 5.5% [0.7-8.4%]. Anastomotic leak occurred in 3.5% (17/491) of the cases where 1 stapler firing was used versus 6.7% (50/786) of the cases in which 2 firings were needed (50/786). Two stapler firings were significantly associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage (OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.34-4.42, p = 0.003, I2 = 1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that two firings imply a higher rate of anastomotic leak than a single firing after laparoscopic rectal surgery with a double stapling technique. Coloproctologists should strive to reduce the number of linear stapler firings and try to transect the rectum with a single firing.

Protective ileostomy does not prevent anastomotic leakage after anterior resection of rectal cancer

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether protective ileostomy is beneficial in preventing anastomotic leakage after anterior resection of rectal cancer.

METHODS

A total of 347 patients underwent anterior resection of rectal cancer in our hospital. Ninety-five patients were treated with protective ileostomy (treatment group), and 252 patients were not (control group). The incidences of anastomotic leakage and permanent stoma were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The overall incidences of anastomotic leakage were 6.32% (6/95) and 8.73% (22/252) in the treatment group and control group, respectively. In the cohort of patients who underwent neoadjuvant radiotherapy, the incidence of anastomotic leakage was 5.88% (2/34) and 12.0% (3/25) in the treatment group and control group, respectively. Logistic regression showed that the incidence of anastomotic leakage was not statistically significant. However, diabetes and the anastomotic height significantly affected the occurrence of anastomotic leakage. The permanent stoma rate was 6.42% (6/95) and 5.95% (15/252) in the treatment group and control group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Protective ileostomy did not show a significant advantage in reducing the incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage in patients with rectal cancer, and it may lead to a permanent stoma.

Risk factors for anastomotic leakage and its impact on long-term survival in left-sided colorectal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) significantly impairs short-term outcomes. The impact on the long-term outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for AL and the impact on long-term survival in patients with left-sided colorectal cancer.

METHODS

Nine-hundred patients with left-sided colorectal carcinoma who underwent sigmoid or rectal resection were enrolled in the study. Risk factors for AL after sigmoid or rectal resection were identified, and long-term outcomes of patients with and without AL were compared.

RESULTS

AL rates following sigmoid and rectal resection were 5.1% and 10.7%, respectively. Higher ASA score (III-IV; OR = 10.54, p = 0.007) was associated with AL in patients undergoing sigmoid surgery on multivariable analysis. Male sex (OR = 2.40, p = 0.004), CCI score > 5 (OR = 1.72, p = 0.025), and T3/T4 stage tumors (OR = 2.25, p = 0.017) were risk factors for AL after rectal resection on multivariable analysis. AL impaired disease-free and overall survival in patients undergoing sigmoid (p = 0.009 and p = 0.001) and rectal (p = 0.003 and p = 0.014) surgery.

CONCLUSION

ASA score of III-IV is an independent risk factor for AL after sigmoid surgery, and male sex, higher CCI score, and advanced T stage are risk factors for AL after rectal surgery. AL impairs the long-term survival in patients undergoing left-sided colorectal surgery.

Latest Advances in Intersphincteric Resection for Low Rectal Cancer

Background

Intersphincteric resection (ISR) has been a preferable alternative to abdominoperineal resection (APR) for anal preservation in patients with low rectal cancer. Laparoscopic ISR and robotic ISR have been widely used with the proposal of 2 cm or even 1 cm rule of distal free margin and the development of minimally invasive technology. The aim of this review was to describe the newest advancements of ISR.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify studies on ISR techniques, preoperative chemoradiotherapy (PCRT), complications, oncological outcomes, and functional outcomes and thereby to summarize relevant information and controversies involved in ISR.

Results

Although PCRT is employed to avoid positive circumferential resection margin (CRM) and decrease local recurrence, it tends to engender damage of anorectal function and patients' quality of life (QoL). Common complications after ISR include anastomotic leakage (AL), anastomotic stricture (AS), urinary retention, fistula, pelvic sepsis, and prolapse. CRM involvement is the most important predictor for local recurrence. Preoperative assessment and particularly rectal endosonography are essential for selecting suitable patients. Anal dysfunction is associated with age, PCRT, location and growth of anastomotic stoma, tumour stage, and resection of internal sphincter.

Conclusions

The ISR technique seems feasible for selected patients with low rectal cancer. However, the postoperative QoL as a result of functional disorder should be fully discussed with patients before surgery.

How to Prevent Anastomotic Leak in Colorectal Surgery? A Systematic Review

Anastomosis leakage (AL) after colorectal surgery is an embarrassing problem. It is associated with poor consequence. This review aims to summarize published evidence on prevention of AL after colorectal surgery and provide recommendations according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. We conducted bibliographic research on January 15, 2020, of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We retained meta-analysis, reviews, and randomized clinical trials. We concluded that mechanical bowel preparation did not reduce AL. It seems that oral antibiotic or oral antibiotic with mechanical bowel preparation could reduce the risk of AL. The surgical approach did not affect the AL rate. The low ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery could reduce the AL rate. The mechanical anastomosis is superior to handsewn anastomosis only in case of right colectomies, with similar results in rectal surgery between the 2 anastomosis techniques. In the case of right colectomies, this anastomosis could be performed intracorporeally or extracorporeally with similar outcomes. The air leak test did not reduce AL. There is no interest of external drainage in colonic surgery but drains reduced the rate of AL and rate of reoperation after low anterior resection. The transanal tube reduced the rate of AL.

The use of robotic or laparoscopic stapler in rectal cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Minimally invasive surgery for total mesorectal excision (TME) remains technically challenging due to poor maneuverability within the pelvis, which makes extremely difficult to introduce a laparoscopic stapler (LS) for the rectal transection. We aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on robotic TME after the use of robotic stapler (RS) or LS after robotic TME. A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Database. Participants who underwent robotic anterior resection were considered following these criteria: (1) studies comparing RS and LS; (2) studies reporting the rate of anastomotic leakage (AL). The primary outcome was the risk of AL. Secondary outcomes included the number of firings of stapler needed. A meta-analysis based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement was performed. A total of 4 studies including 391 patients (LS = 251, RS = 140) were included for analysis. Regarding the number of firings, overall results suggest that the rectal stapling was achieved with less firings in the RS group, but the difference is not significant [risk difference, (95% CI) 0.42 (- 0.13, 0.97)]. There was a 56% increased odds of AL for LS compared with RS; however, this was not statistically significant (OR: 1.56; 95% CI 0.59, 4.14). With the current literature evidence, the present study could not demonstrate a clear benefit of the RS over the LS. Although the development of an AL is multifactorial and unpredictable, our data may suggest that the use of the RS could help reducing the risk of AL. There is a need of future randomized clinical trial to assess the possible benefits of the RS.

Evaluating the predictive factors for anastomotic leakage after total laparoscopic resection with transrectal natural orifice specimen extraction for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) surgery has been widely implemented in colorectal cancer surgery due to its good short-term efficacy. However, anastomotic leakage (AL) is a serious postoperative complication in colorectal cancer, and the risk factors for this complication after NOSE surgery have rarely been investigated. The aim of this study was to explore the predictive factors for AL after laparoscopic resection with transrectal NOSE for rectal cancer and sigmoid colon cancer.

METHODS

A total of 208 patients who underwent total laparoscopic resection with transrectal NOSE for rectal cancer and sigmoid colon cancer from January 2014 to June 2019 were systematically reviewed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the relevant risk factors.

RESULTS

The rate of AL was 10.1% (21 of 208 patients). The univariate analyses showed that male sex (85.7% vs 57.8%, P = .013), the distance from the anal verge (10.5 vs 14.5 cm, P = .011), and a duration of operation ≥140 min (71.4% vs 29.4%, P<.001) were associated with an increased incidence of AL. The multivariate analysis showed that a duration of operation ≥140 min (OR = 5427, 95% CI = 1.355-21.727, P = .017) was an independent risk factor for AL.

CONCLUSION

A duration of operation ≥140 min is a possible risk factor for AL after total laparoscopic resection with transrectal NOSE for colorectal cancer.

A new aortoiliac calcification scoring system to predict grade C anastomotic leak following rectal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND

Aortoiliac calcification may be a surrogate marker of decreased visceral perfusion causing anastomotic leak (AL). The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive role of aortoiliac calcification for AL after rectal cancer surgery.

METHODS

We enrolled patients with primary rectal cancer who had restorative resection at our institution between January 2013 and December 2015. An aortoiliac calcification score was calculated as the sum of calcification scores at the infrarenal aorta (0: no, 1: ≤ 3 cm, 2: > 3 cm) and the common iliac arteries (0: no, 1: unilateral, 2: bilateral). AL was classified into three grades: grade A, requiring no intervention; grade B, requiring therapeutic intervention without re-laparotomy; and grade C, requiring re-laparotomy. Clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed to identify risk factors for AL.

RESULTS

There were 583 patients. Three-hundred forty-five (59.2%) had an aortoiliac calcification score ≥ 3, and 37 (6.3%) patients experienced AL, in 30 cases (5.1%) grade C AL. Patients with an aortoiliac calcification score ≥ 3 had a higher incidence of grade C AL (6.7% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.045). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that an aortoiliac calcification score ≥ 3 was an independent risk factor for grade C AL (odds ratio = 2.669, 95% confidence interval 1.066-6.686, p = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

Aortoiliac calcification may be considered a risk factor for grade C AL after rectal cancer surgery.

The median sacral artery in rectal blood supply: A cadaveric study

INTRODUCTION

Insufficient blood supply to the posterior rectal remnant after proctectomy is a possible mechanism for anastomotic leakage. The median sacral artery (MSA) is not generally considered to participate in the rectal blood supply, although some case studies have reported the rectum being supplied by it. The aim of this study is to elucidate the anatomy of the MSA in relation to the posterior rectal wall.

METHODS

Nineteen embalmed cadavers (12 males, seven females; mean age: 76 ± 9 years) were injected with a colored radio-opaque mixture in the aortic bifurcation, radiographed and subsequently dissected along the sacrum. The relationship between the MSA and the rectum was observed and the diameter of the MSA was measured 2 cm below the aortic bifurcation.

RESULTS

MSAs were identified in 16 (84.2%) of the 19 cadavers. Nine MSAs (47.4%) reached the rectal wall and penetrated it. MSAs that reached the posterior rectum took two different routes in the presacral space. Dissection and radiography showed four penetrating MSAs (21.1%) ending in a branching pattern and five (26.3%) as a tapering vessel. Seven MSAs (36.8%) did not reach the rectal wall. The mean MSA diameter was 1.98 ± 0.12 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost half the MSAs reached and penetrated the posterior rectal wall, suggesting possible participation in the rectal blood supply. A large portion of the MSAs that penetrate the rectal wall run outside surgical margins and could continue to provide blood supply to the rectal remnant, potentially preventing anastomotic leakage.

A Retrospective Study of Risk Factors for Symptomatic Anastomotic Leakage after Laparoscopic Anterior Resection of the Rectal Cancer without a Diverting Stoma

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a common and devastating postoperative issue for patients who have undergone anterior resection of rectal carcinoma and can lead to increased short-term morbidity and mortality. Moreover, it might be associated with a worse oncological prognosis of tumors. This study is aimed at exploring the risk factors for symptomatic AL after laparoscopic anterior resection (LAR) for rectal tumors without a preventive diverting stoma.

Materials and Methods

This case control study retrospectively reviewed the data of 496 consecutive patients who underwent LAR of the rectum without a preventive diverting stoma at the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences between September 2016 and September 2017. All patients were divided into an AL group and a control group based on the occurrence of postoperative symptomatic AL. Factors regarding patient-related variables, operation-related variables, and tumor-related variables were collected and assessed between the two groups through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to identify independent risk factors for AL.

Results

In total, 18 (3.6%) patients developed postoperative symptomatic AL. Univariate analysis showed that a synchronous primary malignancy of the left hemicolon (P = 0.047), intraoperative chemotherapy (P = 0.003), and level of anastomosis (P = 0.033) were significantly related with AL. Multivariate analysis was subsequently performed to adjust for confounding biases and confirmed that a synchronous primary malignancy of the left hemicolon (odds ratio (OR), 12.225; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.764-84.702; P = 0.011), intraoperative chemotherapy (OR, 3.931; 95% CI, 1.334-11.583; P = 0.013), and level of anastomosis (OR, 3.224; 95% CI, 1.124-9.249; P = 0.030) were independent risk factors for symptomatic AL for patients who received LAR for rectal neoplasms without a preventive diverting stoma.

Conclusions

Synchronous primary malignancy of the left hemicolon, intraoperative chemotherapy, and a low anastomotic level can increase the risks of postoperative symptomatic AL after LAR of the rectum without a protective diverting stoma.

Ligating the rectum with cable tie facilitates rectum transection in laparoscopic anterior resection of rectal cancer

PURPOSE

Proper transection of the distal rectum is important for reconstruction of bowel continuity in rectal cancer surgery. In this study, we introduced a modified technique for ligation of the distal rectum, and investigated its safety and efficiency to facilitate the rectum transection.

METHODS

After complete mobilization and transection of the mesorectum, a cable tie was carefully positioned distal to the tumor, followed by washout and transecting the rectum with a linear stapler. From September 2017 to June 2018, consecutive 67 mid-low rectal cancer patients with laparoscopic anterior resection underwent this technique. Clinical data of these patients, including number of firings, pathological and operative variables, and postoperative outcomes, were compared with those of 132 consecutive patients who underwent traditional surgery from January 2016 to August 2017.

RESULTS

Compared with the traditional method, cable tie ligation significantly reduced the number of firings (1.1 ± 0.32 vs. 1.3 ± 0.52, p < 0.001). A very high ratio of one firing transection of rectum was observed in the cable tie group (94.0% vs. 68.9%, p < 0.001), even in patients with tumor at or below the peritoneal reflection (90.2% vs. 54.4%, p < 0.001), in male patients (95.5% vs. 65.8%, p < 0.001), and in obese patients (93.8% vs. 64.9%, p = 0.005). The mean distal margin was longer in the cable tie group (3.19 ± 1.77 cm vs. 2.54 ± 1.36 cm, p = 0.005), with no positive distal margin observed. The operation time, quality of mesorectum, and morbidity between two groups were comparable. Two leaks (3.0%) in the cable tie group were observed, similar to 3.8% in the control.

CONCLUSIONS

Ligation of the rectum with a cable tie reduces the number of cartridges, and increases the rate of one stapler firing for rectal transection, even in those difficult cases like male, overweight, and low rectal cancer patients. It is also useful for occlusion of the rectum before washout. It is safe, feasible, and worthwhile for popularization.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered at ClinicalTrial.gov, number NCT03570684.

Relationship between anastomotic leakage and CT value of the mesorectum in laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal cancer

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to indicate whether the CT value of the mesorectum could be correlated with the incidence of anastomotic leakage (AL) in laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer.

METHODS

The study subjects included 173 patients who underwent laparoscopic anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer from September 2005 to 2016 in our institution as well as reliable contrast-enhanced CT preoperatively. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the correlation between surgical outcomes, including AL and CT value of the mesorectum.

RESULTS

AL was observed in 30 (17.3%) patients. Amongst short-term surgical outcomes, overall complication showed significant correlation with the CT value of the mesorectum (P = 0.003). In addition, AL was the only factor, which significantly correlated with the CT value of the mesorectum (P = 0.017). By plotting receiver operating characteristic curve, -75 HU was the threshold of the CT value of the mesorectum for predicting AL with an area under the curve of 0.772. Categorized into two groups as per the threshold, low group showed significantly higher incidence of AL (OR, 2.738; 95% CI, 1.105-6.788; P = 0.030) as well as whole complications (OR, 4.431; 95%CI, 1.912-10.266; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The CT value of the mesorectum may be a helpful preoperative radiological biomarker to predict AL after LAR for rectal cancer.

Which obesity-associated parameters can better reflect the risk of the occurrence of the anastomotic leakage?

Purpose: We investigated which obesity-associated parameters can better predict the risk of anastomotic leakage (AL) in rectal cancer patients that underwent anterior resection of the rectum.Method: Patients (n = 589) who underwent anterior resection of the rectum with a primary anastomosis were included in this study, including 44 patients with AL and 545 without AL. Univariate analysis was used to compare demographic characteristics and to select risk factors that were used in one-to-one propensity score matching (PSM). Obesity-associated parameters, including preoperative body mass index (BMI), visceral fat area (VFA), subcutaneous fat area (SFA), total fat area (TFA), VFA/TFA ratio, serum cholesterol, and triglycerides, were compared between the two groups after PSM.Results: Sex, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, operation time, and anastomosis level from the anal verge were risk factors for AL (p < .05). After the PSM, BMI, VFA, SFA, TFA, VFA/TFA, and serum cholesterol showed no significant difference between the two group (p > .05). However, the level of serum triglycerides was an independent risk factor for AL (p = .024, odds ratio = 2.95).Conclusions: Serum triglycerides have potential as a predictive indicator for AL, which may improve the treatment and outcomes of patients with AL.

Impact of intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography on anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic sphincter-sparing surgery for malignant rectal tumors

PURPOSE

Whether indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA) during rectal surgery is effective in reducing anastomotic leakage remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of intraoperative ICG-FA on anastomotic leakage after sphincter-sparing surgery for malignant rectal tumors.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, single-center cohort study conducted on 852 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic sphincter-sparing surgery from January 2007 to June 2017 at our institution. The incidence of anastomotic leakage was compared between patients who underwent ICG-FA to determine the proximal resection margin and those in whom this technique was not performed, using logistic regression analysis, including propensity score.

RESULTS

A total of eight patients were excluded (one patient with previous low anterior resection and seven patients who underwent simultaneous resection for other primary cancers), resulting in 844 patients being analyzed. Before propensity score matching, 141 patients (16.7%) who underwent ICG-FA were compared with 703 patients (83.3%) in whom ICG-FA was not performed. The incidence of anastomotic leakage was 2.8% (4/141) in the ICG-FA group and 12.4% (87/703) in the control group (p = 0.001). After propensity score matching (n = 420), the patient characteristics between the two groups were well balanced, and the incidence of anastomotic leakage was 2.8% (4/141) in the ICG-FA group and 13.6% (38/279) in the control group (p = 0.001). Logistic regression analyses using propensity score showed that patients who underwent ICG-FA had significantly lower odds of anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative ICG-FA is a promising method to reduce anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic rectal surgery.

Initial clinical experience of single-incision robotic colorectal surgery with da Vinci SP platform

BACKGROUND

The da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA) was introduced to overcome the limitations of single-incision laparoscopic surgery, which is challenging due to its restrictions regarding triangulation and retraction. The purpose of this article is to describe the initial experience with single-incision surgery using the da Vinvci Single-Port Platform (dVSP).

METHODS

The medical records of patients with colorectal disease, who underwent single-incision robotic surgery using the dVSP, were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Five patients with appendiceal and colorectal cancer, and two with diverticulitis were enrolled. All procedures were completed using a pure single-incision approach, with an exception for low anterior resection. There were two minor complications. For patients with colorectal cancer, the number of retrieved lymph nodes and status of the resection margin were acceptable, and cosmetic results were satisfactory.

CONCLUSION

The dVSP is a novel surgical platform that can be used as an alternative surgical modality for colorectal surgery.

Analysis of the impact of EEA stapler size on risk of anastomotic complications in colorectal anastomosis: does size matter?

BACKGROUND

Colorectal anastomotic complications are dreaded and dramatically affect outcomes. Causes are multifactorial, with the size of the end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) stapler a modifiable factor and potential target for risk reduction. Our goal was to examine the impact of the EEA stapler size on the risk of anastomotic complications in left-sided colorectal resections.

METHODS

A prospective divisional database was reviewed for consecutive elective left-sided resections with a colorectal anastomosis using an EEA stapler from January 2013 May 2018 inclusive. Patients were stratified into 25-29 mm or 30-33 mm cohorts. Patient and disease demographics, operative variables, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. The main outcome measures were the rate and factors associated with anastomotic complications.

RESULTS

Four hundred seventy-three cases were evaluated, 185 ( 39.1%) were in the 25-29 mm group and 288 (60.9%) in the 30-33 mm group. Patients were comparable in demographics and operative variables. More males were anastomosed with the 30-33 mm than with the 25-29 mm stapler (57.6% vs 28.6%, p < 0.01). Significantly more patients developed an anastomotic stricture with the 25-29 mm than with the 30-33 mm staplers (7.1% vs. 2.1%; p = 0.007). There was no significant difference in leak rates or reoperation/interventions between groups. On logistic regression, neither gender, operative indication nor approach were associated with anastomotic leak, readmission, or reoperation/intervention. Stapler size remained significantly associated with stricture (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

The 25-29 mm EEA staplers were associated with an increased rate of anastomotic stricture compared to 30-33 mm staplers in left-sided colorectal anastomoses. As stapler size is a simple process measure that is easily modifyable, this is a potential target for improving anastomotic complication rates. Further controlled trials may help assess the impact of stapler size on improving patient and quality outcomes.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Anastomotic Failure in 1594 Patients Treated by Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision: Results From the International TaTME Registry

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of anastomotic-related morbidity following Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision (TaTME) and identify independent risk factors for failure.

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak and its sequelae are dreaded complications following gastrointestinal surgery. TaTME is a recent technique for rectal resection, which includes novel anastomotic techniques.

METHODS

Prospective study of consecutive reconstructed TaTME cases recorded over 30 months in 107 surgical centers across 29 countries. Primary endpoint was "anastomotic failure," defined as a composite endpoint of early or delayed leak, pelvic abscess, anastomotic fistula, chronic sinus, or anastomotic stricture. Multivariate regression analysis performed identifying independent risk factors of anastomotic failure and an observed risk score developed.

RESULTS

One thousand five hundred ninety-four cases with anastomotic reconstruction were analyzed; 96.6% performed for cancer. Median anastomotic height from anal verge was 3.0 ± 2.0 cm with stapled techniques accounting for 66.0%. The overall anastomotic failure rate was 15.7%. This included early (7.8%) and delayed leak (2.0%), pelvic abscess (4.7%), anastomotic fistula (0.8%), chronic sinus (0.9%), and anastomotic stricture in 3.6% of cases. Independent risk factors of anastomotic failure were: male sex, obesity, smoking, diabetes mellitus, tumors >25 mm, excessive intraoperative blood loss, manual anastomosis, and prolonged perineal operative time. A scoring system for preoperative risk factors was associated with observed rates of anastomotic failure between 6.3% to 50% based on the cumulative score.

CONCLUSIONS

Large tumors in obese, diabetic male patients who smoke have the highest risk of anastomotic failure. Acknowledging such risk factors can guide appropriate consent and clinical decision-making that may reduce anastomotic-related morbidity.

Transanal drainage tube: alternative option to defunctioning stoma in rectal cancer surgery?

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains the most dreaded complication after rectal cancer surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of transanal drainage tube in reducing the incidence, severity and hospital costs respect to defunctioning stoma (DS).

METHODS

Considering 429 patients consecutively operated for rectal adenocarcinoma, the tube was placed in 275 (Group A) and not placed in 154 (Group B) patients. A DS was created in a subgroup of 54 patients among the latter.

RESULTS

The incidence of AL was significantly higher in Group B (P=0.007). In patients with DS, the incidence was higher than Group A (P=NS). Grade C complications were significantly higher in Group B (P=0.006) and Grade B complications were significantly higher in patients with DS (P=0.03). Estimated economic benefit was 4,000 Euros for each patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Transanal drainage tube may be a safe and effective alternative to DS in many cases. The incidence of leakage and Grade C complications are reduced albeit not significantly but Grade B complications are significantly lower. Although the AL incidence was similar in our experience, the tube allows to avoid a stoma-related consequence and the need for reversal procedure with economic benefit.

Improved colorectal anastomotic leakage healing by transanal rinsing treatment after endoscopic vacuum therapy using a novel patient-applied rinsing catheter

PURPOSE

Anastomotic or stump leakage is a common and serious complication of colorectal surgery. The objective of this study was to retrospectively investigate the clinical use and potential benefit of transanal rinsing treatment (TRT) using an innovative rinsing catheter (RC) after treatment with endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT).

METHODS

Patients with leakage after low colorectal surgery who had been treated with EVT were retrospectively analyzed. A subset of patients was trained to perform TRT with a specially developed RC. We investigated the rate of complete healing of the leakage, septic complications, failure of the therapy, surgical revisions, ostomy closure rate, and complications related to endoscopic therapy.

RESULTS

Between February 2007 and January 2014, 98 patients with local complications after low colorectal surgery, treated with EVT, were identified. Eighty-nine patients were analyzed (the treatment of nine patients was stopped due to medical or technical problems): 31 patients were treated with EVT only (EVT group) and 58 patients with EVT followed by TRT (EVT/TRT group). Complete healing of the leakage was significantly better in the EVT/TRT group [84% vs. 58% (p < 0.009)], and significantly fewer septic complications needing surgical revision were detected [3% vs. 11% (p = 0.001)]. No significant differences regarding endoscopy-related complications and ostomy closure were found between EVT and EVT/TRT patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of patient-administered TRT with an innovative, customized RC after EVT is technically feasible and reliable and significantly improves therapeutic results. Further prospective trials with larger patient groups are needed to validate the results of our study.

[Splenic flexure mobilization in surgery for rectal cancer]

Nowadays, the issue of splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) in anterior and low anterior rectal resection for rectal cancer is still debatable. This stage is important because dissection results tension-free anastomosis and excision of specimen of enough length with adequate number of harvested lymph nodes. However, literature review confirmed the absence of agreement regarding reduced incidence of colorectal anastomotic leakage and improved long-term oncologic outcomes after SFM. Opinion about selective approach to this procedure is becoming more common. Therefore, randomized trials are necessary to determine a need for routine SFM or indications for selective approach to SFM in anterior rectal resection for rectal cancer.

Compliance With Preoperative Elements of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Rectal Cancer Surgery Checklist Improves Pathologic and Postoperative Outcomes

BACKGROUND

In 2016, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons published a rectal cancer surgery checklist composed of the essential elements of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care for patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess whether compliance with preoperative checklist elements was associated with improved pathologic and 30-day postoperative outcomes after rectal cancer surgery.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

The study involved North American hospitals contributing to the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program.

PATIENTS

Adult patients who underwent elective rectal cancer surgery from 2016 to 2017 were included.

INTERVENTION

The study encompassed checklist compliance with 6 preoperative elements from the checklist.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Pathologic outcomes (circumferential resection margin status, distal resection margin status, and adequate lymph node harvest ≥12), 30-day surgical morbidity, and length of stay were measured.

RESULTS

In total, 2217 patients were included in the analysis. Individual compliance with the 6 available preoperative checklist items was variable, including 91.3% for pretreatment documentation of tumor location within the rectum, 86.8% for complete colonoscopy, 84.0% for appropriate preoperative stoma marking, 79.8% for appropriate use of neoadjuvant radiotherapy, 76.6% for locoregional staging, and 70.8% for distant staging. Only 836 patients (37.7%) had all 6 checklist elements complete, whereas 1381 (62.3%) did not. Compared with patients without checklist compliance, patients with checklist compliance were younger (60.0 vs 63.0 y; p < 0.001) but otherwise had similar demographic characteristics. On multivariate regression, checklist compliance was associated with lower odds of circumferential resection margin positivity (OR = 0.47 (95% CI, 0.31-0.71); p < 0.001), higher odds of an adequate lymph node harvest ≥12 (OR = 1.60 (95% CI, 1.29-2.00); p < 0.001), reduced surgical morbidity (OR = 0.78 (95% CI, 0.65-0.95); p = 0.01), and shorter length of stay (β = -0.87 (95% CI, -1.51 to -0.24); p = 0.007). The association between checklist compliance and reduced odds of circumferential resection margin positivity remained on sensitivity analysis (OR = 0.61 (95% CI, 0.42-0.88); p = 0.009) when adjusting for neoadjuvant radiation.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its absence of long-term oncologic data and missing variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Compliance with 6 preoperative elements of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons rectal cancer surgery checklist was associated with significantly improved pathologic outcomes and reduced postoperative morbidity. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B80. EL CUMPLIMIENTO CON LOS ELEMENTOS PREOPERATORIOS DE LA LISTA DE VERIFICACIÓN DE CIRUGÍA PARA CÁNCER RECTAL DE LA SOCIEDAD AMERICANA DE CIRUJANOS DE COLON Y RECTO MEJORA LOS RESULTADOS HISTOPATOLÓGICOS Y POSTOPERATORIOS: En 2016, la Sociedad Americana de Cirujanos de Colon y Recto publicó una lista de verificación de cirugía de cáncer de recto que comprende los elementos esenciales de la atención pre, intra y postoperatoria para pacientes sometidos a cirugía de cáncer de recto.Evaluar si el cumplimiento con los elementos preoperatorios de la lista de verificación se asoció con mejores resultados histopatológicos y postoperatorios a 30 días después de la cirugía de cáncer rectal.Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva.Hospitales norteamericanos que contribuyen al Programa Nacional de Mejora de la Calidad Quirúrgica del Colegio Americano de Cirujanos.Pacientes adultos que se sometieron a cirugía electiva de cáncer rectal entre 2016 y 2017.Cumplimiento de la lista de verificación con seis elementos preoperatorios de la lista de verificación.Resultados histopatológicos (estado del margen de resección circunferencial, estado del margen de resección distal, cosecha adecuada de ganglios linfáticos ≥12), morbilidad quirúrgica a 30 días y duración de la estadía.En total, 2,217 pacientes fueron incluidos en el análisis. El cumplimiento individual de los seis ítems disponibles de la lista de verificación preoperatoria fue variable: 91.3% para la documentación previa al tratamiento de la localización del tumor dentro del recto, 86.8% para colonoscopía completa, 84.0% para el marcado preoperatorio apropiado del sitio de estoma, 79.8% para el uso apropiado de radioterapia neoadyuvante, 76.6 % para estadificación locorregional y 70.8% para estadificación distante. Solo 836 (37.7%) pacientes tenían los seis elementos de la lista de verificación completos, mientras que 1,381 (62.3%) no. En comparación con los pacientes sin cumplimiento de la lista de verificación, los pacientes con cumplimiento de la lista de verificación eran más jóvenes (60.0 vs. 63.0 años, p <0.001), pero por lo demás tenían características demográficas similares. En la regresión multivariada, el cumplimiento de la lista de verificación se asoció con menores probabilidades de positividad en el margen de resección circunferencial (OR = 0.47; IC del 95%: 0.31-0.71, p <0.001), mayores probabilidades de una cosecha adecuada de ganglios linfáticos ≥12 (OR = 1.60, IC 95% 1.29-2.00, p <0.001), menor morbilidad quirúrgica (OR = 0.78, IC 95% 0.65-0.95, p = 0.01) y menor duración de estadía (β = -0.87, IC 95% -1.51 - - 0.24, p = 0.007). La asociación entre el cumplimiento de la lista de verificación y las probabilidades reducidas de positividad del margen de resección circunferencial se mantuvo en el análisis de sensibilidad (OR = 0.61; IC del 95%: 0.42-0.88, p = 0.009) al ser ajustado con radiación neoadyuvante.Ausencia de datos oncológicos a largo plazo y variables faltantes.El cumplimiento de seis elementos preoperatorios de la lista de verificación de cirugía de cáncer rectal de la Sociedad Americana de Cirujanos de Colon y Recto se asoció con resultados histopatológicos significativamente mejores y una menor morbilidad postoperatoria. Vea el resumen en video en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B80.

The Aortic Calcification Index is a risk factor associated with anastomotic leakage after anterior resection of rectal cancer

AIM

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most feared postoperative complications after anterior resection (AR) of rectal cancer. An adequate blood supply at the anastomotic site is regarded as a prerequisite for healing. We hypothesize that the Aortic Calcification Index (ACI) might reflect the severity of atherosclerosis in patients, and thereby be a risk factor for AL.

METHOD

AL was investigated retrospectively according to the definition of the International Study Group of Rectal Cancer in 423 rectal cancer patients who underwent anterior rectal resection. The ACI was measured by preoperative abdominal CT scan. The cross-section of the aorta was evenly divided into 12 sectors, the number of calcified sectors was counted as the calcification score of each slice. Lasso logistic regression and multivariate regression analysis were used to identify risk factors for AL.

RESULTS

The percentage of AL after AR was 7.8% (33/423); the mortality of patients who sustained a leak was 3.0% (1/33). Patients with a high ACI had a significantly higher percentage of AL than patients with low ACI (11.2% vs 5.6%, P = 0.04). Among patients with AL, a higher ACI was associated with greater severity of AL (the ACI of patients with grade A leakage, grade B leakage and grade C leakage was 0.5% ± 0.2%, 11.5% ± 9.2% and 24.2% ± 21.7%, respectively; P = 0.008). After risk adjustment, multivariate regression analysis showed that a higher ACI was an independent risk factor for AL (OR 2.391, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

A high ACI might be an important prognostic factor for AL after AR for rectal cancer. Confirmatory studies are required.

Guidelines of the Brazilian Society of Oncologic Surgery for pelvic exenteration in the treatment of cervical cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The primary treatment for locally advanced cases of cervical cancer is chemoradiation followed by high-dose brachytherapy. When this treatment fails, pelvic exenteration (PE) is an option in some cases. This study aimed to develop recommendations for the best management of patients with cervical cancer undergoing salvage PE.

METHODS

A questionnaire was administered to all members of the Brazilian Society of Surgical Oncology. Of them, 68 surgeons participated in the study and were divided into 10 working groups. A literature review of studies retrieved from the National Library of Medicine database was carried out on topics chosen by the participants. These topics were indications for curative and palliative PE, preoperative and intraoperative evaluation of tumor resectability, access routes and surgical techniques, PE classification, urinary, vaginal, intestinal, and pelvic floor reconstructions, and postoperative follow-up. To define the level of evidence and strength of each recommendation, an adapted version of the Infectious Diseases Society of America Health Service rating system was used.

RESULTS

Most conducts and management strategies reviewed were strongly recommended by the participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Guidelines outlining strategies for PE in the treatment of persistent or relapsed cervical cancer were developed and are based on the best evidence available in the literature.

Effectiveness of endosponge therapy for the management of presacral abscesses following rectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak after rectal surgery is reported in 9% (range 3-28%) of patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of endosponge therapy for anastomotic. Endpoints were the rate of restored continuity and the functional bowel outcome after anastomotic leakage.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective observational cohort study. All patients with symptomatic anastomotic leakage after rectal surgery who had endosponge therapy between January 2012 and August 2017 were included. Functional bowel outcome was measured using the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score system.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included. Eighteen patients had low anterior resection (90%) for rectal cancer. A diverting ileostomy was performed at primary surgical intervention in 14 patients (70%). Fourteen patients (70%) were treated with neoadjuvant (chemo-)radiotherapy. The median time between primary surgical intervention and first endosponge placement was 21 (5-537) days. The median number of endosponge changes was 9 (2-28). The success rate of the endosponge treatment was 88% and the restored gastrointestinal continuity rate was 73%. A chronic sinus occurred in three patients (15%). All patients developed LARS, of which 77% reported major LARS.

CONCLUSIONS

Endosponge therapy is an effective treatment for the closure of presacral cavities with high success rate and leading to restored gastrointestinal continuity in 73%. However, despite endosponge therapy many patients develop major LARS.

The Risk Factor of Anastomotic Hypoperfusion in Colorectal Surgery

BACKGROUND

Inadequate blood flow is an important risk factor for anastomotic leakage. Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging allows intraoperative assessment of intestinal blood flow. This study determined the risk factor of anastomotic hypoperfusion in colorectal surgery using ICG fluorescence imaging.

METHODS

This study included 74 consecutive patients who underwent colorectal surgery between April 2017 and March 2018. ICG was injected intravenously after dividing the mesentery and central vessels along the planned transection line, but before completing the anastomosis. Intraoperative blood flow was evaluated using ICG fluorescence imaging. With regard to the patient-, tumor-, and surgery-related factors, anastomotic perfusion was evaluated based on the changed transection line and prolonged (more than 60 s) perfusion time.

RESULTS

Intraoperative ICG fluorescence imaging was performed in all patients, and no adverse events were associated with ICG injection. Based on the perfusion assessment, we changed the transection line in six patients (8.1%). The prolonged perfusion time was observed in nine patients (12.2%). The postoperative course was uneventful in 63 (85.1%) patients, but one patient (1.4%) had postoperative anastomotic leakage. The changed transection line was significantly associated with anticoagulation therapy (P = 0.029). Well-known risk factors, including surgical site, sex, smoking, blood loss, operative time, and preoperative chemoradiotherapy, were not related to the changed transection line. Prolonged ICG perfusion time was not associated with any patient-, tumor-, or surgery-related factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluation of intraoperative blood flow using ICG fluorescence imaging may be able to detect anastomotic hypoperfusion, and anticoagulation therapy is a risk factor of anastomotic hypoperfusion in colorectal surgery.

Delayed Colo-anal Anastomosis for Rectal Cancer: Pelvic Morbidity, Functional Results and Oncological Outcomes: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Delayed colo-anal anastomosis (DCAA) has received renewed interest thanks to its reduction in anastomotic leakage rate without the use of stoma to protect a low rectal anastomosis. The aim of this review was to summarize the available literature on DCAA following rectal cancer resection and to report clinical, oncological and functional results.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review was conducted including MEDLINE/Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, clinicaltrials.gov and the Cochrane database of systematic reviews through July 2018. The review was conducted according to MOOSE guidelines. Quality was appraised with the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) tool.

RESULTS

Eight observational studies (409 patients) were included. Average MINORS score was 9.6/14 in seven non-comparative studies and 17/22 in one comparative study. Six studies reported no anastomotic leak. Pelvic sepsis/abscess ranged from 0 to 25%. Mortality rate was <3% in seven studies and 12.5% in one. Poor fecal continence was reported in <30% of patients. Need for permanent stoma was ≤2% in six studies. A five-year survival rate ranged from 63.8 to 81% (four studies). Loco-regional recurrence rate ranged from 4.8 to 14.3% at 3 years (four studies) and from 6 to 38.8% at 5 years (three studies).

CONCLUSION

DCAA offers an alternative to primary straight colo-anal anastomosis for low rectal cancer. The benefits include reduced risk of anastomotic leakage and pelvic sepsis, and no need for protective ileostomy, with good functional and oncological outcomes. Results of ongoing randomized controlled trials comparing DCAA with straight colo-anal anastomosis and protective stoma are awaited to draw definitive conclusions.

Uni-center, patient-blinded, randomized, 12-month, parallel group, noninferiority study to compare outcomes of 3-row vs 2-row circular staplers for colorectal anastomosis formation after low anterior resection for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Colorectal anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most serious complications in rectal cancer surgery due to its negative impact on the overall as well as cancer-specific survival. Two-row stapling technique has become standard in low anterior resections (LARs), but has neither alleviated the morbidity, nor reduced the incidence of AL. This is the 1st study that aims to compare the success rate of new 3-row circular staplers compared to that of conventional 2-row staplers in a prospective, randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

The THREESTAPLER trial (Clinical Trials NCT03910699) is a prospective, noninferiority, 2-armed, parallel-group, patient and outcomes assessor blinded study with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Colorectal anastomosis will be formed using Ethicon 29 mm Curved Intraluminal Stapler (CDH29A) in the active comparator group, and using Mirus Disposable Circular Stapler 3 Row 29 (MCS-29R3) in the experimental group. The hypothesis states that the incidence of AL in the 3-row stapler group is at least not higher than in the 2-row stapler group. Assuming there is a difference in success rate of 12% and noninferiority margin Δ = 5%, 154 patients will be required to achieve statistical significance. An interim analysis will be performed after recruitment of 20 patients per group to assess safety profile of 3-row circular staplers. The primary endpoint is the rate of AL, documented by imaging studies, assessed with Pearson Chi-squared test and Fisher exact test. The secondary outcomes include severity of AL (A, B, or C), anastomotic bleeding, postoperative complication rate graded with the Clavien-Dindo classification, reintervention rate, stapler dysfunction rate, complications of defunctioning stoma, overall and cancer-specific quality of life, assessed with short form (36) and quality-of-life questionnaire core 30 questionnaires, respectively, fecal incontinence assessed with Cleveland clinic incontinence score form, and manifestation of LAR syndrome. All patients will be monitored for 12 months following the LAR.

DISCUSSION

This is the 1st prospective randomized trial to assess the safety profile of 3-row staplers for colorectal anastomosis after LAR for rectal cancer. It may provide evidence of feasibility of 3-row circular staplers in LAR with respect to short-term and long-term patient outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03910699 on 10 April 2019.

Clinical Significance of Pelvic Peritonization in Laparoscopic Dixon Surgery

Background:

Pelvic floor peritoneum reconstruction is a key step in various standard resections for open radical rectal cancer. However, during endoscopic surgery, most surgeons do not close the pelvic floor peritoneum. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of pelvic peritonization during laparoscopic Dixon surgery using an observational study.

Methods:

A total of 189 patients, who underwent laparoscopic Dixon surgery at Tianjin Union Medical Center, China, were analyzed retrospectively. All of the cases were divided into two groups according to the differences of surgical procedure. The 92 patients in Group A (observation group) underwent pelvic peritonization and the 97 patients in Group B (control group) did not undergo this procedure. Postoperative complications were observed in the two groups, compared, and analyzed using the Chi-square or Fisher's exact test.

Results:

The incidence of anastomotic leakage was significantly lower in Group A than in Group B (P = 0.014). A significant difference was found in the postoperative short-term (P = 0.029) and long-term (P = 0.029) ileus rates between the two groups, with Group A exhibiting a lower rate than Group B. Patients in Group A had significantly lower rates of postoperative infections than those in Group B (χ² = 7.606, P = 0.006; χ² = 4.464, P = 0.035). Patients in Group A had significantly lower rates of deep venous thrombosis than those in Group B (χ² = 8.531, P = 0.003).

Conclusions:

Pelvic peritonization effectively reduces postoperative complications, such as anastomotic leakage, which warrants its increased use in laparoscopic surgery.

Robotic versus laparoscopic rectal resection surgery: Short-term outcomes and complications: A retrospective comparative study

BACKGROUND

The safety of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) remains a concern. This study aimed to compare the complications after RAS versus laparoscopic-assisted surgery (LAS) for rectal cancer using the Clavien-Dindo classification and to identify risk factors related to the complications.

METHOD

Between March 2010 and June 2016, 556 rectal cancer patients who underwent successful RAS and 1029 patients who received LAS were enrolled in this study. The complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification, and the possible risk factors related to the complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall postoperative complication rate was 14.9%, with a 5% rate of severe complications that were classified as grade III or above in RAS group compared with 17.1% and 4.4% in LAS group. However, no significant difference was found (P = 0.608). A high ASA score was identified as an independent risk factor for overall and severe complications in both groups. The use of more than 3 staples in each operation and the anastomotic site of the anal verge at less than 5 cm were independent risk factors for complications.

CONCLUSIONS

RAS for rectal cancer is technically safe and it does not significantly improve the complication rate. The incidence of overall complications is still related to tumor location, the general condition of the patients, and the surgical approach.

Bevacizumab is associated with delayed anastomotic leak after low anterior resection with preoperative radiotherapy for rectal cancer: a case report

Background

Bevacizumab is an anti-angiogenesis agent used to treat patients with metastatic colorectal cancer and is associated with a variety of complications. We present a patient with rectal cancer who developed a delayed anastomotic leak more than 5 years after undergoing low anterior resection.

Case report

A 78-year-old man with hematochezia was diagnosed with two synchronous rectal cancers 7 years prior to presentation. Preoperative chemo-radiotherapy was given followed by a very low anterior resection. During follow-up, multiple lymph node metastases developed, which were treated with chemotherapy. First-line chemotherapy, capecitabine, oxizaliplatin, and bevacizumab, was given over 3 years, and second-line chemotherapy, capecitabine, irinotecan, and bevacizumab, was administered over a 3-month period. After the last treatment, the patient presented with pneumaturia and fecaluria. Computed tomography scan revealed extraluminal air between the prostate and rectum, adjacent to the anastomotic site. Ulceration and fistula formation were observed on colonoscopy, and contrast radiography demonstrated a fistula at the anastomotic site. An anastomotic-urethral fistula was diagnosed and transverse colostomy was performed.

Conclusions

This patient highlights a rare late adverse event at the anastomotic site associated with bevacizumab treatment and preoperative chemo-radiotherapy. Signs and symptoms suggesting anastomotic complications should be thoroughly evaluated during bevacizumab treatment, even long after surgical resection.

Control Comparison of the New EndoWrist and Traditional Laparoscopic Staplers for Anterior Rectal Resection with the Da Vinci Xi: A Case Study

Background: A new robotic stapler for the da Vinci Xi® is directly controlled by the surgeon at the console and equipped with EndoWrist® technology. We evaluated operative and short-term results of the first patients who underwent anterior rectal resection for cancer with the da Vinci Xi and new staplers, and compared the results with those of a comparable group treated with traditional laparoscopic staplers. Methods: From December 2015 to December 2017, 25 patients underwent anterior rectal resection for cancer with robotic EndoWrist staplers (EndoWrist group). Using a case-control method, we compared the results with those of a similar group of patients treated with the same system and a traditional laparoscopic endostapler, controlled by a bedside assistant (Control group). Results: No conversions to laparoscopy or laparotomy were observed, in either group. The mean number of charges was 2.1 ± 0.2 in the EndoWrist group versus 2.7 ± 0.7 in the Control group (P = .0004). The other perioperative results were comparable. During follow-up, the incidence of anastomotic fistula in a contrast enema study was higher in the Control group, although the difference was not statistically significant (two leaks versus two leaks in EndoWrist group; P = .8). The interval between rectal resection and stoma closure was shorter in the EndoWrist group (3.4 ± 2.5 versus 4.2 ± 2.9 months in the Control group; P = .2), although the difference was not significant. Conclusions: Our experience suggests that the new robotic staplers simplify transection, which could reduce the average number of stapler firings used during rectal resection and could decrease the incidence of anastomotic leakage. These findings require confirmation in larger studies.

Progress in prevention and treatment of anastomotic leakage after surgery for rectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, and its morbidity and mortality both rank third among all malignant tumors in China. Rectal cancer accounts for 60%-70% of cases of CRC. With the in-depth study of the pathogenesis of CRC and the mechanism of tumor metastasis, and the improvement of surgical techniques and methods, anal sphincter surgery for middle and low rectal cancer is increasing gradually. Although the quality of life of the patients improves significantly after anal sphincter preservation for rectal cancer, anastomotic leakage is still one of the most common and serious complications. Studies show that the incidence of anastomotic leakage after surgery for low rectal cancer is 3%-21%, and the death rate is up to 3%. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment of patients and analysis of risk factors before operation is of great significant for reducing the potential risk of anastomotic leakage and choosing surgical approach and appropriate preventive measures to prevent and reduce the occurrence of anastomotic leakage. In this paper, we summarize the recent research on anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery in order to help other clinicians reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage in clinical practice.

Transanal total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer with indocyanine green fluorescence angiography

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of fluorescence angiography (FA) on any change in proximal resection margin and/or anastomotic leak (AL) following transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for rectal cancer (RC).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at two centers by three senior surgeons. Both institutions' prospectively maintained Institutional Review Board-approved databases were retrospectively queried for all consecutive patients between July 2015 and May 2017 who had laparoscopic hybrid trans-abdominal total mesorectal excision (TME) and TaTME for RC with colorectal or coloanal anastomosis < 10 cm from the anal verge. All patients had intraoperative FA to assess colonic perfusion of the planned proximal resection margin before bowel transection and after construction of the anastomosis. Primary outcomes measured any changes in proximal resection margins and AL rates.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients (31 males; mean age 63 ± 12 years) were included; 30 (55%) of whom received neoadjuvant chemoradiation. The average anastomotic height was 3.6 cm from the anal verge and 8 (14.5%) patients required intersphincteric dissection. Forty-six patients (85%) had loop ileostomy. FA led to a change in the proximal resection margin in 10 patients (18.5%), one of whom had AL on postoperative day 3 requiring diagnostic laparoscopy and loop ileostomy. A second patient, without a change in the proximal resection margin, also had an AL. The overall AL rate was 3.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

FA changed the planned proximal resection margin in 18.5% of patients, possibly accounting for the relatively low AL rate. FA is imperfect, and subjective but does have the potential to improve outcomes.