Impact of complications on long-term survival after resection of colorectal liver metastases

Textbook outcome in liver surgery for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: defining predictors of an optimal postoperative course using machine learning

BACKGROUND

We sought to define textbook outcome in liver surgery (TOLS) for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) by considering the implications of perioperative outcomes on overall survival (OS).

METHODS

Using a multi-institutional database, TOLS for ICC was defined by employing novel machine learning (ML) models to identify perioperative factors most strongly predictive of OS ≥ 12 months. Subsequently, clinicopathologic factors associated with achieving TOLS were investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 1556 patients with ICC were included. The ML classification models demonstrated that the absence of post-hepatectomy liver failure, intraoperative blood loss <750 mL, absence of major infectious complications, and R0 resection were the perioperative outcomes associated with prolonged OS, thereby defining TOLS for ICC. On multivariable analysis, older age, ASA class >2, lymph node metastasis, receipt of neoadjuvant therapy, advanced T status, poor histological grade and microvascular invasion were independently associated with lower odds of achieving TOLS (all p-values<0.05). Overall, 60.2 % (n = 936) of the patients achieved TOLS, demonstrating markedly improved OS and recurrence-free survival (RFS) than individuals who did not (both p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A standardized definition of TOLS for ICC was established that may be used to evaluate hospital performance at the patient level and help optimize surgical outcomes for patients with ICC.

Postoperative Complications Result in Poor Oncological Outcomes: What Is the Evidence?

The majority of patients with solid tumors undergo a curative resection of their tumor burden. However, the reported rate of postoperative complications varies widely, ranging from 10% to 70%. This narrative review aims to determine the impact of postoperative complications on recurrence and overall survival rates following elective cancer surgeries, thereby providing valuable insights into perioperative cancer care. A systematic electronic search of published studies and meta-analyses from January 2000 to August 2023 was conducted to examine the effect of postoperative complications on long-term survival after cancer surgeries. This comprehensive search identified fifty-one eligible studies and nine meta-analyses for review. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were extracted from the selected studies. Additionally, other oncological outcomes, such as recurrence and cancer-specific survival rates, were noted when RFS and OS were not reported as primary outcomes. Pooled hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were recorded from the meta-analyses, ensuring the robustness of the data. The analysis revealed that long-term cancer outcomes progressively worsen, from patients with no postoperative complications to those with minor postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≤ II) and further to those with major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade III-IV), irrespective of cancer type. This study underscores the detrimental effect of postoperative complications on long-term oncological outcomes, particularly after thoracoabdominal surgeries. Importantly, we found a significant gap in the data regarding postoperative complications in surface and soft tissue surgical procedures, highlighting the need for further research in this area.

Evaluation of the American College of Surgeons risk calculator in hepatectomy for metastatic colorectal cancer in a Southeast Asian population

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the accuracy of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) calculator in predicting outcomes after hepatectomy for colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastasis in a Southeast Asian population.

METHODS

Predicted and actual outcomes were compared for 166 patients undergoing hepatectomy for CRC liver metastasis identified between 2017 and 2022, using receiver operating characteristic curves with area under the curve (AUC) and Brier score.

RESULTS

The ACS-NSQIP calculator accurately predicted most postoperative complications (AUC > 0.70), except for surgical site infection (AUC = 0.678, Brier score = 0.045). It also exhibited satisfactory performance for readmission (AUC = 0.818, Brier score = 0.011), reoperation (AUC = 0.945, Brier score = 0.002), and length of stay (LOS, AUC = 0.909). The predicted LOS was close to the actual LOS (5.9 vs. 5.0 days, P = 0.985).

CONCLUSION

The ACS-NSQIP calculator demonstrated generally accurate predictions for 30-day postoperative outcomes after hepatectomy for CRC liver metastasis in our patient population.

Long-term survival is not affected by severity of complications following esophagectomy

INTRODUCTION

Outcomes following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer have continued to improve over the last 30 years. Post-operative complications impact upon peri-operative and short-term survival but the effect on long-term survival remains debated. This study aims to investigate the effect of post-operative complications on long-term survival following esophagectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who underwent an esophagectomy between January 2010 and January 2019 were included from a single high-volume center. Data was collected contemporaneously. Patients were separated into three groups; those who experienced no, or very minor complications (Clavien-Dindo 0 or 1), minor complications (Clavien-Dindo 2), and major complications (Clavien-Dindo 3-4), at 30 days. To correct for short-term mortality effects, those who died during the index hospital admission were excluded. Overall survival was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and log rank testing.

RESULTS

The study cohort comprised 721 patients. There were 42.4% (306/721), 29.5% (213/721) and 25.7% (185/721) in the Clavien-Dindo 0-1, Clavien-Dindo 2, and Clavien-Dindo 3-4 group respectively. Seventeen patients (2.4%) died during their index hospital admission and were therefore excluded. There was no significant difference between median survival across the 3 groups (50, 57 and 52 months). Across all 3 groups, overall long-term survival rates were equivalent at 1 (87.5%, 84.9%, 83.2%), 3 (59.7%, 59.6%, 54.2%), and 5 years (43.9%, 48.9%, 45.7%) (p = 0.806). The only factors independently associated with survival in this cohort, were male gender, Charlson comorbidity index, and overall pathological stage of disease.

CONCLUSION

Long-term survival is not affected by peri-operative complications, irrespective of severity, following esophagectomy. Further study into the long-term quality of life is required.

The complication-overall survival (CompOS) risk tool predicts risk of a severe postoperative complications relative to long-term survival among patients with primary liver cancer

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to develop a tool based on preoperative factors to predict the risk of perioperative complications based on the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) and long-term survival outcomes after liver resection for primary liver cancer.

METHODS

Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) undergoing curative-intent hepatectomy between 1990 and 2020 were identified using a multi-institutional international database.

RESULTS

Among 1411 patients who underwent curative-intent hepatic resection (HCC: 997, 70.7%; ICC: 414, 29.3%), median patient age was 66.0 years (IQR, 57.0-73.0), and most patients were male (n = 1001, 70.9%). In the postoperative setting, 699 patients (49.5%) experienced a complication; moreover, 112 patients (7.9%) had major complications. Although most patients had a favorable risk complication-overall survival (CompOS) profile (CCI score > 40 risk of <30% and median survival of >5 years: n = 778, 55.1%), 553 patients (39.2%) had an intermediate-risk profile, and 80 patients (5.7%) had a very unfavorable risk profile (CCI score > 40 risk of ≥30% and/or median survival of ≤1.5 years). The areas under the curve of the test and validation cohorts were 0.73 and 0.76, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The CompOS risk model accurately stratified patients relative to short- and long-term risks, identifying a subset of patients at a high risk of major complications and poor overall survival.

Redo Pelvic Surgery and Combined Metastectomy for Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer with Known Oligometastatic Disease: A Multicentre Review

INTRODUCTION

Historically, surgical resection for patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) had been reserved for those without metastatic disease. 'Selective' patients with limited oligometastatic disease (OMD) (involving the liver and/or lung) are now increasingly being considered for resection, with favourable five-year survival rates.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing multi-visceral pelvic resection of LRRC with their oligometastatic disease between 1 January 2015 and 31 August 2021 across four centres worldwide was performed. The data collected included disease characteristics, neoadjuvant therapy details, perioperative and oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

Fourteen participants with a mean age of 59 years were included. There was a female preponderance (n = 9). Nine patients had liver metastases, four had lung metastases and one had both lung and liver disease. The mean number of metastatic tumours was 1.5 +/- 0.85. R0 margins were obtained in 71.4% (n = 10) and 100% (n = 14) of pelvic exenteration and oligometastatic disease surgeries, respectively. Mean lymph node yield was 11.6 +/- 6.9 nodes, with positive nodes being found in 28.6% (n = 4) of cases. A single major morbidity was reported, with no perioperative deaths. At follow-up, the median disease-free survival and overall survival were 12.3 months (IQR 4.5-17.5 months) and 25.9 months (IQR 6.2-39.7 months), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Performing radical multi-visceral surgery for LRRC and distant oligometastatic disease appears to be feasible in appropriately selected patients that underwent good perioperative counselling.

Association of Laparoscopic Surgery with Improved Perioperative and Survival Outcomes in Patients with Resectable Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis from Propensity-Score Matched Studies

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have associated laparoscopic surgery with better overall survival (OS) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). The potential benefits of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) over open liver resection (OLR) have not been demonstrated in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCC).

METHODS

A systematic review of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases was performed to search studies comparing OS and perioperative outcome for patients with resectable iCC. Propensity-score matched (PSM) studies published from database inception to May 1, 2022 were eligible. A frequentist, patient-level, one-stage meta-analysis was performed to analyze the differences in OS between LLR and OLR. Second, intraoperative, postoperative, and oncological outcomes were compared between the two approaches by using a random-effects DerSimonian-Laird model.

RESULTS

Six PSM studies involving data from 1.042 patients (530 OLR vs. 512 LLR) were included. LLR in patients with resectable iCC was found to significantly decrease the hazard of death (stratified hazard ratio [HR]: 0.795 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.638-0.992]) compared with OLR. Moreover, LLR appears to be significantly associated with a decrease in intraoperative bleeding (- 161.47 ml [95% CI - 237.26 to - 85.69 ml]) and transfusion (OR = 0.41 [95% CI 0.26-0.69]), as well as with a shorter hospital stay (- 3.16 days [95% CI - 4.98 to - 1.34]) and a lower rate of major (Clavien-Dindo ≥III) complications (OR = 0.60 [95% CI 0.39-0.93]).

CONCLUSIONS

This large meta-analysis of PSM studies shows that LLR in patients with resectable iCC is associated with improved perioperative outcomes and, being conservative, yields similar OS outcomes compared with OLR.

Postoperative complications and prognosis based on type of surgery in ulcerative colitis patients with colorectal cancer: A multicenter observational study of data from the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum

Background

Patients with ulcerative colitis are reported to be at increased risk of colorectal cancer and are also at high risk of postoperative complications. However, the incidence of postoperative complications in these patients and how the type of surgery performed affects prognosis are not well understood.

Methods

Data collected by the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum on ulcerative colitis patients with colorectal cancer between January 1983 and December 2020 were analyzed according to whether total colorectal resection was performed with ileoanal anastomosis (IAA), ileoanal canal anastomosis (IACA), or permanent stoma creation. The incidence of postoperative complications and the prognosis for each surgical technique were investigated.

Results

The incidence of overall complications was not significantly different among the IAA, IACA, and stoma groups (32.7%, 32.3%, and 37.7%, respectively; p = 0.510). The incidence of infectious complications was significantly higher in the stoma group (21.2%) than in the IAA (12.9%) and IACA (14.6%) groups (p = 0.048); however, the noninfectious complication rate was lower in the stoma group (13.7%) than in the IAA (21.1%) and IACA (16.2%) groups (p = 0.088). Five-year relapse-free survival was higher in patients without complications than in those with complications in the IACA group (92.8% vs. 75.2%; p = 0.041) and the stoma group (78.1% vs. 71.2%, p = 0.333) but not in the IAA group (90.3% vs. 90.0%, p = 0.888).

Conclusion

The risks of infectious and noninfectious complications differed according to the type of surgical technique used. Postoperative complications worsened prognosis.

Histopathological investigation of colon liver metastases - which factors affect survival after surgery?

INTRODUCTION

Novel therapeutic options have improved prognosis for patients with colonic liver metastases (CLM) over the last decades. Despite this, the challenge to select and stratify patients for optimal treatment regimen persists. This study aimed to evaluate established and novel histopathological features and investigate the impact on overall survival (OS) and recurrence in patients undergoing surgery for CLM.

METHODS

Two hundred and sixty patients who underwent resection of CLM with curative intent 2006-2017 were included in the study. Clinicopathological characteristics were retrieved from patient medical records. The following histopathological parameters were investigated: vascular/lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion, tumor regression grade (TRG), tumor growth pattern, pseudocapsule and acellular mucin. Histopathological traits were correlated to OS.

RESULTS

Vascular and lymphatic invasion, as well as perineural invasion, significantly correlated with an adverse prognosis hazard ratio (HR) = 1.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23-2.40 and HR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.20-2.51, respectively. Results retrieved from the study could not propose any novel explorative histopathological features (TRG, tumor growth pattern, pseudocapsule and acellular mucin) to be of significant value as comes correlation with patient OS.

DISCUSSION

Classical histopathological characteristics of previously reported influence on survival were confirmed, while more novel factors that has been proposed, like tumor growth pattern, tumor regression and grade and presence of a pseudocapsule, were not. Further studies are thus needed to identify better ways of understanding the impact of tumor microenvironment and tumor biology on patient outcome and not at least for stratification and improved treatment response.

Postoperative complications predict poor outcomes only in patients with a low modified clinical score after resection of colorectal liver metastases: a retrospective cohort study

The aim was to identify the optimal criteria of postoperative complications (POCs) for predicting oncological outcomes after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs) and to investigate the variable prognostic implications of POCs according to the modified clinical score (M-CS). We identified 751 patients who underwent curative hepatic resection for CRLM between 2007 and 2018. Patients were categorized based on the M-CS. The impact of the severity [≥ Clavien-Dindo grade (C-D) III or comprehensive complication index (CCI) ≥ 26.2] or type [any infectious complications of POC (Inf-poc)] of POC on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was assessed by univariate and multivariable analyses in different groups. Patients with a major or infectious complication were not associated with either RFS or OS in multivariable analysis of the whole cohort. However, patients with a high CCI had a worse OS (HR 1.51, P = 0.004). Among patients with low M-CS, patients with high CCI had worse OS (HR 1.49, P = 0.035) and RFS (HR 1.32, P = 0.048) than those without high CCI. In contrast, the survival disadvantage of a high CCI was not present in patients with a high M-CS. Compared to Inf-poc or major complications, a high CCI decreased long-term OS in patients treated with hepatectomy for CRLM. High CCI has a variable prognostic impact after hepatic resection for CRLM depending on the M-CS. POC is not a decisive factor to justify the use of hepatectomy for CRLM in patients with high M-CS.

Increased Morbidity and Mortality After Hepatectomy for Colorectal Liver Metastases in Frail Patients is Largely Driven by Worse Outcomes After Minor Hepatectomy: It's Not "Just a Wedge"

BACKGROUND

Frailty is associated with postoperative mortality, but its significance after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is poorly defined. This study evaluated the impact of frailty after hepatectomy for CRLM.

METHODS

The study identified 8477 patients in National Surgical Quality Improvement Program databases from 2014 to 2019 and stratified them by frailty score using the risk analysis index as very frail (>90th percentile), frail (75th-90th percentile), or non-frail (< 75th percentile). Multivariate regression models determined the impact of frailty on perioperative outcomes, including by the extent of hepatectomy.

RESULTS

The procedures performed were 2752 major hepatectomies (left hepatectomy, right hepatectomy, trisectionectomy) and 5725 minor hepatectomies (≤2 segments) for 870 (10.3%) very frail, 1680 (19.8%) frail, and 5927 (69.9%) non-frail patients. Postoperatively, the very frail and frail patients experienced more complications (very frail [41.8%], frail [35.1%], non-frail [31.0%]), which resulted in a longer hospital stay (very-frail [5.7 days], frail [5.8 days], non-frail [5.1 days]), a higher 30-day mortality (very-frail [2.2%], frail [1.3%], non-frail [0.5%]), and more discharges to a facility (very frail [6.8%], frail [3.7%], non-frail [2.6%]) (p < 0.05) although they underwent similarly extensive (major vs. minor) hepatectomies. In the multivariate analysis, frailty was independently associated with complications (very-frail [odds ratio {OR}, 1.70], frail [OR, 1.25]) and 30-day mortality (very-frail [OR, 4.24], frail [OR, 2.41]) (p < 0.05). After minor hepatectomy, the very frail and frail patients had significantly higher rates of complications and 30-day mortality than the non-frail patients, and in the multivariate analysis, frailty was independently associated with complications (very frail [OR, 1.97], frail [OR, 1.27]) and 30-day mortality (very frail [OR, 6.76], frail [OR, 3.47]) (p < 0.05) after minor hepatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty predicted significantly poorer outcomes after hepatectomy for CRLM, even after only a minor hepatectomy.

Surgical Resection of Colorectal Liver Metastases: Attitudes and Practice Patterns in the Deep South

BACKGROUND

Metastatic disease is the leading cause of mortality in colorectal cancer. Resection of colorectal liver metastases, when possible, is associated with improved long-term survival and the possibility of cure. However, nationwide studies suggest that liver resection is under-utilized in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases. This study was undertaken to understand attitudes and practice patterns among medical oncologists in the Deep South.

METHODS

A survey of medical oncologists in the states of Alabama, Mississippi, and the Florida panhandle was performed. Respondents were queried regarding perceptions of resectability and attitudes towards surgical referral.

RESULTS

We received 63 responses (32% response rate). Fifty percent of respondents reported no liver surgeons in their practice area. Commonly perceived contraindications to liver resection included extrahepatic metastatic disease (72%), presence of > 4 metastases (72%), bilobar metastases (61%), and metastases > 5 cm (46%). Bilobar metastatic disease was perceived as a contraindication more frequently by non-academic medical oncologists (70% vs. 33%, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Wide variations exist in perceptions of resectability and referral patterns for colorectal liver metastases among surveyed medical oncologists. There is a need for wider dissemination of resectability criteria and more liver surgeon involvement in the management of patients with colorectal liver metastases.

Incidence and Clinical Impact of Bile Leakage after Laparoscopic and Open Liver Resection: An International Multicenter Propensity Score-Matched Study of 13,379 Patients

BACKGROUND

Despite many developments, postoperative bile leakage (POBL) remains a relatively common postoperative complication after laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) and open liver resection (OLR). This study aimed to assess the incidence and clinical impact of POBL in patients undergoing LLR and OLR in a large international multicenter cohort using a propensity score-matched analysis.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients undergoing LLR or OLR for all indications between January 2000 and October 2019 were retrospectively analyzed using a large, international, multicenter liver database including data from 15 tertiary referral centers. Primary outcome was clinically relevant POBL (CR-POBL), defined as Grade B/C POBL.

RESULTS

Overall, 13,379 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis (6,369 LLR and 7,010 OLR), with 6.0% POBL. After propensity score matching, a total of 3,563 LLR patients were matched to 3,563 OLR patients. In both groups, propensity score matching accounted for similar extent and types of resections. The incidence of CR-POBL was significantly lower in patients after LLR as compared with patients after OLR (2.6% vs 6.0%; p < 0.001). Among the subgroup of patients with CR-POBL, patients after LLR experienced less severe (non-POBL) postoperative complications (10.1% vs 20.9%; p = 0.028), a shorter hospital stay (12.5 vs 17 days; p = 0.001), and a lower 90-day/in-hospital mortality (0% vs 5.4%; p = 0.027) as compared with patients after OLR with CR-POBL.

CONCLUSION

Patients after LLR seem to experience a lower rate of CR-POBL as compared with the open approach. Our findings suggest that in patients after LLR, the clinical impact of CR-POBL is less than after OLR.

Risk Factors of Positive Resection Margin in Laparoscopic and Open Liver Surgery for Colorectal Liver Metastases: A New Perspective in the Perioperative Assessment: A European Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risk factors associated with R1 resection in patients undergoing OLS and LLS for CRLMs.

BACKGROUND

The clinical impact of R1 resection in liver surgery for CRLMs has been continuously appraised, but R1 risk factors have not been clearly defined yet.

METHODS

A cohort study of patients who underwent OLS and LLS for CRLMs in 9 European high-volume referral centers was performed. A multivariate analysis and the receiver operating characteristic curves were used to investigate the risk factors for R1 resection. A model predicting the likelihood of R1 resection was developed.

RESULTS

Overall, 3387 consecutive liver resections for CRLMs were included. OLS was performed in 1792 cases whereas LLS in 1595; the R1 resection rate was 14% and 14.2%, respectively. The risk factors for R1 resection were: the type of resection (nonanatomic and anatomic/nonanatomic), the number of nodules and the size of tumor. In the LLS group only, blood loss was a risk factor, whereas the Pringle maneuver had a protective effect. The predictive size of tumor for R1 resection was >45 mm in OLS and >30 mm in LLS, > 2 lesions was significative in both groups and blood loss >350 cc in LLS. The model was able to predict R1 resection in OLS (area under curve 0.712; 95% confidence interval 0.665-0.739) and in LLS (area under curve 0.724; 95% confidence interval 0.671-0.745).

CONCLUSIONS

The study describes the risk factors for R1 resection after liver surgery for CRLMs, which may be used to plan better the perioperative strategies to reduce the incidence of R1 resection during OLS and LLS.

OUP accepted manuscript

Background

Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is a highly demanding procedure with great variability. Previously published randomized trials have proven oncological safety of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) as compared to open surgery. However, these were started after the learning curve (LC) was established. This leaves the question of whether the LC of LLR in the early laparoscopic era has affected the survival of patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).

Methods

All consecutive LLRs performed by a single surgeon between 2000 and 2019 were retrospectively analysed. A risk-adjusted cumulative sum (RA-CUSUM) chart for conversion rate and the log regression analysis of the blood loss identified two phases in the LC. This was then applied to patients with CRLM, and the two subgroups were compared for recurrence-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS). The analysis was repeated with propensity score-matched (PSM) groups

Results

A total of 286 patients were included in the LC analysis, which identified two distinct phases, the early (EP; 68 patients) and the late (LP; 218 patients) phases. The LC was applied to 192 patients with colorectal liver metastasis (EPc, 45 patients; LPc, 147 patients). For patients with CRLM, R0 resection was achieved in 93 per cent: 100 per cent in the EPc group and 90 per cent in the LPc group (P = 0.026). Median OS and RFS were 60 and 16 months, respectively. The 5-year OS and RFS were 51 per cent and 32.7 per cent, respectively. OS (hazard ratio (h.r.) 0.78, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0.51 to 1.2; P = 0.286) and RFS (h.r. 0.94, 95 per cent c.i. 0.64 to 1.37; P = 0.760) were not compromised by the learning curve. The results were replicated after PSM.

Conclusion

In our experience, the development of a laparoscopic liver resection programme can be achieved without adverse effects on the long-term survival of patients with CRLM.

Trends in Textbook Outcomes over Time: Are Optimal Outcomes Following Complex Gastrointestinal Surgery for Cancer Increasing?

BACKGROUND

The use of composite measures like "textbook outcome" (TO) may provide a more accurate measure of surgical quality. We sought to determine if TO has improved over time and to characterize the association of achieving a TO with trends in survival among patients undergoing complex gastrointestinal surgery for cancer.

METHODS

Medicare beneficiaries who underwent pancreas, liver, or colon resection for a cancer diagnosis between 2004 and 2016 were identified using the SEER-Medicare database. Rates of TO (no complication, extended length of stay, 90-day readmission, or 90-day mortality) were assessed over time.

RESULTS

Among 94,329 patients, 6765 (7.2%), 1985 (2.1%), and 85,579 (90.7%) patients underwent resection for primary pancreatic, hepatic, or colon cancer, respectively. In total, 53,464 (56.7%) patients achieved a TO; achievement of TO varied by procedure (pancreatectomy: 48.1% vs. hepatectomy: 55.2% vs. colectomy: 57.4%, p < 0.001). The proportion of patients achieving a textbook outcome increased over time for all patients (2004-2007, 53.3% vs. 2008-2011, 56.5% vs. 2012-2016, 60.1%) (5-year increase: OR 1.16 95%CI 1.13-1.18) (p < 0.001). Survival at 1-year following pancreatic, liver, or colon resection for cancer had improved over time among both patients who did and did not achieve a postoperative TO. TO was independently associated with a marked reduction in hazard of death (HR 0.44, 95%CI 0.43-0.45). The association of TO and survival was consistent among patients stratified by procedure.

CONCLUSION

Less than two-thirds of patients undergoing complex gastrointestinal surgery for a malignant indication achieved a TO. The likelihood of achieving a TO increased over time and was associated with improved survival.

Predictive factors of high comprehensive complication index in colorectal cancer patients using Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol: role as a safety net in early discharge

Purpose

This study was performed to evaluate complications using comprehensive complication index (CCI) in colorectal cancer patients with implementation of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, and to investigate the predictive factors associated with high morbidity rates. It can be used as a safety net in determining the timing of discharge.

Methods

A total of 335 consecutive patients who underwent elective colorectal cancer surgery between January 2017 and December 2017 at a single tertiary center were enrolled. Postoperative complications were defined as occurring within 30 days after surgery. The predictive factor analysis for the high CCI group was also performed.

Results

In total, 116 patients experienced postoperative complications. Wound-related complications and postoperative ileus were the most common. The mean CCI for overall colorectal cancer surgery was 9.1 ± 16.7. Patients featuring low CCI (<26.2) were 297 (88.7%) and high CCI were 38 (11.3%). In multivariable analysis, obstructive colorectal cancer (odds ratio, 3.278; 95% confidence interval, 1.217–8.829; P = 0.019) and CRP value on postoperative day (POD) 3–4 (odds ratio, 1.152; 95% confidence interval, 1.036–1.280; P < 0.010) were significant predictors for high CCI.

Conclusion

The clinical usefulness of CCI in colorectal cancer patients with the ERAS protocol was verified, and it can be used for surgical quality control. More cautious care is needed and the timing of discharge should be carefully determined for patients with obstructive colorectal cancer or POD 3–4 CRP of ≥6.47 mg/dL.

Does minimally invasive liver resection improve long-term survival compared to open resection for hepatocellular carcinoma? A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Minimally invasive liver surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma has gained widespread interest as an alternative to conventional open liver surgery. However, long-term survival benefits of this approach seem unclear. This meta-analysis was conducted to investigate long-term survival following minimally invasive liver surgery.

METHOD

A systematic review was performed to identify studies comparing long-term survival after minimally invasive liver surgery and open liver surgery until January 2020. The I² test was used to test for statistical heterogeneity and publication bias was assessed using Egger test. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for all-cause 5-year (main outcome) and 3-year mortality, and disease-specific 5-year and 3-year mortality. Meta-regression was performed for the 5-year and 3-year survival outcomes with adjustment for study factors (region, design), annual center volume, patient factors (American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, gender, age, body mass index, cirrhosis, tumor size, and number), and resection extent. Sensitivity analyses were performed on studies by study year, region, annual center volume, and resection type.

RESULT

The review identified 50 relevant studies including 13,731 patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma of which 4071 (25.8%) underwent minimally invasive liver surgery. Pooled analysis revealed similar all-cause (odds ratio: 0.83, 95% confidence interval: 0.70-1.11, p = 0.3) and disease-specific (odds ratio: 0.93, 95% confidence interval: 0.80-1.09, p = 0.4) 5-year mortality after minimally invasive liver surgery compared with open liver surgery. Sensitivity analysis of published studies from 2010 to 2019 demonstrated a significantly lower disease-specific 3-year mortality (odds ratio: 0.75, 95% confidence interval: 0.59-0.96, p = 0.022) and all-cause 5-year mortality (odds ratio: 0.63, 95% confidence interval: 0.50-0.81, p = 0.002). Meta-regression identified no confounding factors in all analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in minimally invasive liver surgery techniques over the past decade appears to demonstrate superior disease-specific mortality with minimally invasive liver surgery compared to open liver surgery. Therefore, minimally invasive liver surgery can be recommended as an alternative surgical approach for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Assessment of Textbook Outcome in Laparoscopic and Open Liver Surgery

IMPORTANCE

Textbook outcome (TO) is a composite measure that captures the most desirable surgical outcomes as a single indicator, yet to date TO has not been defined and assessed in the field of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) and open liver resection (OLR).

OBJECTIVE

To obtain international agreement on the definition of TO in liver surgery (TOLS) and to assess the incidence of TO in LLR and OLR in a large international multicenter database using a propensity-score matched analysis.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Patients undergoing LLR or OLR for all liver diseases between January 2011 and October 2019 were analyzed using a large international multicenter liver surgical database. An international survey was conducted among all members of the European-African Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (E-AHPBA) and International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA) to reach agreement on the definition of TOLS. The rate of TOLS was assessed for LLR and OLR before and after propensity-score matching. Factors associated with achieving TOLS were investigated.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Textbook outcome, with TOLS defined as the absence of intraoperative incidents of grade 2 or higher, postoperative bile leak grade B or C, severe postoperative complications, readmission within 30 days after discharge, in-hospital mortality, and the presence of R0 resection margin.

RESULTS

A total of 8188 patients (4559 LLR; median age, 65 years [interquartile range, 55-73 years]; 2529 were male [55.8%] and 3629 OLR; median age, 64 years [interquartile range, 56-71 years]; 2204 were male [60.7%]) were included in the analysis of whom 69.1% achieved TOLS; 74.8% for LLR and 61.9% for OLR (P < .001). On multivariable analysis, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade III, previous abdominal surgery, histological diagnosis of colorectal liver metastases (odds ratio [OR], 0.656 [95% CI, 0.457-0.940]; P = .02), cholangiocarcinoma, non-CRLM, a tumor size of 30 mm or more, minor resection of posterior/superior segments (OR, 0.716 [95% CI, 0.577-0.887]; P = .002), anatomically major resection (OR, 0.579 [95% CI, 0.418-0.803]; P = .001), and nonanatomical resection (OR, 0.612 [95% CI, 0.476-0.788]; P < .001) were associated with a worse TOLS rate after LLR. For OLR, only histological diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma (OR, 0.360 [95% CI, 0.214-0.607]; P < .001) and a tumor size of 30 mm or more (30-50 mm = OR, 0.718 [95% CI, 0.565-0.911]; P = .01; 50.1-100 mm = OR, 0.729 [95% CI, 0.554-0.960]; P = .02; >10 cm = OR, 0.550 [95% CI, 0.366-0.826]; P = .004) were associated with a worse TOLS rate.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this multicenter study, TOLS was found to be a useful tool for assessing patient-level hospital performance and may have utility in optimizing patient outcomes after LLR and OLR.

Intraoperative and postoperative complications in colorectal procedures: the role of continuous updating in medicine

Accepting surgical complications, especially those related to the learning curve, as unavoidable events in colorectal procedures, is like accepting to fly onboard an aircraft with a 10% to 20% chance of not arriving at final destination. Under this condition, it is very likely that the aviation industry and the concurrent reshaping of the world and of our lives would have not been possible in the absence of high reliability and reproducibility of safe flights. It is hard to imagine surgery without any intraoperative and/or postoperative complications. Nevertheless, there is a plenty of room for improvement by simply adopting what has been explicitly and scientifically demonstrated; training outside of the operating room (OR), usage of modern information technologies and application of evidence-based perioperative care protocols. Additionally, the possibility to objectively measure and monitor the technical and even non-technical skills and competencies of individual surgeons and even of OR teams through the application of structured and validated assessment tools can finally put an end to the self-referential, purely hierarchical, and indeed extremely unreliable process of being authorized or not to perform operations on patients. Last but not least, a wide range of new technologies spanning from augmented imaging modalities, virtual reality for intraoperative guidance, improved robotic manipulators, artificial intelligence to assist in preoperative patient specific risk assessment, and intraoperative decision-making has the potential to tackle several hidden roots of surgical complications.

Morbidity and mortality after liver surgery for colorectal liver metastases: a cohort study in a high-volume fast-track programme

BACKGROUND

For colorectal liver metastases, surgery is a high-risk procedure due to perioperative morbidity. The objective was to assess severity of complications after fast-track liver surgery for colorectal liver metastases and their impact on morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

All patients were treated according to the same fast-track programme. Complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification for patients undergoing surgery from 2013 to 2015. Correlation between complications and length of stay was analysed by multivariate linear regression.

RESULTS

564 patient cases were included of which three patients died within 3 months (0.53%, 95% CI: 0.17-1.64%). Complications were common with Grade ≤ 2 in 167 patients (30%) and ≥ Grade 3a in 93 (16%). Patients without complications had a mean length of stay of 4.1 days, which increased with complications: 1.4 days (95% CI: 1.3-1.5) for Grade 2, 1.7 days (1.5-2.0) for Grade 3a, 2.3 days (1.7-3.0) for Grade 3b, 2.6 days (1.6-4.2) for Grade 4a, and 2.9 days (2.8-3.1) for Grade 4b. Following were associated with increased length of stay: complication severity grade, liver insufficiency, ascites, biliary, cardiopulmonary, and infectious complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications after liver surgery for colorectal liver metastases, in a fast track setting, were associated with low mortality, and even severe complications only prolonged length of stay to a minor degree.

Preoperative high-dose glucocorticoids for early recovery after liver resection: randomized double-blinded trial

BACKGROUND

Glucocorticoids modulate the surgical stress response. Previous studies showed that high-dose preoperative glucocorticoids reduce levels of postoperative inflammatory markers and specific biomarkers of liver damage compared with placebo, and suggested a reduced complication rate and shorter hospital stay after liver surgery. However, there are no studies with a clinical primary outcome or of early recovery outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a single high dose of preoperative glucocorticoid reduces complications in the immediate postoperative phase after liver surgery.

METHODS

This was a single-centre, double-blinded, parallel-group RCT investigating preoperative methylprednisolone 10 mg/kg (high dose) versus dexamethasone 8 mg (standard-dose postoperative nausea prophylaxis) in patients scheduled for open liver resection. The primary outcome was number of patients with a complication in the postanaesthesia care unit; secondary outcomes included duration of hospital stay, pain and nausea during admission, and 30-day morbidity.

RESULTS

A total of 174 patients (88 in high-dose group, 86 in standard-dose group) were randomized and analysed (mean(s.d.) age 65(12) years, 67.2 per cent men); 31.6 per cent had no serious co-morbidities and 25.3 per cent underwent major liver resection. Complications occurred in the postanaesthesia care unit in 51 patients (58 per cent) in the high-dose group and 58 (67 per cent) in the standard-dose group (risk ratio 0.86, 95 per cent c.i. 0.68 to 1.08; P = 0.213). Median duration of hospital stay was 4 days in both groups (P = 0.160). Thirty-day morbidity and mortality rates were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

A high dose of preoperative glucocorticoids did not reduce acute postoperative complications after open liver resection compared with a standard dose. Registration number: NCT03403517 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov); EudraCT 2017-002652-81 (https://eudract.ema.europa.eu/).

Predicting morbidity in liver resection surgery: external validation of the revised frailty index and development of a novel predictive model

BACKGROUND

Perioperative complications of liver resection surgery are common but individual patient-level prediction is difficult. Most risk models are unvalidated and may not be clinically useful. We aimed to validate a risk prediction model for complications of liver resection, the Revised Frailty Index (rFI), at a high volume centre. We also aimed to derive a predictive model for complications in our cohort.

METHODS

Records were reviewed for 300 patients undergoing liver resection. The rFI's discrimination of 90-day major complications was assessed by receiver operating curve analysis. Logistic regression analysis was then used to fit rFI covariates to our dataset. A further analysis produced a model with optimal discrimination of 90-day major complications.

RESULTS

The rFI was a poor discriminator of 90-day major complications (AUROC 0.562) among patients at our centre. The rFI optimised fit model demonstrated improved discrimination of 90-day major complications (AUROC 0.685). We developed a novel model with improved fit and similar discrimination (AUROC 0.710).

CONCLUSION

We were unable to validate the rFI as a predictor of complications. We developed a novel model with discrimination at least equal to other published risk models. However, there is an unmet need for well-validated, clinically useful risk tools in this area.

Complications After Complex Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery: Benefits and Costs Associated with Inter-hospital Transfer Among Medicare Beneficiaries

BACKGROUND

Inter-hospital transfer (IHT) may help reduce failure-to-rescue (FTR) by transferring patients to centers with a higher level of expertise than the index hospital. We sought to identify factors associated with an IHT and examine if IHT was associated with improved outcomes after complex gastrointestinal cancer surgery.

METHODS

Medicare Inpatient Standard Analytic Files were utilized to identify patients with >1 postoperative complication following resection for esophageal, pancreatic, liver, or colorectal cancer between 2013 and 2017. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association of different factors with the chance of IHT, as well as the impact of IHT on failure-to-rescue (FTR) and expenditures.

RESULTS

Among 39,973 patients with >1 postoperative complications, 3090 (7.7%) patients were transferred to a secondary hospital. The median LOS at the index hospital prior to IHT was 10 days (IQR, 6-17 days). Patients who underwent IHT more often had experienced multiple complications at the index hospital compared with non-IHT patients (57.7% vs. 38.9%) (p<0.001). Transferred patients more commonly had undergone surgery at a low-volume index hospital (n=218, 60.2%) compared with non-IHT (n=10,351, 25.9%) patients (p<0.001). On multivariate analysis, hospital volume remained strongly associated with transfer to an acute care hospital (ACH) (OR 5.53; 95% CI 3.91-7.84; p<0.001), as did multiple complications (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.56-2.57). The incidence of FTR was much higher among IHT-ACH patients (20.2%) versus non-IHT patients (11.5%) (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.11-2.05) (p<0.001). Medicare expenditures were higher among patients who had IHT-ACH ($72.1k USD; IQR, $48.1k-$116.7k) versus non-IHT ($38.5k USD; IQR, $28.1k-$59.2k USD) (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Approximately 1 in 13 patients had an IHT after complex gastrointestinal cancer surgery. IHT was associated with high rates of FTR, which was more pronounced among patients who underwent surgery at an index low-volume hospital. IHT was associated with higher overall CMS expenditures.

Timing of Complication and Failure to Rescue after Hepatectomy: Single-Institution Analysis of 28 Years of Hepatic Surgery

BACKGROUND

Morbidity after hepatectomy remains a significant, potentially preventable, outcome. Understanding the pattern of complications and rescue pathways is critical for the development of targeted initiatives intended to salvage patients after operative morbidity.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients undergoing liver resection from 1991 to 2018 at a single institution were analyzed. Failure to rescue (FTR) was defined as percentage of deaths in patients with a complication within 30 days. Generalized estimating equations with log-link function assessed associations between clinical characteristics and major complications and between complications at fewer than 30 days and 30 to 90 days. Logistic regression assessed associations between complications and FTR.

RESULTS

A total of 6,191 patients and 6,668 operations were identified, of which 55.6% were performed for management of metastatic colorectal cancer. Major complications (grade ≥3) occurred in 20.2% of operations (1,346 of 6,668). Ninety-day mortality was 2.2%. The most common complication was intra-abdominal abscess at 9.0% (95% CI, 8.3% to 9.7%). Ten percent of patients with a complication at 30 days had another complication between 30 and 90 days compared with 2% without an early complication (odds ratio [OR] 5.09; 95% CI, 3.97 to 6.54; p < 0.001). FTR for liver failure, cardiac arrest, abscess, and hemorrhage was 36%, 56%, 3%, and 6%, respectively. Risk of 90-day mortality was higher in patients with liver failure (53% vs 2%; OR 61.42; 95% CI, 37.47 to 100.67; p < 0.001), cardiac arrest (69% vs 2%; OR 96.95; 95% CI, 33.23 to 283.80; p < 0.001), hemorrhage (11% vs 2%; OR 5.51; 95% CI, 2.59 to 11.73; p < 0.001), and abscess (7% vs 2%; OR 4.05; 95% CI, 2.76 to 5.94; p < 0.001) compared with those without these complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Morbidity after hepatectomy is frequent despite low mortality. This study identifies targets for improvement in morbidity and failure to rescue after hepatectomy. Efforts to improve recognition and intervention for infections and early complications are needed to improve outcomes.

Clinical Significance of Serum Antithrombin III Activity After Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background

As antithrombin III (AT-III) is produced in the hepatocytes, its serum activity decreases at the time of liver failure, in addition to ischemia reperfusion injury, vascular endothelial dysfunction, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Here, we examined whether the serum AT-III value after hepatectomy could be a prognostic factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Of 141 patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC, data for 101 patients in whom serum AT-III activity was measured on the first postoperative day were extracted. Patients with serum AT-III activity > 50% and ≤ 50% were assigned to high value (72 cases) and low value (29 cases) groups, respectively. We examined the clinical and prognostic differences between these two groups.

Results

The average age of enrolled patients (83 men and 18 women) was 68.0 years. The 5-year overall survival rate was 88% and 60% in the high and low value groups, respectively (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the 2-year relapse-free survival rate was 71% and 54% in the high and low value groups, respectively (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate that serum AT-III levels on the first postoperative day may serve as a prognostic factor in HCC patients.

Five-Year Survival Outcomes of Hybrid Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy in Esophageal Cancer: Results of the MIRO Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Available data comparing the long-term results of hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy (HMIE) with that of open esophagectomy are conflicting, with similar or even better results reported for the minimally invasive esophagectomy group.

Objective

To evaluate the long-term, 5-year outcomes of HMIE vs open esophagectomy, including overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and pattern of disease recurrence, and the potential risk factors associated with these outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial is a post hoc follow-up study that analyzes the results of the open-label Multicentre Randomized Controlled Phase III Trial, which enrolled patients from 13 different centers in France and was conducted from October 26, 2009, to April 4, 2012. Eligible patients were 18 to 75 years of age and were diagnosed with resectable cancer of the middle or lower third of the esophagus. After exclusions, patients were randomized to either the HMIE group or the open esophagectomy group. Data analysis was performed on an intention-to-treat basis from November 19, 2019, to December 4, 2020.

Interventions

Hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy (laparoscopic gastric mobilization with open right thoracotomy) was compared with open esophagectomy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end points of this follow-up study were 5-year OS and DFS. The secondary end points were the site of disease recurrence and potential risk factors associated with DFS and OS.

Results

A total of 207 patients were randomized, of whom 175 were men (85%), and the median (range) age was 61 (23-78) years. The median follow-up duration was 58.2 (95% CI, 56.5-63.8) months. The 5-year OS was 59% (95% CI, 48%-68%) in the HMIE group and 47% (95% CI, 37%-57%) in the open esophagectomy group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.48-1.06). The 5-year DFS was 52% (95% CI, 42%-61%) in the HMIE group vs 44% (95% CI, 34%-53%) in the open esophagectomy group (HR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.55-1.17). No statistically significant difference in recurrence rate or location was found between groups. In a multivariable analysis, major intraoperative and postoperative complications (HR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.41-3.45; P < .001) and major pulmonary complications (HR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.21-3.10; P = .005) were identified as risk factors associated with decreased OS. Similarly, multivariable analysis of DFS identified overall intraoperative and postoperative complications (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.28-2.90; P = .002) and major pulmonary complications (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.19-2.86; P = .006) as risk factors.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found no difference in long-term survival between the HMIE and open esophagectomy groups. Major postoperative overall complications and pulmonary complications appeared to be independent risk factors in decreased OS and DFS, providing additional evidence that HMIE may be associated with improved oncological results compared with open esophagectomy primarily because of a reduction in postoperative complications.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00937456.

Hand-assisted Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Liver Metastasis: Analysis of Short-term and Long-term Results

BACKGROUND

There is scant data regarding the outcomes of hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). The aim of this study is to report our experience and analyze the short-term and long-term results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of patients undergoing HALS for CRLM in 2 university affiliated medical centers.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirty-eight liver procedures were performed on 145 patients including 205 parenchymal sparing resections and 33 anatomic resections. The median number of metastases was 1 (range: 1 to 8), 38 patients (26.2%) had 3 or more metastases, and 41 patients (28.3 had a bi-lobar disease. The tumor size was 20 (2 to 90) mm, and 52 patients (36.6%) had a tumor larger than 30 mm. Nighty-nine patients (67.8%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In 8 patients (5.5%) the laparoscopic liver resection was combined with ablation, and 16 patients (11%) underwent a synchronous resection of colorectal cancer. The median operative time, blood loss during surgery, and postoperative hospital stay were 163 minutes, 300 mL, and 4 days, respectively. The median modified Iwate complexity score was 4 (0 to 10) and the conversion rate to open surgery was 5.5%. The overall and major complication rates were 23.8% and 3.6%, respectively. The mortality rate was 0.7%. R0 resections were achieved in 91% of patients. Median overall survival for all the cohort (intend to treat) was 59 months, and the 8- and 10-year overall survival rates were 47.3% and 24.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that HALS is a safe and efficacious treatment for selected patients with CRLM.

Performance of Comprehensive Complication Index and Clavien-Dindo Complication Scoring System in Liver Surgery for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

We aimed to assess the ability of comprehensive complication index (CCI) and Clavien-Dindo complication (CDC) scale to predict excessive length of hospital stay (e-LOS) in patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

Patients were identified from an Italian multi-institutional database and randomly selected to be included in either a derivation or validation set. Multivariate logistic regression models and ROC curve analysis including either CCI or CDC as predictors of e-LOS were fitted to compare predictive performance. E-LOS was defined as a LOS longer than the 75th percentile among patients with at least one complication.

RESULTS

A total of 2669 patients were analyzed (1345 for derivation and 1324 for validation). The odds ratio (OR) was 5.590 (95%CI 4.201; 7.438) for CCI and 5.507 (4.152; 7.304) for CDC. The AUC was 0.964 for CCI and 0.893 for CDC in the derivation set and 0.962 vs. 0.890 in the validation set, respectively. In patients with at least two complications, the OR was 2.793 (1.896; 4.115) for CCI and 2.439 (1.666; 3.570) for CDC with an AUC of 0.850 and 0.673, respectively in the derivation cohort. The AUC was 0.806 for CCI and 0.658 for CDC in the validation set.

CONCLUSIONS

When reporting postoperative morbidity in liver surgery, CCI is a preferable scale.

The Impact of Hospital Volume on Failure to Rescue after Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Analysis from the HE.RC.O.LE.S. Italian Registry

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate correlation between centers' volume and incidence of failure to rescue (FTR) following liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

FTR, defined as the probability of postoperative death among patients with major complication, has been proposed to assess quality of care during hospitalization. Perioperative management is challenging in cirrhotic patients and the ability to recognize and treat a complication may be fundamental to rescue patients from the risk of death.

METHODS

Patients undergoing liver resection for HCC between 2008 and 2018 in 18 Centers enrolled in the He.Rc.O.Le.S. Italian register. Early results included major complications (Clavien ≥3), 90-day mortality, and FTR and were analyzed according to center's volume.

RESULTS

Among 1935 included patients, major complication rate was 9.4% (8.6%, 12.3%, and 7.0% for low-, intermediate- and high-volume centers, respectively, P = 0.001). Ninety-day mortality rate was 2.6% (3.7%, 4.2% and 0.9% for low-, intermediate- and high-volume centers, respectively, P < 0.001). FTR was significantly higher at low- and intermediate-volume centers (28.6% and 26.5%, respectively) than at high-volume centers (6.1%, P = 0.002). Independent predictors for major complications were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) >2, portal hypertension, intraoperative blood transfusions, and center's volume. Independent predictors for 90-day mortality were ASA >2, Child-Pugh score B, BCLC stage B-C, and center's volume. Center's volume and BCLC stage were strongly associated with FTR.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of major complications and mortality was related with comorbidities, cirrhosis severity, and complexity of surgery. These factors were not correlated with FTR. Center's volume was the only independent predictor related with severe complications, mortality, and FTR.

Simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection for primary rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases: results from the PelvEx Collaborative

AIM

At presentation, 15-20% of patients with rectal cancer already have synchronous liver metastases. The aim of this study was to determine the surgical and survival outcomes in patients with advanced rectal cancer who underwent combined pelvic exenteration and liver (oligometastatic) resection.

METHOD

Data from 20 international institutions that performed simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection between 2007 and 2017 were accumulated. Primarily, we examined perioperative outcomes, morbidity and mortality. We also assessed the impact that margin status had on survival.

RESULTS

Of 128 patients, 72 (56.2%) were men with a median age of 60 years [interquartile range (IQR) 15 years]. The median size of the liver oligometastatic deposits was 2 cm (IQR 1.8 cm). The median duration of surgery was 406 min (IQR 240 min), with a median blood loss of 1090 ml (IQR 2010 ml). A negative resection margin (R0 resection) was achieved in 73.5% of pelvic exenterations and 66.4% of liver resections. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.6%, and 32% of patients had a major postoperative complication. The 5-year overall survival for patients in whom an R0 resection of both primary and metastatic disease was achieved was 54.6% compared with 20% for those with an R1/R2 resection (P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection is feasible, with acceptable morbidity and mortality. Simultaneous resection should only be performed where an R0 resection of both pelvic and hepatic disease is anticipated.

Association between postoperative complications and long-term oncologic outcomes following total laryngectomy: 10-year experience at MD Anderson Cancer Center

BACKGROUND

Postoperative complications are an independent predictor of poor survival across several tumors. However, there is limited literature on the association between postoperative morbidity and long-term survival following total laryngectomy (TL) for cancer.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of all TL patients at a single institution from 2008 to 2013. Demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed, including postsurgical outcomes, which were classified using the Clavien-Dindo system. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

A total of 362 patients were identified. The mean age was 64 years, and the majority of patients were male (81%). The median follow-up interval was 21 months. Fifty-seven percent of patients had received preoperative radiation, and 40% had received preoperative chemotherapy. Fifty-seven percent of patients underwent salvage TL, and 60% underwent advanced reconstruction (45% free flap and 15% pedicled flap). A total of 136 patients (37.6%) developed postoperative complications, 92 (25.4%) of which were major. Multivariable modeling demonstrated that postoperative complications independently predicted shorter OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.50; 95% CI, 1.16-1.96; P = .002) and DFS (HR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.05-1.76; P = .021). Other independent negative predictors of OS and DFS included positive lymph node status, preoperative chemotherapy, comorbidity grade, and delayed adjuvant therapy. Severity of complication and reason for TL (salvage vs primary) were not shown to be predictive of OS or DFS.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative complications are associated with worse long-term OS and DFS relative to uncomplicated cases. Patient optimization and timely management of postoperative complications may play a critical role in long-term survival.

Hospital variation in Textbook Outcomes following curative-intent resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: an international multi-institutional analysis

BACKGROUND

Composite measures such as "Textbook Outcome" (TO) may be superior to individual quality metrics to assess surgical care and hospital performance. However, the incidence and factors associated with TO after resection of HCC remain poorly defined.

METHODS

Hospital variation in the rates of TO, factors associated with achieving a TO and the impact of TO on long-term survival following resection for HCC were examined using an international multi-institutional database.

RESULTS

Among 605 patients who underwent curative-intent resection of HCC, the unadjusted incidence of TO ranged from 50.9% to 77.7%. While achievement of each individual quality metric was relatively high (range, 74.5-98.0%), an overall TO was achieved among only 62.3% (n = 377) of patients. At the hospital level, TO ranged from 54.3% to 72.9%. Patients with BCLC-0 HCC (referent BCLC-B/C; OR: 4.17, 95%CI: 1.62-10.7) and ALBI grade 1 (referent ALBI grade 2/3; OR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.06-2.11) had higher odds of achieving a TO. On multivariable analysis, TO was associated with improved overall survival (HR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.42-0.85).

CONCLUSION

Roughly 6 in 10 patients achieved a TO following resection for HCC. When achieved, TO was associated with better long-term outcomes. TO is a simple composite measure of both short- and long-term outcomes among patients undergoing resection for HCC.

Predictors of post-operative complications after surgical resection of hepatocellular carcinoma and their prognostic effects on outcome and survival: A propensity-score matched and structural equation modelling study

INTRODUCTION

Although hepatectomy is the mainstay of curative therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), post-operative complications remain high. Presently there is conflicting data on the impact of morbidity on oncologic outcomes. We sought to identify predictors for the occurrence of post-hepatectomy complications, as well as to analyse the impact on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 888 patients who underwent resection for HCC from 2001 to 2016 in our institution.

RESULTS

A total of 237 patients (26.7%) developed 254 complications of Clavien-Dindo Grade ≥2. Hepatitis B (p = 0.0397), elevated ASA score (p = 0.0002), higher platelet counts (p = 0.0277), raised pre-operative APRI scores (p = 0.0105) and bloodloss (p < 0.0001) were independently associated with the development of complications. After propensity-score matching, 458 patients were compared in a 1:1 ratio (229 with complications versus 229 without). Patients with complications had significantly longer median length of stay (9 days [IQR 7-15] versus 6 days [IQR 5-8], p < 0.0001), higher 90-day mortality rates as well as inferior OS (p = 0.0139), but there was no difference in RFS (p = 0.4577). Age (p = 0.0006), elevated Child Pugh points (p < 0.0001), microvascular invasion (p = 0.0002), multifocal tumours (p = 0.0002), R1 resection (p = 0.0443) and development of complications (p = 0.0091) were independent predictors of inferior OS.

CONCLUSION

Post-operative morbidity affected both short-term and OS outcomes after hepatectomy for HCC. Hepatitis B, higher ASA scores, elevated preoperative APRI and increased blood loss were found to predict a higher likelihood of developing complications. This may potentially be mitigated by careful patient selection and adopting strict measures to minimise intraoperative bleeding.

PelvEx Collaborative. Management strategies for patients with advanced rectal cancer and liver metastases using modified Delphi methodology: results from the PelvEx Collaborative

AIM

A total of 15-20% of patients with rectal cancer have liver metastases on presentation. The management of these patients is controversial. Heterogeneity in management strategies is considerable, with management often being dependent on local resources and available expertise.

METHOD

Members of the PelvEx Collaborative were invited to participate in the generation of a consensus statement on the optimal management of patients with advanced rectal cancer with liver involvement. Fifteen statements were created for topical discussion on diagnostic and management issues. Panellists were asked to vote on statements and anonymous feedback was given. A collaborative meeting was used to discuss any nuances and clarify any obscurity. Consensus was considered when > 85% agreement on a statement was achieved.

RESULTS

A total of 135 participants were involved in the final round of the Delphi questionnaire. Nine of the 15 statements reached consensus regarding the management of patients with advanced rectal cancer and oligometastatic liver disease. Routine use of liver MRI was not recommended for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer, unless there was concern for metastatic disease on initial computed tomography staging scan. Induction chemotherapy was advocated as first-line treatment in those with synchronous liver metastases in locally advanced rectal cancer. In the presence of symptomatic primary disease, a diverting stoma may be required to facilitate induction chemotherapy. Overall, only one-quarter of the panellists would consider simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection.

CONCLUSION

This Delphi process highlights the diverse treatment of advanced rectal cancer with liver metastases and provides recommendations from an experienced international group regarding the multidisciplinary management approach.

Development and validation of a real-time mortality risk calculator before, during and after hepatectomy: an analysis of the ACS NSQIP database

BACKGROUND

Although most conventional risk prediction models have been based on preoperative information, intra- and post-operative events may be more relevant to mortality after surgery. We sought to develop a mortality risk calculator based on real time characteristics associated with hepatectomy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent hepatectomy between 2014 and 2017 were identified in the ACS-NSQIP dataset. Three prediction models (pre-, intra-, post-operative) were developed and validated using perioperative data.

RESULTS

Among 14,720 patients, 197 (1.3%) experienced 30-day mortality. The predictive ability of the real-time mortality risk calculator was very good based on only preoperative factors (AUC; training cohort: 0.813, validation cohort: 0.731). Incorporating intra-operative variables into the model increased the AUC (training: 0.838, validation: 0.777), while the post-operative model achieved an AUC of 0.922 in the training and 0.885 in the validation cohorts, respectively. While patients with low preoperative risk had only very small fluctuations in the estimated 30-day mortality risk during the intraoperative (Δ0.4%) and postoperative (Δ0.6%) phases, patients who were already deemed high risk preoperatively had additional increased mortality risk based on factors that occurred in the intraoperative (Δ5.4%) and postoperative (Δ9.3%) periods.

CONCLUSION

A real-time mortality risk calculator may better help clinicians identify patients at risk of death at the different stages of the surgical episode.

Use of Machine Learning for Prediction of Patient Risk of Postoperative Complications After Liver, Pancreatic, and Colorectal Surgery

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection is the only potentially curative treatment for patients with colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Although these procedures are performed with low mortality, rates of complications remain relatively high following hepatopancreatic and colorectal surgery.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was utilized to identify patients undergoing liver, pancreatic and colorectal surgery from 2014 to 2016. Decision tree models were utilized to predict the occurrence of any complication, as well as specific complications. To assess the variability of the performance of the classification trees, bootstrapping was performed on 50% of the sample.

RESULTS

Algorithms were derived from a total of 15,657 patients who met inclusion criteria. The algorithm had a good predictive ability for the occurrence of any complication, with a C-statistic of 0.74, outperforming the ASA (C-statistic 0.58) and ACS-Surgical Risk Calculator (C-statistic 0.71). The algorithm was able to predict with high accuracy thirteen out of the seventeen complications analyzed. The best performance was in the prediction of stroke (C-statistic 0.98), followed by wound dehiscence, cardiac arrest, and progressive renal failure (all C-statistic 0.96). The algorithm had a good predictive ability for superficial SSI (C-statistic 0.76), organ space SSI (C-statistic 0.76), sepsis (C-statistic 0.79), and bleeding requiring transfusion (C-statistic 0.79).

CONCLUSION

Machine learning was used to develop an algorithm that accurately predicted patient risk of developing complications following liver, pancreatic, or colorectal surgery. The algorithm had very good predictive ability to predict specific complications and demonstrated superiority over other established methods.

ERAS in minimally invasive hepatectomy

Open hepatectomy is associated with significant post-operative morbidity and mortality profile. The use of minimally invasive approach for hepatectomy can reduce the post-operative complication profile and total length of hospital stay. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs involve evidence-based multimodal care pathways designed to achieve early recovery for patients undergoing major surgery. This review will discuss the published evidence, challenges and future directions for ERAS in minimally invasive hepatectomy.

Impact of type and severity of postoperative complications on long-term outcomes after colorectal liver metastases resection

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Postoperative complications (POCs) after hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) adversely affect long-term survival. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of POC etiology and severity on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

METHODS

A retrospective study of 254 consecutive hepatectomies for CRLM was performed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the effects of demographic, tumor-related and perioperative variables on OS and DFS. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was then used to compare patients with different POC etiology: infective (Inf-POC), noninfective (Non-inf POC), and no-complications (No-POC).

RESULTS

Inf-POC, Non-inf POC, and No-POC patients represented 18.8%, 19.2%, and 62% of the sample, respectively. In univariate and multivariate analyses infectious POC were independent risk factors for decreased OS and DFS. After PSM, Inf-POC group presented decreased OS and DFS when compared with Non-inf POC (5-year OS 31.8% vs 51.6%; P = .05 and 5-year DFS 13.6% vs 31.9%; P = .04) and with No-POC (5-year OS 29.4% vs 58.7%; P = .03 and 5-year DFS 11.8% vs 39.7%; P = .03). There were no differences between Non-inf POC and No-POC patients. POC severity calculated using the Comprehensive Complications Index did not influence OS and DFS before and after PSM.

CONCLUSION

The negative oncological impact of POCs after CRLM resection is determined by infective etiology not by severity.

Incidence and impact of Textbook Outcome among patients undergoing resection of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: Results of the US Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

We sought to define the incidence and impact of Textbook Outcome (TO) on disease-free survival [DFS] among patients undergoing resection of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNET).

METHODS

Patients undergoing resection of a PNET between 2000 and 2016 were identified using a multi-institutional database. TO was defined as no postoperative severe complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ III), no 90-day mortality, no prolonged length-of-hospital stay (LOS) (ie, > 75th percentile), no 90-day readmission after discharge, and R0 resection. The 5-year DFS was calculated and the association with TO was examined.

RESULTS

Among 821 patients with a PNET, median tumor size was 2.1 cm (IQR 1.4-14.6). Resection consisted of pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) (n = 231, 28.1%), distal pancreatectomy (DP) (n = 492, 59.9%), and enucleation (EN) (n = 98, 11.9%). Overall TO rate was 49.3% (n = 405). The incidence of TO varied by procedure type (PD: 32.5% vs DP: 56.7% vs EN: 52.0%; P < .001). After adjusting for all competing factors, achievement of a TO was independently associated with improved DFS (hazard ratio: 0.54, 95% CI, 0.35-0.81; P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

Only one in two patients undergoing resection of a PNET achieved a TO, which varied markedly based on procedure type. Achievement of a TO was associated with improved DFS.

Effect of treatment sequence on survival in stage IV rectal cancer with synchronous and potentially resectable liver metastases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The optimal treatment sequence in stage IV rectal cancer (RC) with synchronous liver metastases (SLM) remains undefined. Here, we compared outcomes between patients treated with the bowel-first approach (BFA) or the liver-first approach (LFA).

METHODS

Consecutive patients diagnosed with stage IV RC with SLM and who underwent complete resection were included. Both groups were matched using propensity scores. Differences in postoperative outcome, local control, and long-term survival were studied. In addition, a decision analysis (DA) model was built using TreeAge Pro to define the approach that results in the highest treatment completion rate.

RESULTS

During a 12-year period, 52 patients were identified, 21 and 31 of whom underwent the BFA and the LFA, respectively. Twenty-eight patients were matched; patients treated with the BFA experienced a longer median OS (50.0 vs 33.0 months; P = .40) and higher 5-year OS (42.9% vs 28.6%). The DA defined the BFA to be superior when the failure threshold (ie, no R0 resection, treatment discontinuation regardless of cause) for colectomy is less than 28.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

In stage IV rectal cancer with SLM, either the BFA or the LFA result in similar long-term outcomes. Treatment should be tailored according to clinicopathological variables.

The impact of posthepatectomy liver failure on long-term survival after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative complications affect both the short-term and long-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify specific prognostic factors among complications after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2014, 427 patients underwent initial hepatectomy for CRLM. The clinicopathological parameters including postoperative complications were evaluated to identify the prognostic factors for the overall (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-nine patients (34%) developed postoperative complications, including surgical site infection (n = 49, 11.4%), bile leakage (n = 41, 9.6%), posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) (n = 26, 6.0%), and pulmonary complication (n = 20, 4.6%). The independent predictors of RFS included primary nodal metastasis, abnormal CA19-9 levels, extrahepatic metastasis, bilateral CRLMs, ≥5 CRLMs, preoperative chemotherapy, lack of adjuvant chemotherapy and PHLF. The 5-year RFS rates in patients with and without PHLF were 8% and 32%, respectively (P < 0.001). The independent prognostic factors for OS included primary nodal metastasis, abnormal CA19-9 levels, extrahepatic metastasis, positive surgical margins, preoperative chemotherapy, lack of adjuvant chemotherapy and PHLF. The 5-year OS rates in patients with and without PHLF were 31% and 63%, respectively (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Among the complications, only PHLF was associated with decreased long-term survival after hepatectomy for CRLM as well as tumor-specific prognostic factors.

Hepatic steatosis in patients undergoing resection of colorectal liver metastases: A target for prehabilitation? A narrative review

The prevalence of elevated intra-hepatic fat (IHF) is increasing in the Western world, either alone as hepatic steatosis (HS) or in conjunction with inflammation (steatohepatitis). These changes to the hepatic parenchyma are an independent risk factor for post-operative morbidity following liver resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). As elevated IHF and colorectal malignancy share similar risk factors for development it is unsurprisingly frequent in this cohort. In patients undergoing resection IHF may be elevated due to excess adiposity or its elevation may be induced by neoadjuvant chemotherapy, termed chemotherapy associated steatosis (CAS). Additionally, chemotherapy is implicated in the development of inflammation termed chemotherapy associated steatohepatitis (CASH). Following cessation of chemotherapy, patients awaiting resection have a 4-6 week washout period prior to resection that is a window for prehabilitation prior to surgery. In patients with NAFLD dietary and pharmacological interventions can reduce IHF within this timeframe but this approach to modifying IHF is untested in this population. In this review, the aetiology of CAS and CASH is reviewed with recommendations to identify those at risk. We also focus on the post-chemotherapy washout period, reviewing dietary interventions applied to the metabolic population and suggest this window may be used as an opportunity to optimise IHF with such a regime as part of a pre-operative prehabilitation programme to produce improved patient outcomes.

Regorafenib Prior to Selective Internal Radiation Therapy Using 90Y-Resin Microspheres for Refractory Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases: Analysis of Safety, Dosimetry, and Molecular Markers

Background: This Phase II, open-label, study examined the safety of regorafenib followed by selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) with regorafenib re-initiation in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients with liver metastases who are not surgical candidates.

Methods: Patients received 160 mg regorafenib daily on a 21-day course followed by a 1 week washout prior to SIRT. Liver function was evaluated at 2 and 4 weeks after SIRT, and regorafenib re-initiated if liver function was normal. Patients were evaluated for safety, and restaged at weeks 6 and 12 following SIRT. In addition, protein and cytokine assays of blood were performed to identify candidate molecular biomarkers associated with outcomes. Individual patient voxel-based dosimetry assessment was performed post-SIRT.

Results: Twenty-Five patients were enrolled and received a median 11 weeks regorafenib. Three patients received regorafenib, but not SIRT due to disease progression. The remaining 22 patients received SIRT with a median activity delivered to the liver of 38 mCi, mean normal liver dose of 14.98 Gy and tumor mean dose of 29.0 Gy with a tumor to normal ratio mean of 2.42. There were four treatment-related serious AEs and no treatment-related deaths. Median progression-free survival was 3.7 months and the median overall survival was 12.1 months. The relative densities of several biomolecules changed significantly during the course of treatment, most notably post-treatment increases in levels of sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and decreased levels of the cytokine MIG (CXL9). Decreases in von Willebrand factor (VWF), the ankyrin repeat domain (ANKRD26), and MIG were associated with improved survival times. Post-treatment increases in alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) and the cytokine intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) were associated with reduced overall survival time, while increases in Eotaxin (CCL14) predicted longer overall survival times.

Conclusions: The treatment of mCRC patients with liver metastases using regorafenib followed by SIRT was tolerable in this patient population. Further efficacy analysis of this treatment schema and analysis of potential molecular biomarkers using larger sample sizes is merited.

Frailty Predicts Severe Postoperative Complication after Elective Hepatic Resection

Background

Frail patients are likely to suffer from postoperative complication, but this assumption has not been well confirmed.

Objectives

This study aims to clarify the importance of frailty in patients undergoing hepatectomy for predicting severe postoperative complications.

Method

One hundred and forty-three patients aged >65 years undergoing hepatectomy between 2011 and 2016 were enrolled in this study. The relevance of frailty versus sarcopenia for postoperative outcome was assessed. We defined clinical frailty (CF) as a CF scale >4. Sarcopenia was defined by the total muscle area at the level of the third lumbar vertebra measured on computed tomography.

Results

There were 16 patients (11%) with CF and 80 patients (56%) with sarcopenia. CF was associated with high age (p < 0.0001), severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo classification ≥3) (p = 0.0059), and postoperative in-hospital stay (p = 0.0013). On the other hand, sarcopenia was not associated with postoperative outcome. Logistic regression analysis revealed that only CF was an independent predictor of severe postoperative complication (risk ratio of 4.2; p = 0.017). The occurrence of organ/space surgical site infection was significantly higher in the frailty group than in the non-frailty group.

Conclusion

CF, but not sarcopenia, is a robust predictor of severe postoperative complications for patients undergoing hepatectomy.

Multicenter Observational Study of Adhesion Formation After Open-and Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare adhesion formation after laparoscopic and open colorectal cancer resection.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

After colorectal surgery, most patients develop adhesions, with a high burden of complications. Laparoscopy seems to reduce adhesion formation, but evidence is poor. Trials comparing open- and laparoscopic colorectal surgery have never assessed adhesion formation.

METHODS

Data on adhesions were gathered during resection of colorectal liver metastases. Incidence of adhesions adjacent to the original incision was compared between patients with previous laparoscopic- and open colorectal resection. Secondary outcomes were incidence of any adhesions, extent and severity of adhesions, and morbidity related to adhesions or adhesiolysis.

RESULTS

Between March 2013 and December 2015, 151 patients were included. Ninety patients (59.6%) underwent open colorectal resection and 61 patients (40.4%) received laparoscopic colorectal resection. Adhesions to the incision were present in 78.9% after open and 37.7% after laparoscopic resection (P < 0.001). The incidence of abdominal wall adhesions and of any adhesion was significantly higher after open resection; the incidence of visceral adhesions did not significantly differ. The extent of abdominal wall and visceral adhesions and the median highest Zühlke score at the incision were significantly higher after open resection. There were no differences in incidence of small bowel obstruction during the interval between the colorectal and liver operations, the incidence of serious adverse events, and length of stay after liver surgery.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection is associated with a lower incidence, extent, and severity of adhesions to parietal surfaces. Laparoscopy does not reduce the incidence of visceral adhesions.