Rationale for extent of lymph node dissection for right colon cancer

Are Metastatic Central Lymph Nodes (D3 volume) in right-sided Colon Cancer a Sign of Systemic Disease? A sub-group Analysis of an Ongoing Multicenter Trial

OBJECTIVE

Assess outcomes of patients with right-sided colon cancer with metastases in the D3 volume after personalized surgery.

BACKGROUND

Patients with central lymph node metastasis (D3-PNG) are considered to have a systemic disease with a poor prognosis. A 3-dimensional definition of the dissection volume allows the removal of all central nodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

D3-PNG includes consecutive patients from an ongoing clinical trial. Patients were stratified into residual disease negative (D3-RDN) and residual disease positive (D3-RDP) groups. D3-RDN was further stratified into 4 periods to identify a learning curve. A personalized D3 volume (defined through arterial origins and venous confluences) was removed " en bloc" through medial-to-lateral dissection, and the D3 volume of the specimen was analyzed separately.

RESULTS

D3-PNG contained 42 (26 females, 63.1 SD 9.9 y) patients, D3-RDN:29 (17 females, 63.4 SD 10.1 y), and D3-RDP:13 (9 females, 62.2 SD 9.7 y). The mean overall survival (OS) days were D3-PNG:1230, D3-RDN:1610, and D3-RDP:460. The mean disease-free survival (DFS) was D3-PNG:1023, D3-RDN:1461, and D3-RDP:74 days. The probability of OS/DFS were D3-PNG:52.1%/50.2%, D3-RDN:72.9%/73.1%, D3-RDP: 7.7%/0%. There is a significant change in OS/DFS in the D3-RDN from 2011-2013 to 2020-2022 (both P =0.046) and from 2014-2016 to 2020-2022 ( P =0.028 and P =0.005, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that surgery can achieve survival in most patients with central lymph node metastases by removing a personalized and anatomically defined D3 volume. The extent of mesenterectomy and the quality of surgery are paramount since a learning curve has demonstrated significantly improved survival over time despite the low number of patients. These results imply a place for the centralization of this patient group where feasible.

Colorectal resections for malignancy: A pilot study comparing conventional vs freehand robot-assisted laparoscopic colectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic colectomy is widely accepted as a safe operation for colorectal cancer, but we have experienced resistance to the introduction of the FreeHand® robotic camera holder to augment laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

AIM

To compare the initial results between conventional and FreeHand® robot-assisted laparoscopic colectomy in Trinidad and Tobago.

METHODS

This was a prospective study of outcomes from all laparoscopic colectomies performed for colorectal carcinoma from November 29, 2021 to May 30, 2022. The following data were recorded: Operating time, conversions, estimated blood loss, hospitalization, morbidity, surgical resection margins and number of nodes harvested. All data were entered into an excel database and the data were analyzed using SPSS ver 20.0.

RESULTS

There were 23 patients undergoing colectomies for malignant disease: 8 (35%) FreeHand®-assisted and 15 (65%) conventional laparoscopic colectomies. There were no conversions. Operating time was significantly lower in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic colectomy (95.13 ± 9.22 vs 105.67 ± 11.48 min; P = 0.045). Otherwise, there was no difference in estimated blood loss, nodal harvest, hospitalization, morbidity or mortality.

CONCLUSION

The FreeHand® robot for colectomies is safe, provides some advantages over conventional laparoscopy and does not compromise oncologic standards in the resource-poor Caribbean setting.

Tata Memorial Centre Evidence Based Management of Colorectal cancer

ABSTRACT

This review article examines the evidence-based management of colorectal cancers, focusing on topics characterized by ongoing debates and evolving evidence. To contribute to the scientific discourse, we intentionally exclude subjects with established guidelines, concentrating instead on areas where the current understanding is dynamic. Our analysis encompasses a thorough exploration of critical themes, including the evidence surrounding complete mesocolic excision and D3 lymphadenectomy in colon cancers. Additionally, we delve into the evolving landscape of perioperative chemotherapy in both colon and rectal cancers, considering its nuanced role in the context of contemporary treatment strategies. Advancements in surgical techniques are a pivotal aspect of our discussion, with an emphasis on the utilization of minimally invasive approaches such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery in both colon and rectal cancers, including advanced rectal cases. Moving beyond conventional radical procedures, we scrutinize the feasibility and implications of endoscopic resections for small tumors, explore the paradigm of organ preservation in locally advanced rectal cancers, and assess the utility of total neoadjuvant therapy in the current treatment landscape. Our final segment reviews pivotal trials that have significantly influenced the management of colorectal liver and peritoneal metastasis.

The topographical distribution of lymph node metastases in colon cancer resections

In accordance with international guidelines all lymph nodes in colon cancer specimens must be examined to obtain accurate staging. This study aimed to determine the topographical location of lymph node metastases and evaluate if a more limited sampling approach could be an alternative. Partial colectomies received at the Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital during a six-month period were included. At the macroscopic examination, each specimen was divided into three different segments: a segment containing the index tumor and the tumor-feeding artery, an oral and an anal segment. The number of lymph nodes and lymph node metastases were registered separately for each segment. Resections from 93 patients were included. Of 2466 lymph nodes, 1839 (74.6 %) were located in the tumor segment, 308 (12.5 %) in the oral, and 319 (12.9 %) in the anal segment, respectively. In 133 (5,4 %) lymph nodes a metastasis was present. Of these 129 (97.0 %) were located in the tumor segment, one (0.8 %) in the oral segment, and three (2.3 %) in the anal segment. No patients had metastasis in the oral or anal segments without metastases also being present in the tumor segment leading to consideration of the need for lymph node harvest of the complete specimen upon initial examination. As such, the segment containing the index tumor and tumor-feeding artery could be regarded as a sentinel segment indicating a potential need for lymph node dissection in the oral and anal segments.

A multicenter prospective observational study of lymph node metastasis patterns and short-term outcomes of extended lymphadenectomy in right-sided colon cancer

Background

The lymph node metastasis rate in right-sided colon cancer is unknown, and the optimal central vascular ligation level remains controversial. We aimed to determine the lymph node metastasis rate and short-term results of radical surgery with extended lymph node dissection in right-sided colon cancer.

Methods

This prospective multicenter observational study included patients with stage II/III right-sided colon cancer from five cancer hospitals. The metastasis rate of each node station was analyzed according to tumor location and main feeding artery.

Results

Between April 2018 and August 2021, 208 patients underwent dissection around the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and vein (SMV). In transverse colon cancer, 7.5% and 2.5% of metastases occurred around the SMV and SMA at the root of the middle colic artery (MCA), respectively; 6.7% and 6.7% at the root of the right colic artery. In caecal cancer, 1.9% of metastases occurred around the SMV and 1.9% around the SMA. In ascending colon cancer, the rate was 1.1% around the SMV. Of the tumors, 17% fed mainly by the ileocolic artery had node metastases along the middle or right colic artery, as did 66.7% fed mainly by the right colic artery and 41.2% fed by the MCA (p = 0.01). Postoperative complications occurred in 42 patients (20.2%).

Conclusion

Routine prophylactic extended lymphadenectomy around the SMA might not be necessary in caecum and ascending colon cancer. Dissection around the SMA may be necessary in cases of transverse colon cancer or when the feeding artery is the MCA.

Is 10 cm ileal resection sufficient in locally advanced caecal cancer surgery?

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus as to how much ileal resection is sufficient when performing a right hemicolectomy for right colon cancers. Locally advanced caecal cancer has the highest incidence of peri-ileal lymph node metastasis. Therefore, this study investigated whether the 10 cm ileum resection suggested by the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum is oncologically safe in stage II and III caecal cancer.

METHODS

The prospectively collected medical records of stage II and III caecal cancer patients who underwent a right hemicolectomy with at least D2 lymph node dissection were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups according to the length of proximal ileal resected: group 1 (≤10 cm) and group 2 (>10 cm). Factors contributing to the 5-year overall survival (OS) were analysed.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 89 patients with pathological stage II or III caecal cancer. The >10 cm group tended to be younger (P = 0.0938) with higher pathological N stages (P = 0.0899) than the ≤10 cm group. The 5-year OS did not differ between the two groups. No significant difference was found between the two groups according to stage. Age (HR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02-1.10, P = 0.0069) and N2 stage (HR = 5.38, 95% CI = 1.90-15.28, P = 0.0016) were significantly associated with OS in both uni- and multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no OS benefit to resecting >10 cm of ileum in either stage II or III caecal cancer patients. Hence, we suggest that the '10 cm rule' is sufficient for stage II and III caecal cancer patients.

Macroscopic Evaluation of Colon Cancer Resection Specimens

Colon cancer is a common disease internationally. Outcomes have not improved to the same degree as in rectal cancer, where the focus on total mesorectal excision and pathological feedback has significantly contributed to improved survival and reduced local recurrence. Colon cancer surgery shows significant variation around the world, with differences in mesocolic integrity, height of the vascular ligation and length of the bowel resected. This leads to variation in well-recognised quality measures like lymph node yield. Pathologists are able to assess all of these variables and are ideally placed to provide feedback to surgeons and the wider multidisciplinary team to improve surgical quality over time. With a move towards complete mesocolic excision with central vascular ligation to remove the primary tumour and all mechanisms of spread within an intact package, pathological feedback will be central to improving outcomes for patients with operable colon cancer. This review focusses on the key quality measures and the evidence that underpins them.

Infrapyloric (No. 206) and greater curvature (No. 204) lymph node metastasis in adenocarcinoma located in the right half of the transverse colon (InCLART Study): protocol for a multicentre prospective observational study

INTRODUCTION

In the case of right-sided transverse colon cancer (RTCC) and hepatic flexure colon cancer (HFCC), there is a potential connection of lymph drainage between mesentery and greater omentum. However, most previous reports have been limited case series with No. 206 and No. 204 lymph node (LN) dissection for RTCC and HFCC.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The InCLART Study is a prospective observational study aiming to enrol 427 patients with RTCC and HFCC treated at 21 high-volume institutions in China. The prevalence of infrapyloric (No. 206) and greater curvature (No. 204) LN metastasis and short-term outcomes will be investigated in a consecutive series of patients with T2 or deeper invasion RTCC or HFCC, following the principle of complete mesocolic excision with central vascular ligation. Primary endpoints were performed to identify the prevalence of No. 206 and No. 204 LN metastasis. Secondary analyses will be used to estimate prognostic outcomes, intraoperative and postoperative complications, the consistency of preoperative evaluation and postoperative pathological results of LN metastasis.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval for the study has been granted by the Ruijin Hospital Ethics Committee (approval number: 2019-081) and has been or will be approved successively by each participating centre's Research Ethics Board. The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed publications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT03936530; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03936530).

Do differences in surgical quality account for the higher rate of R1 margins to lymph node metastases in right- versus left-sided Stage III colon cancer: A retrospective cohort study

AIM

Microscopically positive (R1) margins to lymph node metastases (R1LNM) are associated with poorer oncological outcomes in patients with Stage III colon cancer. R1LNM margins are more common in right-sided cancer, although the cause of this phenomenon is unknown. We sought to investigate whether differences in surgical quality account for the higher rate of R1LNM in right-sided cancers.

METHOD

Patients treated for Stage III colon cancer from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2018 were identified using the Danish national cancer registry. Indicators of surgical quality (mesocolic resection grade, median lymph node yield, and length to the distal colonic margin) were compared according to tumour site and margin status.

RESULTS

In all, 1765 patients were included, 981 (55.6%) with right-sided cancers. R1LNM margins were more common in right-sided cancers (14.4% vs. 6.1%, P < 0.001). All three surgical quality indicators were higher in patients with right-sided cancers (mesocolic resection planes 81.7% vs. 69.5%, P < 0.001; median lymph node yield 28 vs. 25, P < 0.001; ≥5 cm to the distal colon margin 81.2% vs. 53.6%, P < 0.001). When stratified according to margin status, no differences in mesocolic resection planes or resectate length were noted, whilst median lymph node yield was higher in patients with R1LNM margins (29 vs. 27, P = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Surgical quality does not appear to be poorer in patients undergoing surgery for right-sided versus left-sided colon cancers in Denmark. Suboptimal surgery does not appear to be responsible for R1LNM margins, implying that these margins may be a surrogate for more aggressive biology.

Development and validation of a new stage-specific nomogram model for predicting cancer-specific survival in patients in different stages of colon cancer: A SEER population-based study and external validation

Background

The effects of laterality of the primary tumor on survival in patients in different stages of colon cancer are contradictory. We still lack a strictly evaluated and validated survival prediction tool, considering the different roles of tumor laterality in different stages.

Methods

A total of 101,277 and 809 colon cancer cases were reviewed using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database and the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi 'an Jiaotong University database, respectively. We established training sets, internal validation sets and external validation sets. We developed and evaluated stage-specific prediction models and unified prediction models to predict cancer-specific survival and compared the prediction abilities of these models.

Results

Compared with right-sided colon cancers, the risk of cancer-specific death of left-sided colon cancer patients was significantly higher in stage I/II but was markedly lower in stage III patients. We established stage-specific prediction models for stage I/II and stage III separately and established a unified prediction model for all stages. By evaluating and validating the validation sets, we reported high prediction ability and generalizability of the models. Furthermore, the stage-specific prediction models had better predictive power and efficiency than the unified model.

Conclusions

Right-sided colon cancer patients have better cancer-specific survival than left-sided colon cancer patients in stage I/II and worse cancer-specific survival in stage III. Using stage-specific prediction models can further improve the prediction of cancer-specific survival in colon cancer patients and guide clinical decisions.

Multidisciplinary Treatment Strategy for Early Colon Cancer: A Review-An English Version

Treatment for early colon cancer has progressed rapidly, with endoscopic resection and minimally invasive surgery. It is important to select patients without risk of lymph node metastasis before deciding on endoscopic resection for early colon cancer treatment. Pathological risk factors include histologic grade of cancer cell differentiation, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, tumor budding, and deep submucosal invasion. These risk factors for predicting lymph node metastasis are crucial for determining the treatment strategy of endoscopic excision and radical resection for early colon cancer. A multidisciplinary approach is emphasized to establish a treatment strategy for early colon cancer to minimize the risk of complications and obtain excellent oncologic outcomes by selecting an appropriate treatment optimized for the patient's stage and condition. Therefore, we aimed to review the optimal multidisciplinary treatment strategies, including endoscopy and surgery, for early colon cancer.

Medium-term oncological outcomes of totally laparoscopic colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis for right-sided and left-sided colon cancer: propensity score matching analysis

Background

This retrospective study aimed to compare long-term oncological outcomes between laparoscopic-assisted colectomy (LAC) with extracorporeal anastomosis (EA) and totally laparoscopic colectomy (TLC) with intracorporeal anastomosis (IA) for colon cancers, including right- and left-sided colon cancers.

Methods

Patients with stage I–III colon cancers who underwent elective laparoscopic colectomy between January 2013 and December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients converted from laparoscopic to open surgery and R1/R2 resection were excluded. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis (1:1) was performed to overcome patient selection bias.

Results

A total of 388 patients were reviewed. After PSM, 83 patients in the EA group and 83 patients in the IA group were compared. Median follow-up was 56.5 months in the EA group and 55.5 months in the IA group. Estimated 3-year overall survival (OS) did not differ significantly between the EA group (86.6%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 77.4–92.4%) and IA group (84.8%; 95%CI, 75.0–91.1%; P = 0.68). Estimated 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) likewise did not differ significantly between the EA group (76.4%; 95%CI, 65.9–84.4%) and IA group (81.0%; 95%CI, 70.1–88.2%; P = 0.12).

Conclusion

TLC with IA was comparable to LAC with EA in terms of 3-year OS and DFS. TLC with IA thus appears to offer an oncologically feasible procedure.

Multidisciplinary treatment strategy for early colon cancer

Background: Treatment for early colon cancer has progressed rapidly with endoscopic resection and minimally invasive surgery. Selection of patients without risk of lymph node metastasis is necessary before deciding on endoscopic resection for early colon cancer treatment. We aimed to review the optimal multidisciplinary treatment strategies for early colon cancer, including endoscopy and surgery.Current Concepts: Pathological risk factors include histologic grade of cancer cell differentiation, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, tumor budding, and deep submucosal invasion. These risk factors for predicting lymph node metastasis are crucial for determining the treatment strategy of endoscopic excision and radical resection for early colon cancer. Prediction of the depth of invasion in early colon cancer using endoscopic optical assessments is vital to determine the appropriate treatment method for endoscopic or surgical resection. Furthermore, optical assessment of pit and vascular patterns is useful for estimating the depth of submucosal invasion using magnifying chromoendoscopy and narrow-band imaging endoscopy. Performing an endoscopic and pathologic evaluation of the risk factors for lymph node metastasis is imperative when selecting endoscopic or surgical resection. Endoscopic treatments include cold snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, and endoscopic submucosal dissection. In addition, appropriate surgical treatment should be recommended for patients with early colon cancer with a high risk of lymph node metastasis.Discussion and Conclusion: A multidisciplinary approach should be recommended to establish an optimized treatment strategy, minimize the risk of complications, and obtain excellent oncologic outcomes via patienttailored treatment in patients with early colon cancer.

Is a cutoff value of 12 still useful in stage II right-sided colon cancer without risk factors?

Purpose

Various clinical practice guidelines recommend at least 12 regional lymph nodes should be removed for resected colon cancer. According to a recent study, the lymph node yield (LNY) in colon cancer surgery in the last 20 years has tended to increase from 14.91 to 21.30. However, it is unclear whether these guidelines adequately reflect recent findings on the number of harvested lymph nodes in colon cancer surgery. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of an LNY of more than 25 on survival in right-sided colon cancer.

Methods

We included 285 patients who underwent a right hemicolectomy during the period from January 2010 through December 2015. Patients were divided into two groups (<25 nodes and ≥25 nodes). Primary endpoints included 5-year and 10-year survival including disease-free and overall.

Results

We found that survival outcomes of patients with a harvest of ≥25 nodes were not significantly different compared with a <25 group. Large tumor size (5 cm) is significantly associated with poor 5-year and 10-year overall survival.

Conclusion

Survival outcomes of patients with a harvest of ≥25 nodes were not significantly different compared with the <25 group in stage II colon cancer with no risk.

Analysis of 20 patients with laparoscopic extended right colectomy

BACKGROUND

Currently, the standard surgical procedure for right colon cancer is complete mesocolic excision. Whether preventive extended lymph node dissection for colon cancer located in the hepatic flexure or right transverse colon should be performed remains controversial because the safety and effectiveness of the operation have not been proven, and infrapyloric lymph nodes (No. 206) and lymph nodes in the greater curvature of the stomach (No. 204) have not been strictly defined and distinguished as surgical indicators in previous studies.

AIM

To analyze the metastatic status of infrapyloric lymph nodes and lymph nodes of the greater curvature of the stomach and perioperative complications and systematically evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic extended right colectomy using prospective data collected retrospectively.

METHODS

The study was a clinical study. Twenty patients with colon cancer who underwent laparoscopic extended right colon resection in our hospital from June 2020 to May 2021 were included.

RESULTS

Among the patients who underwent extended right colon resection, there were no intraoperative complications or conversion to laparotomy; 2 patients had gastrocolic ligament lymph node metastasis, and 5 patients had postoperative complications. The patients with postoperative complications received conservative treatment.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic extended right colon resection is safe. However, malignant tumors located in the liver flexure or the right-side transverse colon are more likely to metastasize to the gastrocolic ligament lymph nodes, and notably, the incidence of gastroparesis was high. The number of patients was small, and the follow-up time was short. It is necessary to further increase the sample size to evaluate the No. 204 and No. 206 lymph node metastasis rates and the long-term survival impact.

Is Laparoscopic Complete Mesocolic Excision and Central Vascular Ligation Really Necessary for All Patients With Right-Sided Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer treatment is on the way to evolution over several decades. The minimally invasive surgery has improved postoperative short-term outcomes. Adjuvant chemotherapy has prolonged the survival of advanced colon cancer patients. Hohenberger proposed the noble concept of complete mesocolic excision (CME) which consists of 3 components: plane surgery, sufficient longitudinal bowel resection, and central vascular ligation (CVL). Mesocolic plane surgery shares the same surgical principle of total mesorectal excision, which is maintaining the intact mesothelial envelope. However, there remain debates about the extent of bowel resection and the level of CVL for maximizing lymph node dissection. There is no solid clinical evidence for the oncological necessity and benefit of extended radical dissection in right hemicolectomy. CME with CVL based on open surgery has been adopted in laparoscopic surgery. So, it is also necessary to look at how the CME could be transformed and successfully implanted in the laparoscopic era. Recent rapid advances in surgical technology and cancer biology are preparing for fundamental changes in cancer surgery. In this study, we reviewed the history, oncological necessity, and compatibility of CME for the right hemicolectomy in the laparoscopic era and outline the new perspectives on the evolution of cancer surgery.

Infrapyloric and gastroepiploic node dissection for hepatic flexure and transverse colon cancer: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The hepatic flexure and transverse colon have a complex intermingled lymphovascular anatomy crossing between mesocolon and mesogastrium. Few studies have investigated the oncological relevance of metastatic infrapyloric and gastroepiploic lymph nodes (IGLN) from hepatic flexure and transverse colon tumors. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for IGLN metastases, and the indications, surgical morbidities, and oncological outcome following extended lymphadenectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

According to the PRISMA statement, a systematic review on IGLN lymphadenectomy for colon cancer was conducted into PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. A critical appraisal of study was performed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute Tools.

RESULTS

Nine studies were included. IGLN metastases incidence ranged 0.7-22%. IGLN positivity for patients with metastatic mesocolic lymph nodes ranged 1.7-33.3%. Postoperative complication rate ranged 8.5-36.9%, mostly low grade according to Clavien-Dindo's classification. Postoperative mortality rate ranged 0-5.4% at 30-days. IGLN metastases were associated with advanced disease with a 5-year progression-free survival rate up to 33.9%. Two authors reported perineural invasion and N stage as risk factors, while another reported endoscopic obstruction, signet ring adenocarcinoma, CEA level ≥17 ng/ml, and M1 stage to be risk factors for IGLN involvement. Apart from one study, all other studies were of moderate/high quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Metastatic IGLNs are not uncommon and should be highly considered. IGLN metastases could be potentially associated with an aggressive disease. IGLN dissection is not associated with higher morbidity and mortality than standard CME. Preoperative risk factors of IGLN involvement could guide surgical indication for extended lymphadenectomy.

Clinical analysis of metastatic characteristics of infrapyloric lymph nodes (No.206) and terminal ileum lymph nodes in patients with right colon cancer

BACKGROUND

D3 or complete mesocolic excision (CME) surgery has become a common surgical procedure for the treatment of colon cancer metastasis. Clinical misuse and overuse of lymph node dissection bring unnecessary burdens to patients. A detailed guidance for lymph node dissection in patients with T3 and T4 stage right colon cancer at different locations is urgently needed.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed. Patients received D3 or CME surgery were divided into ileocecal group, ascending colon group, and hepatic flexure group according to the 9th edition of the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum guidelines. The distributions of lymph node metastases were analyzed according to tumor infiltration depth (T stage) and tumor location.

RESULTS

The incidence of metastases in the paracolic area (or station), intermediate area, and main (or central) area was 38.4% (139/362), 12.7% (46/362), and 9.7% (35/362), respectively. The proportion of patients having No.206 and terminal ileum lymph nodes metastases was 7.7% (14/181) and 3.7% (9/244), respectively. No.206 lymph node metastasis is related to tumor location (χ² = 7.955, p = 0.019) and degree of differentiation (χ² = 18.99, p = 0.000), and terminal ileum lymph node metastasis is related to tumor location (χ² = 6.273, p = 0.043). Patients with T3/T4 hepatic flexure cancer received radical right hemicolectomy in addition to No.206 lymph node dissection.

CONCLUSION

Radical right hemicolectomy and No.206 group lymph node dissection are necessary for T3 and T4 stage colon cancer therapy.

Follow-up of colorectal cancer and patterns of recurrence

Colorectal cancer is one of the commonest cancers detected as also amongst the most common causes of cancer death. Survival has improved due to better disease understanding and treatment; however, a substantial proportion of patients recur after curative intent therapy. In this article, we will discuss the imaging features of recurrent colorectal cancer and the role of the radiologist in its management.

Clinical and oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic versus open surgery in elderly patients with colorectal cancer: a retrospective multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery is commonly used in elderly patients over 80 years old. The purpose of this study was to compare the perioperative and oncologic outcomes between laparoscopic surgery and open surgery in elderly patients with colorectal cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients aged ≥ 80 years who underwent curative resection of colorectal cancer at six Hallym University-affiliated hospitals. The perioperative outcomes and oncologic outcomes were compared between laparoscopic and open surgery RESULTS: Of 294 elderly patients, 104 (35.3%) underwent open surgery and 190 (64.7%) underwent laparoscopic surgery. The postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.019) and time to soft diet (P = 0.009) were shorter in the laparoscopic group than in the open group. Postoperative complications were less frequent in the laparoscopic group than in the open group (P < 0.001), including wound infection (P = 0.005), ileus (P = 0.005), and pneumonia (P = 0.001). The 3-year overall survival (OS) (P = 0.982) and recurrence-free survival rates (RFS) (P = 0.532) were similar in both groups. In multivariable analyses, positive lymph node status was the only independent factor associated with OS (P = 0.019) and RFS (P = 0.012). Laparoscopic surgery was not associated with OS (P = 0.874) and RFS (P = 0.772).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic surgery offers several perioperative advantages over open surgery and similar long-term oncological outcomes for elderly patients with colorectal cancer. Therefore, we suggest that laparoscopic surgery can be safely performed for the treatment of elderly patients (≥ 80 years old) with colorectal cancer.

Predictive value of computed tomography with coronal reconstruction in right hemicolectomy with complete mesocolic excision for right colon cancers: a retrospective study

Background

Understanding the vascular anatomy is critical for performing central vascular ligation (CVL) in right hemicolectomy with complete mesocolic excision (CME). This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of multi-slice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) with coronal reconstruction in right hemicolectomy with CME.

Methods

This is a retrospective descriptive study. Eighty patients with right colon cancer who underwent right hemicolectomy from December 2015 to January 2020 were included. The intraoperative reports (including imaging data) and MSCT images with coronal reconstruction were analysed and compared. The detection rates of the ileocolic vein (ICV) and ileocolic artery (ICA) roots and the accuracy in predicting their anatomical relationship were analysed. The detection rate and accuracy in predicting the location of the gastrocolic trunk of Henle (GTH), middle colic artery (MCA) and middle colic vein (MCV) were analysed. The distance from the ICV root to the GTH root (ICV-GTH distance) was measured and analysed. The maximum distance from the left side of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) to the right side of the superior mesenteric vein (SMV), named the ‘lsSMA-rsSMV distance’, was also measured and analysed.

Results

In seventy-four (92.5%) patients, both the ICV and ICA roots were located; their anatomical relationship was determined by MSCT, and the accuracy of the prediction was 97.2% (72/74). The GTH was located by MSCT in 75 (93.7%) patients, and the accuracy of the prediction was 97.33% (73/75). The MCA was located by MSCT in 47 (58.75%) patients, and the accuracy was 78.72% (37/47). The MCV was located by MSCT in 51 (63.75%) patients, and the accuracy of the prediction was 84.31% (43/51). The ICV-GTH distance was measured in 73 (91.2%) patients, and the mean distance was 4.28 ± 2.5 cm. The lsSMA-rsSMV distance was measured in 76 (95%) patients, and the mean distance was 2.21 ± 0.6 cm.

Conclusions

With its satisfactory accuracy in predicting and visualising the information of key anatomical sites, MSCT with coronary reconstruction has some predictive value in CME with CVL in right hemicolectomy.

Complete mesocolic excision and D3 lymphadenectomy with central vascular ligation in right-sided colon cancer: a systematic review of postoperative outcomes, tumor recurrence and overall survival

BACKGROUND

In right-sided colon cancer surgery, currently there is a great deal of discussion and debate regarding complete mesocolic excision (CME) versus conventional right hemicolectomy (CRH) on postoperative outcomes and oncological results. Our aim was to perform a systematic review of the short- and long-term outcomes of CME to standardize surgical approach in patients with right-sided colon cancer.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed examining available data on randomized and non-randomized studies evaluating the role of CME and D3 lymphadenectomy in the treatment of right-sided colon cancer, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) standards.

RESULTS

After literature search, 919 studies have been recorded, 110 studies underwent full-text reviews and 30 studies met inclusion criteria. The total number of CME procedures was 5931. Postoperative complications was reported in 28 studies with pooled overall complications of 1.88% for CME surgery. Six studies reported 0% of overall postoperative complications and they demonstrated a low incidence of complications following CME procedure. Anastomotic leak was reported in 27 studies with pooled proportion of 0.92% after CME resections. There were 16 papers reporting overall survival following CME procedure, with a mean of 85% of patients survived at 5 years. Mean 5-year overall survival was 93.05% in stage I patients, 89.76% in stage II patients and 79.65% in stage III patients. Local and distant recurrence were included in 21 studies, reporting tumor recurrence rate of 12.25% following CME. 5-year tumor recurrence was 5.8% in stage I patients, 7.68% in stage II patients and 15.69% in stage III patients.

CONCLUSIONS

CME does not increase the risk of postoperative complications and significantly improves the long-term oncological impact. Prospective multicentre studies results are needed to verify if CME could be considered standard surgery for right colon cancer.

Robotic complete mesocolic excision with central vascular ligation for right colonic tumours - a propensity score-matching study comparing with standard laparoscopy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic complete mesocolic excision (CME) of the right colon with central vascular ligation (CVL) is a technically demanding procedure. This study retrospectively evaluated the feasibility, safety and oncological outcomes of the procedure when performed using the da Vinci® robotic system.

METHODS

A prospective case series was collected over 3 years for patients with right colonic cancers treated by standardized robotic CME with CVL using the superior mesenteric vessels first approach. The CME group was compared to a 2 : 1 propensity score-matched non-CME group who had conventional laparoscopic right colectomy with D2 nodal dissection. Primary outcomes were total lymph node harvest and length of specimen. Secondary outcomes were operative time, postoperative complications, and disease-free and overall survival.

RESULTS

The study included 120 patients (40 in the CME group and 80 in the non-CME group). Lymph node yield was higher (29 versus 18, P = 0.006), the specimen length longer (322 versus 260 mm, P = 0.001) and median operative time was significantly longer (180 versus 130 min, P < 0.001) with robotic CME versus laparoscopy, respectively. Duration of hospital stay was longer with robotic CME, although not significantly (median 6 versus 5 days, P = 0.088). There were no significant differences in R0 resection rate, complications, readmission rates and local recurrence. A trend in survival benefit with robotic CME for disease-free (P = 0.0581) and overall survival (P = 0.0454) at 3 years was documented.

CONCLUSION

Robotic CME with CVL is feasible and, although currently associated with a longer operation time, it provides good specimen quality, higher lymph node yield and acceptable morbidity, with a disease-free survival advantage.

Does transverse colon cancer spread to the extramesocolic lymph node stations?

BACKGROUND

Transverse colon cancers show behavioral differences in terms of the involvement of extramesocolic lymph nodes since they are closely related to all three embryological planes. These tumors have also been observed in the gastroepiploic-omental (GEOM) region, outside their usual regional areas. We will evaluate this new metastatic route in our own cases.

METHODS

Thirty-four patients (16 female, 18 male) that presented to our clinic with hepatic flexure, transverse colon, and splenic flexure cancer between October 2011 and May 2017 were included in the study. Type of surgery, histopathology, and factors causing metastasis, morbidity, and mortality were evaluated.

RESULTS

Cancer was located in the transverse colon in 20 patients (58.8%), hepatic flexure in 10 (29.4%), and splenic flexure in four (11.7%). Lymph node positivity in the GEOM region was present in four patients: in the infrapyloric region and pancreatic head, close to the hepatic flexure in three patients; and the midline of GEOM, close to the inferior body of the pancreas in one patient. Perineural invasion (p < .05) and N stage (p < .05) were associated with GEOM region metastasis. Tumor localization and age significantly increased pleural effusion.

CONCLUSIONS

In transverse colon and both flexural tumors, we recommend planning the surgery according to the localization of the tumor and including the GEOM, infrapyloric and infrapancreatic areas. It is possible to discuss whether to perform extended excision for all or only selected patients. The best approach seems to be to evaluate the co-factors to manage these patients.

Infrapyloric lymph node dissection in right hemicolectomy for colon cancer: Should prophylactic resection be recommended?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Infrapyloric lymph node dissection in right colon cancer patients remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the pattern of infrapyloric lymph node metastasis in right colon cancer patients.

METHODS

Clinical and pathological data of 140 colon cancer patients who underwent radical right hemicolectomy and infrapyloric lymph node dissection were retrospectively examined. Patient characteristics, intraoperative conditions, postoperative recovery information, postoperative pathological findings, and follow-up data were examined.

RESULTS

About 19, 44, 73, and 4 patients had tumors located in the cecum, ascending colon, hepatic flexure, and right side of the transverse colon, respectively. The median number of harvested lymph nodes and that of positive lymph nodes were 24 (16-30) and 1 (0-7.75), respectively. The lymph node metastasis rate was 41.43% (58/140). The corresponding values for infrapyloric lymph nodes were 3 (1-4), 0 (0-0), and 0.71% (1/140), respectively. The median follow-up duration was 19 (0-65) months in 131 (93.6%) patients. The 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates were 86.3% and 73.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Given the low rate of infrapyloric lymph node metastasis in right colon cancer, lymph node dissection is recommended in patients with locally advanced colon cancer at the hepatic flexure and those with suspected infrapyloric lymph node metastasis.

D3-lymphadenectomy enhances oncological clearance in patients with right colon cancer. Results of a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

D3-Lymphadenectomy, together with complete mesocolic excision (CME), were introduced to provide oncological results after right colon cancer. The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to assess the short and long-term outcomes of right-sided hemicolectomy with CME + D3 as compared with classic right hemicolectomy. Secondary aims included the prevalence of D3-metastasis and skip metastasis when performing CME + D3.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted, according to PRISMA methodology.

RESULTS

29 studies were enrolled (2592 patients). No differences were accounted in morbidity variables associated with the measured techniques. CME + D3 was significantly associated with a greater distance between the tumour and the closest vascular tie, a longer colonic resection, a wider resection of mesentery and an increased number of harvested lymph nodes. Regarding to long-terms outcomes, we found a significant decrease in local recurrence in patients undergoing CME + D3 (HR:0.17) and a significant improvement in 3-year and 5-year overall survival rates (HR:0.53 vs. HR:0.57, respectively), as well as an improving survival in patients with stage II and III disease. Overall prevalence of patients with lymphatic metastases in D3-territory was of 8.6% and 2.2% of skip metastases.

CONCLUSIONS

CME + D3 is a feasible surgical procedure that allows to obtain specimens with higher quality oncological resection, without greater associated morbidity, thus improving survival in patients with stage II and III right colon cancer.

Fluorescence-guided D3 lymphadenectomy in robotic right colectomy with complete mesocolic excision

BACKGROUND

In robotic right hemicolectomy for cancer, appropriate lymphadenectomy is essential. Visualization of draining lymph nodes and blood flow with near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence DaVinci^® imaging system is a recent development. We present the technique of robotic right colectomy with complete mesocolic excision (CME) and D3 lymphadenectomy using Indocyanine Green (ICG) endoscopic submucosal injection to intraoperatively identify tumour lymphatic basin.

METHODS

The day before surgery, in patients scheduled for robotic right colectomy an endoscopic submucosal injection of 3 mg of ICG solution around the tumor is realized. Robotic right hemicolectomy is performed with suprapubic trocars layout and "bottom to up dissection", realizing a CME with central vessel ligation and D3 lymphadenectomy. Site of primary tumor and lymphatic basin are visible with the FireflyTM camera modality.

RESULTS

From July 2016 to July 2020, 85 patients received a robotic right colectomy with CME and D3 lymphadenectomy. In 50 patients, ICG submucosal injection was performed: visualisation of the site of primary tumour and of LN in the D3 area was possible in all cases; in 17/50 patients (34%), LN out from anatomical lymphatic basin were identified. No side effects were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, submucosal ICG injection showed to be feasible and safe. The accuracy in identification of D3 lymphatic basin was high, thus permitting an image-guided radical lymphadenectomy. Fluorescent technology represents an interesting innovation to ameliorate surgery of colon cancer.

Incidence of and Risk Factors for Gastroepiploic Lymph Node Involvement in Patients with Cancer of the Transverse Colon Including the Hepatic Flexure

BACKGROUND

To define the incidence of gastroepiploic lymph node (GLN) metastasis in patients with cancer of the transverse colon, including the hepatic flexure, and to identify the preoperative predictors of GLN involvement in a large-volume center in China.

METHODS

This retrospective monocentric cross-sectional study respected the STROBE statement. Of 3208 consecutive patients who underwent colon cancer resection, a total of 371 patients with cancer of the transverse colon including the hepatic flexure who underwent complete mesocolic excision and GLN resection in our center were retrospectively reviewed between November 2010 and November 2017. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of GLN metastasis. Endoscopic obstruction was defined as a luminal obstruction of the colon severe enough to prevent the colonoscope from passing beyond the tumor regardless of the presenting symptoms.

RESULTS

The GLN involvement rate was 4.0 (2.0-6.1)%. Patients who had GLN involvement had a significantly higher rate of endoscopic obstruction (P = 0.030), higher rate of signet ring adenocarcinoma or lymphovascular invasion (P < 0.05), higher preoperative CEA level (P = 0.037), more advanced pN stage (P < 0.001) and more advanced M stage (P = 0.003) than the patients without GLN involvement. ROC curve analyses showed that the cutoff value for CEA was 17.0 ng/ml (46.7% sensitivity, 84.3% specificity, P = 0.037) for the prediction of GLN metastasis. Multivariate analysis showed that endoscopic obstruction, signet ring adenocarcinoma, a CEA level ≥17 ng/ml and M1 stage were independently correlated with the GLN metastasis.

CONCLUSION

The incidence rate of GLN metastasis was low. To the best of our knowledge, the present study was the first to evaluate the preoperative predictors of GLN metastasis. Combinations of predictive factors may be useful for stratifying patients at high risk of GLN metastasis.

Robotic Complete Mesocolic Excision with Central Vascular Ligation for Right Colon Cancer: Surgical Technique and Short-term Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive colorectal surgery has demonstrated to have the same oncological results as open surgery, with better clinical outcomes. Robotic assistance is an evolution of minimally invasive technique.

PURPOSE

The study aims to present technical details and short-term oncological outcomes of robotic-assisted complete mesocolic excision (CME) with central vascular ligation (CVL) for right colon cancer.

METHODOLOGY

Fifty-two consecutive patients affected by right colon cancer were operated between May 2016 and February 2020 with da Vinci Xi platform. Data regarding surgical and short-term oncological outcomes were systematically collected in a colorectal specific database for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven (71.15%) and 15 (28.85%) patients underwent right and extended right hemicoletomy with an extracorporeal anastomosis. Median age was 55 years. Mean operative time was 182 ± 36 min. Mean blood loss was 110 ± 90 ml. Conversion rate was 3.84% (two cases). 78.84% (41 cases) were pT3 and mean number of harvested lymph nodes was 28 ± 4. 1/52 (1.92%) had a documented anastomotic leak requiring exploratory laparotomy and diversion proximal ileostomy. Surgery-related grade IIIa-IIIb Calvien Dindo morbidity were noted in 9.61% and 1.92%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Robotic assistance allows performance of oncological adequate dissection of the right colon with radical lymphadenectomy as in open surgery, confirming the safety and oncological adequacy of this technique, with acceptable results and short-term outcomes.

The Prognostic Significance of Lymph Node Status and Lymph Node Ratio (LNR) on Survival of Right Colon Cancer Patients: a Tertiary Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is a major health problem and is one of the most frequent cancers all over the world. In Egypt, the incidence of colon cancer is relatively low, but its mortality rate is high. Lymphatic spread of colon cancer is one of the most important factors affecting the prognosis of patients. Recently, the lymph node ratio (LNR) has been evaluated as a prognostic parameter for survival. This study aimed at evaluation of nodal status of resected specimens and LNR, as well as its impact on the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) after curative resection of right colon cancer.

METHODS

The institutional registry of the Oncology Center Mansoura University (OCMU) was revised for node-positive right colon cancer cases that were operated in the period between January 2010 and January 2015. Fifty-three patients met the inclusion criteria and were followed up till January 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 766 lymph nodes were excised from the patients. Thirty-two patients (60.4%) had a LN yield of ≥12 LNs with a mean LNR of 0.257 ± 0.27. Multivariate analysis of outcomes showed that LNR was significantly correlated with both DFS (p = 0.015) and OS (p = 0.024). Moreover, the number of resected LNs was also associated with statistically significant relationship with the DFS and OS.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms the validity of LNR as a prognostic tool that correlates with the survival of patients. Moreover, LNR cutoff values may help predict those of high chance of tumor recurrence.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

MS/20.03.1087 (Institutional IRB), date of registration: March 10, 2020, "retrospectively registered".

The feasibility and safety of complete laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy with preservation of the ileocecal junction in right-transverse colon cancer

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a new surgical method, complete laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy with preservation of the ileocecal junction in right-transverse colon cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed and compared the data of consecutive patients with right-transverse colon cancer who underwent complete laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy with preservation of the ileocecal junction (n = 23) and conventional complete laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy (n = 34) in our hospital between October 2017 to May 2019, respectively.

RESULTS

The overall operation time of the ileocecal junction-preserved group was significantly shorter than that of the control group (p = 0.048). There was no difference in the number of harvested lymph nodes, metastatic lymph nodes, and rate of metastatic lymph nodes (p > 0.05). The ileocecal junction-preserved group showed shorter time of first flatus, lower frequency of postoperative diarrhea, and shorter duration of postoperative hospitalization. Furthermore, it also showed that the defecation frequency was lower in the ileocecal junction-preserved group than the control group on the 1st, 3rd, and 6th month (p < 0.05), and the number of patients who defecated at night or defecated four times or more a day was less in the ileocecal junction-preserved group than control group on the 1st month (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The complete laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy with preservation of the ileocecal junction promises as a safe and feasible surgical procedure for right-transverse colon cancer, associated with earlier recovery of bowel function, shorter operation time, and similar pathological outcomes when compared to the conventional laparoscopic procedure.

The effect of pericolic lymph nodes metastasis beyond 10 cm proximal to the tumor on patients with rectal cancer

Background

This study aims to determine the real incidence of pericolic lymph nodes metastasis beyond 10 cm proximal to the tumor (pPCN) and its prognostic significance in rectal cancer patients.

Methods

Consecutive patients with rectal cancer underwent curative resection between 2015 and 2017 were included. Margin distance was marked and measured in vivo and lymph nodes were harvested on fresh specimens. Clinicopathological characteristics and oncological outcomes (3-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS)) were analyzed between patients with pPCN and patients without pPCN (nPCN).

Results

There were 298 patients in the nPCN group and 14 patients (4.5%) in pPCN group. Baseline characteristics were balanced except more patients received preoperative or postoperative chemoradiotherapy in pPCN group. Preoperative more advanced cTNM stage (log-rank p = 0.005) and intraoperative more pericolic lymph nodes beyond 10 cm proximal to the tumor (PCNs) (log-rank p = 0.002) were independent risk factors for pPCN. The maximum short-axis diameter of mesenteric lymph nodes ≥8 mm was also contributed to predicting the pPCN. pPCN was an independent prognostic indicator and associated with worse 3-year OS (66% vs 91%, Cox p = 0.033) and DFS (58% vs 92%, Cox p = 0.012).

Conclusion

The incidence of pPCN was higher than expected. Patients with high-risk factors (cTNM stage III or more PCNs) might get benefits from an extended proximal bowel resection to avoid residual positive PCNs.

Prognostic Impact of the Length of the Distal Resection Margin in Rectosigmoid Cancer: An Analysis of the JSCCR Database between 1995 and 2004

Objectives

The necessary and sufficient length of the distal resection margin (l-DRM) for rectosigmoid cancer remains controversial. This study evaluated the validity of the 3-cm l-DRM rule for rectosigmoid cancer in the Japanese classification of colorectal cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 1,443 patients with cT3 and cT4 rectosigmoid cancer who underwent R0 resection in Japanese institutions between 1995 and 2004. We identified the optimal cutoff point of the l-DRM affecting overall survival (OS) rate using a multivariate Cox regression analysis model. Using this cutoff point, the patients were divided into two groups after balancing the potential confounding factors of the l-DRM using propensity score matching, and the OS rates of the two groups were compared.

Results

A multivariate Cox regression analysis model revealed that the l-DRM of 4 cm was the best cutoff point with the greatest impact on OS rate (hazard ratio [HR], 1.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00-1.84; P = 0.0452) and with the lowest Akaike information criterion value. In the matched cohort study, the OS rate of patients who had l-DRM of 4 cm or more was significantly higher than that of patients who had l-DRM < 4 cm (n = 402; 5-year OS rates, 87.6% vs. 80.3%, respectively; HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.09-2.31; P = 0.0136).

Conclusions

For cT3 and cT4 rectosigmoid cancer, l-DRM of 4 cm may be an appropriate landmark for a curative intent surgery, and we were unable to definitively confirm the validity of the Japanese 3-cm l-DRM rule.

Short-term outcomes of a multicentre randomized clinical trial comparing D2 versus D3 lymph node dissection for colonic cancer (COLD trial)

BACKGROUND

It remains unclear whether extended lymphadenectomy provides oncological advantages in colorectal cancer. This multicentre RCT aimed to address this issue.

METHODS

Patients with resectable primary colonic cancer were enrolled in four hospitals registered in the COLD trial, and randomized to D2 or D3 dissection in a 1 : 1 ratio. Data were analysed to assess the safety of D3 dissection.

RESULTS

The study included the first 100 patients randomized in this ongoing trial. Ninety-nine patients were included in the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis (43 D2, 56 D3). Ninety-two patients received the allocated treatment and were included in the per-protocol (PP) analysis: 39 of 43 in the D2 group and 53 of 56 in the D3 group. There were no deaths. The 30-day postoperative morbidity rate was 47 per cent in the D2 group and 48 per cent in the D3 group, with a risk ratio of 1·04 (95 per cent c.i. 0·68 to 1·58) (P = 0·867). There were two anastomotic leaks (5 per cent) in the D2 group and none in the D3 group. Postoperative recovery, complication and readmission rates did not differ between the groups in ITT and PP analyses. Mean lymph node yield was 26·6 and 27·8 in D2 and D3 procedures respectively. Good quality of complete mesocolic excision was more frequently noted in the D3 group (P = 0·048). Three patients in the D3 group (5 per cent) had metastases in D3 lymph nodes. D3 was never the only affected level of lymph nodes. N-positive status was more common in the D3 group (46 per cent versus 26 per cent in D2), with a risk ratio of 1·81 (95 per cent c.i. 1·01 to 3·24) (P = 0·044).

CONCLUSION

D3 lymph node dissection is feasible and may be associated with better N staging. Registration number: NCT03009227 ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Right Colectomy with Extended D3 Mesenterectomy: Anterior and Posterior to the Mesenteric Vessels

BACKGROUND

In right colectomy for cancer, complete mesocolic excision and D3 lymphadenectomy each leave behind lymphatic tissue anterior and posterior to the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) and artery (SMA). In this article, we present D3 extended mesenterectomy: a surgical technique that excises the lymphatic tissue en bloc with the right colectomy specimen.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A 3D map of the mesentery of the right colon was reconstructed from staging CT-angiogram scans. The surgical technique of right colectomy with D3 extended mesenterectomy consisted of eight steps: 1) reveal the SMV and SMA; 2) isolate the ileocolic artery; 3) isolate the middle colic artery; 4) resolve the anterior mesenteric flap; 5) specimen de-vascularization; 6) colectomy; 7) resolve the posterior mesenteric flap; and 8) anastomosis.

RESULTS

One-hundred-seventy-six patients (77 men) 66 years of age were operated upon from February 2011 to January 2017. There were 169 adenocarcinomas: 16.0% Stage I, 49.1% Stage II, 33.7% Stage III, 1.2% Stage IV. Tumor locations were 50.6% cecum, 41.5% ascending colon, 4.5% hepatic flexure, and 2.3% transverse colon. Mean operating time was 200 minutes, blood loss 273 ml, and length of stay 7.9 days. There were 9 anastomotic leakages and 15 reoperations. One patient underwent small bowel resection due to SMA tear. There was no postoperative mortality. The mean number of lymph nodes per specimen (40.9) was comprised of 27.1 in the D2 volume and 13.8 in the D3 volume. The mean number of metastatic lymph nodes was 1.2 in the D2 volume and 0.13 in D3. There were 7 patients with lymph node metastasis in D3, 2 of whom had node metastasis solely within D3.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that 1.2% of patients would have been incorrectly diagnosed as Stage II if extended D3 mesenterectomy had not been performed. Similarly, lymph node metastases would have been left behind in 4.1% of patients if extended D3 mesenterectomy had not been performed.

Complete mesocolic excision for colon cancer: is it worth it?

Total mesorectal excision (TME) has been the miracle surgical technique which has since allowed the outcomes of rectal cancer to surpass that of colon cancer. Complete mesocolic excision (CME) attempts to adopt the same principles as that of TME and apply it to colon cancer surgery. Initial retrospective case series and comparative studies have shown promising oncological outcomes. CME entails the en bloc removal of a sufficient length of colonic specimen within an intact peritoneal envelop with extended lymphadenectomy through a high central ligation of vessels. This technique, standardizing the method for resection of right sided colon cancer, has witness promising perioperative and oncological data for both open and laparoscopic methods. However, most data available are mostly retrospective with a glaring lack of level 1 evidence. Despite the technique showing similar outcomes to that of conventional colectomy, parts of the procedure put the patient (and surgeon) at risk of potentially catastrophic complications. As promising as the initial results of CME has been, more well-designed randomized control trials are necessary to justify the increased risks taken and effort to mount the learning curve for CME.

Complete mesocolic excision and central vascular ligation for right colon cancer: an introduction for abdominal radiologists

OBJECTIVE

To provide an overview of complete mesocolic excision, along with a review of the relevant vascular anatomy and locoregional staging concepts, for abdominal radiologists.

RESULTS

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) with central vascular ligation (CVL) for colon cancer has emerged as a technique that has growing interest in surgical oncology. Specific anatomic considerations and patterns of nodal spread have thus gained clinical significance, and should be familiar to abdominal radiologists. This review article provides an overview of CME with CVL, and discusses some of the important anatomic considerations in patients with colon cancer that are relevant to radiologists.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of CME with CVL and the relevant anatomic and staging considerations is important for abdominal radiologists, as this surgical technique becomes increasingly utilized.

Introduction of complete mesocolic excision with central vascular ligation as standardized surgical treatment for colon cancer in Greece. Results of a pilot study and bi-institutional cooperation

INTRODUCTION

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) is generally accepted as state of the art in colon cancer surgery. However, the long-term impact of CME has not been systematically examined. Therefore cohort studies might be a possible way to clarify any differences between conventional resections and CME. Following bilateral cooperation between the Department of Surgery/University Hospital of Erlangen and the 1^st Surgical Department of the General Hospital of Nikaia/Piraeus, including teaching activities for introduction of CME, a cohort study was performed, considering surgical quality criteria and clinical outcome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients with colon carcinomas (CME group, n = 31) referred to the 1^st Surgical Department of General Hospital, Nikaia/Piraeus, Greece for surgery from January 2012 to December 2013 were prospectively analyzed and compared with patients who underwent conventional surgery for colon cancer between January 2008 and December 2011 (non-CME group, n = 35). Patients' follow-up was at least 48 months.

RESULTS

There were significantly better results in terms of lymph node yield (CME group: 29.6 vs. non-CME group: 17.85; p < 0.001) and lymph node ratio (LNR) (CME group: 0.12 vs. non-CME group: 0.24; p < 0.001) and recurrence-free survival in favor of the CME group (CME group: n = 0 vs. non-CME group: n = 5) without any increase in surgical morbidity (CME group: n = 6 vs. non-CME group: n = 11; p = 0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

Complete mesocolic excision appears to offer a superior oncological result without any increase of postoperative morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, CME represents a surgical technique which can be established in a surgical department after previous teaching without increasing the postoperative complication rate.

[Lymphadenectomy in oncological visceral surgery-Part 2 : Cancer of the upper and lower intestinal tract]

In cancers of the upper and lower intestinal tract the risk of lymphatic metastases depends on the histological results, tumor grading, and depth of tumor infiltration (T-stage). Pretherapeutic staging is of particular importance for determining the surgical strategy (local excision vs. en bloc resection with regional lymphadenectomy) as well as for evaluating the necessity of neoadjuvant therapy. While the first part on "Lymphadenectomy in oncological visceral surgery" focused on hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancer, this second part contains an overview of anatomical conditions of lymphatic drainage of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, small intestine, colon, rectum and anus. Based on this, the principles and techniques of lymphadenectomy for cancer in these organs and the requirements on systematic regional lymphadenectomy in the actual TNM classification (8th edition) are discussed.

Prognostic significance of number versus location of positive mesenteric nodes in stage iii colon cancer

INTRODUCTION

Debate persists on the ideal extent of lymphadenectomy for colon cancer (CC). Specifically, it is unknown whether the anatomical location of positive lymph nodes (LN) has any independent prognostic significance. We assessed the prognostic value of positive LN location in stage III CC patients who underwent extensive (D3) lymphadenectomy.

METHODS

Patients from Kanagawa Cancer Center, Japan, who underwent D3 dissection for CC from 2000 to 16 were analyzed. Mesenteric LN were classified according to location as paracolic (L1), intermediate (L2), or central (L3). Recurrence-free survival (RFS) and the corresponding hazard function were evaluated with their trends over the L groups. Multivariate Cox models were used to evaluate the association of LN location with RFS.

RESULTS

Four hundred forty-six stage III patients were analyzed. The mean number of examined/positive nodes per patient was 42.5/2.6 in L1 (n = 310), 40.9/4.8 in L2 (n = 111), and 44.0/9.8 in L3 (n = 25). RFS was worse for L3 vs. L2 (HR: 2.00, 95%CI [1.05-3.75], p = 0.034) and for L3 vs. L1 (2.62 [1.45-4.71], p = 0.001), but not significantly different between L2 and L1 (1.32 [0.89-1.5], p = 0.17). In a multivariate model adjusting for age, tumor size, and number of lymph nodes harvested T-stage (p < 0.001), adjuvant therapy (p < 0.0038), lymphatic invasion (p = 0.023), and LNR (p = 0.038) were significantly associated with RFS, but not L level or tumor location.

CONCLUSION

The anatomical location of invaded LN does not significantly correlate with RFS in CC, after adjusting for potential confounders. Central LN are infrequently invaded and confer a worse RFS.

Gastrocolic trunk of Henle and its variants: review of the literature and clinical relevance in colectomy for right-sided colon cancer

PURPOSE

Venous vascular anatomy of the right colon presents a high degree of variability. Henle's Gastrocolic Trunk is considered an important anatomical landmark by colorectal surgeons. The classical description concerns a bipod vascular structure or tripod, but several variants are associated to it. The aim of this study is to merge the most updated literature on the anatomy knowledge of the Gastrocolic Trunk by evaluating all possible variants, as well as to underline its surgical importance due to its topographical relationships.

METHODS

Twelve studies describing the anatomy of the gastrocolic trunk were selected, each of them dealing with a more or less extensive series of cases. A distinction was drawn between the gastropancreatic trunk, devoid of the colonic component, and the gastrocolic trunk; and then the frequency of the different resulting variants was reported. The data obtained from cadavers and radiological studies were analyzed separately.

RESULTS

The Gastrocolic Trunk is found in 74% of cadaver studies, and in 86% of radiological studies. Its most frequent configuration is represented by the union of right gastroepiploic vein + anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal vein + superior right colic vein, respectively, 32.5% and 42.5%, followed by the right colic vein which replaces (26.9%, 12.3%) or is added (10%, 20.1%) to the superior right colic vein.

CONCLUSIONS

The superior right colic vein joins the right gastroepiploic vein and the anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal vein thus forming, in most cases, the gastrocolic trunk. The anatomical knowledge of vascular structures forms the basis for both the interpretation of preoperative radiological images and the surgical procedure itself, despite the considerable anatomical variability of tributaries.

Protocol for a multicentre randomized clinical trial comparing oncological outcomes of D2 versus D3 lymph node dissection in colonic cancer (COLD trial)

Background

The extent of lymph node dissection in colonic cancer surgery remains arguable, and evidence from RCTs regarding extended lymph node dissection outcomes is lacking. This study aimed to compare the long‐term results of D3 lymph node dissection with those of D2 dissection.

Methods

This is a multicentre RCT. The aim is to enrol 768 patients with primary colonic cancer assigned randomly to D2 or D3 lymph node dissection. The trial is assessing the superiority of 5‐year overall survival as the primary endpoint in patients undergoing D3 lymph node dissection versus D2 dissection. Secondary endpoints include disease‐free survival, short‐term outcomes (30‐day morbidity and mortality), quality of complete mesocolic excision and lymph node dissection, pattern of lymph node metastasis and quality of life in patients following D2 and D3 lymph node dissection. Experience of 20 D3 and 20 D2 lymph node dissections is required for surgeons to participate in the trial. For surgical accreditation four non‐edited videos of procedures will be assessed. Patients will be followed up for 5 years after last patient enrolment. Intention‐to‐treat analysis will be performed.

Discussion

The results of this study will demonstrate whether extended lymph node dissection is superior to standard dissection in terms of oncological outcomes, and will also assess the impact of more extensive surgery on short‐term outcomes and quality of life.