The management of enterocutaneous fistula in a regional unit in the United kingdom: a prospective study

A population-based study of incidence, aetiology, treatment and outcome of enterocutaneous fistula

AIM

The aim of this work was to investigate the incidence of enterocutaneous fistula (ECF), including both small bowel and colonic fistulas, in a defined population of 1.04 million during a 10-year period and to describe aetiology, treatments, care consumption and outcome.

METHOD

A comprehensive search algorithm including diagnostic and procedural codes, enterostomal therapy nurse notes and in-hospital care for >60 days yielded 1970 search hits. After reviewing medical records, 187 patients with ECF were identified.

RESULTS

The annual incidence of ECF was 2.3 per 100 000, the incidence of ECF with intestinal failure type II was 0.9 per 100 000. Spontaneous closure of the fistula occurred in 16.0% of patients, while closure was seen in 97.3% of patients who underwent reconstructive surgery with recurrences in 6.7% and 8.3%, respectively. Cumulative ECF-related in-hospital care until closure or end of follow-up was 4 (range 0-61) weeks. Eighty-eight patients (47%) received home-based healthcare including parenteral feeding and/or fistula wound care. The estimated overall mortality at 1, 3 and 5 years was 33.7%, 42.1% and 47.6% respectively. Mortality was mainly in patients without spontaneous closure or reconstructive surgery, and the risk of ECF-related death was 30.2%.

CONCLUSION

This study defines the population-based incidence of ECF and reports a high overall mortality rate. Initial survivors were characterized by either spontaneous closure or eligibility for later reconstructive surgery, but with an eventual mortality rate of approximately 20%. ECF patients are high consumers of care: 55.1% needed ≥4 weeks in hospital and many received home-based healthcare.

Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) Syndrome With Enterocutaneous Fistula in a Young Woman: A Rare Association

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is also known as Wilkie's syndrome. Sometimes it is the cause of obstruction in the duodenum. In SMA syndrome, the acute angulation of the SMA against the abdominal aorta can prevent duodenal contents from draining into the jejunum (upper small intestine); hence inadequate intake of nutrition leads to weight loss and malnutrition. This is primarily attributed to the loss of intervening pad of mesenteric fat tissue due to various debilitating conditions. Abnormal connections between the intra-abdominal gastrointestinal tracts and skin over the abdomen are known as enterocutaneous fistulas (ECF).  In this case report, a 37-year-old woman with a history of chronic dull pain in the upper abdominal region over the last seven months, who also complained of bloating, infrequent vomiting, nausea, and upper abdominal fullness for the same amount of time, was seen in the emergency room. Her symptoms had deteriorated by the time she approached the hospital. Additionally, she reports having had a foul-smelling, purulent discharge for the past five years right below the umbilicus. Upon close investigation, it was determined to be feces, and it was later discovered to be a low-output enterocutaneous fistula. She describes having an exploratory laparotomy and adhesiolysis for an intra-abdominal abscess and an acute intestinal obstruction caused by adhesions. This case emphasizes the provocation given a diagnosis of SMA syndrome with enterocutaneous fistula and demands increased awareness of this entity. This will ameliorate early identification to reduce immaterial tests and irrelevant treatments.

Treatment of enterocutaneous fistula: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is an abnormal communication between the gastrointestinal tract and skin, with a myriad of etiologies and therapeutic options. Management is influenced by etiology and specifics of the ECF, and patient-related factors. The aim of this study was to assess overall success, recurrence, and mortality rates of treatment for ECF.

MATERIALS

A systematic search of PubMed and Google Scholar was performed through October 2021 according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Case reports, reviews, animal studies, studies not reporting outcomes, had no available English text, included patients < 16 years old or those assessing other abdominocutaneous/internal fistulas were excluded.

RESULTS

Fifty-three studies, between 1975 and 2020, incorporating 3078 patients were included. Patient age ranged between 16 and 87 years with a male:female ratio of 1.14:1. ECF developed postoperatively in 89.4%. Other common etiologies were inflammatory bowel disease, trauma, malignancy, and radiation. At least 28% of patients had complex fistulae (reported in 18 studies). Most common fistula site was small bowel. In 34 publications, 62.4% (n = 1371) patients received parenteral nutrition. In 45 publications, 72.5% underwent surgery to treat the fistula. Meta-analysis revealed an 89% healing rate; recurrence rate after initial successful treatment was 11.1%, and mortality rate was 8.5%. In a subgroup of patients who underwent combined ECF takedown and abdominal wall reconstructions (n = 315), 78% achieved fascial closure, mesh was used in 72%, hernia, and fistula recurrence rates were 19.7% and 7.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of ECF must be individualized according to specific etiology and location of the fistula and the patient's associated conditions.

Cecocutaneous fistula diagnosed by computed tomography fistulography: A case report

BACKGROUND

Enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is an abnormal communication between the skin and the gastrointestinal tract and is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. To diagnose ECF, X-ray fistulography and abdominal computed tomography (CT) with intravenous or oral contrast are generally used. If the anatomic details obtained from CT are insufficient, CT fistulography may help diagnose and determine the extent of the abnormal channel. However, CT fistulography is seldom performed in patients with insufficient evidence of a fistula.

CASE SUMMARY

A 35-year-old man with a prior appendectomy presented with purulence over the abdominal wall without gastrointestinal tract symptoms or a visible opening on the abdominal surface. His history and physical examination were negative for nausea, diarrhea, muscle guarding, and bloating. Local abdominal tenderness and redness over a purulent area were noted, which led to the initial diagnosis of cellulitis. He was admitted to our hospital with a diagnosis of cellulitis. We performed a minimal incision on the carbuncle to collect the pus. The bacterial culture of the exudate resulted positive for Enterococcus sp. ECF was thus suspected, and we arranged a CT scan for further investigation. CT images before intravenous contrast administration showed that the colon was in close contact with the abdominal wall. Therefore, we conducted CT fistulography by injecting contrast dye into the carbuncle during the CT scan. The images showed an accumulation of the contrast agent within the subcutaneous tissues, suggesting the formation of an abscess. The contrast dye tracked down through the muscles and peritoneum into the colon, delineating a channel connecting the subcutaneous abscess with the colon. This evidence confirmed cecocutaneous fistula and avoided misdiagnosing ECF without gastrointestinal tract symptoms as cellulitis. The patient underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with re-anastomosis of the ileum and transverse colon.

CONCLUSION

CT fistulography can rule out ECF in cases presenting as cellulitis if examinations are suggestive.

Management and Long-term Outcomes of Crohn's Disease Complicated with Enterocutaneous Fistula: ECUFIT Study from GETECCU

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Crohn's disease [CD] can develop penetrating complications at any time during the disease course. Enterocutaneous fistulae [ECF] are disease-related complications with an important impact on quality of life. Our aim was to describe the outcomes of this complication, including its medical and/or surgical management and their temporal trends. The primary endpoint was fistula closure, defined as the absence of drainage, with no new abscess or surgery, over the preceding 6 months.

METHODS

Clinical information from all adult patients with CD and at least one ECF-excluding perianal fistulae-were identified from the prospectively-maintained ENEIDA registry. All additional information regarding treatment for this complication was retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 301 ECF in 286 patients [January 1970-September 2020] were analysed out of 30 088 records. These lesions were mostly located in the ileum [67%] and they had a median of one external opening [range 1-10]. After a median follow-up of 146 months (interquartile range [IQR], 69-233), 69% of patients underwent surgery. Fistula closure was achieved in 84%, mostly after surgery, and fistula recurrence was uncommon [13%]. Spontaneous and low-output fistulae were associated with higher closure rates (hazard ratio [HR] 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-1.93, p = 0.001, and HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.07-2.06, p = 0.03, respectively); this was obtained more frequently with medical therapy since biologics have been available.

CONCLUSIONS

ECF complicating CD are rare but entail a high burden of medical and surgical resources. Closure rates are high, usually after surgery, and fistula recurrence is uncommon. A significant proportion of patients receiving medical therapy can achieve fistula closure.

Gastrointestinal Manifestations in Mucopolysaccharidosis Type III: Review of Death Certificates and the Literature

BACKGROUND

Mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPS III, Sanfilippo disease) is a life-limiting recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency in the enzymes involved in degrading glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate. MPS III is characterized by progressive deterioration of the central nervous system. Respiratory tract infections have been reported as frequent and as the most common cause of death, but gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations have not been acknowledged as a cause of concern. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of GI problems as a primary cause of death and to review GI symptoms reported in published studies.

METHODS

Causes of death from 221 UK death certificates (1957-2020) were reviewed and the literature was searched to ascertain reported GI symptoms.

RESULTS

GI manifestations were listed in 5.9% (n = 13) of death certificates. Median (IQR) age at death was 16.7 (5.3) years. Causes of death included GI failure, GI bleed, haemorrhagic pancreatitis, perforation due to gastrostomies, paralytic ileus and emaciation. Twenty-one GI conditions were reported in 30 studies, mostly related to functional GI disorders, including diarrhoea, dysphagia, constipation, faecal incontinence, abdominal pain/distension and cachexia.

CONCLUSIONS

GI manifestations may be an under-recognized but important clinical feature of MPS III. Early recognition of GI symptoms and timely interventions is an important part of the management of MPS III patients.

Thirty-day outcomes in the operative management of intestinal-cutaneous fistulas: A NSQIP analysis

INTRODUCTION

Intestinal-cutaneous fistulas (ICFs) constitute a major surgical challenge. Definitive surgical treatment of ICFs continues to be associated with significant morbidity. The purpose of this study was to utilize a nationwide database to define the morbidity associated with current treatment strategies in the surgical management of ICFs.

METHODS

The 2006-2017 American College of Surgeon National Surgical Quality Improvement datasets (ACS-NSQIP) were used to assess 30-day morbidity and mortality after surgical repair of ICFs. Outcomes for emergent repair were compared to elective repair of ICFs.

RESULTS

Overall, 4197 patients undergoing ICF-repair were identified. Mean age was 55.9 (SD 15.3). Patients were generally comorbid (62.9% were in ASA class III). The observed in-hospital mortality was 2.3%. However, the observed morbidity rate was 47.3%. Of the observed morbidity, 35.6% was due to post-operative infectious complications (superficial surgical site infections (SSI), deep SSI, organ/space SSI, wound disruption, pneumonia, urinary tract infection (UTI) sepsis or septic shock). The most common infectious complication was sepsis (13.1%). 30-day readmission rate was 15.3% and the 30-day reoperation rate was 11.0%. Emergent repair was associated with a sevenfold increase in mortality (11.9% vs 1.8%, P < 0.001) CONCLUSION: The management of patients with ICFs is complex and is associated with significant morbidity. Half of patients undergoing surgical management of ICFs developed in-hospital complications.

Bridging-to-Surgery in Patients with Type 2 Intestinal Failure

AIM

Type 2 intestinal failure (IF) is characterized by the need for longer-term parenteral nutrition (PN). During this so-called bridging-to-surgery period, morbidity and mortality rates are high. This study aimed to evaluate to what extent a multidisciplinary IF team is capable to safely guide patients towards reconstructive surgery.

METHODS

A consecutive series of patients with type 2 IF followed up by a specialized IF team between January 1st, 2011, and March 1st, 2016, was analyzed. Data on their first outpatient clinic visit (T1) and their last visit before reconstructive surgery (T2) was collected. The primary outcome was a combined endpoint of a patient being able to recover at home, have (partial) oral intake, and a normal albumin level (> 35 g/L) before surgery.

RESULTS

Ninety-three patients were included. The median number of previous abdominal procedures was 4. At T2 (last visit prior to reconstructive surgery), significantly more patients met the combined primary endpoint compared with T1 (first IF team consultation) (66.7% vs. 28.0% (p < 0.0001), respectively); 86% had home PN. During "bridging-to-surgery," acute hospitalization rate was 40.9% and acute surgery was 4.3%. Postoperatively, 44.1% experienced a major complication, 5.4% had a fistula, and in-hospital mortality was 6.5%. Of the cohort, 86% regained enteral autonomy, and when excluding in-hospital mortality and incomplete follow-up, this was 94.1%. An albumin level < 35 g/L at T2 and weight loss of > 10% at T2 compared with preadmission weight were significant risk factors for major complications.

CONCLUSION

Bridging-to-surgery of type 2 IF patients under the guidance of an IF team resulted in the majority of patients being managed at home, having oral intake, and restored albumin levels prior to reconstructive surgery compared with their first IF consultation.

Nutrition Management of the High-Output Fistulae

Enterocutaneous fistulae (ECFs) are commonly encountered complications in medical and surgical practice. High-output fistulae are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, poor quality of life, and a substantial healthcare burden. An interdisciplinary team approach is crucial to prevent and mitigate the adverse clinical consequences of high-output ECFs including sepsis, metabolic derangements, and malnutrition. Patients with ECFs are at a significantly higher risk of developing malnutrition and close monitoring by nutrition support professionals and/or a nutrition support team is an essential component of their medical management. High-output ECFs often require the initiation of nutrition support through either enteral or parenteral routes. Historically, parenteral nutrition (PN) has been the primary method of nutrition support in these patients. However, oral and enteral nutrition (EN) should remain viable options if an evaluation of the location of the ECF, amount of remaining functional bowel, and volume of ECF output identifies favorable conditions. Additionally, in contrast to PN, oral nutrition and EN are the preferred method of feeding because of the maintenance of the structural and functional integrity of the gastrointestinal tract. The inclusion of pharmacological interventions can greatly assist with the reduction and stabilization of ECF output and thereby permit sustained enteral feeding. Initiation of supplemental or full PN will be required if oral nutrition and EN lead to metabolic derangements, fail to meet energy requirements, or do not maintain or improve the patient's nutrition status. The main focus of this review is to discuss the nutrition management of patients with high-output ECFs.

The successful management for long-term intractable enteroatmospheric fistula: A case report

Introduction

Efficacy of open abdomen management with negative pressure wound therapy for enteroatmospheric fistula has been performed. But, few reports have shown its utility for enteroatmospheric fistula several years after onset.

Presentation of case

A 46 year-old woman underwent total colectomy due to total ulcerative colitis in her twenties. Three years before the onset of enteroatmospheric fistula, she underwent simple total hysterectomy for uterine smooth muscle tumor. Small bowel obstruction occurred early and a small bowel bypass was performed. However, she had sudden abdominal pain and was diagnosed with anastomotic leakage of small bowel bypass. Although antibiotic treatment was initiated, infection was difficult to control, and a midline abdominal incision was performed, followed by the formation of enteroatmospheric fistula. She declined early surgical intervention and started receiving home parenteral nutrition with antibiotic treatment. Although central vein management was continued, catheter infection became frequent. Hence, surgical intervention was planned 30 months after the formation of enteroatmospheric fistula. Two-stage abdominal wall reconstruction using open abdomen management with negative pressure wound therapy was planned. The definitive abdominal wall reconstruction was performed 14 days after the initial operation. Finally, she was discharged without reoperation.

Discussion

Enteroatmospheric fistula has no overlying soft tissue and no real fistula tract. Besides these complications, there were complications of the scarred abdominal wall from intestinal fluid exposure for 30 months.

Conclusion

The strategy using open abdomen management with negative pressure wound therapy for long-term enteroatmospheric fistula will have a good postoperative outcome with the same as early intervention.

•

Negative pressure wound therapy is effective in postonset enteroatmospheric fistula.

•

It repairs abdominal wall skin damage from 30-month intestinal fluid exposure.

•

Open abdominal management was able to control infection in the perioperative period.

Long-term outcomes after contaminated complex abdominal wall reconstruction

PURPOSE

Complex abdominal wall repair (CAWR) in a contaminated operative field is a challenge. Available literature regarding long-term outcomes of CAWR comprises studies that often have small numbers and heterogeneous patient populations. This study aims to assess long-term outcomes of modified-ventral hernia working group (VHWG) grade 3 repairs. Because the relevance of hernia recurrence (HR) as the primary outcome for this patient group is contentious, the need for further hernia surgery (FHS) was also assessed in relation to long-term survival.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study with a single prospective follow-up time-point nested in a consecutive series of patients undergoing CAWR in two European national intestinal failure centers.

RESULTS

In long-term analysis, 266 modified VHWG grade 3 procedures were included. The overall HR rate was 32.3%. The HR rates for non-crosslinked biologic meshes and synthetic meshes when fascial closure was achieved were 20.3% and 30.6%, respectively. The rates of FHS were 7.2% and 16.7%, and occurred only within the first 3 years. Bridged repairs showed poorer results (fascial closure 22.9% hernia recurrence vs bridged 57.1% recurrence). Overall survival was relatively good with 80% en 70% of the patients still alive after 5 and 10 years, respectively. In total 86.6% of the patients remained free of FHS.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study of contaminated CAWR, non-crosslinked biologic mesh shows better results than synthetic mesh. Bridging repairs with no posterior and/or anterior fascial closure have a higher recurrence rate. The overall survival was good and the majority of patients remained free of additional hernia surgery.

Evaluation and Management of Enterocutaneous Fistula

A 36-year-old woman presents with an abscess at her midline wound 4 weeks following an ileocecectomy for Crohn's disease. After the abscess is incised, there is purulent drainage followed by the drainage of enteric contents; the output is 750 mL per 24 hours.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Pressure Ulcers in Patients with Enterocutaneous Fistula: A Retrospective Single-Center Study in China

BACKGROUND Prevalence and associated risk factors for pressure ulcers (PU) vary in different body areas and diseases. Few studies have focused on PU in patients with enterocutaneous fistula (ECF). The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for PU in patients with ECF. MATERIAL AND METHODS From January 2016 to June 2016, medical records of 140 patients with ECF who were transferred to the Enterocutaneous Fistula Treatment Center, Jinling Hospital, were reviewed and analyzed. The prevalence of PU was investigated. To evaluate the risk factors for PU in patients with ECF, 5 patients with PU before admission were excluded, and the remaining 135 patients were divided into 2 groups: the PU group and the non-PU group. The risk factors for PU were confirmed by multivariate logistic regression analysis of characteristics on admission. RESULTS There were 42 cases with PU (5 cases with PU before admission, 37 cases with PU in the treatment after admission), and the prevalence of PU in patients with ECF was 30%. In addition, Braden risk score <19 (OR=9.33, CI: 2.80-31.08, p<0.001); underweight (BMI<18.5) (OR=5.21, CI: 1.65-16.39, p=0.005); onset of duodenal fistula (OR=4.86, CI: 1.33-17.78, p=0.017); diabetes (OR=4.95, CI: 1.03-23.85, p=0.046); and APACHE II score (OR=1.34, CI: 1.04-1.72, p=0.019) were associated with PU. CONCLUSIONS The PU prevalence was 30% in patients with ECF. Braden risk score <19, underweight, onset of duodenal fistula, diabetes, and APACHE II score were risk factors for PU in patients with ECF.

Reconstructive operations for enteric and colonic fistulas: Low mortality and recurrence in a single-surgeon series with long follow-up

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of 100 consecutive patients undergoing reconstructive operation for enteric and colonic fistulas. These fistulas cause dramatic morbidity and profoundly diminish quality of life. Fistula takedown has been associated with high rates of recurrence.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing definitive fistula reconstruction by a single surgeon were reviewed retrospectively. Major adverse outcomes included bowel leak, fistula recurrence, death, total parenteral nutrition dependence, and incidence of new stomas.

RESULTS

Among the 100 patients, median follow-up was 2.7 years. A total of 11 patients had postoperative leaks that evolved to 5 fistula recurrences. Of these patients 3 underwent successful secondary or tertiary takedown. The 30-day mortality rate was 1%, and the combined postoperative and fistula-related mortality rate at follow-up was 3%. New postoperative total parenteral nutrition dependence occurred in 2 patients (2%), and 9 (9%) had placement of a new stoma. Leaks were more frequent for patients who had a history of open abdomen than for patients who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

With minimal patient selection and a methodic approach to evaluation and management, we achieved a 96% fistula-free survival rate. Few patients acquired new total parenteral nutrition dependence or a new stoma. These results compare favorably with outcomes published elsewhere.

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Timing and Outcome of Intestinal Failure Surgery in Patients with Enteric Fistula

Background

The timing of intestinal failure (IF) surgery has changed. Most specialized centers now recommend postponing reconstructive surgery for enteric fistula and emphasize that abdominal sepsis has to be resolved and the patient’s condition improved. Our aim was to study the outcome of postponed surgery, to identify risk factors for recurrence and mortality, and to define more precisely the optimal timing of reconstructive surgery.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were systematically reviewed on the outcomes of reconstructive IF surgery (fistula recurrence, mortality, morbidity, hernia recurrence, total closure, enteral autonomy). If appropriate, meta-analyses were performed. Optimal timing was explored, and risk factors for recurrence and mortality were identified.

Results

Fifteen studies were included. The weighted pooled fistula recurrence rate was 19% (95% CI 15–24). Lower recurrence rates were found in studies with a longer median time and/or, at the minimum of the range, a longer time interval to surgery. Overall mortality was 3% (95% CI 2–5). Total fistula closure rates ranged from 80 to 97%. Enteral autonomy after reconstructive surgery, mentioned in four studies, varied between 79 and 100%.

Conclusions

Postponed IF surgery for enteric fistula is associated with lower recurrence. Due to the wide range of time to definitive surgery within each study, optimal timing of surgery could not be defined from published data.

Assessment and management of patients with intestinal failure: a multidisciplinary approach

Intestinal failure (IF) is a condition characterized by the inability to maintain a state of adequate nutrition, or fluid and electrolyte balance due to an anatomical or a physiological disorder of the gastrointestinal system. IF can be an extremely debilitating condition, significantly affecting the quality of life of those affected. The surgical management of patients with acute and chronic IF requires a specialist team who has the expertise in terms of technical challenges and decision-making. A dedicated IF unit will have the expertise in patient selection for surgery, investigative workup and planning, operative risk assessment with relevant anesthetic expertise, and a multidisciplinary team with support such as nutritional expertise and interventional radiology. This article covers the details of IF management, including the classification of IF, etiology, prevention of IF, and initial management of IF, focusing on sepsis treatment and nutritional support. It also covers the surgical aspects of IF such as intestinal reconstruction, abdominal wall reconstruction, and intestinal transplantation.

The current therapeutic options for Crohn's disease: from medical therapy to intestinal transplantation

Crohn's disease (CD) has an annual incidence per 100.000 person-year of 20.2 in North America and 12.7 in Europe, and the purpose of this review is to evaluate its medical management, from diagnosis to transplant. Pharmacologic manipulation with nutritional care aims to achieve and maintain remission, but more than half of patients will undergo an intestinal resection, very often repeated over time. They could experience short bowel syndrome (SBS) requiring total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Intestinal transplantation (ITx) represents an alternative in case of irreversible intestinal failure (IF) with life-threatening TPN complications. Patient survival after ITx is 79%, 53% and 43% at 1, 3 and 5 years respectively, with no differences among ITx for other disorders. Areas covered: The research discussed medical therapy with nutritional support, evaluating the role of endoscopy, surgery and transplant in CD. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed search engine up to May 31^th, 2017 without restriction of the language. The decision on paper's eligibility was reached by consensus between the 3 screening authors. Expert commentary: CD treatment is mainly medical, leaving endoscopy and surgery for a complex course. ITx represents a therapeutic option if TPN complications with IF arise.

Role of enteral nutrition in pancreaticocolonic fistulas secondary to severe acute pancreatitis: A case report

RATIONALE

Pancreaticocolonic fistula (PCF) is an exceedingly rare complication of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and has primarily been treated surgically, but a few reported cases are successfully treated with nonsurgical methods.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 32-year-old male presented to our hospital with chief complaints of sharp and persistent left upper quadrant abdominal pain radiating to the back.

DIAGNOSES

Computed tomography showed a pancreatic pseudocyst replacing a majority of the pancreatic parenchyma and PCF that formed between the pancreas and the colon. However, the final diagnosis of PCF was confirmed by drainage tube radiograph, which revealed extravasation of contrast from the tail of the pancreas into the colon.

INTERVENTIONS

A therapeutic strategy of enteral nutrition (EN) was applied.

OUTCOMES

The patient responded well to the treatment. No complication and recurrence were reported during 2-year follow-up.

LESSONS

This case highlights the role of EN in the treatment of PCF secondary to SAP. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of PCF that treated successfully with EN, rather than surgical or endoscopic intervention.

Surgery for post-operative entero-cutaneous fistulas: is bowel resection plus primary anastomosis without stoma a safe option to avoid early recurrence? Report on 20 cases by a single center and systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND

A review was performed on entero-cutaneous fistula (ECF) repair and early recurrence, adding our twenty adult patients (65% had multiple fistulas).

METHODS

The search yielded 4.098 articles but only 15 were relevant: 1.217 patients underwent surgery. The interval time between fistula's diagnosis and operative repair was between 3 months and 1 year. A bowel resection with primary anastomosis was performed in 1.048 patients, 192 (18.3%) underwent a covering stoma: 856 patients (81.7%) had a fistula takedown in one procedure.

RESULTS

The patients had 14.3% recurrence and 13.1% mortality rate. In our experience 75% were surgically treated after a period equal or above one year from fistula occurrence: surgery was very demolitive (in 40% remnant small bowel was less than 100 cm). We performed a bowel resection with a hand-sewn anastomosis (95%) without temporary stoma. In-hospital mortality was 0% and at discharge all were back to oral intake with 0% early re-fistulisation.

CONCLUSIONS

Literature supports our experience: ECF takedown could be safely performed after an adequate period of recovery from 3 months to one year from fistula occurrence. In our series primary repair (bowel resection plus reconnection surgery without temporary stoma) avoided an early recurrence without mortality.

Postoperative enterocutaneous fistula - principles in non-operative approach

Introduction

Postoperative enterocutaneous fistulae could constitute a challenge when they occur following an abdominal surgery. Astute application of correct principles in its management is essential for good outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective review of records of patients with enterocutaneous fistulas managed non-operatively was done. Clinical assessment, anatomic and physiologic classification of fistula, fluid resuscitation, electrolyte correction, parenteral/enteral nutrition, antibiotic use and fistula effluent monitoring, formed the basis of management.

Results

(4/14)Four out of 14 patients with enterocutaneous fistulae were managed exclusively non-operatively. Their ages ranged between 34 and 63 years. Mean age 46years. All four fistulae occurred postoperatively. Laparatomy for ectopic pregnancy, bowel obstruction constituted the primary surgery. There were two high output cases and two low output cases. Initial parenteral nutrition was employed in two cases while enterals were used solely in two cases. Fistula closure was achieved in all 4 cases at durations ranging from 7 to 16 days, a mean time of 12.5 days.

Conclusion

Non-operative approach to management for postoperative enterocutaneous fistulas was successful in these cases.

Vaizey CJ, Maeda Y, Barbosa E, Bozzetti F, Calvo J, Irtun Ø, Jeppesen PB, Klek S, Panisic-Sekeljic M, Papaconstantinou I, Pascher A, Panis Y, Wallace WD, Carlson G, Boermeester M. European Society of Coloproctology consensus on the surgical management of intestinal failure in adults

Intestinal failure (IF) is a debilitating condition of inadequate nutrition due to an anatomical and/or physiological deficit of the intestine. Surgical management of patients with acute and chronic IF requires expertise to deal with technical challenges and make correct decisions. Dedicated IF units have expertise in patient selection, operative risk assessment and multidisciplinary support such as nutritional input and interventional radiology, which dramatically improve the morbidity and mortality of this complex condition and can beneficially affect the continuing dependence on parenteral nutritional support. Currently there is little guidance to bridge the gap between general surgeons and specialist IF surgeons. Fifteen European experts took part in a consensus process to develop guidance to support surgeons in the management of patients with IF. Based on a systematic literature review, statements were prepared for a modified Delphi process. The evidence for each statement was graded using Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence. The current paper contains the statements reflecting the position and practice of leading European experts in IF encompassing the general definition of IF surgery and organization of an IF unit, strategies to prevent IF, management of acute IF, management of wound, fistula and stoma, rehabilitation, intestinal and abdominal reconstruction, criteria for referral to a specialist unit and intestinal transplantation.

Enterocutaneous Fistula: Proven Strategies and Updates

Management of enterocutaneous fistula represents one of the most protracted and difficult problems in colorectal surgery with substantial morbidity and mortality rates. This article summarizes the current classification systems and successful management protocols, provides an in-depth review of fluid resuscitation, sepsis control, nutrition management, medication management of output quantity, wound care, nonoperative intervention measures, operative timeline, and considerations, and discusses special considerations such as inflammatory bowel disease and enteroatmospheric fistula.

Short Bowel Syndrome and Intestinal Failure in Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite the availability of powerful immunosuppressants, many patients with Crohn's disease still require one or more intestinal resections throughout the course of their disease. Multiple resections and a progressive reduction in bowel length can lead to the development of short bowel syndrome, a form of intestinal failure that compromises fluid, electrolyte, and nutrient absorption. The pathophysiology of short bowel syndrome involves a reduction in intestinal surface area, alteration in the enteric hormonal feedback, dysmotility, and related comorbidities. Most patients will initially require parenteral nutrition as a primary or supplemental source of nutrition, although several patients may eventually wean off nutrition support depending on the residual gut anatomy and adherence to medical and nutritional interventions. Available surgical treatments focus on reducing motility, lengthening the native small bowel, or small bowel transplantation. Care of these complex patients with short bowel syndrome requires a multidisciplinary approach of physicians, dietitians, and nurses to provide optimal intestinal rehabilitation, nutritional support, and improvement in quality of life.

Outcome of acute intestinal failure

BACKGROUND

Type 2 acute intestinal failure is characterized by the need for parenteral nutrition (PN) for several months, and is typically caused by complications of abdominal surgery with enteric fistulas or proximal stomas. This study aimed to evaluate clinical management according to quality indicators established by the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with type 2 intestinal failure referred to a specialized centre were analysed. Outcomes included the rate of discontinuation of PN, morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine patients were analysed, of whom 57 had an enteric fistula, 29 a proximal stoma (6 with distal fistulas), and three had intestinal failure owing to other causes. One patient was deemed inoperable, and nine patients died from underlying illness during initial management. Before reconstructive surgery, 94 per cent (65 of 66 operated and 3 patients scheduled for surgery) spent the period of rehabilitation at home. Discontinuation of PN owing to restoration of enteral autonomy was achieved in 65 (73 per cent) of 89 patients. Seven patients developed a recurrent fistula, which was successfully managed with a further operation in four, resulting in successful fistula takedown in 41 of 44 patients undergoing fistula resection. Three patients (5 per cent) died in hospital after reconstructive surgery. The overall mortality rate in this series, including preoperative deaths from underlying diseases, was 16 per cent (14 patients).

CONCLUSION

Intestinal failure care and reconstructive surgery resulted in successful discontinuation of PN in the majority of patients, although disease-related mortality was considerable.

Fistulizing Crohn's disease: Diagnosis and management

Fistulizing Crohn's disease represents an evolving, yet unresolved, issue for multidisciplinary management. Perianal fistulas are the most frequent findings in fistulizing Crohn's disease. While enterocutaneous fistulas are rare, they are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Detailed evaluation of the fistula tract by advanced imaging techniques is required to determine the most suitable management options. The fundamentals of perianal fistula management are to evaluate the complexity of the fistula tract, and exclude proctitis and associated abscess. The main goals of the treatment are abscess drainage, which is mandatory, before initiating immunosuppressive medical therapy, resolution of fistula discharge, preservation of continence and, in the long term, avoidance of proctectomy with permanent stoma. The management of enterocutaneous fistulas comprises of sepsis control, skin care, nutritional optimization and, if needed, delayed surgery.

Persistent inflammation-immunosuppression catabolism syndrome, a common manifestation of patients with enterocutaneous fistula in intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Persistent inflammation-immunosuppression catabolism syndrome (PICS) is a newly proposed concept that has replaced late multiple-organ failure and prolongs surgical intensive care unit (ICU) duration. Enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is one of the most challenging complications in the practice of surgery. However, no studies have been performed connecting PICS with ECF.

METHODS

A total of 130 ECF patients admitted to ICU between January 2011 and January 2012 were retrospectively studied. Two residents of our center collected data (including demographics, clinical manifestation, underlying disease, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, therapeutic schedules, laboratory test reports, and clinical outcomes) from electronic medical records for each patient. We further investigated the prevalence of PICS in patients with ECF and compared the demographics, disease severity, complications, clinical outcomes, and prognosis between PICS and non-PICS patients.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of PICS in ECF was 43.1%. The mortality rates of non-PICS and PICS groups were 7.1% and 28.3%, respectively. Compared with the non-PICS group, the PICS group showed an increased age, a higher fistula output, but a lower body mass index and albumin level. However, the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score did not differ between the two groups. During the whole treatment course, the PICS group showed a higher risk of developing pneumonia and catheter-related blood stream infection compared with the non-PICS group. Although the overall incidences of sepsis were similarly, the risk of developing sepsis after the first 7 days of admission was significantly higher in the PICS group (67.9% vs. 38.6%, p = 0.002). Moreover, the PICS group experienced longer stays in the ICU, higher hospital charges, and higher probabilities of mechanical ventilation compared with the non-PICS group.

CONCLUSION

PICS is a common manifestation of patients with ECF. ECF provides an excellent clinical model to study PICS owing to the pathophysiologic characteristics of ECF itself.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic study, level III.

Definitive surgical closure of enterocutaneous fistula: outcome and factors predictive of increased postoperative morbidity

AIM

Enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) presents a complex management problem with significant mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of patients undergoing surgical cure for ECF and to predict factors that might relate to increased postoperative morbidity.

METHOD

Medical records of all patients who underwent definitive surgery for cure of an ECF within our colorectal surgery unit between 2000 and 2010 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients (18 male) were identified, in whom 44 definitive procedures were performed. The median age was 54 (17-81) years. The median postoperative length of stay in hospital was 14 (2-213) days. Half (50%) of the ECFs occurred as a postoperative complication followed by spontaneous fistulation in Crohn's disease (36%). The interval to definitive surgery was influenced by the aetiology of the fistula. The median time to surgery after formation of postoperative fistula was 240 days (7.9 months). There was no 30-day postoperative mortality. There were two (4.5%) recurrences at 3 months. Thirty-eight (86%) patients suffered postoperative morbidity as defined by the Clavien-Dindo classification. High-grade morbidity occurred in 32% of patients. On univariate analysis, factors identified as being significantly associated with high-grade morbidity included a fistula output of > 500 ml/day (P = 0.004) in patients with postoperative ECF, malnutrition at presentation (P = 0.04) and a serum albumin value of < 30 g/l (P = 0.02) in patients with spontaneous ECF due to Crohn's disease.

CONCLUSION

The majority of persistent complex ECFs can be cured surgically with low mortality and recurrence in a multidisciplinary setting. Postoperative morbidity, however, remains a significant burden.

Establishing a regional enterocutaneous fistula service: the Royal London hospital experience

BACKGROUND

The development of enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is one of the most challenging complications encountered in colorectal surgery. Currently, only two supra-regional centres are nationally designated in the United Kingdom to treat ECF patients. The aim of this study was to assess clinical outcome measures following the implementation of an ECF service at The Royal London Hospital.

METHODS

All patients diagnosed with enterocutaneous fistula between December 2005 and November 2011 were recruited to the study. Clinical outcomes analysed included successful ECF closure, number of surgical procedures required for successful ECF closure, re-fistulation rates and morbidity/mortality data.

RESULTS

41 patients (20 M:21 F) of median age 54 years (range, 16-81) were studied. Patients had undergone a median of 4 (range, 1-18) operations prior to referral. Eleven fistulas (27%) healed spontaneously. Of the remaining 30 patients, 5 (17%) died before surgery due to uncontrollable sepsis and 6 (20%) refused surgical intervention and were managed conservatively. Nineteen patients (63%) underwent definitive surgical repair requiring a median of 1 (range, 1-2) operations, with recurrent fistulation reported in 4 patients (21%). No intra-operative mortality was encountered. Two (11%) patients died postoperatively due to cardio-respiratory complications.

CONCLUSIONS

These data compare favourably with outcome measures reported by designated national centres, suggesting ECF patients can be safely managed closer to home in regional units that have the appropriate expertise. Nevertheless, management of this condition remains critically dependent upon a dedicated multidisciplinary team approach.

Predictors for developing intestinal failure in patients with Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Intestinal failure (IF) is a rare but devastating complication of Crohn's disease (CD). The clinical and surgical factors that predispose to IF are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to define clinical factors that predispose to IF.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was performed using consecutive CD patients with IF who were identified from a prospective database. Local population-based controls were selected with which to compare demographic, phenotypic, and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Eighty-two CD patients requiring long-term intravenous fluids or nutrition were studied. Diagnosis at age 16 years or less (P = 0.01) and a family history of inflammatory bowel disease (P = 0.02) were associated with a significantly higher risk for developing IF. Among the IF group, 53% had perioperative complications from intestinal resections contributing to long-term IF. Furthermore, these patients had more abdominal surgeries (P = 0.05) and stricturing disease was less common than in patients with primary active CD (P = 0.01). IF due to primary active CD was associated with penetrating behavior (P = 0.02) and early age at first surgery (P = 0.004). The need for intravenous nutrition as opposed to intravenous fluids correlated inversely with small intestine length (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

CD resulting in IF relates to earlier age at diagnosis, family history of inflammatory bowel disease, stricturing disease, younger age at first surgery, and operative complications. These factors deserve consideration when planning therapy for CD patients.

Guided treatment improves outcome of patients with enterocutaneous fistulas

BACKGROUND

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of guided treatment of patients with an enterocutaneous fistula and to evaluate the effect of prolonged period of convalescence on outcome.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with an enterocutaneous fistula treated between 2006 and 2010 were included in this study. Patient information was gathered prospectively. Treatment of patients focused on sepsis control, optimization of nutritional status, wound care, establishing the anatomy of the fistula, timing of surgery, and surgical principles. Outcome included spontaneous and surgical closure, mortality, and postoperative recurrence. The relationship between period of convalescence and recurrence rate was determined by combining the present prospective cohort with a historical cohort from our group.

RESULTS

Between 2006 and 2010, 79 patients underwent focused treatment for enterocutaneous fistula. Cox regression analysis showed that period of convalescence related significantly with recurrence of the fistula (hazard ratio 0.99; 95 % confidence interval 0.98-0.999; p = 0.04). Spontaneous closure occurred in 23 (29 %) patients after a median period of convalescence of 39 (range 7-163) days. Forty-nine patients underwent operative repair after median period of 101 (range 7-374) days and achieved closure in 47 (96 %). Overall, eight patients (10 %) died.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonging period of convalescence for patients with enterocutaneous fistulas improves spontaneous closure and reduces recurrence rate.

Enterocutaneous fistulas and a hostile abdomen: reoperative surgical approaches

Damage-control surgery and open-abdomen is an acceptable—and often lifesaving—approach to the treatment of patients with severe trauma, abdominal compartment syndrome, necrotizing soft tissue catastrophes, and other abdominal disasters, when closing the abdomen is not possible, ill advised, or will have serious sequelae. However, common consequences of open-abdomen management include large abdominal wall defects, enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs), and enteroatmospheric fistulas (EAFs). Furthermore, in such patients, a frozen and hostile abdomen (alone or combined with ECFs) is not uncommon. Adding biologic mesh to our surgical armamentarium has revolutionized hernia surgery.

Surgical management of enterocutaneous fistula

Enterocutaneous (EC) fistula is an abnormal connection between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and skin. The majority of EC fistulas result from surgery. About one third of fistulas close spontaneously with medical treatment and radiologic interventions. Surgical treatment should be reserved for use after sufficient time has passed from the previous laparotomy to allow lysis of the fibrous adhesion using full nutritional and medical treatment and until a complete understanding of the anatomy of the fistula has been achieved. The successful management of GI fistula requires a multi-disciplinary team approach including a gastroenterologist, interventional radiologist, enterostomal therapist, dietician, social worker and surgeons. With this coordinated approach, EC fistula can be controlled with acceptable morbidity and mortality.

Operative surgery for enterocutaneous fistula

The management of the patient with an enterocutaneous fistula is complex and requires coordinated care on many fronts for successful elimination. With optimal nonoperative management a fistula may heal spontaneously, the majority within the first 4 weeks after development. Definitive surgical treatment is best achieved with resection of the bowel containing the fistula and anastomosis of healthy normal bowel. The timing of definitive surgery appears to be optimal months after development, if tolerated. Death rates are low after surgery and patients who experience the recurrence of a fistula after initial attempt at closure can ultimately still be cured.

Enterocutaneous fistula: medical and surgical management including patients with Crohn's disease

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and especially Crohn's disease can be challenging for even the most seasoned of surgeons. Development of an enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) in these patients further adds a level of complexity that requires a well-planned and defined management strategy. The role of the surgeon in caring for these patients should be as the leader of a multidisciplinary team, directing the care of the other specialists, all while determining if, and when, the patient requires operative intervention. Although medical management has come a long way in these and similar patients, surgery is still needed in a vast majority of patients. Therefore, understanding the evaluation, initial management, and important technical considerations for care of IBD and other complex patients with ECFs is a difficult, yet much needed, task for which the surgeon should be prepared.

Management of enterocutaneous fistulas

Management of enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs) involves (1) recognition and stabilization, (2) anatomic definition and decision, and (3) definitive operation. Phase 1 encompasses correction of fluid and electrolyte imbalance, skin protection, and nutritional support. Abdominal imaging defines the anatomy of the fistula in phase 2. ECFs that do not heal spontaneously require segmental resection of the bowel segment communicating with the fistula and restoration of intestinal continuity in phase 3. The enteroatmospheric fistula (EAF) is a malevolent condition requiring prolonged wound care and nutritional support. Complex abdominal wall reconstruction immediately following fistula resection is necessary for all EAFs.