Safety, feasibility, and short-term outcomes in 588 patients undergoing minimally invasive ileal pouch-anal anastomosis: a single-institution experience

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: 30-year analysis on surgical evolution and patient outcome

BACKGROUND

Proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the treatment of choice for patients with ulcerative colitis with medical refractory disease or dysplasia. The aim of this research was to describe the evolution of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis surgery and surgical outcomes over a three-decade interval in a high-volume referral centre.

METHODS

All consecutive patients undergoing ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis between 1990 and 2022 at the University Hospitals of Leuven were retrospectively included. Patients were divided into three interval arms (interval A 1990-2000, interval B 2001-2010 and interval C 2011-2022). The primary outcomes of interest were anastomotic leakage at 30 days and pouch failure.

RESULTS

Overall, 492 patients were included. The use of preoperative advanced therapies increased over time (P < 0.001). An increase in laparoscopic procedures (23.2% in interval A, 66.4% in interval B, 86.0% in interval C; P < 0.001) and a shift towards delayed ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (colectomy-first approach with delayed ileal pouch-anal anastomosis construction: 23.0% in interval A, 40.9% in interval B, 85.8% in interval C; P < 0.001) were observed. Anastomotic leakage rate decreased from 16.7% (interval A) to 8.4% (interval C) (P = 0.04). Delayed ileal pouch-anal anastomosis was the most relevant factor in limiting leakage (OR 0.49 (95% c.i. 0.27 to 0.87); P = 0.016). Median follow-up was 7.5 years (interquartile range 2.5-16). Cumulative pouch failure incidence was 8.2%, not significantly different between the three intervals (P = 0.580). Anastomotic leakage was the only significant risk factor for pouch failure (HR 2.82 (95% c.i. 1.29 to 6.20); P = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

Significant changes in the management of ulcerative colitis patients occurred. Despite the widespread use of advanced therapies and the expanded surgical indications, anastomotic leakage rate decreased over time. In the context of a delayed ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, diverting ileostomy could be avoided in selected cases. Anastomotic leakage remains the most relevant risk factor for pouch failure. Pouch failure incidence remained stable over the years.

Transanal ileal pouch-anal anastomosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of technical approaches and clinical outcomes

PURPOSE

Transanal minimally invasive surgery has theoretical advantages for ileal pouch-anal anastomosis surgery. We performed a systematic review assessing technical approaches to transanal IPAA (Ta-IPAA) and meta-analysis comparing outcomes to transabdominal (abd-IPAA) approaches.

METHODS

Three databases were searched for articles investigating Ta-IPAA outcomes. Primary outcome was anastomotic leak rate. Secondary outcomes included conversion rate, post operative morbidity, and length of stay (LoS). Staging, plane of dissection, anastomosis, extraction site, operative time, and functional outcomes were also assessed.

RESULTS

Searches identified 13 studies with 404 unique Ta-IPAA and 563 abd-IPAA patients. Anastomotic leak rates were 6.3% and 8.4% (RD 0, 95% CI -0.066 to 0.065, p = 0.989) and conversion rates 2.5% and 12.5% (RD -0.106, 95% CI -0.155 to -0.057, p = 0.104) for Ta-IPAA and abd-IPAA. Average LoS was one day shorter (MD -1, 95% CI -1.876 to 0.302, p = 0.007). A three-stage approach was most common (47.6%), operative time was 261(± 60) mins, and total mesorectal excision and close rectal dissection were equally used (49.5% vs 50.5%). Functional outcomes were similar. Lack of randomised control trials, case-matched series, and significant study heterogeneity limited analysis, resulting in low to very low certainty of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis demonstrated the feasibility and safety of Ta-IPAA with reduced LoS, trend towards less conversions, and comparable anastomotic leak rates and post operative morbidity. Though results are encouraging, they need to be interpreted with heterogeneity and selection bias in mind. Robust randomised clinical trials are warranted to adequately compare ta-IPAA to transabdominal approaches.

Robotic Surgery for the Ileal Pouch

BACKGROUND

A robotic approach to total colectomy/proctectomy and ileal pouch reconstruction would seem to be a sensible use of the platform's enhanced reach, visualization, and dexterity.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to discuss current published data for robotic ileal pouch surgery.

STUDY SELECTION

The study selection included a paucity of published data to date, representing early learning curves and case series with small numbers.

CONCLUSIONS

Current robotic platforms may offer advantages, particularly in the low pelvis beyond what is found with a laparoscopic approach.

A Single-Center Comparative Study of Open Transabdominal and Laparoscopic Transanal Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis with Total Mesorectal Excision. Has the Bar Been Raised?

BACKGROUND

Most ulcerative colitis (UC) patients requiring surgery undergo transabdominal ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) performed minimally invasively or open. Although one multicenter study demonstrated acceptably low morbidity after transanal pouch, our initial single-center experience with transanal IPAA (ta-IPAA) was associated with an unacceptably high rate of anastomotic leak. The aim of this study was to compare the short-term outcomes of ta-IPAA and transabdominal IPAA with growing experience of transanal proctectomy and determine whether one approach offered any advantage or benefit over the other.

METHODS

Single-center series of consecutive ulcerative colitis patients underwent 3-stage IPAA, either ta-IPAA or transabdominal IPAA at a tertiary referral center. The primary outcome measure was overall complications until immediately prior to stoma closure. Secondary outcomes included postoperative clinical measures.

RESULTS

The study group consisted of 113 patients, which included 37 (33%) patients undergoing transabdominal or open IPAA and 76 (67%) patients undergoing ta-IPAA. The overall complication rate was numerically higher in the ta-IPAA group (56%) compared to the transabdominal group (38%) (p = 0.07) as was the incidence of anastomotic leak in the ta-IPAA group (12 vs. 5%) (p = 0.17). Mean length of hospital stay was significantly higher in the transanal IPAA group (p = 0.04). Operating time, opioid use and pain scores were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

Transanal IPAA has a higher incidence of overall complications and anastomotic leak compared to transabdominal IPAA. Postoperative length of stay is significantly higher in patients undergoing ta-IPAA. Operating room time, opiate use and pain scores are comparable between the two surgical approaches. Transanal IPAA appears to offer little advantage over transabdominal IPAA.

A prospective analysis of the postoperative and long-term functional outcomes of a novel technique to perform rectal transection during laparoscopic restorative proctectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) technique is not standardized. An irregular division of the rectum could result in poor functional outcomes and residual diseased mucosa. The aim of the study was to develop a new technique for performing the rectal transection via a laparoscopic approach, and to compare the outcomes of this technique with those of the open surgery IPAA.

METHODS

This prospective study included all patients who underwent restorative proctectomy (following a previous subtotal colectomy) for ulcerative colitis in October 2017-November 2020. Rectal division was performed using a 30 mm open linear stapler which was applied laparoscopically across the distal rectum. Postoperative and functional outcomes, length of anal stump and completeness of mucosal removal were compared. Only the patients who had their ileostomy reversed by 31 December 2020 and, therefore, a minimum follow-up of 6 months from the ileostomy closure, were included in the analysis of the functional outcomes and quality of life.

RESULTS

There were 207 patients (161 laparoscopic, 46 open). Median age was 43 (18-77) years and 85 patients (41.1%) were male. Major complications (9.3 vs. 8.7%, p = 0.89) including anastomotic leaks (3.7 vs 4.4%, p = 0.84) were similar after laparoscopic and open IPAA. Patients reported a comparable number of bowel movements during the day (6 vs. 7, p = 0.21) and at night (2 vs. 2, p = 0.66), and a similar rate of episodes of incontinence during the previous 6 months (3.7 vs. 4.3%, p = 0.75). The mean Cleveland Global Quality of Life score was also similar (0.79 vs. 0.74, p = 0.35).

CONCLUSION

Our technique is safe and reproducible, and replicates the results of the open IPAA, while maintaining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and avoiding any kind of anal manipulation which could result in poor long-term functional outcomes.

Transanal Ileal Pouch: Is It Better?

Background: Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the procedure of choice for patients with ulcerative colitis and select patients with Crohn's disease. Minimally invasive techniques have been increasingly adopted including the transanal approach. However there remains a dearth of comparative data assessing the technical advantages and outcomes of a transanal approach to the IPAA against other minimally invasive techniques. Methods: In this review, we describe our learned approach with the transanal IPAA (ta-IPAA) and highlight key technical steps for a successful surgery in addition to evaluating the current literature on surgical and functional outcomes of this relatively novel procedure. Results: The ta-IPAA affords better visualization and access during a pelvic dissection translating to lower conversion rates. Lower odds of postoperative morbidity have been reported, but there was no difference in severity of complications when present. Though this technique has the advantages of a more accurate rectal transection obviating the need for multiple staple firings, the risk of anastomotic leak was similar between the two groups. Functional outcomes were found to be overall similar, though data is limited. Conclusions: The technical aspects of the IPAA have continued to evolve to mitigate the challenges posed by a deep pelvic dissection. While the ta-IPAA has been shown to be a safe and feasible procedure, the true advantages and functional benefits of this technique have yet to be elucidated with large-scale, quality data.

Surgical results and quality of life of patients submitted to restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

PURPOSE

restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the surgical procedure of choice in some cases of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and ulcerative colitis (UC). IPAA allows complete removal of the diseased colon and rectum, however, it is associated with substantial morbidity and potential consequences to patients' quality of life (QoL).

AIMS

to evaluate the surgical results, functional outcomes and QoL after IPAA; and to examine the impact of surgical complications upon QoL.

METHODS

we reviewed the records of 55 patients after IPAA, with emphasis on surgical outcomes. Forty patients answered the questionnaires. The Cleveland Global Quality of Life (CGQL), Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ), and Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF36).

RESULTS

the average age was 42.1±14.1 years. 63.6% of the patients were male, and 69.1% had FAP. Operative mortality was 1.8% and overall morbidity was 76.4%. Anastomotic leakage was the most frequent early complication (34.5%). Pouchitis (10.8%) and small bowel obstruction (9.1%) were the most common late complications. Patients with UC had the most severe complications (p=0.014). Pelvic complications did not have a negative effect on functional outcomes or QoL scores. Female patients had decreased pouch evacuation frequency, fewer nocturnal bowel movements, decreased bowel symptom impact on QoL (p=0.012), and better CGQL (p=0.04). Patients with better education had better QoL scores, and patients who had their pouches for more than five years scored lower.

CONCLUSION

the high morbidity has no impact on function or QoL. Bowel function is generally acceptable. QoL is good and affected by sex, education and time interval since IPAA.

Increasing experience of modified two-stage transanal ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for therapy refractory ulcerative colitis. What have we learned? A retrospective analysis on 75 consecutive cases at a tertiary referral hospital

AIM

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) should be delayed to a second stage in patients with ulcerative colitis and prolonged exposure to medical therapy. However, there is still discussion about whether a modified two-stage approach is preferable to a three-stage approach. Recently, a transanal approach has been introduced to overcome the well-known difficulties of laparoscopic pelvic surgery. This paper presents short-term outcomes of transanal IPAA (Ta-IPAA) according to a modified two-stage approach.

METHODS

Data from all patients who underwent a modified two-stage Ta-IPAA for ulcerative colitis refractory to medical therapy were retrieved retrospectively from a prospective database. A comprehensive complication index was used for 90-day postoperative complications. Conversion, duration of surgery, hospital stay and reoperation were considered. A logistic regression model was used to assess risk factors for peri-pouch sepsis.

RESULTS

Seventy-five (68.8%) patients were identified from 109 consecutive IPAAs. Median operation time was 159 min. Conversion rate was 4%. Mean comprehensive complication index was 7. All anastomotic leaks (10.6%) were treated with diverting ileostomy. Additionally, active rescue with transanal drainage and early resuturing of the anastomotic gap was performed in six patients. Ileostomy closure occurred after a median period of 5.4 months. At univariable analysis, factors associated with peri-pouch sepsis were male gender and age at IPAA construction.

CONCLUSIONS

A modified two-stage Ta-IPAA is safe and feasible. Standardization and reproducibility of the technique are reflected in few conversions and intra-operative complications. Finally, morbidity and anastomotic leak do not differ from those reported in previous Ta-IPAA series with a variable proportion of multistage procedures.

Surgical Management of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis can be managed by surgical resection of the colon and rectum. The final reconstruction options of traditional end ileostomy, continent ileostomy, ileorectal anastomosis, or ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA). We maintain that the IPAA is the gold standard management of ulcerative colitis and should be performed in stages. This article includes descriptions of technique, management alternatives, and intraoperative and postoperative management of pouch issues.

Sequential Approach for a Critical-View COlectomy (SACCO): A Laparoscopic Technique to Reduce Operative Time and Complications in IBD Acute Severe Colitis

Acute severe colitis is the major indication for surgery in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and in particular, in ulcerative colitis (UC). A laparoscopic approach for abdominal colectomy is recommended, due to better perioperative and long-term outcomes. However, costs, time-spending, and outcomes are still a topic of improvement. We designed a standardized 10-steps, sequential approach to laparoscopic colectomy, based on the philosophy of the "critical view of safety", with the aim to improve perioperative outcomes (operative duration, estimated blood loss, complications, readmissions, reoperations, and length of postoperative stay). We performed a retrospective cohort study using data from a prospectively maintained clinical database. We included all the consecutive, unselected patients undergoing laparoscopic subtotal colectomy (SCo) for IBD between 2008 and 2019 in a tertiary IBD Italian Centre. Starting from 2015, we regularly adopted the novel Sequential Approach for a Critical-View Colectomy (SACCo) technique. We included 59 (40.6%) patients treated with different laparoscopic approaches, and 86 patients (59.4%) operated on by the SACCo procedure. The mean operating time was significantly shorter for the SACCo group (144 vs. 224 min; p < 0.0001). The SACCo technique presented a trend to fewer major complications (6.8% vs. 8.3%), less readmissions (2.3% vs. 13.5%; p = 0.01), and shorter postoperative hospital stay (7.2 vs. 8.8 days; p = 0.003). Laparoscopic SACCo-technique is a safe and reproducible surgical approach for acute severe colitis and may improve the outcomes of this demanding procedure.

Anti-TNF and Pouch Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis: The Ones who Blame for More Complications?

Since the approval in 2005 of anti-TNF drugs for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, concerns have been raised about the potential detrimental effect of these agents on postoperative infectious complications related to pouch surgery. Data on this topic are controversial and mostly derived from retrospective underpowered cohort studies largely affected by relevant bias. Three meta-analyses have been published with contradictory results. Moreover, the correlation between serum levels of infliximab at the time of surgery and the occurrence of septic postoperative complication is far to be proven and remains an answered research question. The construction of an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) as first surgical step in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) refractory to medical treatment seems to be associated with an increased risk of septic complications. Population-based data from the United States show a shift towards stage surgery for patients with refractory UC as a consequence of the widespread use of biological agents and the increased tendency to consider surgery as ultimate resort (step-up approach). In this setting, the classic 3-stage procedure (ileoanal pouch and diversion ileostomy after initial total colectomy) together with the modified 2-stage approach (ileoanal pouch without diversion ileostomy after initial total colectomy) are both effective options. Whether or not a diversion ileostomy could prevent pouch complications at the time of the pouch construction during the second stage of surgery is still a matter of debate. Emerging data seem to claim for increased risk of small bowel obstructions related to the presence of a stoma without proven effect on the prevention of anastomotic leak.

Inflammatory Pouch Conditions Are Common After Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis in Ulcerative Colitis Patients

BACKGROUND

Total proctocolectomy (TPC) with ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the gold standard surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC) patients with medically refractory disease. The aim of this study was to report the rates and risk factors of inflammatory pouch conditions.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of UC or IBD unspecified (IBDU) patients who underwent TPC with IPAA for refractory disease or dysplasia between 2008 and 2017. Pouchoscopy data were used to calculate rates of inflammatory pouch conditions. Factors associated with outcomes in univariable analysis were investigated in multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 621 patients more than 18 years of age who underwent TPC with IPAA between January 2008 and December 2017, pouchoscopy data were available for 386 patients during a median follow-up period of 4 years. Acute pouchitis occurred in 205 patients (53%), 60 of whom (30%) progressed to chronic pouchitis. Cuffitis and Crohn's disease-like condition (CDLC) of the pouch occurred in 119 (30%) patients and 46 (12%) patients, respectively. In multivariable analysis, female sex was associated with a decreased risk of acute pouchitis, and pre-operative steroid use and medically refractory disease were associated with an increased risk; IBDU was associated with chronic pouchitis; rectal cuff length ≥2 cm and medically refractory disease were associated with cuffitis; age 45-54 at colectomy was associated with CDLC. Rates of pouch failure were similar in chronic pouchitis and CDLC patients treated with biologics and those who were not.

CONCLUSIONS

Inflammatory pouch conditions are common. Biologic use for chronic pouchitis and CDLC does not impact the rate of pouch failure.

Re-operation surgery following IPAA: is there a role for laparoscopy?

BACKGROUND

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal J pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the standard of care for mucosal ulcerative colitis and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. Some patients require re-operation, including pouch revision, advancement, or excision. Re-operative procedures are technically demanding and usually performed only by experienced colorectal surgeons in a small number of referral centers. There is a paucity of data regarding feasibility, safety, and outcomes of laparoscopic re-operative IPAA surgery. This study aimed to determine the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic approach for re-operative IPAA, trans-abdominal surgery.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of IRB-approved prospective database for patients who underwent trans-abdominal re-operative IPAA from 2011 to 2018. Patient demographics and operative reports were reviewed to classify type of re-operation into pouch excision, revision, or advancement and further classify as laparoscopic, laparoscopic converted to open, or open surgery. Main outcome measures were post-operative morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

Seventy-six patients met the inclusion criteria: 19 underwent attempted laparoscopic re-operative IPAA surgery, 12 of whom underwent successful laparoscopic surgery while 7 were converted to laparotomy, for an overall laparoscopic intent to treat 63% success rate. The remaining operations (n = 57) were performed through midline laparotomy. Length of stay (LOS) for patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery was significantly shorter (5.5 vs 9.7 days, p < 0.001) as were abdominal superficial surgical site infections (SSI) (0% vs 18%, p < 0.001) and deep SSI (0% vs 17%, p < 0.001). Laparotomy was performed by 6 colorectal surgeons at our institution while laparoscopy was successfully performed only by the senior author. There was no significant difference in overall complications, re-admission, re-operation, or mortality.

CONCLUSION

Re-operative, trans-abdominal, laparoscopic IPAA is both feasible and safe and has clear benefits compared to laparotomy in terms of LOS and superficial and deep SSI. However, this approach needs to be undertaken only by very experienced, high-volume laparoscopic IPAA surgeons.

[Robotic Assisted Proctocolectomy with Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis in a Case of Suspected Hereditary Polyposis]

BACKGROUND

Various forms of hereditary polyposis have been described in the literature. Classical familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare, autosomal dominantly inherited disease which is caused by a germline mutation in the adenomatous polyposis coli gene (APC). Patients with this diagnosis successively develop multiple polyps of the colon. Left untreated, FAP almost inevitably leads to malignant transformation.

INDICATION

We present the case of a 37-year-old patient with histologically confirmed, stenotic adenocarcinoma of the descending colon and an initially suspected hereditary polyposis due to multiple polyps in the descending and sigmoid colon.

METHODS

The video describes the preoperative imaging as well as endoscopic findings and demonstrates the technique of a two-stage, robotically assisted proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) and the creation of a temporary loop ileostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

With respect to the surgical treatment of classic FAP, restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) with ileal J-pouch construction can be regarded as an established standard procedure, despite controversy regarding various technical aspects. Minimally invasive strategies should be considered as an equivalent option compared to conventional techniques.

The current state of the transanal approach to the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

BACKGROUND

The transanal approach to pelvic dissection has gained considerable traction and utilization continues to expand, fueled by the transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for rectal cancer. The same principles and benefits of transanal pelvic dissection may apply to the transanal restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA)-the TaPouch procedure. Our goal was to review the literature to date on the development and current state of the TaPouch.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a PubMed database search for original articles on transanal pelvic dissections, IPAA, and the TaPouch procedure, with a manual search from relevant citations in the reference list. The main outcomes were the technical aspects of the TaPouch, clinical and functional outcomes, and potential advantages, drawbacks, and future direction for the procedure.

RESULTS

The conduct of the procedure has been defined, with the safety and feasibility demonstrated in small series. The reported rates of conversion and anastomotic leakage are low. There are no randomized trials or large-scale comparative studies available for comparative effectiveness compared to the traditional IPAA.

CONCLUSIONS

The transanal approach to ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is an exciting adaption of the transanal total mesorectal excision for refining the technical steps of a complex operation. Additional experience is needed for comparative outcomes and defining the ideal training and implementation pathways.

Short-term postoperative outcomes following robotic versus laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis are equivalent

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive approaches have become the standard of care for ileal pouch-anal anastomoses (IPAA). There are few reports comparing outcomes following a laparoscopic versus robotic approach. Our aim was to determine if there were any differences in the 30-day postoperative outcomes following IPAA performed laparoscopically versus robotically.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all laparoscopic and robotic IPAA performed between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2018 was carried out. Patients included were adult patients who underwent a proctectomy and IPAA utilizing either a laparoscopic or robotic approach. Data collected included patient demographics, operative variables, and 30-day postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 132 patients had a minimally invasive IPAA; 58 were performed laparoscopically and 74 robotically. Less than half the patients were female (n = 55; 41.7%) with a median age of 37 years (range 18-68 years). The majority of patients had a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (n = 103; 78.0%) with medically refractory disease (n = 87; 65.9%). A greater proportion of patients in the laparoscopic cohort had a prolonged length of stay (n = 27; 46.6% versus n = 18; 24.3%; p < 0.001) and a two-stage approach (n = 56; 96.6% versus n = 37; 50%; p < 0.001), but there were no differences in the rates between the laparoscopic versus robotic cohorts of superficial surgical site infection (6.9% versus 6.8%; p = 0.99), peripouch abscess (15.5% versus 6.8%; p = 0.11), anastomotic leak (6.9% versus 2.7%; p = 0.21), pelvic abscess (15.5% versus 6.8%; p = 0.11), and pelvic sepsis (15.5% versus 6.8%; p = 0.11), readmission (24.1% versus 17.6%; p = 0.35) or reoperation (6.9% versus 5.4%; p = 0.72). On multivariable analysis, only male sex remained predictive of prolonged length of stay, and a robotic approach trended toward a decreased rate of prolonged length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic and robotic IPAA have equivalent postoperative morbidity underscoring the safety of the continued expansion of the robotic platform for pouch surgery.

Totally laparoscopic, multi-stage, restorative proctocolectomy for inflammatory bowel diseases. A prospective study on safety, efficacy and long-term results

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic ileo-pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has been reported as having low morbidity and several advantages.

AIMS

To evaluate safety, efficacy and long-term results of laparoscopic IPAA, performed in elective or emergency settings, in consecutive unselected IBD patients.

METHODS

All the patients received totally laparoscopic 2-stage (proctocolectomy and IPAA - stoma closure) or 3-stage (colectomy - proctectomy and IPAA - stoma closure) procedure according to their presentation.

RESULTS

From July 2007 to July 2016, 160 patients entered the study. 50.6% underwent a 3-stage procedure and 49.4% a 2-stage procedure. Mortality and morbidity were 0.6% and 24.6%. Conversion rate was 3.75%. 8.7% septic complications were associated with steroids and Infliximab treatment (p = 0.0001). 3-stage patients were younger (p = 0.0001), with shorter disease duration (p = 0.0001), minor ASA scores of 2 and 3 (p = 0.0007), lower inflammatory index and better nutritional status (p = 0.003 and 0.0001), fewer Clavien-Dindo's grade II complications (p = .0001), reduced rates of readmission and reoperation at 90 days (p = 0.03), and shorter hospitalization (p = .0001), but with similar pouch and IPAA leakage, compared to 2-stage patients. 8 years pouch failure and definitive ileostomy were 5.1% and 3.7%.

CONCLUSION

A totally laparoscopic approach is safe and feasible, with very low mortality and morbidity rates and very low conversion rate, even in multi-stage procedures and high-risk patients.

Laparoscopic vs open restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA for ulcerative colitis: Impact of surgical technique on creating a well functioning pouch

BACKGROUND

Patients with ulcerative colitis are often young, and proctocolectomy with restorative ileo-pouch anal anastomosis is a crucial act that can improve or worsen the quality of the rest of their lives. The literature is scant on long-term functional outcomes after laparoscopy. The purpose of this study was to investigate results in terms of pouch function after standardized total laparoscopic technique compared with open intervention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective comparative study. Cases were collected from the prospectively-maintained database of the Unit of General and Oncologic Surgery, XXX, Torino, Italy. Patients treated between May 2005 and May 2015 with three-stage laparoscopic or open proctocolectomy and ileo-pouch anal anastomosis were enrolled. The primary study endpoint was the percentage of well-functioning pouches. Secondary endpoints were postoperative early and late outcomes such as morbidity and pouch survival.

RESULTS

Of the 78 patients identified, 48 underwent the open technique and 30 underwent laparoscopy. Median follow-up was 4 years. The overall complication rates were 19% and 13% (p = 0.5), and there were major complications (Clavien-Dindo III-IV) in 14.6% and 13.3% of patients in the open and laparoscopic groups, respectively (p = 0.8). Late complications occurred in 26 patients. Nine (18.8%) and 5 (16.7%) patients had pouchitis (p = 0.8), and 6 (12.5%) and 2 (6.7%) had cuffitis in the open and laparoscopic groups, respectively (p = 0.70). Pouch failure occurred in 2 patients (4.2%) in the open group and 2 (6.7%) in the laparoscopic group. The pouch was observed to be functioning very well in 18 patients (37.5%) in the open group and in 17 patients (56%) in the laparoscopic group (p = 0.09). The study was limited by its retrospective, nonrandomized design.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrated similar early and late results after total laparoscopic and open proctocolectomy, in particular concerning pouch function.

Short-term outcomes in children undergoing restorative proctocolectomy with ileal-pouch anal anastomosis

INTRODUCTION

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and ulcerative colitis (UC) commonly undergo restorative proctocolectomy with ileal-pouch anal anastomosis (RP-IPAA). We sought to describe patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes in this patient population.

METHODS

Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program-Pediatric Participant Use Files from 2012 to 2015, children who were 6-18years old who underwent RP-IPAA for FAP or UC were identified. Postoperative morbidity, including reoperation and readmission were quantified. Associations between preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 260 children met the inclusion criteria, of which 56.2% had UC. Most cases were performed laparoscopically (58.1%), and the operative time was longer with a laparoscopic versus open approach (326 [257-408] versus 281 [216-391] minutes, p=0.02). The overall morbidity was 11.5%, and there were high reoperation and readmission rates (12.7% and 21.5%, respectively). On bivariate analysis, preoperative steroid use was associated with reoperation (22.5% versus 10.9%, p=0.04). On multivariable regression analysis, obesity was independently associated with reoperation (odds ratio: 3.34 [95% confidence intervals: 1.08-10.38], p=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Children who undergo RP-IPAA have high rates of overall morbidity, reoperation, and readmission. Obesity was independently associated with reoperation. This data can be used by practitioners in the preoperative setting to better counsel families and establish expectations for the postoperative setting.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Comparative Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Surgery in ulcerative colitis: When? How?

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is an idiopathic chronically-remitting inflammatory bowel disorder characterized by a contiguous inflammation of the colonic mucosa affecting the rectum that generally extends proximally in a continuous manner through the entire colon. Patients typically experience intermittent exacerbations, with symptoms characterized by bloody diarrhea associated with urgency and tenesmus. The anatomical extent of mucosal involvement is the most important factor determining disease course and is an important predictor of colectomy. The precise etiology of UC is unknown. However, a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors seems to have a key role in the development of the disease. UC usually is mildly active but it can be a life-threatening condition because of colonic and systemic complications, and later in the disease course due to the development of colorectal cancer. Interestingly, even if pathogenetic features detected in patients with sporadic CRC can be also found in UC-related colorectal cancer (UC-CRC), this latter is, usually, driven by an inflammation-driven pathway rising from a non-neoplastic inflammatory epithelium to dysplasia to cancer. Thus, a long-term follow-up with colonoscopy surveillance has been recommended. Approximately 15% of UC patients develop an acute attack of severe colitis, and 30% of these patients require colectomy. The initial treatment strategy in UC typically follows the traditional step-up approach. One third of the patients will not respond to steroid therapy and cyclosporine and infliximab are the most common salvage agents employed in these cases in order to avoid emergent surgery. Unfortunately, although a significant short-term benefit have been observed after infliximab treatment, the colectomy rate have remained stable. Surgery in UC depends on the stage of the disease as well as patient's status and is divided into the following settings: urgent, emergent and elective. Despite many efforts the surgical management of UC remains a significant challenge. A multidisciplinary management of UC is key in order to define the best timing and the best procedure for each patient in an individualized basis.

Surgical options in the treatment of ulcerative colitis

Children and young adults with ulcerative colitis tend to present with more extensive colonic disease than an adult population. The need for surgical intervention in the pediatric population with ulcerative colitis occurs earlier after diagnosis and has a greater incidence than a comparably matched adult population with an estimated need for colectomy at 5 years following diagnosis of 14-20%. Perhaps, even more than the adult population, there is a desire to restore intestinal continuity for the pediatric patient to achieve as healthy and normal quality of life as possible. With surgery playing such a prominent role in the treatment of ulcerative colitis in this age group, an understanding of the surgical treatment options that are available is important. The surgeon's awareness of the complexities of the different operations associated with proctocolectomy and reestablishing intestinal continuity may help to avoid early complications and minimize the risk of less than ideal long-term outcomes.

Functional Outcomes Following Laparoscopic Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis in Patients with Chronic Ulcerative Colitis: Long-Term Follow-up of a Case-Matched Study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (L-IPAA) has been increasingly adopted over the last decade due to short-term patient-related benefits. Several studies have shown L-IPAA to be equivalent to open IPAA in terms of safety and short-term outcomes. However, few L-IPAA studies have examined long-term functional outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the long-term functional outcomes of L-IPAA as compared to open IPAA.

METHODS

A previous case-matched cohort study at our institution compared short-term outcomes between L-IPAA and open IPAA from 1998 to 2004. For this study, we selected all patients from this case-matched cohort study with chronic ulcerative colitis (CUC) who had follow-up functional data of greater than 1 year. Functional data was obtained through prospective surveys, which were sent annually to all IPAA patients postoperatively.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-nine patients (58 L-IPAA, 91 open IPAA) with a median 8-year duration of follow-up were identified. There were no differences in demographics and long-term surgical outcomes between groups. Stapled anastomosis was more common in the laparoscopic group (91.4 versus 54.9%, p < 0.001). Stool frequency during daytime (>6 stools, L-IPAA 32.8%, open 49.4%, p = 0.048) and nighttime (>2 stools, L-IPAA 13.8%, open 30.6%; p = 0.024) was significantly lower in the L-IPAA group. Ability to differentiate gas from stool was not different (p = 0.13). Rate of complete continence was similar in L-IPAA and open groups (L-IPAA 36.2%, open 21.8%, p = 0.060). There was no difference in use of medication to control stools, perianal skin irritation, voiding difficulty, sexual problems, and occupational change between groups. Subgroup analysis to evaluate for any group differences attributable to anastomotic technique demonstrated only that stapled anastomoses lead to more perianal skin irritation in the L-IPAA group (L-IPAA = 60.4% versus open IPAA = 38.8%; p = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Overall, L-IPAA has comparable functional results to the open approach with slightly lower daytime and nighttime stool frequency. This difference may be attributed to a greater number of stapled anastomoses performed in the laparoscopic cohort.