Severity grading of surgical complications. Ann Surg. 2009;250:197-198. [PMID: 19638901 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e3181b6dcab]

The Burch-Schneider Reinforcement Ring : 200 cases over a 40-year period with a mean follow-up of 11 years

Aims

The Burch-Schneider Reinforcement Ring (BSRR) was developed to manage significant acetabular defects and prevent protrusion in complex primary and revision total hip arthroplasties. This study evaluates the long-term performance of the BSRR over four decades, focusing on survival, patient-reported outcomes, radiological evidence of loosening, complication rates, and factors associated with implant failure.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 200 hips treated with the BSRR at the Cantonal Hospital of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland, from January 1974 to December 2018. Clinical and radiological data were reviewed, and patients were followed through clinical visits, questionnaires, and registry data. Outcomes were assessed using standardized scoring systems and radiological evaluations. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards modelling were used to identify factors associated with implant failure.

Results

The cumulative survival of the BSRR was 72% (95% CI 50 to 100) at 20 years with any clinical or radiological failure as the endpoint, and 97% (95% CI 95 to 100) at 20 years for revision of the BSRR specifically. Clinical outcomes showed moderate improvements at final-follow-up, with a mean Harris Hip Score of 53.4 (SD 25.3) and a Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score of 72.8 (SD 18.6). Radiologically at final follow-up, the BSRR demonstrated good stability, with 1.5% of cases (n = 2) showing probable loosening and low rates of osteolysis (3% acetabular (n = 4) and 14% femoral (n = 18)). The primary predictor of implant failure was the Paprosky Grade IV acetabular defect, with a hazard ratio of 4.4 (95% CI 1.2 to 15.7).

Conclusion

The BSRR remains an effective solution for acetabular revision surgery, providing consistent long-term outcomes. Its durability makes it a valuable tool in orthopaedic surgery, especially when managing significant bone loss.

Routine conventional leak test is not required for robotic major pulmonary resections

OBJECTIVE

We retrospectively evaluated whether or not conventional air leak testing is necessary in robotic major pulmonary resections.

METHODS

After excluding patients who received 2 or more days of postoperative drainage for chylothorax or excessive pleural effusion, 578 patients who underwent major pulmonary resection using minimally invasive approaches between February 2019 and November 2023 at our institution were included in this study. All patients were divided into two groups including thoracoscopic (n = 471) and robotic (n = 107) approaches. Conventional air leak testing was performed in all patients in the thoracoscopic approach but not in the robotic approach. After propensity score matching of patient backgrounds between the two groups, perioperative outcomes were compared (n = 100 each). The primary endpoint was the rate of drain removal on postoperative day (POD) 2 or later. In addition, factors associated with drain removal on POD 2 or later in the robotic group were identified.

RESULTS

The rate of drain removal at POD 2 or later was not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.011). Multivariable analysis to identify factors associated with drain removal at POD2 or later in the robotic approach showed that sealant application (p = 0.002) and lobectomy (vs. segmentectomy, p = 0.034) were significantly associated.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, even in the absence of air leak testing, a robotic approach for major lung resections can result in a drain removal rate on the day of surgery or POD1 that is comparable to a conventional thoracoscopic approach. However, it may be useful in selected patients requiring sealant placement or undergoing lobectomy.

Prognostic impact of preoperative cachexia in patients undergoing major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery for malignancy

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Data regarding the association between cachexia and clinical outcomes in hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) malignancies are limited. This retrospective study sought to investigate the prognostic significance of preoperative cachexia in patients undergoing major HPB surgery for malignancies.

METHODS

Data from patients, who underwent major open surgery for HPB malignancies between March 2014 and December 2018, were retrospectively reviewed. Cachexia was evaluated a few days before surgery, and defined according to modified Asian Working Group for Cachexia criteria: low body mass index (<21 kg/m2) and decreased handgrip strength (<28 kg [males] and <18 kg [females]) or elevated C-reactive protein level (>0.5 mg/dL). The primary endpoint was postoperative overall survival (OS); secondary endpoints included disease-free survival (DFS) and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Of 332 patients (228 male; mean age, 68.8 ± 10.3 years), 93 (28 %) had preoperative cachexia. There were 154 (46 %) deaths and 181 (55 %) combined events (death or recurrence) during a five-year follow-up (mean, 3.3 ± 1.7 years), with no significant differences in major postoperative complications between the 2 groups (P = 0.329). After adjusting for covariates, cachexia (n = 93) exhibited significant associations with shorter OS (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.65 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.18-2.30]; P = 0.004) and DFS (adjusted HR 1.39 [95 % CI 1.01-1.91; P = 0.043) compared with non-cachexia (n = 239). Cachexia significantly shortened OS only in a subset with pathological stage ≤ II disease (adjusted HR 2.45 [95 % CI 1.27-4.74]; P = 0.008) but not otherwise (P for interaction, 0.040).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative cachexia did not affect short-term surgical complications but significantly deteriorated postoperative prognosis in patients who underwent surgery for HPB malignancies.

Neuropathic pain at the donor-site following free fibula flap harvest: A multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The free fibula flap (FFF) is widely used and considered the workhorse flap for osteocutaneous head and neck reconstruction. Donor-site morbidity is considered to be low and mild, and has therefore received little attention. Although sensory deficits and chronic pain have been reported in the donor-site, the incidence of neuropathic pain remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the incidence and prognostic factors associated with neuropathic pain at the donor-site following FFF harvest and investigate its impact on leg function and quality of life.

METHODS

In this multicenter, cross-sectional study, 150 patients who underwent FFF surgery between 2010-2020 were included. Baseline characteristics were collected. All patients received questionnaires to measure self-reported pain (Doleur Neuropathique 4 and visual analog scale Pain), leg function (Lower Extremity Functional Scale), and quality of life (EuroQol-5D). Multivariable regression analysis was used to identify prognostic factors associated with the outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 82 patients completed the questionnaires. Neuropathic pain was present in 21% of the patients. Multivariable analysis revealed that donor-site complications (p=0.025) and younger age (p=0.003) were independently associated with neuropathic pain. No difference in neuropathic pain incidence was found between primary and skin graft closure (p=0.54). Patients with neuropathic pain showed a significantly poorer quality of life (p=0.01).

CONCLUSION

One-fifth of all patients experienced neuropathic pain at the donor-site following FFF harvest. Younger patients and patients with donor-site complications are more prone to developing neuropathic pain. Future research should focus on analyses of surgical factors and optimalization of wound care to reduce the incidence of neuropathic pain.

Forearm Fractures in Older Children and Adolescents: ORIF is Safer Than IMN With Equivalent Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Greater understanding of the impact of skeletal maturity on outcomes is needed to guide operative treatment of diaphyseal forearm fractures in children and adolescents. The purpose of this study was to compare the complications and outcomes of pediatric diaphyseal forearm fractures treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN) or open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and to identify a radiographic marker of skeletal maturity that will aid in selecting between treatment options.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients aged 10 to 16 years treated operatively for diaphyseal forearm fractures was performed. Markers of skeletal maturity including the olecranon apophysis score, the presence of the thumb adductor sesamoid, and radial epiphyseal capping. Complications were graded with the modified Clavien-Dindo system. Outcomes were scored based on final postoperative range of motion combined with complication grade.

RESULTS

A total of 260 patients were included: 163 treated with IMN, 97 treated with ORIF, mean age 12.7 years, 72% male. Among closed forearm fractures treated with IMN, open reduction was required in 45% (53/118). Patients treated with IMN had a higher complication rate than ORIF (27.0% vs. 9.3%, P <0.05), including when stratified by age. Complication rates were not impacted by greater skeletal maturity as indicated by the presence of thumb sesamoid or radial epiphyseal capping. There was no significant difference in outcomes between the ORIF and IMN groups. More skeletally immature patients, as identified by a lack of either the thumb adductor sesamoid or radial epiphyseal capping, had significantly better outcomes with ORIF than patients with greater maturity.

CONCLUSIONS

Across all age groups and levels of skeletal maturity, ORIF had a significantly lower rates of complications compared with IMN with equivalent outcomes. More skeletally immature patients had significantly better outcomes with ORIF treatment when compared with older patients. The thumb adductor sesamoid, radial epiphyseal capping, and the olecranon apophysis score did not provide useful information to select between ORIF over IMN in this population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Learning Curves and Surgical Outcomes of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Performed by an Attending Surgeon and Trainee Surgeons

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a commonly performed procedure for bariatric and metabolic surgery. However, few reports exist concerning the learning curves and surgical outcomes of LSG among trainee surgeons. This study aimed to investigate the learning curves and surgical outcomes of LSG for one attending surgeon and trainee surgeons.

METHODS

In this study, 90 patients who underwent LSG were retrospectively evaluated. Surgical learning curves for the attending and the trainees were assessed via cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis. After the attending reached the learning phase, the trainees performed LSG under the guidance of the attending. Surgical and postoperative outcomes were compared retrospectively.

RESULTS

The CUSUM plot of the attending peaked in the 16th case, began to decrease and reached a plateau in the 49th case. Therefore, we defined the attending in Phase I up to 16 LSGs (n = 16; learning phase), in phase II between 27 and 48 LSGs (n = 22; acquisition phase), and in Phase III from 49 or more LSGs (n = 29; plateau phase). The CUSUM of the trainees' operative time declined from the beginning. The median operative time was significantly shorter in the trainees than in the attending in Phase I (184 [146-266] vs. 161 [111-255], p < 0.01). %EWL was significantly better in the patients of the trainees than in those of the attending (92.4 ± 35.7 vs. 71.0 ± 28.7, p < 0.01). These results indicate that trainees could perform LSG in a stable manner.

CONCLUSION

Under the guidance of experienced surgeons, LSG can be safely performed by trainees without prolonged surgical time.

LONG-TERM SURVIVAL AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC TOTAL GASTRECTOMY FOR EARLY AND ADVANCED GASTRIC CANCER. SINGLE CENTER EXPERIENCE IN 100 CASES

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic gastrectomy offers advantages in the postoperative period compared to the open approach. Most studies have been performed on distal gastrectomies; however, laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) is not universally accepted. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the results of LTG, on postoperative morbidity outcomes and long-term survival.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study from a prospective database of patients who underwent LTG, from 2005 to 2022, due to early and advanced gastric cancer. A totally laparoscopic technique was utilized, and the Roux-en-Y reconstruction was performed in all cases. Postoperative complications and long-term survival were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were included (men 57, age 64 years, and body mass index 26). A D2 lymphadenectomy was performed in 68 cases. The postoperative hospitalization period was 8 days (6-62 days). Postoperative complications occurred in 26%, with 7% esophago-jejunal anastomosis leak, 4% abdominal collections, and 2% gastrointestinal bleeding. In 7% of cases, the complication was considered Clavien 3 or greater. Operative mortality was 1%. The pathology findings confirmed advanced gastric cancer in 50 cases. The median lymph node count was 38, and surgery was considered R0 in 99%. The median follow-up was 50 months. Overall 5-year survival was 74%. Survival in T1 cases was 95% at 5 years. For stage I, survival was 95%, and for stages II and III, it was 52% and 43%, at 5 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the feasibility and oncological adequacy of minimally invasive total gastrectomy. Postoperative morbidity has an acceptable rate. Long-term survival was in accordance with the disease stage.

Cardiac output-guided haemodynamic therapy for patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery: OPTIMISE II randomised clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of a perioperative algorithm for cardiac output-guided haemodynamic therapy in patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery.

DESIGN

Multicentre randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Surgical services of 55 hospitals worldwide.

PARTICIPANTS

2498 adults aged ≥65 years with an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification of II or greater and undergoing major elective gastrointestinal surgery, recruited between January 2017 and September 2022.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were assigned to minimally invasive cardiac output-guided intravenous fluid therapy with low dose inotrope infusion during and four hours after surgery, or to usual care without cardiac output monitoring.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was postoperative infection within 30 days of randomisation. Safety outcomes were acute cardiac events within 24 hours and 30 days. Secondary outcomes were acute kidney injury within 30 days and mortality within 180 days.

RESULTS

In 2498 patients (mean age 74 (standard deviation 6) years, 57% women), the primary outcome occurred in 289/1247 (23.2%) intervention patients and 283/1247 (22.7%) usual care patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.03 (95% confidence interval 0.84 to 1.25); P=0.81). Acute cardiac events within 24 hours occurred in 38/1250 (3.0%) intervention patients and 21/1247 (1.7%) usual care patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.82 (1.06 to 3.13); P=0.03). This difference was primarily due to an increased incidence of arrhythmias among intervention patients. Acute cardiac events within 30 days occurred in 85/1249 (6.8%) intervention patients and 79/1247 (6.3%) usual care patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.06 (0.77 to 1.47); P=0.71). Other secondary outcomes did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

This clinical effectiveness trial in patients undergoing major elective gastrointestinal surgery did not provide evidence that cardiac output-guided intravenous fluid therapy with low dose inotrope infusion could reduce the incidence of postoperative infections. The intervention was associated with an increased incidence of acute cardiac events within 24 hours, in particular tachyarrhythmias. Based on these findings, the routine use of this treatment approach in unselected patients is not recommended.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN39653756.

Implementation of modified enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) following surgery for abdominal trauma; Assessment of feasibility and outcomes: A randomized controlled trial (RCT)

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery(ERAS) is a set of multiple perioperative care component not a rigid protocol with improved outcomes for elective surgeries. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and outcomes in trauma patients undergoing laparotomy.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective single-centre randomized controlled trial(RCT). Patients undergoing emergency laparotomy following trauma were randomized into ERAS(early removal of catheters, early mobilization and initiation of diet, use of opioid-sparing multimodal analgesia) and conventional care groups 24 ​h post-surgery. Outcome measures included length of hospitalization(LOH), recovery of bowel function, duration of removal of catheters and 30-day complications(Clavien-Dindo).

RESULTS

Fifty patients were randomized into ERAS(n ​= ​25) and conventional care(n ​= ​25) groups. Ninety-two percent of patients were young males, 58 ​% had blunt trauma to the abdomen and the most common indication of surgery was hollow viscus injury(88 ​%). ERAS group had a reduced median LOH(days) (6 versus 8, p ​= ​0.007), early recovery of bowel function(p ​= ​0.010) and shorter times for nasogastric tube(p ​= ​0.001), urinary catheter(p ​= ​0.007) and drain(p ​= ​0.006) removal. The complications were comparable in both groups except for deep surgical site infection[significantly lower in ERAS group(p ​= ​0.009)].

CONCLUSION

ERAS is safe and significantly reduces LOH in select trauma patients undergoing laparotomy.

Cost-effectiveness of robot-assisted total hysterectomy for benign pathologies compared to laparoscopic surgery: A retrospective study with propensity score

BACKGROUND

Hysterectomy for benign pathologies is one of the most common gynecological surgeries. In recent years, robotic surgery has become an alternative to traditional surgery, but at a higher cost.

OBJECTIVE

Estimate the cost of benign robot-assisted hysterectomy for the purpose of supporting public decision-making, as well as the additional cost per major postoperative complication (ClavienDindo score ≥ 3) avoided one month after surgery robotic versus traditional laparoscopic.

METHODS

Single-center retrospective study including patients operated on for benign hysterectomy at La Pitié Salpêtrière hospital between January 2016 and December 2019: 99 by robotic approach, and 86 by laparoscopic approach. Comparison of robotic surgery to laparoscopy. Calculation of a cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Use of the propensity score inverse weighting method to ensure comparability of groups.

RESULTS

Robotic surgery has a total cost of € 6,615 at 1 month per patient compared to € 3,859 for laparoscopic surgery with an additional cost of € 377,534 per major postoperative complication avoided, longer operating time and an absence of significant difference in terms of complications and length of hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

In terms of cost-effectiveness, according to this study, the robot does not appear to be better than laparoscopy. In the years to come, we can expect a development of robotic surgery with rationalization of the practice, with appropriate selection of patients for robotic surgery, development of outpatient surgery and a reduction in the cost of the equipment.

Clinical Outcomes of Surgery after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

Clinical outcomes of surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have not been investigated for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), despite well-established outcomes in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC). This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of patients with LAPC who underwent curative resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma between January 2017 and December 2020.

RESULTS

Among 1,358 patients, 260 underwent surgery following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Among 356 LAPC patients, 98 (27.5%) and 147 (35.1%) of 418 BRPC patients underwent surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Compared to resectable pancreatic cancer (resectable PC) with upfront surgery, both LAPC and BRPC exhibited higher rates of venous resection (28.6% vs. 49.0% vs. 4.0%), arterial resection (30.6% vs. 6.8% vs. 0.5%) and greater estimated blood loss (260.5 vs. 213.1 vs. 70.4 mL). However, hospital stay, readmission rates, and postoperative pancreatic fistula rates (grade B or C) did not differ significantly between LAPC, BRPC, and resectable PC. Overall and relapse-free survival did not differ significantly between LAPC and BRPC patients. The median overall survival was 37.3 months for LAPC and 37.0 months for BRPC. The median relapse-free survival was 22.7 months for LAPC and 26.0 months for BRPC.

CONCLUSION

Overall survival time and postoperative complications in LAPC patients who underwent curative resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy showed similar results to those of BRPC patients. Further research is needed to identify specific sub-populations of LAPC patients who benefit most from conversion surgery and to minimize postoperative complications.

Feasibility and Safety of Uniportal Thoracoscopic Segmentectomy Using a Unidirectional Dissection Approach without Dissecting a Fissure

Background: Few original articles describe the perioperative outcomes of uniportal thoracoscopic segmentectomy using a unidirectional dissection approach. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the feasibility and safety of this procedure. Methods: This study included 119 patients who underwent uniportal thoracoscopic segmentectomy in our department between February 2019 and December 2022. The patients were divided into unidirectional (group U, n = 28) and conventional (group C, n = 91) dissection approach groups. While the dominant pulmonary vessels and bronchi were transected at the hilum without dissecting a fissure in the unidirectional (U) group, the dominant pulmonary artery was exposed and divided at a fissure in the conventional (C) group. Patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were compared between groups U and C. Results: The proportions of simple and complex segmentectomies were statistically similar between the groups. The operating time was shorter (group U: 110 [interqurtile range: 90-140] min, group C: 135 [interqurtile range: 105-166] min, p = 0.012) and there was less blood loss (group U: 0 [interqurtile range: 0-0] g, group C: 0 [interqurtile range: 0-50] g, p = 0.003) in group U than in group C. However, there were no significant intergroup differences in other perioperative outcomes. Conclusions: The unidirectional dissection approach in uniportal thoracoscopic pulmonary segmentectomy is safe and feasible and enables a smoother operation.

Total mesorectal excision in MRI-defined low rectal cancer: multicentre study comparing oncological outcomes of robotic, laparoscopic and transanal total mesorectal excision in high-volume centres

BACKGROUND

The routine use of MRI in rectal cancer treatment allows the use of a strict definition for low rectal cancer. This study aimed to compare minimally invasive total mesorectal excision in MRI-defined low rectal cancer in expert laparoscopic, transanal and robotic high-volume centres.

METHODS

All MRI-defined low rectal cancer operated on between 2015 and 2017 in 11 Dutch centres were included. Primary outcomes were: R1 rate, total mesorectal excision quality and 3-year local recurrence and survivals (overall and disease free). Secondary outcomes included conversion rate, complications and whether there was a perioperative change in the preoperative treatment plan.

RESULTS

Of 1071 eligible rectal cancers, 633 patients with low rectal cancer were identified. Quality of the total mesorectal excision specimen (P = 0.337), R1 rate (P = 0.107), conversion (P = 0.344), anastomotic leakage rate (P = 0.942), local recurrence (P = 0.809), overall survival (P = 0.436) and disease-free survival (P = 0.347) were comparable among the centres. The laparoscopic centre group had the highest rate of perioperative change in the preoperative treatment plan (10.4%), compared with robotic expert centres (5.2%) and transanal centres (2.1%), P = 0.004. The main reason for this change was stapling difficulty (43%), followed by low tumour location (29%). Multivariable analysis showed that laparoscopic surgery was the only independent risk factor for a change in the preoperative planned procedure, P = 0.024.

CONCLUSION

Centres with expertise in all three minimally invasive total mesorectal excision techniques can achieve good oncological resection in the treatment of MRI-defined low rectal cancer. However, compared with robotic expert centres and transanal centres, patients treated in laparoscopic centres have an increased risk of a change in the preoperative intended procedure due to technical limitations.

Comparison of the Learning Curve between Uniportal and Robotic Thoracoscopic Approaches in Pulmonary Segmentectomy during the Implementation Period Using Cumulative Sum Analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the learning curve and perioperative outcomes between the two approaches uVATS and RATS during their implementation periods.

METHODS

The uVATS group included 77 consecutive uVATS segmentectomies performed by HI between February 2019 and June 2022, while the RATS group included 30 between July 2022 and September 2023. The patient characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and learning curves were compared between the two groups. The learning curve was evaluated using operative time and cumulative sum (CUSUMOT) analysis.

RESULTS

Most patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were equivalent between the two groups. In the uVATS group, after a positive slope was observed until the 14th case (initial period), a plateau was observed until the 38th case (stable period). Finally, a negative slope was observed after the 38th case (proficiency period). In the RATS group, after a positive slope was observed until the 16th case (initial period), a plateau was observed until the 22nd case (stable period). Finally, a negative slope was observed after the 22nd case (proficiency period).

CONCLUSIONS

In segmentectomy, a surgeon reached the proficiency period earlier in RATS than in uVATS, although the trends to the stable period were similar.

Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting pulmonary complications after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in elderly patients with lung cancer

Background

Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) significantly increase the morbidity and mortality in elderly patients with lung cancer. Considering the adverse effects of PPCs, we aimed to derive and validate a nomogram to predict pulmonary complications after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in elderly patients with lung cancer and to assist surgeons in optimizing patient-centered treatment plans.

Methods

The study enrolled 854 eligible elderly patients with lung cancer who underwent sub-lobectomy or lobectomy. A clinical prediction model for the probability of PPCs was developed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Furthermore, data from one center were used to derive the model, and data from another were used for external validation. The model's discriminatory capability, predictive accuracy, and clinical usefulness were assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis, respectively.

Results

Among the eligible elderly patients with lung cancer, 214 (25.06%) developed pulmonary complications after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Age, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, surgical procedure, operative time, forced expiratory volume in one second, and the carbon monoxide diffusing capacity of the lung were independent predictors of PPCs and were included in the final model. The areas under the ROC curves (AUC) of the training and validation sets were 0.844 and 0.796, respectively. Ten-fold cross-validation was used to evaluate the generalizability of the predictive model, with an average AUC value of 0.839. The calibration curve showed good consistency between the observed and predicted probabilities. The proposed nomogram showed good net benefit with a relatively wide range of threshold probabilities.

Conclusion

A nomogram for elderly patients with lung cancer can be derived using preoperative and intraoperative variables. Our model can also be accessed using the online web server https://pulmonary-disease-predictor.shinyapps.io/dynnomapp/. Combining both may help surgeons as a clinically easy-to-use tool for minimizing the prevalence of pulmonary complications after lung resection in elderly patients.

Robot-assisted vesicovaginal fistula repair: comparison of the extravesical and transvesical techniques

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Almost two decades after the description of robotic vesicovaginal fistula repair (R-VVF), the literature remains limited. The aims of this study are to report the outcomes of R-VVF and to compare the transvesical versus extravesical techniques.

METHODS

We performed an observational, retrospective, multicenter study, including all patients who underwent R-VVF from March 2017 to September 2021 at four academic institutions. All abdominal VVF repair over the study period were performed using a robotic approach. The success of R-VVF was defined as the absence of clinical recurrence. The outcomes of the extravesical versus transvesical techniques were compared.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients were included. The median age was 43 years old (IQR 38-50). Fistulas were supratrigonal and trigonal in 18 and 4 cases respectively. Five patients had undergone previous attempts of fistula repair (22.7%). The fistulous tract was systematically excised, and an interposition flap was used in all but two cases (90.9%). The transvesical and extravesical techniques were used in 13 and 9 cases respectively. There were four postoperative complications, three minor and one major. None of the patients had vesicovaginal fistula recurrence after a median follow-up of 15 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The present series, one of the largest R-VVF reported to date, is consistent with the few series already published with a 100% cure rate. Systematic excision of the fistulous tract and the high rate of flap interposition may explain the high success rate. The transvesical and extravesical approaches yielded similar outcomes.

Analysis of prognostic factors for postoperative complications and mortality in elderly patients undergoing emergency surgery for intestinal perforation or irreversible intestinal ischemia

Purpose

Because the global geriatric population continues to increase, the assessment of emergency surgical outcomes in elderly patients with acute peritonitis will become more important.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on the data of 174 elderly patients who underwent emergency surgery for intestinal perforation or intestinal infarction between June 2010 and November 2022. We conducted an analysis of the risk factors associated with postoperative complications and mortality by evaluating the characteristics of patients and their surgical outcomes.

Results

In our study, most patients (94.3%) had preexisting comorbidities, and many patients (84.5%) required transfer to the intensive care unit following emergency surgery. Postoperative complications were observed in 84 individuals (48.3%), with postoperative mortality occurring in 29 (16.7%). Multivariate analysis revealed preoperative acute renal injury, hypoalbuminemia, and postoperative ventilator support as significant predictors of postoperative mortality.

Conclusion

When elderly patients undergo emergency surgery for intestinal perforation or infarction, it is important to recognize that those with preoperative acute renal injury, hypoalbuminemia, and a need for postoperative ventilator support have a poor prognosis. Therefore, these patients require intensive care from the early stages of treatment.

Completion Total Mesorectal Excision: A Case-Matched Comparison With Primary Resection

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative and oncological results of completion total mesorectal excision (cTME) versus primary total mesorectal excision (pTME).

Background

Early-stage rectal cancer can be treated by local excision alone, which is associated with less surgical morbidity and improved functional outcomes compared with radical surgery. When high-risk histological features are present, cTME is indicated, with possible worse clinical and oncological outcomes compared to pTME.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included all patients that underwent TME surgery for rectal cancer performed in 11 centers in the Netherlands between 2015 and 2017. After case-matching, we compared cTME with pTME. The primary outcome was major postoperative morbidity. Secondary outcomes included the rate of restorative procedures and 3-year oncological outcomes.

Results

In total 1069 patients were included, of which 35 underwent cTME. After matching (1:2 ratio), 29 cTME and 58 pTME were analyzed. No differences were found for major morbidity (27.6% vs 19.0%; P = 0.28) and abdominoperineal excision rate (31.0% vs 32.8%; P = 0.85) between cTME and pTME, respectively. Local recurrence (3.4% vs 8.6%; P = 0.43), systemic recurrence (3.4% vs 12.1%; P = 0.25), overall survival (93.1% vs 94.8%; P = 0.71), and disease-free survival (89.7% vs 81.0%; P = 0.43) were comparable between cTME and pTME.

Conclusions

cTME is not associated with higher major morbidity, whereas the abdominoperineal excision rate and 3-year oncological outcomes are similar compared to pTME. Local excision as a diagnostic tool followed by completion surgery for early rectal cancer does not compromise outcomes and should still be considered as the treatment of early-stage rectal cancer.

Incidence of venous thromboembolism in patients with advanced stage ovarian cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy: Is it time for thromboprophylaxis?

OBJECTIVES

Our objectives were to determine the incidence, timing, and risk factors for venous thromboembolisms (VTEs) in patients with advanced stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). We explored the utilization of direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for VTE treatment.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients with advanced stage EOC receiving NACT followed by interval cytoreductive surgery (ICS) at a single institution. Risk factors were compared between patients with versus without VTE between EOC diagnosis and 180 days after ICS. Bleeding complications were compared between patient who received a DOAC versus non-DOAC.

RESULTS

VTE cases occurred amongst 33 of the 154 (21.4%) patients with 4 (2.6%) concurrent with EOC diagnosis, 9 (5.8%) between EOC diagnosis and NACT start, 13 (8.4%) between NACT start and ICS, and 7 (4.5%) within 180 days after ICS. There were no statistically significant differences in risk factors assessed (age, body mass index, functional status, histology, Khorana score, and smoking history) between patients with versus without VTE. Eleven patients (33.3%) received a DOAC for VTE treatment. There were no significant differences in number of intraoperative blood transfusions (p = 0.38), blood loss (p = 0.95), or bleeding complications (p = 0.53) between patients treated with a DOAC versus a non-DOAC.

CONCLUSION

There is a high incidence of VTE events (21.4%) in patients with advanced stage EOC undergoing NACT. Two-thirds of the VTEs may have been prevented with thromboprophylaxis as they occurred between EOC diagnosis and ICS. These data support consideration of thromboprophylaxis in all patients with advanced stage EOC undergoing NACT.

Pancreatoduodenectomy Following Preoperative Biliary Drainage Using Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Choledochoduodenostomy Versus a Transpapillary Stent: A Multicenter Comparative Cohort Study of the ACHBT-FRENCH-SFED Intergroup

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is equivalent to electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stent (ECE-LAMS) before pancreatoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

Patients who underwent PBD for distal malignant biliary obstruction (DMBO) followed by PD were retrospectively included in nine expert centers between 2015 and 2022. ERCP or endoscopic ultrasound-guided choledochoduodenostomy with ECE-LAMS were performed. In intent-to-treat analysis, patients drained with ECE-LAMS were considered the study group (first-LAMS group) and those drained with conventional transpapillary stent the control group (first-cannulation group). The rates of technical success, clinical success, drainage-related complications, surgical complications, and oncological outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 156 patients, 128 underwent ERCP and 28 ECE-LAMS in first intent. The technical and clinical success rates were 83.5% and 70.2% in the first-cannulation group versus 100% and 89.3% in the first-LAMS group (p = 0.02 and p = 0.05, respectively). The overall complication rate over the entire patient journey was 93.7% in first-cannulation group versus 92.0% in first-LAMS group (p = 0.04). The overall endoscopic complication rate was 30.5% in first-cannulation group versus 17.9% in first-LAMS group (p = 0.25). The overall complication rate after PD was higher in the first-cannulation group than in the first-LAMS group (92.2% versus 75.0%, p = 0.016). Overall survival and progression-free survival did not differ between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

PBD with ECE-LAMS is easier to deploy and more efficient than ERCP in patients with DMBO. It is associated with less surgical complications after pancreatoduodenectomy without compromising the oncological outcome.

Robotic-Assisted Nipple Sparing Mastectomy

Minimally invasive approaches to breast surgery have evolved from endoscopic techniques to recent developments in robotic-assisted mastectomies. Initial studies on robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy (RNSM) have shown improved patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcomes with similar complication rates and oncological outcomes in selected patients. This chapter reviews techniques used and available data on complications and clinical outcomes for RNSM. Currently, RNSM is an investigational technique in the United States and should be performed in clinical trials with U.S. Food & Drug Administration approval to rigorously evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this approach.

Clinical significance of the advanced lung cancer inflammation index in gastrointestinal cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) has been identified as a scientific and clinical priority in multiple malignancies. The aim of this study is to investigate the value of the ALI before treatment in evaluating postoperative complications (POCs) and survival outcomes in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer.

Methods

Electronic databases including PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were comprehensively reviewed up to June 2022. The endpoints were POCs and survival outcomes. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were also performed.

Results

Eleven studies including 4417 participants were included. A significant heterogeneity in the ALI cut-off value among studies was observed. Patients in the low ALI group showed increased incidence of POCs (OR=2.02; 95%CI:1.60-2.57; P<0.001; I² = 0%). In addition, a low ALI was also significantly associated with worse overall survival (HR=1.96; 95%CI: 1.58-2.43; P<0.001; I² = 64%), which remained consistent in all subgroups based on country, sample size, tumor site, tumor stage, selection method and Newcastle Ottawa Scale score. Moreover, patients in the low ALI group had an obviously decreased disease-free survival compared to these in the high ALI group (HR=1.47; 95%CI: 1.28-1.68; P<0.001; I² = 0%).

Conclusion

Based on existing evidence, the ALI could act as a valuable predictor of POCs and long-term outcomes in patients with GI cancer. However, the heterogeneity in the ALI cut-off value among studies should be considered when interpreting these findings.

Intrathoracic anastomosis using handsewn purse-string suturing by the double-ligation method in laparo-thoracoscopic esophagectomy

Purpose

In minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE), it is important to reduce the rate of anastomotic leakage to ensure its safety. At our institute, the double-ligation method (DLM) has been introduced to insert and fix the anvil of the circular stapler for intracorporeal circular esophagojejunostomy in gastric surgery. We adopted this method for intrathoracic anastomosis (IA) in MIE. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety of IA with DLM in MIE.

Methods

In this study, 48 patients diagnosed with primary middle or lower third segment thoracic esophageal carcinoma with clinical stage I, II, III or IV disease were retrospectively evaluated. Postoperative outcomes were assessed.

Results

Among the 48 patients, 42 patients underwent laparo-thoracoscopic esophagectomy and IA using a circular stapler with the DLM. The average total operation time and thoracoscopic operation time were 433 and 229 minutes, respectively. The average purse-string suturing time was 4.7 minutes. The rates of anastomotic leakage and stenosis were 2.4% and 14.3%, respectively. The overall incidence of postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade of ≥III) was 16.7%. The average postoperative stay was 16 days.

Conclusion

The procedure of IA using a circular stapler with the DLM in MIE was safe and provided a low rate of anastomotic leakage.

Updating the Predictive Models for Mortality and Morbidity after Low Anterior Resection Based on the National Clinical Database

INTRODUCTION

We previously developed risk models for mortality and morbidity after low anterior resection using a nationwide Japanese database. However, the milieu of low anterior resection in Japan has undergone drastic changes since then. This study aimed to construct risk models for 6 short-term postoperative outcomes after low anterior resection, i.e., in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality, anastomotic leakage, surgical site infection except for anastomotic leakage, overall postoperative complication rate, and 30-day reoperation rate.

METHODS

This study enrolled 120,912 patients registered with the National Clinical Database, who underwent low anterior resection between 2014 and 2019. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to generate predictive models of mortality and morbidity using preoperative information, including the TNM stage.

RESULTS

We developed new risk prediction models for the overall postoperative complication and 30-day reoperation rates for low anterior resection, which were absent from the previous version. The concordance indices for each endpoint were 0.82 for in-hospital mortality, 0.79 for 30-day mortality, 0.64 for anastomotic leakage, 0.62 for surgical site infection besides anastomotic leakage, 0.63 for complications, and 0.62 for reoperation. The concordance indices of all four models included in the previous version showed improvement.

CONCLUSION

This study successfully updated the risk calculators for predicting mortality and morbidity after low anterior resection using a model based on vast nationwide Japanese data.

Sarcobesity, but not visceral fat, is an independent risk factor for complications after radical resection of colorectal cancer

Background

The influence of body composition on the outcome of colorectal cancer surgery is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of visceral obesity and sarcobesity on the incidence of total and surgical complications after radical resection of colorectal cancer.

Methods

We collected a total of 426 patients who underwent elective radical resection of colorectal cancer at Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2017 to May 2018. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 387 patients were finally included. A CT scan at the level of the L3-L4 intervertebral disk was selected to measure the values of visceral fat area and skeletal muscle area. Multivariate analysis was used to explore the independent risk/protective factors affecting postoperative complications.

Results

128 (33.1%) patients developed complications, and 44 (11.4%) patients developed major complications. Among them, 111 patients developed surgical complications and 21 developed medical complications. Visceral fat area (Z = -3.271, p = 0.001), total fat area (Z = -2.613, p = 0.009), visceral fat area to subcutaneous fat area ratio (V/S, Z = -2.633, p = 0.008), and sarcobesity index (Z = -2.282, p = 0.023) were significantly associated with total complications. Visceral fat area (Z = -2.119, p = 0.034) and V/S (Z = -2.010, p = 0.044) were significantly associated with total surgical complications. Sarcobesity index, smoking, stoma, blood loss, surgery time, and American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score were selected as risk factors for total postoperative complications according to LASSO regression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis suggested that sarcobesity index was an independent risk factor for postoperative total complications and surgical complications. Subgroup analysis suggested that albumin level was an independent protective factor for postoperative total complications in male patients. Smoking, operative time, and sarcobesity index were independent risk factors, and cholesterol was an independent protective factor for total postoperative complications in female patients.

Conclusion

Increased sarcobesity index is an independent risk factor for postoperative complications in patients with colorectal cancer, while visceral fat area is not. For female patients, smoking, operation time, and obesity index are independent risk factors for postoperative complications, while cholesterol is an independent protective factor. For male patients, serum albumin is an independent protective factor for postoperative complications.

Age represents the main driver of surgical decision making in patients candidate to radical cystectomy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Age might influence the choice of surgical approach, type of urinary diversion (UD) and lymph node dissection (LND) in patients candidate to radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). Similarly, age may enhance surgical morbidity and worsen perioperative outcomes. We tested the impact of age (octogenarian vs. younger patients) on surgical decision making and peri- and postoperative outcomes of RC.

METHODS

Non-metastatic muscle-invasive UBC patients treated with RC at 18 high-volume European institutions between 2006 and 2021 were identified and stratified according to age (≥80 vs. <80 years). Intraoperative Complications Assessment and Reporting with Universal Standards and European Association of Urology guidelines recommendations were accomplished in collection and reporting of, respectively, intraoperative and postoperative complications. Multivariable logistic regression models (MVA) tested the impact of age on outcomes of interest. Sensitivity analyses after 1:3 propensity score matching were performed.

RESULTS

Of 1955 overall patients, 251 (13%) were ≥80-year-old. Minimally invasive RC was performed in 18% and 40% of octogenarian and younger patients, respectively (p < 0.001). UD without bowel manipulation (ureterocutaneostomy, UCS) was performed in 31% and 7% of octogenarian and younger patients (p < 0.001). LND was delivered to 81% and 93% of octogenarian and younger patients (p < 0.001). At MVA, age ≥80 years independently predicted open approach (odds ratio [OR]: 1.55), UCS (OR: 3.70), and omission of LND (OR: 0.41; all p ≤ 0.02). Compared to their younger counterparts, octogenarian patients experienced higher rates of intraoperative (8% vs. 4%, p = 0.04) but not of postoperative complications (64% vs. 61%, p = 0.07). At MVA, age ≥80 years was not an independent predictor of length of stay, intraoperative or postoperative transfusions and complications, and readmissions (all p values >0.1). These results were replicated in sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Age ≥80 years does not independently portend worse surgical outcomes for RC. However, octogenarians are unreasonably more likely to receive open approach and UCS diversion, and less likely to undergo LND.

Good functional outcomes after endoscopic treatment for greater trochanteric pain syndrome

PURPOSE

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a term covering different conditions generating lateral hip pain. Recalcitrant cases may require surgery but there are only a few studies evaluating endoscopic treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of endoscopically treated GTPS at minimum two years postoperatively using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and to assess the complication rate associated with endoscopic surgery.

METHODS

A total of 33 patients, mean age 43.2 years, 88% women, with a mean symptom duration of 3.5 years, were included in the study. A total of 36 operated hips were included. Pre- and at minimum two years postoperatively the patients completed questionnaires consisting of the International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-12) and the Hip Sports Activity scale (HSAS), the Visual analogue scale for overall hip function (VAS-OHF), the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), the EuroQoL-5 Dimension Questionnaire (EQ-5D) and the EQ-VAS. Complications were assessed using the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Median follow-up time was 24.5 months postoperatively. Statistically significant improvements were seen for the following PROMs (p < 0.05); iHOT-12 (36.3 vs 54.0), HAGOS different subscores (40.8 vs 59.0, 46.5 vs 62.6, 29.9 vs 53.1, 33.5 vs 51.4, 20.7 vs 41.4, 23.4 vs 43.3), EQ-VAS (55.9 vs 63.3) and EQ-5D (0.392 vs 0.648). VAS-OHF and HSAS did not reach significance. There was a 71% satisfaction rate with the surgery. Three Clavien-Dindo grade 1 and one grade 2 complications were registered postoperatively, with 41% of patients achieving PASS for iHOT-12 at two years follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic surgery for greater trochanteric pain syndrome improved patient-reported outcomes and the procedure was associated with low risk of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Impact of skeletal muscle mass on the prognosis of patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a common therapeutic procedure for patients with pancreatic cancer. This study aimed to investigate the association between the total psoas area (TPA) and prognosis in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective study included patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer. TPA was measured at the level of the L3 vertebra using computed tomography. The patients were divided into low-TPA and normal-TPA groups. These dichotomizations were separately performed in patients with resectable and those with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

RESULTS

In total, 44 patients had resectable pancreatic cancer and 71 patients had borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. Overall survival among patients with resectable pancreatic cancer did not differ between the normal- and low-TPA groups (median, 19.8 vs. 21.8 months, p = 0.447), whereas among patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer, the low-TPA group had shorter overall survival than the normal-TPA group (median, 21.8 vs. 32.9 months, p = 0.006). Among patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer, the low-TPA group was predictive of poor overall survival (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.57, p = 0.037).

CONCLUSION

Low TPA is a risk factor of poor survival in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. TPA evaluation could potentially suggest the treatment strategy in this disease.

Clinical outcomes following surgical management of deep infiltrating endometriosis

The main aim of the study was to evaluate severe post-operative complications following deep endometriosis surgery in a tertiary referral centre. This is a retrospective cohort study that included women who had surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis between 1st January 2013 and 31st December 2019. Endometriosis was diagnosed based on clinical, imaging and histological parameters. We evaluated the rates of post-operative complications, potential risk factors for such complications and postoperative pregnancy rates. A total of 165 patients were included in the final analysis. The median follow-up was 63 (25-106) months. Thirty-seven patients (22.42%) had hysterectomy, 60 (36.81%) had ureterolysis and 44 (26.67%) had colorectal surgery. The overall and severe rates of post-operative complications were 16.20% (n = 23) and 2.42% (n = 4) respectively. Of the variables assessed, operative time and age were the only statistically significant risk factor for complications on multivariate analysis. Among women operated on for infertility, 34.5% (n = 20/58) got pregnant following surgery with 30% of these spontaneously. This study demonstrates acceptable overall and severe post-operative complications and pregnancy rates after deep endometriosis surgery. This information should help clinicians when counselling women to enable them making an informed choice about their management.

Effect of Intraoperatively Detected Bacteriobilia on Surgical Outcomes After Pancreatoduodenectomy: Analysis of a Prospective Database in a Single Institute

BACKGROUND

Bacteriobilia, the colonization of bacteria in bile, can be caused by obstructive cholangitis or preoperative biliary drainage (PBD), and is not uncommon condition in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). This study aims to investigate the effect of intraoperatively detected bacteriobilia on surgical outcomes after PD.

METHODS

For patients who underwent PD in Samsung Medical Center between 2018 and 2020, an intraoperative bile culture was performed prospectively, and their clinicopathological data were retrospectively reviewed. Surgical outcomes were compared between the patients, classified according to PBD and bacteriobilia. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors increasing postoperative complications.

RESULTS

A total of 382 patients were included, and 202 (52.9%) patients had PBD (PBD group). Bacteriobilia was significantly more common in PBD group comparing to non-PBD group (31.1% vs 75.2%, P < 0.001), but there was no difference in postoperative complications. Among PBD group, there were more patients with major complications and CR-POPF in endoscopic drainage group comparing to percutaneous drainage group (37.9% vs 14.6%, P = 0.002; 17.0% vs 4.2%, P = 0.025, respectively). In multivariable analysis, bacteriobilia increased the risk of wound complications (P = 0.041), but not the risks of other short-term adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Bacteriobilia itself does not exacerbate short-term postoperative outcomes after PD except for wound complication. Therefore, surgery could be performed as planned regardless of bacteriobilia, without the need to wait for negative cultures.

Surgery for mesenchymal neoplasms of the esophagus: experience over 2 decades from a tertiary healthcare center in India

Mesenchymal tumors are the most common benign neoplasms of the esophagus. Owing to the rarity of these neoplasms, there is a dearth of literature regarding their diagnosis and management. Our 2-decade-long experience in managing these neoplasms surgically is presented. Relevant clinical data of all patients with esophageal mesenchymal neoplasms (EMNs) managed between January 2000 and May 2020 were retrospectively collected from a prospectively maintained esophageal diseases database in the Department of GI Surgery, AIIMS, New Delhi (India). Special emphasis was given to data pertaining to diagnostic evaluation of patients, type of surgery done (enucleation vs. resection), postoperative outcomes, histopathology and long-term follow-up. Nineteen patients (12 females; age 15-66 years) underwent surgery for EMN (mean tumor size 7.6 cm; enucleation 10; resection 9). On histopathological examination, 17 cases were noted to be benign esophageal leiomyomas and 2 were identified as gastrointestinal stromal tumors. There was no perioperative mortality. All cases were followed up for a median duration of 6 years (range 1-19 years) with no evidence of recurrence in any case. Though EMNs are uncommon, they are mostly benign, and the long-term outcomes after surgical excision are gratifying.

Excellent oncological outcomes besides short-term safety of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Background and study aims  Laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) for gastric submucosal tumor was developed as a type of minimal local resection and is now widely used in Asian countries. However, the oncological safety of LECS for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) remains unclear. LECS has potential oncology-related problems that may influence survival outcomes. Furthermore, the feasibility and safety of LECS have not yet been fully established. Patients and methods  Patients who were intended to undergo LECS for gastric GIST from 2006 to 2020 were retrospectively selected. The indication for LECS was determined according to the guidelines. The completion of LECS, complications, and survival outcomes of the patients were analyzed. Results  Two hundred fifty-nine patients were eligible in this study. According to intraoperative findings, 44 patients underwent local resection without luminal endoscopic procedures. Of the remaining 215 patients, 213 completely underwent LECS, which corresponds to a completion rate of 99.1 %. Six patients (2.8 %) had postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo classification grade II or higher. Delayed gastric emptying was most commonly found in four patients (1.9 %). Old age ( P  = 0.0349), female sex ( P  = 0.0095), tumor located in the lesser curvature ( P  = 0.0015), and large tumor diameter ( P  = 0.0232) were significantly more common in patients with complications. The 3-year overall and disease-specific survival rates were 99 % and 100 %, respectively, in 215 patients who were intended to undergo LECS. Conclusions  Despite several oncological concerns, LECS for gastric GIST is oncologically safe besides a feasible and safe procedure in the short-term.

Efficacy and safety of extended duration to perioperative thromboprophylaxis with low molecular weight heparin on disease-free survival after surgical resection of colorectal cancer (PERIOP-01): multicentre, open label, randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy and safety of extended duration perioperative thromboprophylaxis by low molecular weight heparin when assessing disease-free survival in patients undergoing resection for colorectal cancer.

DESIGN

Multicentre, open label, randomised controlled trial.

SETTINGS

12 hospitals in Quebec and Ontario, Canada, between 25 October 2011 and 31 December 2020.

PARTICIPANTS

614 adults (age ≥18 years) were eligible with pathologically confirmed invasive adenocarcinoma of the colon or rectum, no evidence of metastatic disease, a haemoglobin concentration of ≥8 g/dL, and were scheduled to undergo surgical resection.

INTERVENTIONS

Random assignment to extended duration thromboprophylaxis using daily subcutaneous tinzaparin at 4500 IU, beginning at decision to operate and continuing for 56 days postoperatively, compared with in-patient postoperative thromboprophylaxis only.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was disease-free survival at three years, defined as survival without locoregional recurrence, distant metastases, second primary (same cancer), second primary (other cancer), or death. Secondary outcomes included venous thromboembolism, postoperative major bleeding complications, and five year overall survival. Analyses were done in the intention-to-treat population.

RESULTS

The trial stopped recruitment prematurely after the interim analysis for futility. The primary outcome occurred in 235 (77%) of 307 patients in the extended duration group and in 243 (79%) of 307 patients in the in-hospital thromboprophylaxis group (hazard ratio 1.1, 95% confidence interval 0.90 to 1.33; P=0.4). Postoperative venous thromboembolism occurred in five patients (2%) in the extended duration group and in four patients (1%) in the in-hospital thromboprophylaxis group (P=0.8). Major surgery related bleeding in the first postoperative week was reported in one person (<1%) in the extended duration and in six people (2%) in the in-hospital thromboprophylaxis group (P=0.1). No difference was noted for overall survival at five years in 272 (89%) patients in the extended duration group and 280 (91%) patients in the in-hospital thromboprophylaxis group (hazard ratio 1.12; 95% confidence interval 0.72 to 1.76; P=0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

Extended duration to perioperative anticoagulation with tinzaparin did not improve disease-free survival or overall survival in patients with colorectal cancer undergoing surgical resection compared with in-patient postoperative thromboprophylaxis alone. The incidences of venous thromboembolism and postoperative major bleeding were low and similar between groups.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01455831.

Comparison of early oncologic and functional results of open and robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Aim: Radical prostatectomy (RP) has undergone a remarkable transformation from open surgery to minimally invasive surgery over the past two decades. In our study, we aimed to compare patients who underwent open (ORRP) and robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) for localized prostate cancer in terms of early oncological and functional outcomes. Material and Methods: Our study included 537 patients who were diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent RP between January 2009 and January 2014. (Open retropubic radical prostatectomy (ORRP)=387, robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP)=150). Demographic data, perioperative and postoperative results of the patients were compared between the two groups. Results: The mean age of the patients was 62.9 (46-76) in the ORRP group and 61.1 (42-76) years in the RARP group. It was observed that the mean hospital stay, urethral catheterization time, and blood transfusion requirement were significantly shorter in the RARP group. Surgical margin positivity rates were 16.3% and 20% (p=0.412) for the ORRP and RARP groups, respectively, in those with pT2 stage, and 40.9% and 68.8% in the ORRP and RARP groups, respectively, in patients with pT3 stage (p= 0.05). The mean follow-up period was 30.6 (3-64) months in the ORRP group and 11.3 (1-24) months in the RARP group. At follow-up, anastomotic stricture and biochemical recurrence were observed to be less in the RARP group (3.9% vs. 29.9% p

Does Vaginal Cuff Creation and Avoidance of a Uterine Manipulator Improve the Prognosis of Total Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy for Early Cervical Cancer? A Retrospective Multicenter Study

Our goal was to compare the treatment outcomes of open-abdominal radical hysterectomy (O-RH) and total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLRH) with vaginal cuff creation and without using a uterine manipulator in stage IB1-B2 (tumor size < 4 cm) cervical cancer cases. In this retrospective multicenter analysis, 94 cervical cancer stage IB1-B2 patients who underwent O-RH or TLRH in six hospitals in Japan between September 2016 and July 2020 were included; 36 patients underwent TLRH. Propensity score matching was performed because the tumor diameter was large, and positive cases of lymph node metastases were included in the O-RH group due to selection bias. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) and recurrence sites of TLRH and O-RH. PFS and OS (overall survival) were not significant in both the TLRH (n = 27) and O-RH (n = 27) groups; none required conversion to laparotomy. The maximum tumor size was <2 and ≥2 cm in 12 (44.4%) and 15 (55.6%) patients, respectively, in both groups. Reportedly, the TLRH group had lesser bleeding than the O-RH group (p < 0.001). Median follow-up was 33.5 (2−65) and 41.5 (6−75) months in the TLRH and O-RH groups, respectively. PFS and OS were not significantly different between the two groups (TLRH: 92.6%, O-RH: 92.6%; log-rank p = 0.985 and 97.2%, 100%; p = 0.317, respectively). The prognosis of early cervical cancer was not significantly different between TLRH and O-RH. Tumor spillage was prevented by creating a vaginal cuff and avoiding the use of a uterine manipulator. Therefore, TLRH might be considered efficient.

The Frequency and Outcomes of Nerve Palsies in Operatively Treated Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

BACKGROUND

A high index of suspicion for nerve palsy is essential in the setting of a displaced supracondylar humerus fracture (SCHF) with careful attention to the examination. We hypothesize that nerve injuries are more prevalent in higher energy type III and flexion SCHFs compared with type II fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of 1085 operatively treated SCHFs in pediatric patients, aged 0 to 14 years, between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. There were 979 patients eligible for analysis. Exclusion criteria included follow-up <3 weeks, polytrauma, pathologic fracture, and prior fracture of the ipsilateral elbow.

RESULTS

The overall rate of nerve injury was 10.6% (104/979). A significant difference in the rate of nerve palsy was identified between fracture types: 0.9% type II, 19.3% type III, and 10.7% flexion type SCHFs ( P <0.001). Median nerve palsy was the most common (n=65). An increased rate of ulnar nerve palsy was observed in flexion type SCHFs. The rate of nerve palsy was higher in the medial pin group (14.9%, P =0.035) but no significant association with iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsy was present. In type III and flexion SCHFs, operative time >60 minutes ( P =0.023) and the need for open reduction ( P =0.012) were significantly associated with postoperative nerve palsy. Referral to therapy was required in 30.8% of patients with a nerve palsy compared with 7.9% of patients without ( P <0.001).

CONCLUSION

Longer operative times, need for open reduction, and significantly higher rates of nerve palsy among type III and flexion SCHFs are best explained by the unstable nature of the fracture and greater degree of soft tissue trauma. Given prolonged duration of follow-up and more frequent need for therapy demonstrated in patients with a nerve palsy, these data can be used to improve counseling for families and patients after displaced SCHF.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-retrospective comparative study.

The Impact of Postoperative Complications on Survival after Simultaneous Resection of Colorectal Cancer and Liver Metastases

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of postoperative complications on the long-term outcomes of patients who had undergone simultaneous resection (SR) of colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases (SCLMs). Methods: We conducted a single-institution survival cohort study in patients with SR, collecting clinical, pathological, and postoperative complication data. The impact of these variables on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) was compared by log rank test. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified independent prognostic factors. Results: Out of 243 patients, 122 (50.2%) developed postoperative complications: 54 (22.2%) major complications (Clavien–Dindo grade III–V), 86 (35.3%) septic complications, 59 (24.2%) hepatic complications. Median comprehensive complication index (CCI) was 8.70. Twelve (4.9%) patients died postoperatively. The 3- and 5-year OS and DFS rates were 60.7%, 39.5% and 28%, 21.5%, respectively. Neither overall postoperative complications nor major and septic complications or CCI had a significant impact on OS or DFS. Multivariate analysis identified the N2 stage as an independent prognostic of poor OS, while N2 stage and four or more SCLMs were independent predictors for poor DFS. Conclusion: N2 stage and four or more SCLMs impacted OS and/or DFS, while CCI, presence, type, or grade of postoperative complications had no significant impact on long-term outcomes.

Rates of severe complications in patients undergoing colorectal surgery for deep endometriosis-a retrospective multicenter observational study

INTRODUCTION

Surgical experience and hospital procedure volumes have been associated with the risk of severe complications in expert centers for endometriosis in France. However, little is known about other certified units in Central European countries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective observational study included 937 women who underwent surgery for colorectal endometriosis between January 2018 and January 2020 in 19 participating expert centers for endometriosis. All women underwent complete excision of colorectal endometriosis by rectal shaving, discoid or segmental resection. Postoperative severe complications were defined as grades III-IV of the Clavien-Dindo classification system including anastomotic leakage, fistula, pelvic abscess and hematoma. Surgical outcomes of centers performing less than 40 (group 1), 40-59 (group 2) and ≥60 procedures (group 3) over a period of 2 years were compared.

RESULTS

The overall complication rate of grade III and IV complications was 5.1% (48/937), with rates of anastomotic leakage, fistula formation, abscess and hemorrhage in segmental resection, discoid resection and rectal shaving, respectively, as follows: anastomotic leakage 3.6% (14/387), 1.4% (3/222), 0.6% (2/328); fistula formation 1.6% (6/387), 0.5% (1/222), 0.9%; (3/328); abscess 0.5% (2/387), 0% (0/222) and 0.6% (2/328); hemorrhage 2.1% (8/387), 0.9% (2/222) and 1.5% (5/328). Higher overall complication rates were observed for segmental resection (30/387, 7.8%) than for discoid (6/222, 2.7%, P = 0.015) or shaving procedures (12/328, 3.7%, P = 0.089). No significant correlation was observed between the number of procedures performed and overall complication rates (r_Spearman  = -0.115; P = 0.639) with a high variability of complications in low-volume centers (group 1). However, an intergroup comparison revealed a significantly lower overall severe complication rate in group 3 than in group 2 (2.9% vs 6.9%; P = 0.017) without significant differences between other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A high variability in complication rates does exist in centers with a low volume of activity. Major complications may decrease with an increase in the volume of activity but this effect cannot be generally applied to all institutions and settings.

Current indications of ex-situ liver resection: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Ex situ liver resection and autotransplantation, a surgical technique introduced for managing advanced and unresectable malignant tumors, never became a popular surgical procedure, due mainly to the high incidence of adverse events and postoperative recurrences. This study aims to assess the clinical outcomes of ex situ liver resection and autotransplantation in the currently available literature.

METHODS

The PubMed electronic database was used to retrieve studies that meet the inclusion criteria for the topic.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included. The mean (range) 90-day mortality rate was 11.6% (0%-50%) and the mean overall survival was 55.8% (12.5%-100.0%). R0 resection was achieved in 100% of cases. In the overall study sample, the maximum tumor size was found to be positively correlated with the 90-day mortality rate (P = .047) and negatively correlated with the overall survival (P = .048). The mean number of total resected segments appeared to be positively correlated with the length of hospital stay (P = .039). In the malignant tumor sample, there was a significant relationship between the maximum tumor size and postoperative liver failure, 90-day mortality rate (P = .027 and P = .034, respectively), and between the mean length of anhepatic phase and mean length of hospital stay (P = .0092).

CONCLUSION

The ex situ liver resection and autotransplantation appears to be a valuable option in selected patients with conventionally unresectable hepatic tumors and normal liver function. However, it was not possible to provide clear and unequivocal recommendations about this procedure. To rectify this, an international database to help surgeons in their decision-making process ought to be established.

Validation study of postoperative liver failure and mortality risk scores after liver resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Surgery for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) remains a challenging procedure with high morbidity and mortality. The Academic Medical Center (Amsterdam UMC) and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center proposed a postoperative mortality risk score (POMRS) and post-hepatectomy liver failure score (PHLFS) to predict patient outcomes. This study aimed to validate the POMRS and PHLFS for PHCC patients at Hokkaido University.

METHODS

Medical records of 260 consecutive PHCC patients who had undergone major hepatectomy with extrahepatic bile duct resection without pancreaticoduodenectomy at Hokkaido University between March 2001 and November 2018 were evaluated to validate the PHLFS and POMRS.

RESULTS

The observed risks for PHLF were 13.7%, 24.5%, and 39.8% for the low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk groups, respectively, in the study cohort. A receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that the PHLFS had moderate predictive value, with an analysis under the curve (AUC) value of 0.62. Mortality rates based on the POMRS were 1.7%, 5%, and 5.1% for the low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk groups, respectively. The ROC analysis demonstrated an AUC value of 0.58.

CONCLUSIONS

This external validation study showed that for PHLFS the threshold for discrimination in an Eastern cohort was reached (AUC >0.6), but it would require optimization of the model before use in clinical practice is acceptable. The POMRS were not applicable in the eastern cohort. Further external validation is recommended.

Perioperative outcomes of pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma surgery preceded by Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas can induce severe cardiovascular manifestations such as Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy. What the perioperative outcomes are of patients presenting with pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas preceded by Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy remains an unresolved question.

METHODS

From 2006 to 2019, all patients who underwent surgery for pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas preceded by Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy were included from 3 high-volume centers, with specific attention to perioperative hemodynamic instability and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall, 37 patients were included, with a median age of 45 years. Patients were operated on 2 months (1-4) after a Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy episode; 33 (89%) had a laparoscopic approach. All those who underwent surgery presented in a hemodynamically stable situation. All except 1 of the pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas patients had at least 1 antihypertensive treatment at the time of surgery. The median preoperative systolic blood pressure in the Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy group was 120 mm Hg (95-132). Overall, 27/34 (79%) of patients required vasoactive drugs during surgery with nicardipine (n = 22), esmolol (n = 12), and/or norepinephrine (n = 8). No patient presented a catecholamine-induced life-threatening complication such as hypertensive crisis, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary edema, cardiac ischemia, or Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy in the perioperative period. Severe morbi-mortality was nil. The systematic review identified 5 studies including 38 pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas patients with at least 1 episode of acute heart failure considered as Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy before surgery, of which 28 patients had delayed surgery with 1 postoperative death.

CONCLUSION

Hemodynamically stabilized patients with pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas preceded by Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy can be safely scheduled for an elective pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas surgery, with similar intra and postoperative outcomes as those without Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy.

Guided Growth of the Proximal Femur for the Management of the 'Hip at Risk' in Children with Cerebral Palsy-A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Guided growth is frequently used to modify lower-limb alignment in children, and recently temporary medial hemiepiphysiodesis of the proximal femur (TMH-PF) has been used for the management of hips at risk of subluxation in cerebral palsy (CP) patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of TMH-PF in the management of neuromuscular hip dysplasia in children with cerebral palsy.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was performed by using PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane databases. Pre- and postoperative radiographic changes of the migration percentage (MP), head-shaft angle (HSA) and acetabular index (AI) were included in a meta-analysis. Secondary outcomes were treatment complication rates, technical considerations and the limitations of this novel technique.

RESULTS

Four studies (93 patients; 178 hips) met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. All three radiographic measurements showed significant changes at a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Mean changes for MP were 8.48% (95% CI 3.81-13.14), HSA 12.28° (95% CI 11.17-13.39) and AI 3.41° (95% CI 0.72-6.10), with I² of 75.74%, 0% and 87.68%, respectively. The serious complication rate was overall low; however, physeal 'growing off' of the screw was reported in up to 43% of hips treated.

CONCLUSION

TMH-PF is an effective and predictable method to treat CP patients with 'hips at risk', and the overall complication rate is low; however, further work is required to identify the best candidates and surgical timing, as well as choice of technique and implant.

Is Prophylactic Cervical Drainage Effective in Patients Undergoing McKeown Esophagectomy Reconstructed Through the Retrosternal Route with Two-Field Lymphadenectomy?

BACKGROUND

McKeown esophagectomy with two-field lymphadenectomy is the treatment of choice for oncologic esophagectomy. A cervical drain is placed in cases after modern two-field lymph node dissection (M2FD) to provide information on anastomotic leakage. However, the necessity of prophylactic cervical drainage during surgery remains unknown. This study aimed to clarify the clinical significance of cervical drainage in patients who underwent McKeown esophagectomy with M2FD.

METHODS

A total of 293 patients underwent McKeown surgery with two-field lymphadenectomy at our institute between January 2013 and December 2019. We compared the day of drain removal, amount of drainage volume, and the appearance of drainage fluid between patients with and without anastomotic leakage.

RESULTS

McKeown esophagectomy reconstructed through the retrosternal route is 203 patients (69.3%) of all. Nineteen patients (6.5%) experienced anastomotic leakage. The amount of cervical drain discharge was comparable between patients with and without anastomotic leakage. In addition, no purulent or salivary discharge was observed in patients with anastomotic leakage. There was no difference in the median day of drain removal between the groups. The initial clinical findings for the diagnosis of anastomotic leakage were surgical site infection in 10 (52.6%), fever in 5 (26.3%), prolonged inflammation in a blood test in 3 (15.8%), and bloody discharge from the chest tube in 1 (5.3%). There was no mortality due to any cause.

CONCLUSION

A prophylactic cervical drain may not be mandatory in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing McKeown esophagectomy reconstructed through the retrosternal route with two-field lymphadenectomy.

Adenomatous neoplasia in the papilla of Vater endoscopic and/or surgical resection?

BACKGROUND

Adenomatous neoplasia in the papilla of Vater needs to be resected in order not to progress. It can be challenging to distinguish between early ampullary malignant lesions and non-invasive adenomas, due to the overlap in symptoms and radiological findings. This retrospective study describes the different findings and treatment decisions taken prior to endoscopic and/or surgical resection of ampullary adenomatous lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients treated with endoscopic and/or surgical resection for suspected or verified ampullary adenomatous neoplasia, between January 2006 and July 2018, where pre-interventional cross-sectional imaging could not discern an obvious invasive, malignant tumor, were included. Findings were compared against the final diagnosis of the histopathological analysis on the resected specimen.

RESULTS

In total, 172 met the inclusion criteria. Patients were treated with either surgical resection (n = 96), endoscopic papillectomy (EP) (n = 55) or both (n = 21). The final diagnosis was in 48% ampullary adenocarcinoma, and the remaining had either ampullary adenoma (38%) or non-neoplastic lesions (14%). In patients where symptoms and cross-sectional imaging were suspicious for malignancy, but with no tissue samples that confirmed neoplasia prior to surgical resection, only 47% had adenocarcinoma. The remaining had either adenoma (9%) or non-neoplastic lesions (44%). Adenocarcinoma was revealed in 27% of the patients where endoscopic biopsies had shown adenoma. Patients with adenoma, treated with EP, were cured in 59%. However, 28% were after EP sent for further surgery due to ductal invasion or a finding of adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with a suspicion of ampullary neoplasia on imaging, attempts should be made to get endoscopic tissue samples before deciding on a treatment strategy. If biopsies show ampullary adenoma, patients should be considered for EP, unless there are clear radiologic or endoscopic signs of malignancy. Patients with adenocarcinoma on endoscopic biopsies should undergo surgical resection.

Improved Clinical and Financial Outcomes in Proximal Gastric Bypass Surgery Following the Transition from a Conventional Circular Stapling to an Augmented Linear Stapling Protocol

Bariatric techniques for bypass surgery evolve constantly. Switching from one well-established protocol to another in a running surgical teaching program is challenging. We analyzed clinical and financial outcomes at a single bariatric center transitioning from circular to an augmented linear bypass protocol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2011 and 2018, 454 patients were included in this retrospective study. The circular bypass protocol (CIRC; n = 177) was used between 2011 and 2012. Between 2013 and 2015 the transition occurred. Thereafter, the augmented linear protocol (aLIN; n = 277) was primarily utilized.

RESULTS

Overall, the mean preoperative BMI dropped from 42.2 to 29.6 kg/m² after 5 years with no difference between groups. Operation times were significantly shorter in the aLIN vs. CIRC group at 108 (± 32) vs. 120 (± 34) min (P < 0.001), respectively. The reoperation rate was significantly higher in the CIRC vs. aLIN group at n = 65 (36%) vs. n = 35 (13%; P < 0.001), respectively. Specifically, revision due to internal hernia occurred much more frequently in the CIRC-group, n = 36 (20%) vs. n = 12 (4%; P < 0.001). Moreover, reoperation rates for gastrojejunostomy leakage and endoscopic dilatations for anastomotic stenosis were higher in the CIRC vs. aLIN group (P < 0.001). Adjusted overall mean cost per case was lower in aLIN-patients at 15,403 (± 7848) vs. CIRC-patients at 18,525 (± 7850) Swiss francs (P < 0.001). Overall profit was 2555 ± 4768 vs. 1455 ± 5638 Swiss francs in the aLIN vs. CIRC-group, respectively (P = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

This study shows improved clinical and financial outcomes after a gradual transition from a circular stapling protocol to an augmented linear stapling protocol in proximal gastric bypass surgery.

Effects of perioperative eicosapentaenoic acid‑enriched oral nutritional supplement on the long‑term oncological outcomes after total gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Basic and clinical reports have suggested that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) exhibits anti-tumor activity. The present study evaluated whether perioperative EPA could improve the survival of patients with localized gastric cancer as a key secondary endpoint of a randomized clinical study. The present study was designed as multicenter, open-label, superiority, randomized trial to confirm the preventive effect of EPA on body weight loss after total gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Eligible patients were randomized to either the standard-diet group (EPA-off group) or EPA-on group by a centralized dynamic method. An EPA-enriched supplement (ProSure^®) was given to the EPA-on group in addition to their standard diet. This supplement included 600 kcal with 2.2 g/day of EPA. Among the 126 patients who were randomized, 123 patients (EPA-off group, n=60; EPA-on group, n=63) were examined in the survival analyses. All background factors were well balanced between the two groups. The 3-year and 5-year overall survival rates were 74.6 and 67.8%, respectively, in the EPA-off group, and 77.8 and 76.2% in the EPA-on group. There was no significant difference between the EPA-off and EPA-on groups (hazard ratio, 0.77; P=0.424). In the subgroup analysis, the hazard ratio was 0.39 in patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 0.57 in patients with nodal metastasis. In conclusion, a clear survival benefit of perioperative EPA was not observed in localized gastric cancer. The value of EPA should be further tested in a future study in patients with unfavorable advanced gastric cancer. Clinical trial number: UMIN000006380; date of registration, September 21, 2011.

Does baseline quality of life predict the occurrence of complications in resectable esophageal cancer?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of baseline health related quality of life (HRQOL) on the occurrence of postoperative complications and death in patients with resectable esophageal cancer.

METHODS

Existing data from a prospective, multicenter, open label, randomized, controlled phase III trial comparing hybrid versus open esophagectomy in patients with resectable esophageal cancer from 2009 to 2012 in France were used. A Cox regression model was used to assess the prognostic value of the baseline HRQOL score on the occurrence of major complications (MC), and major pulmonary complications (MPC) at 30 days post-surgery, as well as on 1-year postoperative overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Every 10-point increase in the baseline role functioning score was associated with a 14% reduction in the risk of MC, while every 10-point increase in fatigue or pain score was associated with an 18% increase in the risk of MC. Similarly, higher scores on fatigue and pain were associated with a higher risk of MPC. Compared with the hybrid procedure, patients undergoing open esophagectomy had a significantly higher risk of MC and MPC. Patients diagnosed with esophageal adenocarcinoma were at significantly lower risk of MC or MPC compared to patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Higher pain (HR = 1.23, p = 0.035) and insomnia (HR = 1.16, P = 0.031) scores were associated with increased 1-year OS.

CONCLUSION

Fatigue, pain, insomnia, and squamous cell pathology were indicators of poor prognosis, and that the presence of these findings might possibly change the management plan towards other forms of treatment and warrant close attention.