Parastomal hernia repair according to Modified Stapled Mesh Stoma Reinforcement Technique (mSMART): which are the results ?

INTRODUCTION

Parastomal hernia repair is a real surgical challenge because of the high rate of recurrence. The Stapled Mesh Stoma Reinforcement Technique (SMART) is a keyhole-like technique in which the mesh is stapled to the fascia using a circular mechanical stapler.

METHODS

A prospective study from January 2021 to February 2023 was conducted including all patients operated with the SMART technique. Primary endpoint was the recurrence rate during the follow-up. Secondary endpoints were reoperation, Surgical site Occurrence (SSO) and deep (mesh) surgical site infection (SSI) within 30 days postoperatively.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients operated on SMART procedures were included. The mean follow-up was 11.3 ± 9.2 months. The SSO rate was 18.7% (n = 3). A seroma was drained radiologically (IIIa), one haematoma was evacuated surgically (IIIb) and one patient presented a postoperative lesion of a ureter after a parastomal Bricker's hernia repair. In addition, there was one death due to multiple organ failure (V). There was no SSI. The recurrence rate was 57.1% during the follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This study shows disappointing results for this SMART technique, with a high recurrence rate.

Prognostic impact of positive microscopic margins (R1 resection) in patients with GIST (gastrointestinal stromal tumours): Results of a multicenter European study

BACKGROUND

Although several prognostic factors in GIST have been well studied such as tumour size, mitotic rate, or localization, the influence of microscopic margins or R1 resection remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of R1 resection on the prognosis of GIST in a large multicentre retrospective series of patients.

METHODS

From 2001 to 2013, 1413 patients who underwent surgery for any site of GIST were identified from 61 European centers. 1098 patients were included, excluding synchronous metastases, concurrent malignancies, R2 resection or GIST recurrence. Tumour rupture (TR) was reclassified according to the Oslo sarcoma classification. Cox proportional hazards ratio and Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were used to analyse 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

Of 1098 patients, 38 (3%) underwent R1 resection with a risk of TR of 11%. The 5-year RFS was 89.6% with a median follow-up of 81 months [range: 31.2-152 months]. On univariate analysis, lower RFS was significantly associated with R1 resection [HR = 2.13; p = 0.04], high risk score according to the modified NIH classification, administration of adjuvant therapy [HR = 2.24; p < 0.001] and intraoperative complications [HR = 2.82; p < 0.001]. Only intraoperative complications [HR = 1.79; p = 0.02] and high risk according to the modified NIH classification including the updated definition of TR [HR = 3.43; p = 0.04] remained significant on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that positive microscopic margins are not an independent predictive factor for RFS in GIST when taking into account the up-dated classification of TR. R1 resection may be considered a reasonable alternative to avoid major functional sequelae and should not lead to reoperation.

How I do it: using a hammock mesh in the reconstruction of inguinal ligament during a wide en-bloc resection of a groin mesenchymal tumor

PURPOSE

In case of soft tissue sarcomas (STS), an en-bloc resection with safe margins is recommended. To ensure safe removal without tumor rupture, STS of the groin area, retroperitoneal or pelvic mesenchymal tumors may require incision or resection of the inguinal ligament. Solid reconstruction is mandatory to prevent early and late postoperative femoral hernias. We present here a new technique of inguinal ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

Between September 2020 and September 2022, patients undergoing incision and/or resection of inguinal ligaments during a wide en-bloc resection of STS of the groin area in the Department of General Surgery in Strasbourg were included. All patients had an inguinal ligament reconstruction with biosynthetic slowly resorbable mesh shaped as a hammock, pre- or intraperitoneally, associated or not with loco-regional pedicled muscular flaps.

RESULTS

A total of 7 hammock mesh reconstructions were performed. One or several flaps were necessary in 57% of cases (4 patients): either for inguinal ligament reconstruction only (n = 1), for recovering of femoral vessels (n = 1), and for both ligament reconstruction and defect covering (n = 2). The major morbidity rate was 14.3% (n = 1), related to a thigh surgical site infection due to sartorius flap infarction. After a median follow-up of 17.8 months (range 7-31), there was neither early nor late occurrence of post-operative femoral hernia.

CONCLUSIONS

This is a new surgical tool for inguinal ligament reconstruction with the implementation of a biosynthetic slowly resorbable mesh shaped as a hammock, which should be compared to other techniques.

Is Delaying a Coloanal Anastomosis the Ideal Solution for Rectal Surgery?: Analysis of a Multicentric Cohort of 564 Patients From the GRECCAR

OBJECTIVES

To assess the specific results of delayed coloanal anastomosis (DCAA) in light of its 2 main indications.

BACKGROUND

DCAA can be proposed either immediately after a low anterior resection (primary DCAA) or after the failure of a primary pelvic surgery as a salvage procedure (salvage DCAA).

METHODS

All patients who underwent DCAA intervention at 30 GRECCAR-affiliated hospitals between 2010 and 2021 were retrospectively included.

RESULTS

Five hundred sixty-four patients (male: 63%; median age: 62 years; interquartile range: 53-69) underwent a DCAA: 66% for primary DCAA and 34% for salvage DCAA. Overall morbidity, major morbidity, and mortality were 57%, 30%, and 1.1%, respectively, without any significant differences between primary DCAA and salvage DCAA ( P = 0.933; P = 0.238, and P = 0.410, respectively). Anastomotic leakage was more frequent after salvage DCAA (23%) than after primary DCAA (15%), ( P = 0.016).Fifty-five patients (10%) developed necrosis of the intra-abdominal colon. In multivariate analysis, intra-abdominal colon necrosis was significantly associated with male sex [odds ratio (OR) = 2.67 95% CI: 1.22-6.49; P = 0.020], body mass index >25 (OR = 2.78 95% CI: 1.37-6.00; P = 0.006), and peripheral artery disease (OR = 4.68 95% CI: 1.12-19.1; P = 0.030). The occurrence of this complication was similar between primary DCAA (11%) and salvage DCAA (8%), ( P = 0.289).Preservation of bowel continuity was reached 3 years after DCAA in 74% of the cohort (primary DCAA: 77% vs salvage DCAA: 68%, P = 0.031). Among patients with a DCAA mannered without diverting stoma, 75% (301/403) have never required a stoma at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

DCAA makes it possible to definitively avoid a stoma in 75% of patients when mannered initially without a stoma and to save bowel continuity in 68% of the patients in the setting of failure of primary pelvic surgery.

Do surgical drains reduce surgical site occurrence and infection after incisional hernia repair with sublay mesh? A non-randomised pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Surgical site occurrence (SSO) and surgical site infection (SSI) are common concerns with incisional hernia repair. Intraoperative drain placement is a common practice aiming to reduce SSO and SSI rates. However, literature on the matter is very poor. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of subcutaneous and periprosthetic drain placement on postoperative outcomes and SSO and SSI rates with incisional hernia repair.

METHODS

A non-randomised pilot study was performed between January 2018 and December 2020 and included patients with elective midline or lateral incisional hernia repair with sublay mesh placement. Patients were prospectively included, followed for 1 month and divided into three groups: group 1 without drainage, group 2 with subcutaneous drainage, and group 3 with subcutaneous and periprosthetic drains. Drains were placed at surgeon's discretion. All patients were included in the enhanced recovery program.

RESULTS

One hundred and four patients were included. Twenty-four patients (23.1%) did not have drains (group 1), 60 patients (57.7%) had a subcutaneous drain (group 2) and 20 patients (19.2%) had both a subcutaneous and a periprosthetic drains (group 3). SSO rates were significantly different between the 3 groups: 20.8% in group 1, 20.7% in group 2 and 50% in group 3 (p = 0.03). There was no significant difference in deep and superficial SSI rates between the 3 groups. Subgroup analysis revealed that adding a drain in direct contact with the mesh significantly increased SSO rate but did not influence SSI rate. Length of stay was also significantly increased by the presence of a drain, 3.1 ± 1.9 days for group 1; 5.9 ± 4.8 for group 2 and 5.9 ± 2.5 days for group 3 (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Drain placement in direct contact with the mesh might increase SSO rate. More studies are necessary to evaluate the actual benefits of drainage after incisional hernia repair.

Implementation of an enhanced recovery program for complete cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in a referral center: a case control prospective study

Objectives

Current recommendations regarding enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) after complete cytoreductive surgery (CCRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are based on a low level of evidence. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of implementing an adapted ERP for CCRS and HIPEC in a referral center.

Methods

We conducted a study with a prospective group of 44 patients (post-ERP group) who underwent CCRS with HIPEC between July 2016 and June 2018, the period during which ERP was implemented. This group was compared to a second retrospective group of 21 patients who underwent CCRS with HIPEC between June 2015 and June 2016, during which ERP was not yet implemented (pre-ERP group).

Results

The ERP compliance rate was 65% in the post-ERP group. The hospital length of stay (HLS) was shorter in the post-ERP group: 24.9 days (IQR 11–68, pre-ERP group) vs. 16.1 days (IQR 6–45, post-ERP group), as was the major morbidity rate (pre-ERP group=33.3% vs. post-ERP group=20.5%). The nasogastric tube, urinary catheter and abdominal drains were all retrieved faster in the post-ERP group.

Conclusions

The implementation of an adapted ERP after CCRS with HIPEC procedures reduces morbidity and shortens the HLS.

Impact of Preoperative Protein Sparing Modified Fast Diet on Bariatric Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Bariatric surgery can become technically challenging in the setting of liver steatosis and hepatomegaly. The protein sparing modified fast (PSMF) diet helps in achieving rapid weight loss. The aim of this study is to explore the results of a preoperative PSMF diet on liver volume and steatosis as well as on intraoperative and postoperative complications in patients with hepatomegaly undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

METHODS

Between January 2010 and January 2021, 713 patients undergoing RYGB as a primary bariatric surgery were divided in two groups. Those with a measured liver length above 16 cm and or evidence of liver steatosis on ultrasound (group 1) were offered a preoperative PSMF diet while the remaining (group 2) proceeded directly to surgery. Between January 2010 and April 2012, patients included in group 1 had liver volume measurements on magnetic resonance imaging the day before the diet was started and the day before the surgery. For the length of the study, intraoperative and postoperative data were recorded for both groups.

RESULTS

Five days of preoperative PSMF diet resulted in a significant reduction of total and left liver volume (15.8% and 21% respectively, p < 0.001). There was no difference in intraoperative bleeding and conversion rate or postoperative complication rate between both groups.

CONCLUSION

The PSMF diet helps in achieving a rapid decrease in liver volume. Patients with hepatomegaly initially thought to be at a higher risk of intraoperative complications reached comparable rates to patients without hepatomegaly after the diet regimen without any impact on the postoperative course.

Why and how to implement an electronic resident's surgical logbook to improve operating-room training? First 5-year feedback from a French center

INTRODUCTION

The evaluation of general surgery residents' operating room (OR)-training and technical skills progression may be difficult in the absence of a standardized evaluation tool. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the implementation of an electronic "surgical logbook" for general surgery residents.

METHODS

A prospective single center study was conducted between May 2015 and October 2020. An electronic logbook was filled by all residents immediately after each surgical procedure and data were prospectively collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty-five students (34 men/21 women) reported their participation to 6917 surgical procedures, which corresponded to 55.5% of all procedures performed in our department. Residents performed the entire procedure as the operating surgeon in 28.5% of cases (n=1963), parts of the procedure as operating surgeon in 32.5% of cases (n=2230) and as operating-assistant in 38.5% (n=2672). Residents were more likely an operating surgeon for the entire procedure when they were assisted by a fellow or a practicing physician than an associate professor or a clinical professor (P<0.001). There was no significant difference in the major morbidity rate between different resident's contribution to the procedure (P=0.14).

CONCLUSION

We present here a simple, useful and cost efficient tool which offers easy data collection and reporting that could help improve OR-training, OR-supervision and certification at a local or national level.

Peritoneal Metastases of Colorectal Origin Treated with Complete Cytoreduction and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: The Efficiency of Mitomycin C

BACKGROUND

Survival of patients affected by colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases (CRC-PM) can be improved with combined complete cytoreductive surgery (CCRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Two chemotherapeutic agents are mainly used: mitomycin C (MMC) and oxaliplatin. A recent prospective randomized clinical trial showed that oxaliplatin-based HIPEC does not improve survival compared with CCRS alone. The purpose of our study was to compare the survival effectiveness of MMC versus oxaliplatin-based HIPEC using a homogeneous surgical technique and drug protocol.

METHODS

This retrospective monocentric study included all patients prospectively registered for having undergone CCRS and HIPEC using MMC or oxaliplatin for CRC-PM in Strasbourg University Hospital, France, from December 2004 until December 2019. MMC-based HIPEC and oxaliplatin-based HIPEC groups were compared with an inverse probability of treatment weighting.

RESULTS

A total of 137 patients were included. Groups were comparable for all baseline characteristics except for peritoneal carcinomatosis index. In the weighted multivariate analysis, disease-free survival (DFS) and peritoneal disease-free survival (PDFS) were significantly higher in the MMC-based HIPEC group compared with the oxaliplatin-based HIPEC group with a hazard ratio of 0.74 (CI 95% 0.56-0.98), p = 0.035 and 0.59 (CI 95% 0.40-0.98), p = 0.0084, respectively. There was no difference in overall survival or postoperative morbidity between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These results favor a superiority of MMC for DFS and PDFS in comparison with oxaliplatin in HIPEC after CCRS in treatment with curative intent for CRC-PM.

An International Registry of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Appendiceal Goblet Cell Carcinoma Treated with Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

PURPOSE

Peritoneal carcinomatosis from appendiceal goblet cell carcinoma (A-GCC) is a rare and aggressive form of appendiceal tumor. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intra peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was reported as an interesting alternative regarding survival compared to surgery without HIPEC and/or systemic chemotherapy. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of CRS and HIPEC for patients presenting A-GCC through an international registry.

METHODS

A prospective multicenter international database was retrospectively searched to identify all patients with A-GCC tumor and peritoneal metastases who underwent CRS and HIPEC through the Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI). The post-operative complications, long-term results, and principal prognostic factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

The analysis included 83 patients. After a median follow-up of 47 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 34.6 months. The 3- and 5-year OS was 48.5% and 35.7%, respectively. Patients who underwent complete macroscopic CRS had a significantly better survival than those treated with incomplete CRS. The 5-year OS was 44% and 0% for patients who underwent complete, and incomplete CRS, respectively (HR 9.65, p < 0.001). Lymph node involvement and preoperative chemotherapy were also predictive of a worse prognosis. There were 3 postoperative deaths, and 30% of the patients had major complications.

CONCLUSION

CRS and HIPEC may increase long-term survival in selected patients with peritoneal metastases of A-GCC origin, especially when complete CRS is achieved. Ideally, randomized control trials or more retrospective data are needed to confirm CRS and HIPEC as the gold standard in this pathology.

What Is the Optimal Elective Colectomy for Splenic Flexure Cancer: End of the Debate? A Multicenter Study From the GRECCAR Group With a Propensity Score Analysis

BACKGROUND

The optimal elective colectomy in patients with splenic flexure tumor is debated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare splenic flexure colectomy, left hemicolectomy, and subtotal colectomy for perioperative, histological, and survival outcomes in this setting.

DESIGN

This is a multicenter retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Patients diagnosed with nonmetastatic splenic flexure tumor who underwent elective colectomy were included.

PATIENTS

Between 2006 and 2014, 313 consecutive patients were operated on in 15 French Research Group of Rectal Cancer Surgery centers.

INTERVENTIONS

Propensity score weighting was performed to compare short- and long-term outcomes.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was disease-free survival. Secondary end points included overall survival, quality of surgical resection, overall postoperative morbidity, surgical postoperative morbidity, and rate of anastomotic leakage.

RESULTS

The most performed surgery was splenic flexure colectomy (59%), followed by subtotal colectomy (23%) and left hemicolectomy (18%). Subtotal colectomy was more often performed by laparotomy compared with splenic flexure colectomy and left hemicolectomy (93% vs 61% vs 56%, p < 0.0001), and was associated with a longer operative time (260 minutes (120-460) vs 180 minutes (68-440) vs 217 minutes (149-480), p < 0.0001). Postoperative morbidity was similar between the 3 groups, but the median length of hospital stay was significantly longer after subtotal colectomy (13 days (5-56) vs 10 (4-175) vs 9 (4-55), p = 0.0007). The median number of harvested lymph nodes was significantly higher after subtotal colectomy compared with splenic flexure colectomy and left hemicolectomy (24 (8-90) vs 15 (1-81) vs 16 (3-52), p < 0.0001). The rate of stage III disease and the number of patients treated by adjuvant chemotherapy were similar between the 3 groups. There was no difference in terms of disease-free survival and overall survival between the 3 procedures.

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by its retrospective design.

CONCLUSIONS

In the elective setting, splenic flexure colectomy is safe and oncologically adequate for patients with nonmetastatic splenic flexure tumor. However, given the oncological clearance after splenic flexure colectomy, it seems that the debate is not completely closed. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B703.

CUL ES LA COLECTOMA ELECTIVA PTIMA PARA EL CNCER DE NGULO ESPLNICO FIN DEL DEBATE UN ESTUDIO MULTICNTRICO DEL GRUPO GRECCAR CON UN ANLISIS DE PUNTAJE DE PROPENSIN

ANTECEDENTES:La colectomía electiva óptima en pacientes con tumores del ángulo esplénico continua en debate.OBJETIVO:Comparar la colectomía de ángulo esplénico, hemicolectomía izquierda y colectomía subtotal para los resultados perioperatorios, histológicos y de supervivencia en este escenario.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo multicéntrico.ESCENARIO:Se incluyeron pacientes diagnosticados de tumores del ángulo esplénico no metastásicos que se sometieron a colectomía electiva.PACIENTES:Entre 2006 y 2014, 313 pacientes consecutivos fueron intervenidos en 15 centros GRECCAR.INTERVENCIONES:Se realizó una ponderación del puntaje de propensión para comparar los resultados a corto y largo plazo.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El criterio de valoración principal fue la supervivencia libre de enfermedad. Los criterios de valoración secundarios incluyeron la supervivencia general, la calidad de la resección quirúrgica, la morbilidad posoperatoria general, la morbilidad posoperatoria quirúrgica y la tasa de fuga anastomótica.RESULTADOS:La cirugía más realizada fue la colectomía del ángulo esplénico (59%), seguida de la colectomía subtotal (23%) y la hemicolectomía izquierda (18%). La colectomía subtotal se realizó con mayor frecuencia mediante laparotomía en comparación con la colectomía de ángulo esplénico y la hemicolectomía izquierda (93% frente a 61% frente a 56%, p <0.0001), y se asoció con un tiempo quirúrgico más prolongado (260 min [120-460] frente a 180 min [68-440] frente a 217 min [149-480], p <0.0001). La morbilidad posoperatoria fue similar entre los tres grupos, pero la duración media de la estancia hospitalaria fue significativamente más prolongada después de la colectomía subtotal (13 días [5-56] frente a 10 [4-175] frente a 9 [4-55], p = 0.0007). La mediana del número de ganglios linfáticos extraídos fue significativamente mayor después de la colectomía subtotal en comparación con la colectomía del ángulo esplénico y la hemicolectomía izquierda (24 [8-90] frente a 15 [1-81] frente a 16 [3-52], p <0.0001). La tasa de enfermedad en estadio III y el número de pacientes tratados con quimioterapia adyuvante fueron similares entre los 3 grupos. No hubo diferencias en términos de supervivencia libre de enfermedad y supervivencia general entre los 3 procedimientos.LIMITACIONES:El estudio estuvo limitado por su diseño retrospectivo.CONCLUSIONES:En un escenario electivo, la colectomía del ángulo esplénico es segura y oncológicamente adecuada para pacientes con tumores del ángulo esplénico no metastásicos. Sin embargo, dado el aclaramiento oncológico tras la colectomía del ángulo esplénico, parece que el debate no está completamente cerrado. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B703.

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.

Half of Postoperative Deaths After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy Could be Preventable: A French Root Cause Analysis on 5562 Patients

OBJECTIVE

To perform a retrospective root-cause analysis of postoperative death after CRS and HIPEC procedures.

BACKGROUND

The combination of CRS and HIPEC is an effective therapeutic strategy to treat peritoneal surface malignancies, however it is associated with significant postoperative mortality.

METHODS

All patients treated with a combination of CRS and HIPEC between January 2009 and December 2018 in 22 French centers and died in the hospital, were retrospectively analyzed. Perioperative data of the 101 patients were collected by a local senior surgeon with a sole junior surgeon. Three independent experts investigated the typical root cause of death and provided conclusions on whether postoperative death was preventable (PREV group) or not (NON-PREV group). A typical root cause of preventable postoperative death was classified on a cause-and-effect diagram.

RESULTS

Of the 5562 CRS+HIPEC procedures performed, 101 in-hospital deaths (1.8%) were identified, of which a total of 18 patients of 70 years old and above and 20 patients with ASA score of 3. Etiology of peritoneal disease was mainly colorectal. A total of 54 patients (53%) were classified in the PREV group and 47 patients (47%) in the NON-PREV group. The results of the study show that in the PREV group, WHO performance status 1-2 was more frequent and the Median Peritoneal Cancer Index was higher compared with those of the NON-PREV group. The cause of death in the PREV group was classified as: (i) preoperatively for debatable indication (59%), (ii) intraoperatively (30%) and (iii) postoperatively in 17 patients (31%). A multifactorial cause of death was found in 11 patients (20%).

CONCLUSION

More than half of the postoperative deaths after combined CRS and HIPEC may be preventable, mainly by following guidelines regarding preoperative selection of the patients and adequate intraoperative decisions.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of resorbable biosynthetic mesh in contaminated ventral hernia repair

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare, in terms of cost and serious complications, the use of biosynthetic resorbable parietal mesh with biologic mesh in patients undergoing contaminated ventral hernia repair (modified Ventral Hernia Working Group grade 3). Poly-4-hydroxy-butyrate (P4HB) biosynthetic mesh has rarely been the subject of comparative studies in the context of contamination. Data are required to confirm the effects of a transition from biological mesh to biosynthetic resorbable mesh.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted. It was based on a decision analysis model built with clinical and economic data issued from a before-after study that included 94 patients hospitalized for ventral hernia repair at the University Hospital of Strasbourg (France) from June 2011 to February 2018. The effectiveness endpoint was the number of patients presenting with a serious specific complication or a general complication at 6 months. Data for surgical hospitalization stays, home hospitalizations and ambulatory care costs were included.

RESULTS

We found fewer serious complications with biosynthetic mesh: 21% versus 33% with biologic mesh. A cost savings of US $5146 was determined. Deterministic sensitivity analyses and a probabilistic analysis confirmed our findings and the robustness of the model.

CONCLUSION

P4HB biosynthetic resorbable mesh appeared to be the most effective and the least costly option. Additional data will be needed to confirm the superiority of biosynthetic mesh in terms of the recurrence risk reduction over a longer period.

Limited Resection Versus Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Duodenal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors? Enucleation Interferes in the Debate: A European Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The optimal surgical procedure for duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (D-GISTs) remains poorly defined. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) allows for a wide resection but is associated with a high morbidity rate.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the short- and long-term outcomes of PD versus limited resection (LR) for D-GISTs and to evaluate the role of tumor enucleation (EN).

METHODS

In this retrospective European multicenter cohort study, 100 patients who underwent resection for D-GIST between 2001 and 2013 were compared between PD (n = 19) and LR (n = 81). LR included segmental duodenectomy (n = 47), wedge resection (n = 21), or EN (n = 13). The primary objective was to evaluate disease-free survival (DFS) between the groups, while the secondary objectives were to analyze the overall morbidity and mortality, radicality of resection, and 5-year overall survival (OS) and recurrence rates between groups. Furthermore, the short- and long-term outcomes of EN were evaluated.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were comparable between the PD and LR groups, except for a more frequent D2 tumor location in the PD group (68.3% vs. 29.6%; p = 0.016). Postoperative morbidity was higher after PD (68.4% vs. 23.5%; p < 0.001). OS (p = 0.70) and DFS (p = 0.64) were comparable after adjustment for D2 location and adjuvant therapy rate. EN was performed more in American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) stage III/IV patients with tumors < 5 cm and was associated with a 5-year OS rate of 84.6%, without any disease recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

For D-GISTs, LR should be the procedure of choice due to lower morbidity and similar oncological outcomes compared with PD. In selected patients, EN appears to be associated with equivalent short- and long-term outcomes. Based on these results, a surgical treatment algorithm is proposed.

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

Importance

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

Objective

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

Design, Setting, and Participants

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

Interventions

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

Main Outcomes and Measures

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

Results

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

Conclusions and Relevance

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

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00937456.

Current practice and perceptions of safety protocols for the use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the operating room: results of the IP-OR international survey

OBJECTIVES

To assess the risk perception and the uptake of measures preventing environment-related risks in the operating room (OR) during hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC).

METHODS

A multicentric, international survey among OR teams in high-volume HIPEC and PIPAC centers: Surgeons (Surg), Scrub nurses (ScrubN), Anesthesiologists (Anest), Anesthesiology nurses (AnesthN), and OR Cleaning staff (CleanS). Scores extended from 0-10 (maximum).

RESULTS

Ten centers in six countries participated in the study (response rate 100%). Two hundred and eleven responses from 68 Surg (32%), 49 ScrubN (23%), 45 Anest (21%), 31 AnesthN (15%), and 18 CleanS (9%) were gathered. Individual uptake of protection measures was 51.4%, similar among professions and between HIPEC and PIPAC. Perceived levels of protection were 7.57 vs. 7.17 for PIPAC and HIPEC, respectively (p<0.05), with Anesth scoring the lowest (6.81). Perceived contamination risk was 4.19 for HIPEC vs. 3.5 for PIPAC (p<0.01). Information level was lower for CleanS and Anesth for HIPEC and PIPAC procedures compared to all other responders (6.48 vs. 4.86, and 6.48 vs. 5.67, p<0.01). Willingness to obtain more information was 86%, the highest among CleanS (94%).

CONCLUSIONS

Experience with the current practice of safety protocols was similar during HIPEC and PIPAC. The individual uptake of protection measures was rather low. The safety perception was better for PIPAC, but the perceived level of protection remained relatively low. The willingness to obtain more information was high. Intensified, standardized training of all OR team members involved in HIPEC and PIPAC is meaningful.

Slowly absorbable mesh in contaminated incisional hernia repair: results of a French multicenter study

PURPOSE

To analyze the postoperative morbidity and 1-year recurrence rate of incisional hernia repair using a biosynthetic long-term absorbable mesh in patients at higher risk of surgical infection in a contaminated surgical field.

METHODS

All patients undergoing incisional hernia repair in a contaminated surgical field with the use of a biosynthetic long-term absorbable mesh (Phasix®) between May 2016 and September 2018 at six participating university centers were included in this retrospective cohort and were followed-up until September 2019. Regarding the risk of surgical infection, patients were classified according to the modified Ventral Hernia Working Group classification. Preoperative, operative and postoperative data were collected. All patients' surgical site infections (SSIs) and occurrences (SSOs) and recurrence rates were the endpoints of the study.

RESULTS

Two hundred and fifteen patients were included: 170 with mVHWG grade 3 (79%) and 45 with mVHWG grade 2 (21%). The SSI and SSO rates at 12 months were 22.3% and 39.5%, respectively. According to the Dindo-Clavien classification, 43 patients (20.0%) had at least one minor complication, and 57 patients (26.5%) had at least one major complication. Among the 121 patients (56.3%) having at least 1 year of follow-up, the clinical recurrence rate was 12.4%. Multivariate analysis showed that a concomitant gastrointestinal procedure was an independent risk factor for surgical infection (OR = 2.61), and an emergency setting was an independent risk factor for major complications (OR = 11.9).

CONCLUSION

The use of a biosynthetic absorbable mesh (Phasix®) is safe in a contaminated surgical field, with satisfying immediate postoperative and 1-year results.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study is registered on Clinical Trial ID: NCT04132986.

Is nonanatomic rectal resection a valid therapeutic option for rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors? A proposed decision algorithm

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The best surgical approach to rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is still debated, and both nonanatomic rectal resection (NARR) and anatomic rectal resection (ARR) are applied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and oncological outcomes of NARR and ARR for rectal GISTs (R-GISTs).

METHODS

Through a large French multicentre retrospective study, 35 patients were treated for R-GIST between 2001 and 2013. Patients who underwent NARR and ARR were compared.

RESULTS

There were 23 (65.7%) patients in group ARR and 12 (34.3%) in group NARR. Significantly more patients in the group with ARR had a neoadjuvant treatment (86%) with tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) (imatinib) compared to those with NARR (25%) (p < .01). The median preoperative tumor size was significantly different between the groups without and with neoadjuvant TKI: 30 ± 23 mm versus 64 ± 44.4 mm, respectively (p < .001). Overall postoperative morbidity was 20% (n = 7) (26% for ARR vs. 8% for NARR; p = .4). After a median follow-up of 60.2 (3.2-164.3) months, the 5-year disease-free survival rates were 79.5% (confidence interval [CI] 95%: 54-100) for the NARR group and 68% (CI 95%: 46.4-89.7) for the ARR group (p = .697), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The use of NARR for small R-GIST's does not seem to impair the oncological prognosis.

Is Lanreotide Really Useful in High Output Stoma? Comparison between Lanreotide to Conventional Antidiarrheal Treatment Alone

BACKGROUND

The incidence of high-output stoma (HOS) was reported to be approximately 3 to 16% in the literature, and HOS can cause dehydration. This complication is often severe enough to warrant hospital readmission and may result in renal failure. The aim of this study was to show a decrease of 50% in ileostomy output in the experimental arm using lanreotide treatment.

METHODS

Patients with an ileostomy output ≥ 1.5 l/24 hours were included in this prospective, open, multicentre randomized trial. Patients were randomly allocated between treatment arms with either lanreotide (LAN) and antidiarrhoeal treatments (TAD) (LAN-TAD group) or antidiarrhoeal treatments only (TADS group). The primary outcome was ileostomy output after 72 days. The secondary endpoints were ileostomy output during the first 6 days, blood urea and creatinine values, hospital length of stay and serious adverse events.

RESULTS

In the per-protocol analysis, there were nine patients in the control group (TADS) and six patients in the experimental group (TAD-LAN group). The stoma outputs at Day 3 (D3) in the experimental and control groups were 1,900 ± 855.7 mL and 1,728.6 ± 845.5 mL, respectively (p = 0.2). No differences were found concerning stoma output at D6, renal function, or hospital length of stay between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The trial was prematurely stopped due to the low number of patients included. The question of the usefulness of somatostatin analogues in HOS persists, especially as the cost of this treatment is high, and there is a lack of evidence of its effectiveness.

Second-look surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy versus surveillance in patients at high risk of developing colorectal peritoneal metastases (PROPHYLOCHIP-PRODIGE 15): a randomised, phase 3 study

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis and treatment of colorectal peritoneal metastases at an early stage, before the onset of signs, could improve patient survival. We aimed to compare the survival benefit of systematic second-look surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), with surveillance, in patients at high risk of developing colorectal peritoneal metastases.

METHODS

We did an open-label, randomised, phase 3 study in 23 hospitals in France. Eligible patients were aged 18-70 years and had a primary colorectal cancer with synchronous and localised colorectal peritoneal metastases removed during tumour resection, resected ovarian metastases, or a perforated tumour. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to surveillance or second-look surgery plus oxaliplatin-HIPEC (oxaliplatin 460 mg/m², or oxaliplatin 300 mg/m² plus irinotecan 200 mg/m², plus intravenous fluorouracil 400 mg/m²), or mitomycin-HIPEC (mitomycin 35 mg/m²) alone in case of neuropathy, after 6 months of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy with no signs of disease recurrence. Randomisation was done via a web-based system, with stratification by treatment centre, nodal status, and risk factors for colorectal peritoneal metastases. Second-look surgery consisted of a complete exploration of the abdominal cavity via xyphopubic incision, and resection of all peritoneal implants if resectable. Surveillance after resection of colorectal cancer was done according to the French Guidelines. The primary outcome was 3-year disease-free survival, defined as the time from randomisation to peritoneal or distant disease recurrence, or death from any cause, whichever occurred first, analysed by intention to treat. Surgical complications were assessed in the second-look surgery group only. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01226394.

FINDINGS

Between June 11, 2010, and March 31, 2015, 150 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to a treatment group (75 per group). After a median follow-up of 50·8 months (IQR 47·0-54·8), 3-year disease-free survival was 53% (95% CI 41-64) in the surveillance group versus 44% (33-56) in the second-look surgery group (hazard ratio 0·97, 95% CI 0·61-1·56). No treatment-related deaths were reported. 29 (41%) of 71 patients in the second-look surgery group had grade 3-4 complications. The most common grade 3-4 complications were intra-abdominal adverse events (haemorrhage, digestive leakage) in 12 (23%) of 71 patients and haematological adverse events in 13 (18%) of 71 patients.

INTERPRETATION

Systematic second-look surgery plus oxaliplatin-HIPEC did not improve disease-free survival compared with standard surveillance. Currently, essential surveillance of patients at high risk of developing colorectal peritoneal metastases appears to be adequate and effective in terms of survival outcomes.

FUNDING

French National Cancer Institute.

Strategy for the practice of digestive and oncological surgery during the Covid-19 epidemic

The Covid-19 pandemic is changing the organization of healthcare and has a direct impact on digestive surgery. Healthcare priorities and circuits are being modified. Emergency surgery is still a priority. Functional surgery is to be deferred. Laparoscopic surgery must follow strict rules so as not to expose healthcare professionals (HCPs) to added risk. The question looms large in cancer surgery-go ahead or defer? There is probably an added risk due to the pandemic that must be balanced against the risk incurred by deferring surgery. For each type of cancer-colon, pancreas, oesogastric, hepatocellular carcinoma-morbidity and mortality rates are stated and compared with the oncological risk incurred by deferring surgery and/or the tumour doubling time. Strategies can be proposed based on this comparison. For colonic cancers T1-2, N0, it is advisable to defer surgery. For advanced colonic lesions, it seems judicious to undertake neoadjuvant chemotherapy and then wait. For rectal cancers T3-4 and/or N+, chemoradiotherapy is indicated, short radiotherapy must be discussed (followed by a waiting period) to reduce time of exposure in the hospital and to prevent infections. Most complex surgery with high morbidity and mortality-oesogastric, hepatic or pancreatic-is most often best deferred.

Multicystic and diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma in children

BACKGROUND

Malignant and multicystic peritoneal mesotheliomas are extremely rare tumors in children, developing from mesothelial cells. No specific guidelines are available at this age.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all identified children (< 18-year-old) treated in France from 1987 to 2017 for a diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) or a multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma (MCPM).

RESULTS

Fourteen patients (5 males and nine females), aged 2.2 to 17.5 years, were included. The most frequent presenting symptoms were abdominal pain, ascitis, and alteration in the general condition. Eight patients had epithelioid mesothelioma, three had biphasic mesothelioma, and three had MCPM. Eight patients with DMPM diagnosis received cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Among them, six patients had neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy, one patient, post-operative chemotherapy, and one patient CRS and HIPEC only. Three patients received only systemic chemotherapy. All patients with MCPM had only surgery. After a median follow-up of seven years (2-15), six patients (6/11; one death) with DMPM and two patients (two/three) with MCPM had a local and distant recurrences.

CONCLUSION

Peritoneal mesothelioma in children is a rare condition with difficult diagnosis and high risk of recurrence. Worldwide interdisciplinary collaboration and networking are mandatory to help diagnosis and provide harmonious treatment guidelines.

How to Prevent Sarcopenia Occurrence during Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Oesogastric Adenocarcinoma?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a preoperative feeding jejunostomy (FJ) on the occurrence of sarcopenia before and after preoperative chemotherapy for patients with an oesogastric adenocarcinoma (OGA). Forty-six patients with potentially resectable OGA were enrolled in a perioperative chemotherapy protocol. Sarcopenia was evaluated by measuring muscle surfaces (psoas, paraspinal and abdominal wall muscles) on abdominal CT images at the level of the 3rd lumbar vertebra. A FJ was placed in 31 patients (67.4%) before the neoadjuvant treatment (FJ group), while 15 patients (32.6%) started neoadjuvant treatments without FJ (control group). After preoperative chemotherapy, there were significantly more sarcopenic patients in the control group, compared to the FJ group. In the FJ group, 13% of the patients (n = 4) were sarcopenic before treatment and 22.6% of them (n = 7) became sarcopenic after preoperative chemotherapy (p = 0.3). In the control group, if initially only 6.7% (n = 1) of patients were sarcopenic, the majority of the patients (60%, n = 9) became sarcopenic after chemotherapy (p = 0.012). The FJ was an independent risk factor of sarcopenia after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. FJ with enteral nutritional support during the preoperative management of OGA seemed to efficiently counteract sarcopenia occurrence during preoperative chemotherapy.

[Strategy for the practice of digestive and oncologic surgery in COVID-19 epidemic situation]

La pandémie due au COVID-19 modifie l’organisation des soins et change la réalisation de la chirurgie digestive. Les priorités sanitaires et les circuits de soins sont modifiés. La chirurgie d’urgence reste prioritaire. Les interventions pour chirurgie fonctionnelles sont à reporter. La chirurgie par laparoscopie doit suivre des règles strictes pour ne pas exposer les professionnels à un surrisque. Le questionnement principal concerne la chirurgie oncologique, opérer ou reporter ? Il existe probablement un sur risque opératoire induit par la pandémie qui doit être mis en balance avec le retard de prise en charge chirurgical. Pour chaque type de cancer, colon, pancréas, œsogastrique, hépatocarcinome, la morbi-mortalité est rappelée et mise en parallèle avec le risque oncologique lié au retard à la chirurgie et/ou au temps de doublement de la tumeur. Cette comparaison permet de proposer des stratégies, ainsi pour les cancers coliques (T1-2, N0), il est souhaitable de retarder la chirurgie. Pour les lésions coliques avancées, il semble prudent de recommander une chimiothérapie néo adjuvante et d’attendre. Pour les cancers du rectum T3-4 et/ou N+, une radio-chimiothérapie est indiquée, une radiothérapie courte devra être discutée (suivie d’une période d’attente) afin de réduire le temps d’exposition à l’hôpital et d’éviter les infections. La majorité des chirurgies complexes à forte morbi-mortalité, œsogastrique, hépatique ou pancréatique doivent sans doute le plus souvent être reportée.

Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride-coated versus alginate dressings after pilonidal sinus excision: a randomized clinical trial (SORKYSA study)

Background

Disease of the pilonidal sinus is a common condition that affects mainly young adults. Options for management include excision of the sinus tracts, leaving the wound open to heal by secondary intention. The aim of this study was to compare wound healing with dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)‐coated dressings versus alginate dressings.

Methods

This multicentre trial randomized consecutive patients undergoing surgery for pilonidal disease to postoperative wound care with either DACC‐coated or alginate dressings. The primary outcome was the proportion of wounds healed after 75 days. Secondary outcomes were the local status of wounds during the healing process, the quality assessment of the dressings by the patient, and the time needed to return to usual activities.

Results

A total of 246 patients were included: 120 in the DACC‐coated group and 126 in the alginate group. In per‐protocol analysis, there were significantly more patients with completely healed wounds after 75 days in the DACC group than in the alginate group: 78 of 103 (75·7 per cent) versus 58 of 97 (60 per cent) respectively (odds ratio 2·55, 95 per cent c.i. 1·12 to 5·92; P = 0·023). During follow‐up, wounds with alginate dressings had more fibrin than those with DACC‐coated dressings, but the difference was not significant (P = 0·079). There was no difference between the two arms in patients' assessment of the dressings.

Conclusion

The number of wounds completely healed at 75 days was significantly higher for DACC‐coated compared with alginate dressings. However, the preplanned, clinically significant improvement in healing of 20 per cent was not reached. Registration number: NCT02011802 ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/).

Occupational safety of pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) in an operating room without laminar airflow

AIM OF THE STUDY

The safety of pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) is often questioned when newly implemented in an operating room (OR); as it may increase the risk of exposure to cytotoxics for healthcare workers. There are no data on the risk of healthcare exposure in OR without laminar airflow. We aimed to ensure the safety of PIPAC for surgeons and their co-workers for newly implemented procedures in an OR without laminar airflow.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-six samples with cellulosic wipes from surgeons and co-workers' environmental items and 5 specific polytetrafluoroethylene air-filtered collections were randomly performed for the first 2 cisplatin/doxorubicin-based PIPAC procedures in Strasbourg University Hospital. PIPAC was performed according to previously described safety protocol but without a laminar airflow and with an additional plastic cover and smoke evacuation device. Sampling and analyzes were performed by 2 accredited independent certified organizations.

RESULTS

All air measurements were negative for cisplatin and doxorubicin. Only one wipe sample out of 26 was positive for cisplatin (4%) on the outer surgeon's pair of gloves but dosages on the surgeon's inner pair and hands were negative.

CONCLUSION

When performed in approved security conditions, even without laminar airflow, PIPAC might seem harmless for surgeons and their co-workers with very limited risk of exposure to cytotoxics.

Hybrid Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Postoperative complications, especially pulmonary complications, affect more than half the patients who undergo open esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Whether hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy results in lower morbidity than open esophagectomy is unclear.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled trial involving patients 18 to 75 years of age with resectable cancer of the middle or lower third of the esophagus. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo transthoracic open esophagectomy (open procedure) or hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy (hybrid procedure). Surgical quality assurance was implemented by the credentialing of surgeons, standardization of technique, and monitoring of performance. Hybrid surgery comprised a two-field abdominal-thoracic operation (also called an Ivor-Lewis procedure) with laparoscopic gastric mobilization and open right thoracotomy. The primary end point was intraoperative or postoperative complication of grade II or higher according to the Clavien-Dindo classification (indicating major complication leading to intervention) within 30 days. Analyses were done according to the intention-to-treat principle.

RESULTS

From October 2009 through April 2012, we randomly assigned 103 patients to the hybrid-procedure group and 104 to the open-procedure group. A total of 312 serious adverse events were recorded in 110 patients. A total of 37 patients (36%) in the hybrid-procedure group had a major intraoperative or postoperative complication, as compared with 67 (64%) in the open-procedure group (odds ratio, 0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18 to 0.55; P<0.001). A total of 18 of 102 patients (18%) in the hybrid-procedure group had a major pulmonary complication, as compared with 31 of 103 (30%) in the open-procedure group. At 3 years, overall survival was 67% (95% CI, 57 to 75) in the hybrid-procedure group, as compared with 55% (95% CI, 45 to 64) in the open-procedure group; disease-free survival was 57% (95% CI, 47 to 66) and 48% (95% CI, 38 to 57), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy resulted in a lower incidence of intraoperative and postoperative major complications, specifically pulmonary complications, than open esophagectomy, without compromising overall and disease-free survival over a period of 3 years. (Funded by the French National Cancer Institute; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00937456 .).

Recurrence of pseudomyxoma peritonei after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Background

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare clinical condition characterized by mucinous ascites, typically related to appendiceal or ovarian tumours. Current standard treatment involves cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), but recurrences occur in 20–30 per cent of patients. The aim of this study was to define the timing and patterns of recurrence to provide a basis for modifying follow‐up of these patients.

Methods

This observational study examined a prospectively developed multicentre national database (RENAPE working group) to identify patients with recurrence after optimal CRS and HIPEC for PMP. Postoperative complications, long‐term outcomes and potential prognostic factors were evaluated.

Results

Of 1411 patients with proven PMP, 948 were identified who had undergone curative CRS and HIPEC. Among these patients, 229 first recurrences (24·2 per cent) were identified: 196 (20·7 per cent) occurred within the first 5 years (early recurrence) and 30 (3·2 per cent) occurred between 5 and 10 years. Three patients developed a first recurrence more than 10 years after the original treatment. The mean(s.d.) time to first recurrence was 2·36(2·21) years. Preoperative chemotherapy and high‐grade pathology were significant factors for early recurrence. Overall survival for the entire group was 77·9 and 63·1 per cent at 5 and 10 years respectively. The principal site of recurrence was the peritoneum.

Conclusion

Recurrence of PMP was rare after 5 years and exceptional after 10 years.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion with chemotherapy in children with peritoneal tumor spread: A French nationwide study over 14 years

BACKGROUND

Efficacy and role of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion with chemotherapy (HIPEC) remain poorly documented in pediatric tumors.

METHODS

This retrospective national study analyzed all pediatric patients with peritoneal tumor spread treated by CRS and HIPEC as part of a multimodal therapy in France from 2001 to 2015.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (nine males and 13 females) were selected. The median age at diagnosis was 14.8 years (4.2-17.6). Seven had peritoneal mesotheliomas; seven, desmoplastic small round cells tumors (DSRCT); and eight, other histologic types. A complete macroscopic resection (CC-0, where CC is completeness of cytoreduction) was achieved in 16 (73%) cases. Incomplete resections were classified as CC-1 in four (18%) cases and CC-2 in two (9%) cases. Fourteen (64%) patients had complications within 30 days from HIPEC, requiring an urgent laparotomy in eight (36%) cases. Thirteen (59%) patients received adjuvant chemotherapy and four (18%) received total abdominal radiotherapy after surgery. Sixteen (72%) patients had relapse after a median time of 9.6 months (1.4-86.4) and nine (41%) eventually died after a median time of 5.3 months (0.1-36.1) from relapse. Six (27%) patients (four mesotheliomas, one pseudopapillary pancreatic tumor, and one DSRCT) were alive and in complete remission after a median follow-up of 25.0 months (5.3-78.2). The mean overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were 57.5 months (95% CI [38.59-76.32]) and 30.9 months (95% CI [14.96-46.77]). Patients with a peritoneal mesothelioma had a significantly better OS (p = 0.015) and DFS (p = 0.028) than other histologic type.

CONCLUSIONS

In this national series, outcomes of HIPEC are encouraging for the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma in children.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendicular and extra-appendicular origin

BACKGROUND

The prognostic value of the primary neoplasm responsible for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) remains poorly studied. The aim of this study was to determine the prognosis for patients with extra-appendicular PMP (EA-PMP) treated optimally with complete cytoreductive surgery (CCRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

METHODS

All patients treated for PMP with CCRS and HIPEC between 1994 and 2016 were selected retrospectively from a French multicentre database. Patients with EA-PMP had pathologically confirmed non-neoplastic appendices and were matched in a 1 : 4 ratio with patients treated for appendicular PMP (A-PMP), based on a propensity score.

RESULTS

Some 726 patients were identified, of which 61 (EA-PMP group) were matched with 244 patients (A-PMP group). The origins of primary tumours in the EA-PMP group included the ovary (45 patients), colon (4), urachus (4), small bowel (1), pancreas (1) and unknown (6). The median peritoneal carcinomatosis index was comparable in EA-PMP and A-PMP groups (15·5 versus 18 respectively; P = 0·315). In-hospital mortality (3 versus 2·9 per cent; P = 1·000) and major morbidity 26 versus 25·0 per cent; P = 0·869) were also similar between the two groups. Median follow-up was 66·9 months. The 5-year overall survival rate was 87·8 (95 per cent c.i. 83·2 to 92·5) per cent in the A-PMP group and 87 (77 to 96) per cent in the EA-PMP group. The 5-year disease-free survival rate was 66·0 (58·7 to 73·4) per cent and 70 (53 to 83) per cent respectively.

CONCLUSION

Overall and disease-free survival following treatment with CCRS and HIPEC is similar in patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendicular or extra-appendicular origin.

Influence of preoperative life satisfaction on recovery and outcomes after colorectal cancer surgery - a prospective pilot study

Background

Colorectal surgery has an important impact on a patient’s quality of life, and postoperative rehabilitation shows large variations. To enhance the understanding of recovery after colorectal cancer, health-related quality of life has become a standard outcome measurement for clinical care and research. Therefore, we aimed to correlate the influence of preoperative global life satisfaction on subjective feelings of well-being with clinical outcomes after colorectal surgery.

Methods

In this pilot study of consecutive colorectal surgery patients, various dimensions of feelings of preoperative life satisfaction were assessed using a self-rated scale, which was validated in French. Both objective (length of stay and complications) and subjective (pain, subjective well-being and quality of sleep) indicators of recovery were evaluated daily during each patient’s hospital stay.

Results

A total of 112 patients were included. The results showed a negative relationship between life satisfaction and postoperative complications and a significant negative correlation with the length of stay. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between life satisfaction and the combined subjective indicators of recovery was observed.

Conclusion

We have shown the importance of positive preoperative mental states and global life satisfaction as characteristics that are associated with an improved recovery after colorectal surgery. Therefore, patients with a good level of life satisfaction may be better able to face the consequences of colorectal surgery, which is a relevant parameter in supportive cancer care.

Perioperative bevacizumab improves survival following lung metastasectomy for colorectal cancer in patients harbouring v-Ki-ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homologue exon 2 codon 12 mutations†

OBJECTIVES

The role of perioperative chemotherapy (POC) and targeted therapies in lung metastasectomy for colorectal cancer (CRC) is still subject to debate. We aimed to evaluate whether POC and targeted therapies were associated with different outcomes according to the mutational status.

METHODS

We reviewed data from 223 patients who underwent pulmonary metastasectomy for CRC from 1998 to 2015 and for whom the V-Ki-ras2 Kirsten sarcoma viral oncogene homologue (KRAS) and V-raf Murine sarcoma viral oncogene homologue B1 (BRAF) mutational statuses were known.

RESULTS

A total of 167 patients (74%) underwent POC: 62 (37%) received neoadjuvant therapy, 59 (35%) were in the adjuvant setting and 46 (28%) were in both the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings. POC did not significantly influence either the loco-regional recurrence free survival (LRRFS) (P = 0.21) or the overall survival (OS) (P = 0.29). Furthermore, in cases of adjuvant chemotherapy, outcomes were not significantly different in cases of neoadjuvant chemotherapy or both neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment (P = 0.26 for OS, P = 0.14 for LRRFS). For patients with KRAS mutation, perioperative bevacizumab was associated with a significant improvement in both LRRFS [70 months (41.58–98.42) vs 24 months (1.15–46.86), P = 0.001] and OS [101 vs 55 months (49.77–60.23), P = 0.004]. However, this benefit was only significant in cases of KRAS exon 2 codon 12 mutations [median OS: 101 months (83.97–118.02) vs 60 months (53–66.99), P < 0.001; median LRRFS: 76 months (64.62–87.38) vs 44 months (35.27–52.73), P < 0.001].

CONCLUSION

Perioperative bevacizumab appears to be beneficial in patients with exon 2 codon 12 KRAS mutations who have undergone lung metastasectomy for CRC.

Discrepancy Between Clinical and Pathologic Nodal Status of Esophageal Cancer and Impact on Prognosis and Therapeutic Strategy

BACKGROUND

The impact of discrepancies between clinical (c) and pathologic (p) stages of esophageal cancer remains a poorly understood issue. This study aimed to compare the prognosis of patient groups treated by primary surgery including clinical N0/pathologic N0 (cN0pN0), clinical N0/pathologic N+ (cN0pN+), clinical N+/pathologic N0 (cN+pN0), and clinical N+/pathologic N+ (cN+pN+).

METHODS

Data were collected from 30 European centers during the years 2000 to 2010. Among 2944 recruited patients, 1554 patients receiving primary surgery met the inclusion criteria including 613 cN0pN0, 403 cN0pN+, 220 cN+pN0, and 318 cN+pN+ patients. Analyses with adjustment of the propensity score were used to compensate for differences in baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

Clinical T stages 3 and 4 were increased in cN+pN+ (73.0%), cN0pN+ (49.6%), and cN+pN0 (51.8%) compared with cN0pN0 (32.8%). Compared with cN0pN0, cN+pN+ and cN0pN+ showed an increase in the proportion of adenocarcinoma histologic subtype, poor tumor differentiation, pathologic T3 and T4 stages, and R1/2 resection margin. Adjusted 5-year overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] 3.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.57-3.78; P < 0.001) and event-free survival (HR 2.87; 95% CI 2.39-3.45; P < 0.001) were significantly reduced in cN0pN+ compared with cN0pN0. No significant differences in 5-year overall survival or event-free survival between cN0pN+ and cN+pN+ were observed. Regression analysis identified an association of distal tumor location, advanced clinical T stage, and poor tumor differentiation with pN+ disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This large multicenter study showed that cN0pN+ has a prognosis similar to that of cN+pN+ and worse than that of cN0pN0. Patients with clinical N0 disease but risk factors for pathologic N+ disease may benefit from neoadjuvant therapy before surgery.

Surgical management of a De Garengeot's hernia using a biologic mesh: A case report and review of literature

•

The De Garengeot hernia is a rare form of femoral hernia, containing the appendix, first described by french surgeon René Jacques Croissant de Garengeot (1688–1759).

•

There is no consensus for the surgical approach in case of a De Garengeot hernia.

•

In this case, we chose to perform an inguinal approach associated with a laparoscopic procedure.

•

We chose to repair the femoral hernia with a biological mesh to prevent infections.

Introduction

A De Garengeot hernia is a rare form of femoral hernia, where the appendix is found in the herniated sac. This feature is important to report, as both the diagnosis and the treatment are quite challenging in this particular condition.

Presentation of case

We report the case of a 77-year-old female presenting with a femoral hernia, containing an incarcerated necrotic vermiform appendix (De Garengeot hernia). A laparoscopic appendectomy was performed and the herniated defect was repaired according to Rives technique, using a biological mesh.

Discussion

The De Garengeot hernia is often unexpected and diagnosed intra-operatively. A pre-operative diagnosis is quite difficult, as it often presents clinically as a strangled femoral hernia. In patients without peritoneal signs, a contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography (CT) of the abdomen is useful for the diagnosis. Many surgical techniques have been discussed in literature, but there is no consensus. We show the feasibility and safety of the hernia repair according to Rives technique, through an inguinotomy with a biologic mesh. A laparoscopic approach was used to remove the necrotic appendix.

Conclusion

The De Garengeot hernia is an uncommon differential diagnosis for patients presenting with clinical signs of strangled femoral hernia. Although hernia repairs with a synthetic mesh in the presence of appendicitis have been reported, we describe a case of femoral hernia repair using a biologic mesh, in a patient with a De Garengot hernia.

Surgery Is an Effective Option after Failure of Chemoradiation in Cancers of the Anal Canal and Anal Margin

BACKGROUND

Surgery for anal canal cancer (ACC) and anal margin cancer (AMC) is the only curative option after failure of chemoradiotherapy (CRT). This study aimed to determine the efficacy of surgery for ACC or AMC after failed CRT.

METHODS

This was a single-centre, retrospective study of 161 patients initially treated with CRT. We compared the survival rates of patients successfully treated by CRT with those of patients whose CRT failed (both surgically salvaged and treated palliatively).

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients underwent surgery with curative intent, 20 received palliative treatment after failure of CRT, and 110 had effective CRT. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was significantly higher among patients with successful CRT than among patients who underwent surgery with curative intent (86 vs. 66%, p < 0.001). On the other hand, the 5-year OS of patients treated with curative surgery was significantly better than that of patients who underwent palliative treatment (66 vs. 13.5%, p < 0.001). The postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 32 and 3%, respectively. Considering patients with failed CRT, curative surgery was the only factor prognostic of favourable OS in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Curative surgery after failure of CRT for ACC or AMC remains an effective treatment to improve survival in two-thirds of cases, resulting in high but manageable morbidity.

Surgically treated oesophageal cancer developed in a radiated field: Impact on peri-operative and long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to compare peri-operative and long-term outcomes from oesophageal cancer (EC) (i) that arose in a previously radiated field (ECRF) versus primary (PEC) and among ECRF patients and (ii) radiotherapy-induced (RIEC) versus non-radiotherapy-induced EC (NRIEC).

METHODS

Data were collected from 30 European centres from 2000 to 2010. Two thousand four hundred eighty nine EC patients surgically treated were included in the PEC group and 136 in the ECRF group, NRIEC group (n = 61) and RIEC group (n = 75). Propensity score matching analyses were used to compensate for differences in baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

Compared to the PEC group, the ECRF group was characterised by less use of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (0% versus 29.5%; P < 0.001), less pathological stage III/IV (31.6% versus 39.2%, P = 0.036), greater incidence of R1/2 margins (21.3% versus 10.9%; P < 0.001), increased in-hospital mortality (14.0% versus 7.1%; P = 0.003) and overall morbidity (68.4% versus 56.4%, P = 0.006). After matching, 5-year overall (28.8% versus 50.5%; hazard ratio [HR] = 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15-2.04; P = 0.003) and event-free (32.2% versus 42.5%; HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.18-2.05; P = 0.002) survivals were significantly reduced in the ECRF group. There were no significant differences in incidence or pattern of tumour recurrence. Comparing RIEC and NRIEC groups, there were no significant differences in short- or long-term outcomes before and after matching.

CONCLUSIONS

ECRF is associated with poorer long-term survival related to a reduced utilisation of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and an increased incidence of tumour margin involvement at surgery. Outcomes appear to be dictated by the limitations related to previous radiotherapy administration more than the radiotherapy-induced carcinogenesis.

Prognostic factors of hemorrhagic complications after oxaliplatin-based hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Toward routine preoperative dosage of Von Willebrand factor?

BACKGROUND

Oxaliplatin-based hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC-ox) induces specific morbidity with hemorrhagic complications (HC). The aim of this study was to identify preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative HC predictive factors after HIPEC-ox.

METHODS

A prospective single center study that included all consecutive patients treated with curative-intent HIPEC-ox, whatever the origin of peritoneal disease, was conducted. All patients underwent systematic blood tests exploring primary hemostasis and endothelial activation before surgical incision (D0) and on postoperative days 2 (POD2) and 5 (POD5).

RESULTS

Between May 2012 and August 2015, 47 patients were enrolled in the study. The overall HC rate was 38%. Major morbidity was significantly higher in patients with HC. Patients presenting HC were significantly more often affected with pseudomyxoma peritonei and had less preoperative chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis showed that a higher plasmatic level of Von Willebrand factor antigen at D0 (D0 VWF:Ag) was a protective predictive factor for HC (p = 0.049, HR: 0.97 CI 95% [0.94-1.00]). A D0 VWF:Ag level below 138% had a sensitivity of 87.5%, a specificity of 67% and an area under the curve of 80.3% (CI 95% [66.5-94], p < 0.01) for predicting HC.

CONCLUSIONS

Through the identification of prognostic factors, this study highlighted a subgroup of patients with low risk of HC after HIPEC-ox. Based on these results, we propose a routine preoperative dosage of VWF that would help the surgeon to select the most suitable patients for HIPEC-ox.

Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Carcinomatosis in the Elderly: A Case-Controlled, Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to identify factors associated with morbidity and mortality in patients older than 70 years who underwent cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC).

BACKGROUND

Major surgery is associated with higher morbidity and mortality in elderly patients. For PC, CRS and HIPEC is the only current potential curative therapy, but the risks inherent to this patient population have called its benefits into question.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed a multi-center database from 1989 to 2015. All patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC for PC were selected and patients older than 70 years were matched 1:4 with a younger cohort according to cancer origin, peritoneal cancer index (PCI), and completeness of cytoreduction. Major morbidity and mortality were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 2328 patients, 188 patients older than aged 70 years were matched with 704 younger patients. Patients older than aged 70 years demonstrated a higher American Society of Anesthesiologist score (≥ASA III 10.8 vs. 6.6 %, p = 0.008). There was no difference in overall 90-day morbidity (≥70: 45.7 % vs. <70: 44.5 %; p = 0.171); however, patients older than 70 years had significantly more cardiovascular complications (13.8 vs. 9.2 %, p = 0.044). Differences between the older and younger cohorts failed to reach significance for 90-day mortality (5.4 and 2.7 %, respectively; p = 0.052), and failure-to-rescue (11.6 and 6.1 %, respectively; p = 0.078). In multivariate analysis, PCI > 7 (95 % CI 1.051-5.798, p = 0.038) and HIPEC duration (95 % CI 1.106-6.235, p = 0.028) were independent factors associated with morbidity in elderly patients.

CONCLUSIONS

CRS and HIPEC appear feasible for selected patients older than aged 70 years, albeit with a higher risk of medical complications associated with increased mortality.

Diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: Evaluation of systemic chemotherapy with comprehensive treatment through the RENAPE Database: Multi-Institutional Retrospective Study

PURPOSE

Diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) is a severe disease with mainly locoregional evolution. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) is the reported treatment with the longest survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of perioperative systemic chemotherapy strategies on survival and postoperative outcomes in patients with DMPM treated with curative intent with CRS-HIPEC, using a multi-institutional database: the French RENAPE network.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 1991 to 2014, 126 DMPM patients underwent CRS-HIPEC at 20 tertiary centres. The population was divided into four groups according to perioperative treatment: only neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NA), only adjuvant chemotherapy (ADJ), perioperative chemotherapy (PO) and no chemotherapy before or after CRS-HIPEC (NoC).

RESULTS

All groups (NA: n = 42; ADJ: n = 16; PO: n = 16; NoC: n = 48) were comparable regarding clinicopathological data and main DMPM prognostic factors. After a median follow-up of 61 months, the 5-year overall survival (OS) was 40%, 67%, 62% and 56% in NA, ADJ, PO and NoC groups, respectively (P = 0.049). Major complications occurred for 41%, 45%, 35% and 41% of patients from NA, ADJ, PO and NoC groups, respectively (P = 0.299). In multivariate analysis, NA was independently associated with worse OS (hazard ratio, 2.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-4.94; P = 0.033).

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study suggests that adjuvant chemotherapy may delay recurrence and improve survival and that NA may impact negatively the survival for patients with DMPM who underwent CRS-HIPEC with curative intent. Upfront CRS and HIPEC should be considered when achievable, waiting for stronger level of scientific evidence.