Individual participant data pooled-analysis of risk factors for recurrence after neoadjuvant radiotherapy and transanal local excision of rectal cancer: the PARTTLE study

BACKGROUND

An organ-preserving strategy may be a valid alternative in the treatment of selected patients with rectal cancer after neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Preoperative assessment of the risk for tumor recurrence is a key component of surgical planning. The aim of the present study was to increase the current knowledge on the risk factors for tumor recurrence.

METHODS

The present study included individual participant data of published studies on rectal cancer surgery. The literature was reviewed according to according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Individual Participant Data checklist (PRISMA-IPD) guidelines. Series of patients, whose data were collected prospectively, having neoadjuvant radiotherapy followed by transanal local excision for rectal cancer were reviewed. Three independent series of univariate/multivariate binary logistic regression models were estimated for the risk of local, systemic and overall recurrence, respectively.

RESULTS

We identified 15 studies, and 7 centers provided individual data on 517 patients. The multivariate analysis showed higher local and overall recurrences for ypT3 stage (OR 4.79; 95% CI 2.25-10.16 and OR 6.43 95% CI 3.33-12.42), tumor size after radiotherapy > 10 mm (OR 5.86 95% CI 2.33-14.74 and OR 3.14 95% CI 1.68-5.87), and lack of combined chemotherapy (OR 3.68 95% CI 1.78-7.62 and OR 2.09 95% CI 1.10-3.97), while ypT3 was the only factor correlated with systemic recurrence (OR 5.93). The analysis of survival curves shows that the overall survival is associated with ypT and not with cT.

CONCLUSIONS

Local excision should be offered with caution after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy to selected patients with rectal cancers, who achieved a good response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Conservative surgical treatment in rectal cancer after complete pathological response to neoadjuvant treatment. Prospective observational study

In 2012 we started a prospective observational study at San Giovanni Addolorata Hospital in Rome for patients with rectal cancer with complete response to neoadjuvant therapy (nCRT). In our, IRB approved protocol, patients are evaluated at time 0 by physical, endoscopic, pathological and radiological examinations. 6 weeks after completion of nCRT they are re-evaluated. In case of persistence or progression of disease patients undergo surgery with Total Mesorectal Excision. In case of complete or major clinical response they are re-evaluated at 12 weeks and subjected to transanal surgical excision to confirm complete pathological response (pCR). If tumor is found in the transanal excision specimen the patient is operated upon whereas patients with pCR are followed up at 3 months interval.

[Comparison between two different mesh fixation methods in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair: tacker vs. Synthetic cyanoacrylate glue.]

AIM

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the results of two different mesh fixation methods in laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal hernioplasty (TAPP): tacker vs. synthetic cyanoacrylate glue.

METHODS

The study group includes 70 patients with bilateral and monolateral recurrent inguinal hernia undergoing transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP) in the period 2011-2013. A polypropylene mesh was fixed in group A (N.=35) with titanium tacks (EndoUniversal stapler, Covidien) or in group B (N.=35) with synthetic cyanoacrylate glue (Glubran-2, GEM). Patient outcome was assessed by the following variables: sex, mean age, ASA score, intra- and postoperative morbidity, hospitalization, postoperative acute and chronic pain, recurrence rate. The observation period was 24 months, with a mean follow-up of 10.5 months (range, 1-23) for Group A and 11 months (range, 2-24) for Group B.

RESULTS

No difference between the two groups was observed with respect to mean operative time and hospitalization. In all cases, surgery was successfully concluded laparoscopically. Intraoperative complications occurred in 1 patient of the group A and consisted of a urinary bladder injury, which was immediately sutured. Postoperative complication rate was 5.7% (4 patients, of whom 3 in group A and 1 in group B). In each group we detected one recurrence within 6 (group A) and 18 months (group B) postsurgery; both patients were treated with a re-TAPP. Postoperative pain at 6 months from surgery, measured by visual analogue score (VAS), was reported by 4 patients in the group A and in no case of the group B (P=0.04).

CONCLUSION

Data from this study demonstrate the advantages of synthetic cyanoacrylate glue for mesh fixation in laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair, compared to titanium tacks. The use of this surgical glue was associated with a significantly reduced risk for developing chronic groin pain and a shortened hospital stay. Nevertheless, further studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm our encouraging results.

Transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialisation with mucopexy versus stapler haemorrhoidopexy: a randomised trial with long-term follow-up

INTRODUCTION

The present study aimed to compare the long-term results of transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialisation (THD) with mucopexy and stapler haemorrhoidopexy (SH) in treatment of grade III and IV haemorrhoids.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty-four patients with grade III and IV haemorrhoids were randomised to receive THD with mucopexy (n=63) or SH (n=61). A telephone interview with a structured questionnaire was performed at a median follow-up of 42 months. The primary outcome was the occurrence of recurrent prolapse. Patients, investigators and those assessing the outcomes were blinded to group assignment.

RESULTS

Recurrence was present in 21 patients (16.9%). It occurred in 16 (25.4%) in the THD group and 5 (8.2%) in the SH group (p=0.021). A second surgical procedure was performed in eight patients (6.4%). Reoperation was open haemorrhoidectomy in seven cases and SH in one case. Five patients out of six in the THD group and both patients in the SH group requiring repeat surgery presented with grade IV haemorrhoids. No significant difference was found between the two groups with respect to symptom control. Patient satisfaction for the procedure was 73.0% after THD and 85.2% after SH (p=0.705). Postoperative pain, return to normal activities and complications were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

The recurrence rate after THD with mucopexy is significantly higher than after SH at long-term follow-up although results are similar with respect to symptom control and patient satisfaction. A definite risk of repeat surgery is present when both procedures are performed, especially for grade IV haemorrhoids.

[Pancreaticoduodenectomy for adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head and papilla of Vater]

AIM

The authors report their consecutive experience in the surgical management of adenocarcinoma (ADC) of head of pancreas and papilla of Vater, in order to review the available literature.

METHODS

One hundred and seventy cases (131 in the head of pancreas and 39 in the papilla of Vater) were operated upon for ADC by radical pancreaticoduodenectomy in the period 1972-2005. The stomach was resected in 81 patients (47.7%) and the pylorus was preserved in 89 (52.3%). Follow-up was completed in all patients.

RESULTS

Postoperative morbidity was reported in 66 patients (38.8%) and pancreatic fistulae were observed in 39 patients (22.9%). Postoperative mortality was 9.4% (16 patients), but in the last 10 years it was reduced to 4.1% (4/97 patients). Five-year survival for pancreatic ADC was 75% in stage IA, 43.9% in stage IB and IIA, 3.2% in stage IIB. In ADC of the papilla of Vater, for the same stages, the 5-year survival rates were 54.4%, 51.4%, 0% and 37.5%, respectively. None of the III-staged patients survived at a 5-year follow-up in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative studies should include laparoscopy with cytological examination of peritoneal lavage, while preoperative biliary drainage is rarely indicated in case of obstructive jaundice. The Wirsung duct has to be anastomosed directly to the jejunum and the pancreatic section needs to be checked. Extended lymphadenectomy, in addition to the standard peripancreatic excision, is seldom indicated, there is no controindication to pylorus preservation and Wirsung drainage is not necessary. This operation should be performed in Centres with substantial experience.

Outcomes for early rectal cancer managed with transanal endoscopic microsurgery: a 5-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term risk of local and distant recurrence as well as the survival of patients with early rectal cancer treated using transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM).

METHODS

The study reviewed 69 patients with Tis/T1/T2 rectal cancer treated using full-thickness excision between 1991 and 1999. The pathology T-stages included 25 Tis, 23 T1, and 21 T2. The median follow-up period was 6.5 years (range 5-10.2 years).

RESULTS

The overall local recurrence rate was 8.7%. The 5-year local recurrence rate was 8% for Tis, 8.6% for T1, and 9.5% for T2. All six patients with recurrence were managed surgically. The 5-year disease-specific survival rate was 100% for Tis, 100% for T1, and 70% for T2. The overall cancer-related mortality rate was 7.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

After local excision of early rectal cancer, a substantial local recurrence rate is observed. Patients with recurrent Tis/T1 cancers who undergo a salvage operation may achieve good long-term outcome. Local treatment without adjuvant therapy for T2 rectal cancers appears inadequate.

The laparoscopic approach with antireflux surgery is superior to the thoracoscopic approach for the treatment of esophageal achalasia. Experience of a single surgical unit

BACKGROUND

Since its first description in the early 1990s, minimally invasive Heller myotomy has become the treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia. We report the experience of a single unit with thoracoscopic Heller myotomy (THM) and laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) and we analyze the short- and long-term surgical outcomes in patients treated by each of the two approaches.

METHODS

We evaluated retrospectively 33 patients who underwent surgical treatment for achalasia. Sixteen patients underwent THM without an antireflux procedure, and 17 patients underwent LHM and partial anterior fundoplication (n = 10) or closure of the angle of His (n = 7).

RESULTS

Mean operative time was significantly shorter for LHM than for THM (150 vs 222 min, respectively) (p = 0.0001). Mean hospital stay was significantly shorter after LHM than after THM (2.0 +/- 1.0 vs 5.1 +/- 2.2 days, respectively) (p = 0.0001). Six of 16 patients (37.5%) in the THM group experienced persistent or recurrent dysphagia compared to one of 17 patients (5.8%) in the LHM group (p = 0.04). Heartburn developed in five patients (31.2%) after THM and in one patient (5.8%) after LHM (p = 0.07). Regurgitation developed in four patients (25%) after THM and in one patient (5.8%) after LHM (p = 0.149). Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) basal pressure decreased significantly from 30.1 +/- 5.07 to 15.3 +/- 2.1 after THM and from 32.1 +/- 5.9 to 10.5 +/- 1.7 after LHM (p = 0.0001). Mean esophageal diameter was significantly reduced after LHM compared to THM (from 54.5 +/- 5.7 mm to 27.1 +/- 3.3 mm vs 50.8 +/- 7.6 mm to 37.2 +/- 6.9 mm, respectively) (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In our experience, LHM is associated with a shorter operative time and a shorter hospital stay, and it is superior to THM in relieving dysphagia. LHM with partial anterior fundoplication should be considered the treatment of choice for achalasia.

[Local resection in treatment of rectal tumors]

We treated 160 patients (96 males, 64 females) with a mean age of 66 +/- 12 years. 63 patients presented adenomas (AD) and 97 adenocarcinomas (ADC). In the ADC group 32 patients received preoperative chemoradiation (RT + CT), and 15 postoperative RT. In 7 patients with RT + CT the tumor disappeared. No hospital mortality was recorded. Morbidity was observed in 13% of AD group and 18% of ADC group. Hospital stay was less than 7 days for 72% of patients. Stages were: 10 pTis, 40 pT1, 29 pT2, 18 pT3. Recurrence was observed in 7 (11%) of AD and 23/97 ADC (24%). 0 pTis, 12% pT1, 24% pT2, 61% pT3. No patient with RT + CT and negative margins had recurrence with a minimum follow-up of 2 years (11 patients). Five-year cumulative survival was 100% for pTis, 92% for pT1, 75% for pT2 and 69% for pT3.

Angiogenesis as a prognostic indicator in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis has gained wide acceptance as a reliable prognostic factor in several solid tumors. However, to date, experience in pancreatic adenocarcinoma is limited.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Specimens from 45 patients radically operated on at our departments from 1988 to 1997 were stained immunohistochemically with the antibodies anti-mutant p53, anti-bcl2, anti Ki67 and anti-CD31. All the slides were reviewed by the same pathologist without knowledge of the patients' outcome.

RESULTS

Mutant p53, Ki67 index and vessel count were significantly related to tumoral behaviour and patients' outcome. Among patients with nodal involvement (Stage III), cumulative survival between hypovascular and hypervascular subgroups differed significantly (p = 0.03). Angiogenesis was independent from TNM in assessing the patients'prognosis at COX analysis (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

In patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, angiogenesis is a reliable indicator of tumor extension, lymph node status and survival. Its evaluation as a common procedure may contribute to a further improvement in the management of these patients and to a proper selection of those who could benefit from different follow-up protocols or adjuvant treatment.

Surgery of rectal tumors

The results of surgical treatment of carcinoma of the rectum have been improved in the last decades, because of the availability of stapling device, the increasing use of adjuvant or neoadjuvant treatment and the development of endoluminal surgery. Herein we present our thirty years experience in the treatment of rectal carcinoma. It deals with 690 patients operated on, 602 with conventional surgery (87%) and 88 with local excision (13%). As regards the first subgroup, in 63 patients (10.4%) the operation was considered palliative, because there were either hepatic metastases or residual tumor; 21% of the whole number had tumor in the upper third, 40% in the middle third and 39% in the lower third. Radical resection was performed in 538 patients (89.6%); 53% of the patients underwent anterior resection and 47% underwent abdomino-perineal resection. Ninety percent of tumors located in the lower rectum were managed with abdomino-perineal resection and 97% of tumors located in the upper rectum were managed with anterior resection. Tumor of the middle rectum were treated indifferently with anterior resection or abdomino-perineal resection. Mortality was 4%; the morbidity was 33%. No statistical difference was found between anterior resection and Miles operation. Mean follow up is 6.8 years. Local recurrence was observed in 17% of patients and was more frequent after Miles operation than after anterior resection. The 5- and 10-year survival is respectively 53% and 43%; according to staging, 5-year survival is 68% for stage I, 64% for stage II, 39% for stage III and 9% for stage IV (p < 0.0001). As regard local excision, lesions usually arised from lower or middle rectum and were less than 3 cm. in the maximum diameter. Sixty per cent of patients received adjuvant or neoadjuvant treatment; we observed complete response with disappearance of the tumor in 28% of T2 patients. The toxicity was low: 3% of patients developed erithema and 21% different grades of proctitis. Mean duration of operation was 179 +/- 98 min' and hospitalization was less than 7 days in most of the patients. No mortality was recorded, while morbidity was 16% (14 patients). On pathological examination we observed 10 Tis (11%), 32 T1 (36%)28 T2 (32%) and 18 T3 (21%). Mean follow up is 3.3 years; local recurrence was related to staging and was respectively 0%, 16%, 25% and 61% (p = 0.0008). We did not observe local recurrence whenever T2 patients had neoadjuvant treatment and negative margins at i.o. pathological examination. Our findings show that anterior resection represents the most appropriate treatment for tumors of the upper and middle rectum; Miles operation should be reserved to tumors located within 5 cm. from the anal verge. Small tumors, confined to the rectal wall, can be properly treated with local excision; local treatment should be always associated to preoperative chemoradiation in tumors involving the muscular layer of the rectal wall.

[Antibiotic prophylaxis in the surgical treatment of inguinal hernia: need or habit?]

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic antibiotics are recommended for clean-contaminated and selected contaminated surgery. In clean surgery antibiotics are suggested if the operation involves the insertion of prosthetic devices and a potential infection is expected to cause serious morbidity or mortality. Inguinal hernia repair is a clean operation, infections are rare; they can usually be cured without removing the prosthesis and recurrence is uncommon even after removal of the mesh. Aim of the study is to evaluate whether the lack of antimicrobial prophylaxis increases the risk of postoperative infections in patients treated for groin hernia, compared to those treated with prophylaxis.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-eight patients underwent inguinal hernia repair with mesh: 64 patients (43%) received 2 g cefotaxime by intravenous bolus about 30 minutes before the operation, 84 patients (57%) did not receive any antimicrobic prophylaxis. Mean follow-up was 13 months (range 1-31 months) for both groups.

RESULTS

We did not observe any major complication. Among both groups, no patient had developed infection at one week and one month after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

In personal experience, any advantage in terms of prevention of infections with antibiotic prophylaxis in patients operated on for groin hernia has been observed. A review of the literature showed no general agreement on this subject with different risk of infections in different trials. A new prospective randomized trial is necessary to clarify this topic.

Selection, establishment and characterization of cell lines derived from a chemically-induced rat mammary heterogeneous tumor, by flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry

In order to isolate, characterize, and establish culture cell lines with different diagnostic and prognostic significance, derived from multiclonal neoplasms, a ductal infiltrating mammary tumor was induced in rats by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. Clones with different DNA/protein content, being the DI of 1.16, 1.30, and 1.60, respectively, were observed in the primary tumor. Biparametric flow cytometry suggested that the clone at 1.30 is made up of two subpopulations with different protein and slightly different DNA contents. The culture, after a few passages, exhibited the presence of aneuploid cells and the absence of diploid components, demonstrating that only tumor cells survived. The limiting dilution method gave rise to four lines with DI of 1.16, 1.25, 1.30, and 1.50; a mean chromosome number of 45, 46, 47, and 88, respectively; and different morphological and ultrastructural features. These characteristics were stable during the experimental procedure, that is, for about 20 passages. Conversely, the detection of cytoskeletal proteins indicated that the tumor epithelial cells underwent early dedifferentiation into sarcoma-like cells showing markers of stromal cell type and thus exhibiting phenotypic instability in vitro, a feature reported in many advanced human breast cancers in vivo. In conclusion, this cellular model represents the in vivo situation and appears suitable for in vitro studies of tumor cell characteristics and might be used to predict clinical behavior.

In vitro proliferation and in vivo malignancy of cell lines simultaneously derived from a chemically-induced heterogeneous rat mammary tumor

Identification of clones in primary tumors responsible for proliferation, invasion, and metastasis was carried out. Four different aneuploid established cell lines derived from a ductal infiltrating mammary rat tumor induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene were studied for proliferative and growth features in vitro and for tumorigenic and metastatic potential in vivo in nude mice. Clones, named RM1, RM2, RM3, and RM4, were characterized by different proliferative activity. Clone RM1 showed the highest proliferative activity by both tritiated thymidine incorporation and S-phase flow cytometry, followed by clone RM4. Conversely, clones RM2 and RM3 showed a lower proliferation rate. Growth-promoting activity, tested on 3T3 Swiss cells, was high in all clones, although RM1 showed significantly lower growth factors-releasing activity. Nude mice tumorigenesis demonstrated a strong tumor induction of line RM1 (100% of the mice after 47 +/- 7 d) and a slightly lower tumor induction of line RM4 (70% of the mice after 69 +/- 9 d). Line RM3 showed tumor induction in 40% of the mice after 186 +/- 16 d. Lines RM2 showed no tumor induction. Metastasis occurred in mice treated with line RM1 only. Therefore, tumorigenesis and metastasis correlate with proliferation but not with the release of growth factors. In conclusion, flow cytometry monitoring of clones from heterogeneous primary tumors proved to be a suitable model for the study of in vivo malignancy and in vitro proliferation.

[Transverse minilaparotomy as an access route in right colon disease: a valid alternative to midline laparotomy]

AIMS OF THE STUDY

1. To evaluate the feasibility and appropriateness of transverse right minilaparotomy for right colectomy and lymphadenectomy. 2. To identify the clinical advantages, if any, of this access route compared to the more traditional midline incision.

PATIENTS

44 patients with right colon adenocarcinoma undergoing colonic resection via a transverse or midline laparotomy.

METHODS

The transverse incision starts 1 cm above the umbilicus, running from the midline to the anterior axillary line.

RESULTS

17 (39%) transverse minilaparotomies and 27 (51%) midline laparotomies were performed, respectively. The mean operative time was 107 min for patients with the transverse incision and 157 min. for those with midline laparotomy. Twelve out of 17 patients (70%) with the transverse incision experienced no or only mild pain as against 11 out of 27 patients (41%) with midline laparotomy. Bowel function was slightly faster in the first group of patients, though the difference was not statistically significant. Forty-seven percent of patients with transverse minilaparotomy were discharged within 8 days postoperatively as against 4% with midline laparotomy (P = 0.001). No major complications occurred in the first group, while 2 patients (7%) operated on via the midline laparotomy experienced complications (haemorrhage, deep venous thrombosis).

CONCLUSION

Although this is a preliminary study in only 44 patients, our results support the idea that transverse minilaparotomy is a less traumatic access route to the right colon, in addition to offering an adequate exposure of the operative field, faster postoperative recovery and a shorter hospital stay. We believe it to be a good alternative to midline laparotomy for right colon surgery.

Basic fibroblast growth factor and myointimal hyperplasia after experimental polytetrafluoroethylene arterial grafting

OBJECTIVE

To assess the role of polyclonal antibodies to basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in inhibiting myointimal hyperplasia after insertion of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts in rats.

DESIGN

Experimental study.

SETTING

University laboratory, Italy.

ANIMALS

24 inbred Lewis rats.

INTERVENTIONS

A segment of PTFE I cm long was interposed in the abdominal aorta. The animals were randomised in two groups, n = 12 in each. The first were given polyclonal antibodies to bFGF at the time of operation, and for the first two postoperative days; and the second were given non-specific IgG at the same time periods.

MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES

Two animals died during the immediate postoperative period of anaesthetic complications. 12 animals (6 in each group) were killed 7 days postoperatively (24 hours after injection of 5-bromo-deoxyuridine BrdU) to assess smooth muscle cell proliferation. The remaining 10 animals (5 in each group) were killed after 1 month to assess the degree of anastomotic myointimal hyperplasia.

RESULTS

Antibodies to bFGF resulted in less smooth muscle cell proliferation at the anastomoses as well as anastomotic myointimal hyperplasia. Smooth muscle cell proliferation was reduced to about half in animals treated with anti-bFGF antibodies. Neointimal thickness was reduced in treated animals.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that after PTFE arterial grafting there is increased production of bFGF at the anastomotic regions that leads to smooth muscle cell proliferation and formation of myointimal hyperplasia. Agents that reduce the production of bFGF may also reduce the development of myointimal hyperplasia after PTFE arterial grafting.

Oxidised LDL (OxLDL) induces production of platelet derived growth factor AA (PDGF AA) from aortic smooth muscle cells

OBJECTIVES

Elevated concentrations of oxidised low density lipoproteins (OxLDL) are associated with accelerated atherogenesis. The aim of our study was to determine the effect of OxLDL on the proliferation rate and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) AA production on aortic smooth muscle cells. High density lipoproteins (HDL), which are known to have a protective effect against atherosclerosis, were used as control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bovine aortic smooth muscle cells were grown in presence of increased concentrations of OxLDL and HDL and in presence of control medium culture (DMEM). Proliferation rate was assessed by 3H-thymidine uptake. PDGF AA production was determined by ELISA and Western Blot Analysis.

RESULTS

OxLDL increased the proliferation rate of aortic smooth muscle cells as compared to DMEM and HDL (p < 0.001). The mitogenic activity of OxLDL on smooth muscle cells was reduced adding anti-PDGF AA antibodies (p < 0.001). PDGF AA production by aortic smooth muscle cells was increased after exposure to OxLDL as compared to DMEM (p < 0.001). HDL significantly reduced the production of PDGF AA by aortic smooth muscle cells (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Part of the atherogenic effect of OxLDL is mediated through the autocrine production of PDGF AA from aortic smooth muscle cells.

The role of surgery in the treatment of primary gastric lymphoma

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to analyze the results of surgical treatment in early and advanced primary gastric lymphoma and to evaluate predictive factors for long-term outcome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 92 patients resected for primary gastric lymphoma was conducted. Sixty-eight (74%) patients underwent a curative resection 10 (11%) patients had palliative resection and 14 (15%) patients were deemed unresectable: 33 patients (36%) had a stage IE tumor, 12 (13%) stage IIE1, 22 (24%) IIE2 and 25 (27%) stage IVE.

RESULTS

Follow-up ranged from 1 to 336 months (means 44 +/- 70 months, median 18 months). Cumulative actuarial 10-year survival rate was 49.1%. Ten-year actuarial survival rates were 78.9% for stage IE and 100% for stage IIE1 whereas 5-years survival rates were 0% for stage IIE2 and 21.7% for stage IVE (P < 0.00001).

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment is the front line therapy for IE and IIE1 stages of primary gastric lymphoma.

[Sarcomatoid renal carcinoma. A case report]

Renal sarcomas are rare tumors. Prognosis is overall dismal. Adjuvant therapies should follow radical nephrectomy but no standardized regimen has been at present defined. We report a case of a patient affected by a sarcomatoid renal tumor to detect the best therapeutic approach to this rare tumor.

Changes in hepatic portal resistance and in liver morphology during regeneration: in vitro study in rats

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of liver regeneration on hepatic portal resistance and on the morphology of liver sinusoids.

DESIGN

Experimental in vitro study.

SETTING

University laboratory, Hong Kong.

ANIMALS

10 Groups of 6 male Sprague Dawley rats each.

INTERVENTIONS

Two thirds hepatectomy, with subsequent re-hepatectomy for measurements 0, 1, 3, 7, 21 and 56 days later. Perfusion of isolated livers and histomorphometry.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Hepatic portal resistance and measurement of width and length of sinusoids.

RESULTS

Liver weight was restored within 7 days of hepatectomy. Hepatic portal resistance/g of liver increased, reaching a maximum at 3 and 7 days of hepatectomy, and subsequently returned to initial values after 56 days. Width of sinusoids decreased to a minimum within 3 to 7 days of hepatectomy, and subsequently returned close to initial values within 56 days of hepatectomy. The changes in hepatic portal resistance occurred in phase with the changes in the width of liver sinusoids.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a transient increase in hepatic portal resistance/g of liver during regeneration; transient narrowing of sinusoids may contribute to this change.

Renal carcinoma with a solitary synchronous contralateral adrenal metastasis: a case report

A case of synchronous contralateral adrenal metastasis of renal cell carcinoma occurring in a 64-year-old male is reported herein. The patient underwent a left transperitoneal nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma and right adrenalectomy. The postoperative course was uneventful. To our knowledge this is the 14th case of contralateral adrenal metastasis of renal cell carcinoma in the international literature.

[Nodular fasciitis: a case arising from the splenius cervicis muscle]

An unusual case of nodular fasciitis, arising from the splenius muscle, is presented. This uncommon lesion is always benign, but a local spread in the surrounding muscular tissue is possible. Through a Literature review, the main pathological, clinical and therapeutic features are discussed.

Growth factors and myointimal hyperplasia in experimental aortic allografts

OBJECTIVES

To analyse the role of growth factors (platelet derived growth factor, PDGF; basic fibroblast growth factor, bFGF; interleukin 1, IL-1) in the genesis of myointimal hyperplasia in arterial allografts.

MATERIALS

Two groups of experiments were performed: isografts and allografts. The isograft group consisted of 15 inbred Lewis rats in which a 1 cm long segment of aorta was inserted as an abdominal aortic interposition graft. The aortic segments were obtained from syngenic Lewis rats. The allograft group consisted of 15 inbred Lewis rats, in which a 1 cm long segment of aorta was interposed at the abdominal aorta level. The aortic segments were obtained from allogenic Brown-Norway rats.

CHIEF OUTCOME MEASURES

The animals were killed 4 weeks after surgery and were analysed by morphometric analysis (n = 3 for each group). In addition, production of PDGF, bFGF and IL-1 by aortic segments (n = 12 for each group) in organ culture was assessed.

MAIN RESULTS

Allografts had more myointimal hyperplasia, than isografts (p < 0.05). PDGF and bFGF production, generally considered to be the cause of myointimal hyperplasia, was not increased in allografts. IL-1 production was higher in allografts (p < 0.001).

MAIN CONCLUSIONS

Myointimal hyperplasia in aortic allografts is dependent on growth factors produced by the graft itself. These growth factors are different from PDGF and bFGF that generally have been implicated in the genesis of naturally occurring myointimal hyperplasia and atherosclerosis. IL-1 may have a principal role in the genesis of myointimal hyperplasia in arterial allografts.

Assessment of non-acid esophageal reflux: comparison between long-term reflux aspiration test and fiberoptic bilirubin monitoring

Reflux esophagitis may result from the action of both acid and non-acid agents. The aim of this study was to test a new system able to measure the quantity of the bilirubin contained in the esophageal lumen. The analysis of esophageal reflux composition was conducted in two phases. In the first bile and pancreatic enzyme, concentration of 136 fluid samples obtained with ambulatory esophageal long-term reflux aspiration test were measured. For the second, the total bilirubin content of each sample was measured in vitro with a fiberoptic probe (Bilitec 2000, Synetics Medical Inc., Sweden). Studies were performed on 48 subjects: 43 patients with esophageal reflux and five healthy volunteers. The results of both techniques were then compared. Higher concentration of bile and pancreatic enzymes were found in esophageal fluid samples of patients with endoscopic esophagitis. Bile and pancreatic enzyme concentrations of esophageal fluid samples were higher in patients after gastrectomy compared to patients with intact stomachs. There was a significant correlation between the total bilirubin concentration of fluid specimens and the fiberoptic probe reading of bilirubin (r = 0.72, P < 0.001). The presence of bilirubin and bile acids within the esophageal refluxate can be determined reliably with continuous fiberoptic measurement. The correlation between total bilirubin content and the concentrations of pancreatic enzymes contained in the esophageal refluxate suggests that bilirubin is a good tracer for non-acid, duodenal or intestinal reflux in the esophagus.

[Localized fibroma: a rare tumor of pleural origin]

Localized fibroma represents a rare entity arising from the pleura. Currently its histogenesis and clinical behaviour are still controversial. A case of a 64-year-old male is here presented; clinical and histopathological features are then discussed on the basis of a review of the Literature. At present, an en-bloc resection of the tumor, including wide margins of the surrounding lung tissue, seems to be the most appropriate surgical choice.

Growth factor production by arterial and vein grafts: relevance to coronary artery bypass grafting

BACKGROUND

Occlusion caused by myointimal hyperplasia, atherosclerosis, or both is the main reason for late failure of saphenous vein coronary artery bypass grafts. On the other hand, internal mammary artery grafts are usually spared from atherosclerosis. Evidence exists that platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) are involved in the genesis of myointimal hyperplasia and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess the production of PDGF and bFGF by arterial and vein grafts.

METHODS

In 20 inbred Lewis rats alpha 1 cm long segment of arterial graft was interposed at the level of the abdominal aorta. In a control group of 20 Lewis rats alpha 1 cm long segment of vein graft was implanted at the level of the abdominal aorta. Animals were killed 4 weeks after operation, and the grafts were studied in serum-free organ culture to assess the production of PDGF and bFGF. RESULTS. Arterial grafts produced a smaller quantity of PDGF and bFGF than vein grafts (p < 0.01) Higher mitogenic activity was present in the conditioned media from vein grafts than in the conditioned media from arterial grafts (p < 0.001). A large amount of myointimal hyperplasia was present in all vein grafts.

CONCLUSIONS

This phenomenon could explain the rarity of atherosclerotic changes in internal mammary coronary bypass grafts.

[Immunotherapy of solid tumors. Clinical studies]

In this study we analyze the major clinical trials of immunotherapy for solid tumors. Much progress have been made in reducing the side effects and the percentage of patients which respond has increased. In immunotherapy with lymphokines the innovative orientation consist in the administration of low doses or decreasing doses and by alternative ways as regards infusion and systemically. The use of immunotherapy to stimulate the specific immune response seems to represent the most promising field from a therapeutic point of view. Studies in the field of in vitro expansion of immunocompetent cells have obtained results in the simplification of the technique and in an increase of its efficiency; moreover, at the moment, many clinical trials are involving specific immunotherapy using autologous neoplastic cells altered with adjuvant substance and the results are promising with very few side effects. In the near future immunotherapy with specific tumor antigens is sure it will play a major role.

[Immunotherapy of solid tumors. Current status and prospects]

Immunotherapy is the most recent therapeutic strategy in the treatment of cancer. It has not yet achieved an elevated curative efficiency and a wide clinical application. Nevertheless the possibilities of improvement seem very promising. The knowledge of the immune response mechanisms and the first clinical trials have determined a more efficient immunotherapy. Here we will critically analyze current immunotherapeutic strategies by reviewing the latest and the most important experimental works. The latest protocols of immunotherapy have been aimed to be more integrated in the physiological immune response schemes. The orientation of the experimental works have been changed from non specific immunotherapy using lymphokines to immunotherapy with specific lymphocytes expanded in vitro and, finally, the active specific immunotherapy in vivo by modificated tumoral vaccines or by variously manipulated tumoral antigens.

Progression and regression of myointimal hyperplasia in experimental vein grafts depends on platelet-derived growth factor and basic fibroblastic growth factor production

PURPOSE

The factors that lead to myointimal hyperplasia (MH) in arterial vein grafts (AVGs) are unknown. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and basic fibroblastic growth factor (bFGF) are two powerful mitogens for smooth muscle cells that have been implicated in the genesis of MH. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between progression and regression of MH and production of PDGF and bFGF in experimental vein grafts.

MATERIALS

In 64 inbred Lewis rats, a 1-cm segment of inferior vena cava was inserted at the level of the abdominal aorta. The segments of inferior vena cava were obtained from syngenic rats. In 48 rats, the AVG was explanted 3 days (n = 8), 7 days (n = 8), 4 weeks (n = 24), and 12 weeks (n = 8) after surgery. In 16 rats the vein graft was explanted after being in the arterial system for 4 weeks and was reimplanted as a venous-venous bypass in syngenic Lewis rats. Reimplanted vein grafts (RVGs) were explanted 2 weeks (n = 8) and 8 weeks (n = 8) later. Grafts were analyzed by light and electron microscopy, morphometry, and histochemistry, and were put in organ culture to assess PDGF and bFGF production and mitogenic activity.

RESULTS

We observed MH formation in AVGs and MH regression in RVGs (p < 0.001).PDGF and bFGF production correlated with the degree of MH (p < 0.01). Histochemistry showed PDGF and bFGF in the area of MH in AVG, which disappeared in RVG. Conditioned media from AVG had greater mitogenic activity than RVG or control veins.

CONCLUSION

MH formation and regression in experimental vein grafts correlate with PDGF and bFGF production.

Growth factor production after polytetrafluoroethylene and vein arterial grafting: an experimental study

PURPOSE

Occlusion caused by myointimal hyperplasia appears to be the main reason of late failure of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) arterial bypass grafts. Evidence exists that growth factors are involved in the genesis of myointimal hyperplasia. The aim of this study was to assess the release of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and basic fibroblastic growth factor (bFGF) by PTFE arterial grafts.

METHODS

In 15 inbred Lewis rats a 1 cm long segment of PTFE was interposed at the level of the abdominal aorta. In a control of another 15 Lewis rats in a vein graft was implanted at the level of the abdominal aorta. Animals were killed four weeks after implantation and the tissue was studied in organ culture for release of PDGF AA, PDGF BB, and bFGF.

RESULTS

PTFE grafts released a greater quantity of PDGF AA than did control vein grafts (28 +/- 4 ng/cm2/72 hr vs 7 +/- 2 ng/cm2/72 hr). Similarly, PTFE grafts released a greater quantity of bFGF than did arterial vein grafts (308 +/- 22 ng/cm(2)/72hr vs 204 +/- 20 ng/cm2/72 hr).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that PTFE arterial grafts released a high quantity of growth factor, which could explain, in part, the occurrence of distal anastomotic myointimal hyperplasia.

The degree of porosity influences the release of growth factors by healing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the degree of porosity on the release of growth factors (PDGF AA, PDGF BB, bFGF) by healing PTFE grafts.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Laboratory animal study.

MATERIALS

1 cm long segments of non-reinforced PTFE grafts (30 microns fibril length, 2 mm internal diameter, 0.39 mm thick) were placed as an abdominal aortic interposition in Lewis rats. Fifteen grafts served as control (Group A; porous grafts); in eight rats (Group B; non porous grafts) the PTFE graft was completely wrapped by a non-porous plastic envelope. Animals were killed 4 weeks after surgery.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The release of PDGF AA, PDGF BB and bFGF was assessed by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The release of PDGF AA, PDGF BB and bFGF was statistically higher in porous grafts. The only histological difference between the two groups was that porous PTFE grafts were invaded by many tufts of capillaries from the surrounding tissue, whereas this phenomenon was absent in non porous PTFE grafts.

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of porosity influences the release of growth factors by healing PTFE grafts. This fact may have implication in the endothelisation of PTFE grafts and in myointimal hyperplasia formation as well.

Local excision of rectal tumours with transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) is a novel technique, first introduced by Buess and coworkers in 1983 for the treatment of large sessile polyps of the rectum. Due to the excellent results the indication was then extended also for the removal of low risk early adenocarcinomas (pT1, G1-G2). TEM allows, by using an operative proctoscope of an outside diameter of only 4 cm., all the conventional surgical manoeuvers within the rectal lumen, up to 20 cm. from the anal verge. The Authors report a consecutive series of 53 patients submitted to TEM over a 37 month period; apart from 7 patients excluded for different reasons, postoperative diagnosis showed 30 adenocarcinomas (65.2%), 15 adenomas (32.6%) and 1 epidermoidal carcinoma (2.2%). The low recurrence rate observed both for adenomas (0%) and pT1 adenocarcinomas (9%) coupled with the optimum vision allowed by the 6-fold magnified stereoscopic view, make this technique the method of choice for selected patients with these kind of pathologies.

Systemic specific active immunotherapy for solid tumors. An overview about cancer vaccinetherapy

Augmentation of specific immunity is one of the most promising immunotherapeutical approaches against solid tumors. Protocols using autologous tumor cells or tumor associated antigens are easily performed and not charged by severe side effects. Recently some clinical trials suggested good results from immunotherapeutical protocols applied as an adjuvant to surgery in terms of disease free interval, survival and progression time in different stages. In this review the authors report the results of the most important clinical trials of vaccinetherapy in solid tumors. Little is known about the possibility of this new approach to oncology since we are at the real beginning of a new clinical treatment but in the considered trial its effectiveness seems to suggest a future wider application.

[Unusual location of hydatid cysts: clinical and therapeutic aspects]

Among patients treated for hydatidosis, unusual sites are observed in 5-30% of cases, with highest rates in endemic areas; on these basis during the diagnostic work up of masses arising from peritoneum, spleen, mediastinum, kidney and muscle, this possibility should be always taken into account. In fact, only a preoperative diagnosis allows a correct therapeutic approach, especially when synchronous lesions coexist. In this paper the Authors report their experience in the treatment of 66 (5.2%) hydatid cysts developed in unusual sites, out of 1275 patients treated for hydatidosis from 1949 to 1993. They discuss the main pathogenetic and clinical features as well as the therapeutic management of these atypical lesions.

Transanal endoscopic anorectal mucosectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis. A case report

In patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) who are undergoing ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA), transanal mucosectomy can be performed without excessive anal dilatation and manipulation using the operative proctoscope introduced by Buess. In this way, mucosectomy under a direct three-dimensional six-fold magnified view is accurate and bloodless.

[Gastric angiodysplasia: a rare cause of bleeding from the upper digestive tract]

Two cases of bleeding gastric angiodysplasia treated with a different approach, on the basis of the endoscopic features, are reported. Arteriovenous malformations may arise from any site of the digestive tract: gastric angiodysplasia represents one of the less frequent localizations, causing 2-5% of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Several diagnostic tools are currently available and the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic strategy depends on many features: site and number of the lesions, patient's hemodynamic conditions, endoscopic skill. Surgery is preferred only when multiple and disseminated lesions within the gastric wall occur or when endoscopic approach fails.

[Ovarian pregnancy]

A case of ovarian pregnancy in a patient with intrauterine device is reporter. The patient was hemodynamically instable and immediate laparotomy was indicated. The treatment was left oophorectomy. Ovarian pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy in which the gestational sac is implanted in the ovary. The incidence appears to be of 1 to 3 per cent of all ectopic gestations with a frequency of one in 7000 to 40000 deliveries and it is now believed to occur four times more frequently than previously thought. It has been suggested that the increasing incidence is caused by the use of IUD. In contrast to patients with tubal pregnancy traditional risk factors such as pelvic inflammatory disease, prior surgical procedure upon the pelvis may not apply. The clinical signs are similar to those found in tubal pregnancies and in hemorrhagic corpus luteum cysts. The treatment is emergency laparatomy followed by oophorectomy in many instances. When the patient is hemodynamically stable laparoscopy and the ovarian wedge resection should be the treatment of choice.

[Papillomatous lesions of the biliary tract]

Biliary papillomatosis is a rare entity, characterized by single or multiple lesions arising from the biliary epithelium, leading to relapsing attacks of obstructive jaundice and cholangitis. Usually considered a benign disease, progression to malignancy has though been reported. In this paper the case of a 72 year old patient, with a single papilloma of the left hepatic duct treated by left hepatectomy, is discussed. The main histological, clinical and therapeutic aspects of this unusual pathology are then examined, with a complete review of the Literature.

Extended left hepatectomy with vascular exclusion

Extended left hepatectomy represents the most extensive and difficult type of hepatic resection. The risk of hemorrhage during transection of the hepatic parenchyma and subsequently the risk of biliary complications may be minimized with use of hepatic vascular exclusion.

Total shunting and elective management of variceal bleeding

A 20-year experience with treatment of esophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis is reported. Considering that total shunts are well tolerated immediately after operation (hospital mortality rate for all elective procedures being 6.4%), that they offer a good protection against rebleeding (rebleeding variceal rate of 7.6%), and that they offer the same long-term survival as given by other shunts (5- and 10-year survival rates of 57% and 31%, respectively), the authors affirm that these kinds of shunts are still useful in well selected cases. Late follow-up results of a prospective randomized trial of elective mesocaval shunts compared to portacaval shunt have shown no significant differences in operative mortality, rebleeding rates, encephalopathy rates, or survival. Based on this information, the authors currently use portacaval shunt as their operation of choice.

Microscopic endoluminal tumorectomy

PURPOSE

We herein report our experience with transanal endoscopic microsurgery. The new technique combines an endoscopic view and access of the rectum under gas insufflation via a stereoscopic telescope with all conventional surgical maneuvers such as tissue preparation, coagulation and control of bleeding, irrigation, suction, and, finally, suturing of the parietal defect.

METHODS

The main indication of transanal endoscopic microsurgery is the removal of broad-based sessile polyps and excision of early rectal cancers. We performed local excision of pT2, G1-2 adenocarcinomas and excision of advanced rectal cancer in high-risk patients. The reported series includes 35 consecutive patients, who have been enrolled in a prospective clinical trial. Five patients were excluded for different reasons. The patients were submitted to 29 total wall excisions with or without perirectal fat and one mucosectomy.

RESULTS

Postoperative histologic examination showed 9 adenomas and 21 adenocarcinomas. Morbidity included 2 (5.6 percent) perioperative and 2 (5.6 percent) late complications. There was no operative mortality and the mean postoperative hospital course was six days. All patients are in follow-up observation with a mean time of 10.3 months. In the group of adenomas and adenocarcinomas, we did not observe local recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering our experience with the overall results reported by other authors, we believe that transanal endoscopic microsurgery is the procedure of choice for the treatment of rectal polyps and early rectal cancers provided strict patient selection criteria are met.

Bleeding pseudocyst of the pancreatic head. The role of omentoplasty and local hemostasis

Treatment of bleeding psedoaneurysms and pseudocysts of the pancreas is controversial. Surgical treatment with pancreatic resection or trancystic arterial ligation is not always satisfactory since postoperative mortality rate is high, especially for lesions located in the pancreatic head and rebleeding is not unusual. Two patients with bleeding pseudoaneurysms (one post traumatic, one spontaneous) and one with a hemorrhagic pseudocyst of the pancreatic head were treated surgically with arterial suture and omentoplasty. Bleeding was controlled in all, without any postoperative mortality or morbidity. No rebleeding occurred with a follow up of 33, 26 and 12 months. Trancystic ligation of bleeding vessels with omentoplasty may be a useful approach, which should be compared to arterial embolization in the future.

A comparison of transhiatal and transthoracic resection for oesophageal carcinoma

We compared the results of 327 transthoracic (TT) resections and 82 transhiatal (TH) resections for carcinoma of the oesophagus operated on between July 1982 and June 1991. Significantly more patients with carcinoma of the lower third of the oesophagus (54% versus 28%) and with increased pulmonary risks for surgery (61% versus 22%) were selected for the TH approach as compared with the TT approach. Results showed comparable intraoperative complications between the two groups. 5% of patients in the TH group required a thoracotomy for control of haemorrhage (3 patients) and repair of bronchial tear (1 patient) which occurred during the transmediastinal dissection. Postoperatively, mechanical ventilation requirement and complications involving the cardio-pulmonary systems were similar between the two groups. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 3% and 4%, respectively for the TH and TT patients (p = NS), whereas hoarseness occurred in 16% and 5%, respectively (p = 0.001). The 30-day mortality rates and hospital mortality rates were comparable between the two groups as were the overall survival rates. Our results suggested that while TH resection did not diminish the operative morbidity and mortality rates overall, it is appropriate for patients with increased pulmonary risks to be preferentially selected for this approach, and for tumours located in the upper and lower portion of the thoracic oesophagus where dissection of the tumour can be carried out mostly under vision.

[Multilocular benign cystic nephroma. Case report and review of the literature]

The authors report a case of multilocular cystic nephroma. According to the literature this is a rare lesion, which may be diagnosed any time during life, showing the same prevalence in childhood as in adults. Multilocular cystic nephroma is usually an unilateral lesion. Aetiology is unknown and preoperative ultrasonography and roentgenographic studies frequently led to misdiagnosis. Surgical excision of the cyst, with kidney sparing, is the therapy of choice, however nephrectomy is advised when intraoperative biopsy is ambiguous.

The importance of heterogeneity and of multiple site sampling in the prospective determination of deoxyribonucleic acid flow cytometry

Multiple fresh specimens from 59 nonsmall cell carcinomas of the lung, 38 carcinomas of the gastric tract and 55 carcinomas of the colon and rectum were analyzed by deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) flow cytometry (FC) after radical resection to evaluate tumor ploidy as an independent prognostic factor. The minimum follow-up period was five years (range of five to ten years). Aneuploidy was observed in 98.0 percent of carcinomas of the lung, in 70.9 percent of carcinomas of the colon and rectum and in 63.1 percent of carcinomas of the gastric tract. FC DNA heterogeneity, in terms of different number of DNA stem lines or different DNA indices between core and periphery, or both, was found in 50.0 percent of carcinomas of the lung, 47.0 percent of carcinomas of the colon and rectum and in 34.5 percent of carcinomas of the gastric tract. A diploid pattern was more frequently observed in less advanced stages of the gastrointestinal tract. By univariate analysis (Kaplan-Meier), patients with carcinoma of the lung with hypodiploid or hypertetraploid peaks, or both, and aneuploid gastric tumors had poorer prognosis. These differences were only marginally significant. Cox analysis demonstrated that the single most important prognostic variable for predicting the overall survival rate was the stage of disease. Tumor DNA content can be considered a marker of advanced stages, particularly in tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, but there is no evidence that it is an independent prognostic variable able to predict long term survival in patients who have been radically resected.

Early MR follow-up of partial hepatectomy

Twenty-seven patients were studied with MRI between 3 and 40 days following partial liver resection. Twenty-four patients had undergone major hepatectomy (three to six segments) and three had undergone minor hepatectomy (tumorectomy, one; bisegmentectomy, two). Indications for surgery were as follows: metastases (n = 16), hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 5), hemangioma (n = 3), focal nodular hyperplasia (n = 2), and cholangiocarcinoma (n = 1). A total of 36 MR examinations were performed using a 1.5 T superconducting unit. Three patients were studied three times and three patients were studied twice. The MR images were evaluated to detect and to characterize liver parenchymal abnormalities and intraabdominal fluid or blood collections as well as to assess vascular and/or graft patency. The MR images showed hepatic ischemia in two cases and allowed differentiation between intraabdominal hemorrhagic (n = 30 and nonhemorrhagic (n = 4) fluid collections. Gradient echo images allowed assessment of polytetrafluoroethylene graft patency as well as demonstration of iliac vein (one case) and portal vein (one case) thrombosis. The presence of surgical clips at the resection margins did not affect image quality.

Surgical treatment of Krukenberg tumours: case reports and clinical consideration

The authors present 4 cases of Krukenberg tumour of the ovary, secondary to carcinoma of the stomach (3 cases) and carcinoma of the breast (1 case). Pathologically it is characterized by the presence of typical signet ring cells and a diffuse infiltration of the stroma that gives the appearance of a sarcoma. Clinical data, computed tomography (CT) and sonographic findings in these four cases are analyzed. A review of the literature concerning this condition is provided and the treatment of the disease is discussed emphasizing the role of prophylactic oophorectomy.

[Massive metachronous inguinal metastases of carcinoma of the anal margin. A clinical case report]

The authors report a case of epidermoid carcinoma of the anal margin with repeated metachronous metastases in the inguinal lymph nodes. The treatment of synchronous ad metachronous metastases is briefly discussed through a literature review.