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.

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.

Intra-abdominal recurrence from colorectal carcinoma: Differences and similarities between local and peritoneal recurrence

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal recurrences from colo-rectal cancer can be isolated (PR) or associated with local recurrences (LR). The purpose of this study was to analyze patterns and outcomes of LR and PR.

METHODS

Analyze from a prospective database of 108 patients treated with CCS plus HIPEC at two cancer centers between 2008 and 2015.

RESULTS

The population was divided into an LPR group (presence of LR with or without PR, n = 56) and a PR group (isolated PR, n = 52). The patients characteristics (age, sex, Charlson score, PCI) or perioperative treatments were comparable between the groups. The median number of resected organs for tumor involvement (respectively, 2 vs 1; p < 0.001), the percentage of patients with metastatic lymph nodes (LN+) from the resected specimen (respectively, 25% vs 7%; p = 0.016) and the mortality rate (respectively, 9% vs 0%; p = 0.023) were significantly higher in the LPR group. After a median follow-up of 32 (1-108) months, median overall survival was comparable between the two groups (respectively, 46 vs 42 months; p = 0.262).

CONCLUSIONS

LR is associated with a higher incidence of organ invasion, LN involvement (25%) and postoperative mortality. Optimal surgical resection of LR with systematic lymphadenectomy of invaded organs seems mandatory.

Prolonged perioperative thoracic epidural analgesia may improve survival after cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for colorectal peritoneal metastases: A comparative study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of prolonged perioperative thoracic epidural analgesia (PEA) on long term survival of patients who underwent a complete cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for colorectal peritoneal metastases (CPM).

BACKGROUND

Grade III-IV morbidity affects long term outcomes after CRS and HIPEC. As compared with opioid administered via patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), PEA reduces morbidity.

METHOD

From 2005 to 2016, 150 patients underwent CRS plus HIPEC with or without prolonged PEA. Clinical data and outcomes collected from prospective database were analyzed. Survival was assessed in terms of analgesic method using Kaplan-Meier plots and a propensity score.

RESULTS

Patients 'characteristics of 59 patients in PCA group were comparable to those of 91 patients in PEA group, except for age, ASA score and fluid requirements, significantly more important in PEA group. Grade III-IV morbidity was 62.7% in PCA group compared with 36.3% in PEA group (p = 0.0015). Median overall survival (OS) of PEA group was 54.7 months compared to 39.5 months in PCA group (p = 0.0078). When adjusted on the covariates, using the propensity score, the PEA significantly improves OS [HR 0.40 (95% CI: 0.28-0.56)] (p < 0.0001) and disease free survival (DFS) [HR 0.61 (95% CI: 0.45-0.81] (p < 0.0007) CONCLUSIONS: In this retrospective study of patients who underwent a complete CRS and HIPEC for colorectal peritoneal metastases, the perioperative thoracic epidural analgesia prolonged for over 72 h reduced significantly the grade III-IV morbidity and may improve OS and DFS.

Curative cytoreductive surgery followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis and synchronous resectable liver metastases arising from colorectal cancer

OBJECTIVES

This study describes the outcomes of patients with colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) with or without liver metastases (LMs) after curative surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, in order to assess prognostic factors.

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) increases overall survival (OS) in patients with PC. The optimal treatment both for PC and for LMs within one surgical operation remains controversial.

METHODS

Patients with PC who underwent CRS followed by HIPEC were evaluated from a prospective database. Overall survival and disease free survival (DFS) rates in patients with PC and with or without LMs were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate predictive variables for survival.

RESULTS

From 1999 to 2011, 22 patients with PC and synchronous LMs (PCLM group), were compared to 36 patients with PC alone (PC group). No significant difference was found between the two groups. The median OS were 36 months [range, 20-113] for the PCLM group and 25 months [14-82] for the PC group (p > 0.05) with 5-year OS rates of 38% and 40% respectively (p > 0.05). The median DFS were 9 months [9-20] and 11.8 months [6.5-23] respectively (p = 0.04). The grade III-IV morbidity and cytoreduction score (CCS) >0 (p < 0.05) were identified as independent factors for poor OS. Resections of LMs and CCS >0 impair significantly DFS.

CONCLUSIONS

Synchronous complete CRS of PC and LMs from a colorectal origin plus HIPEC is a feasible therapeutic option. The improvement in OS is similar to that provided for patients with PC alone.

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.

Patients with Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Gastric Cancer Treated with Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Is Cure a Possibility?

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis is an increasingly common finding in gastric carcinoma. Previously, patients were treated as terminal, and median survival was poor. The use of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in this context is still highly debatable.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes associated with CRS and HIPEC, and define prognostic factors for cure, if possible.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients with gastric carcinomatosis from five French institutions who underwent combined complete CRS and HIPEC and had a minimum follow-up of 5 years were included in this study. Cure was defined as a disease-free interval of more than 5 years from the last treatment until the last follow-up.

RESULTS

Of the 81 patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC from 1989 to 2009, 59 had a completeness of cytoreduction score (CCS) of 0 (complete macroscopic resection), and the median Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) score was 6. Mitomycin C was the most commonly used drug during HIPEC (88 %). The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 18 %, with nine patients still disease-free at 5 years, for a cure rate of 11 %. All 'cured' patients had a PCI score below 7 and a CCS of 0. Factors associated with improved OS on multivariate analysis were synchronous resection (p = 0.02), a lower PCI score (p = 0.12), and the CCS (p = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

The cure rate of 11 % for patients with gastric carcinomatosis who are deemed terminal emphasizes that CRS and HIPEC should be considered in highly selected patients (low disease extent and complete CRS).

Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for First Relapse of Ovarian Cancer

BACKGROUND

To assess impact of surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients treated for a first relapse of ovarian cancer (FROC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with a FROC treated with second-line chemotherapy, surgery and HIPEC were retrospectively included from 13 Institutions. Studied parameters were interval free between the end of initial treatment and the first relapse, second-line chemotherapy, peritoneal cancer index and completeness of surgery, HIPEC, mortality and morbidity, pathological results and survival.

RESULTS

From 2001 to 2010, 314 patients were included. The main strategy was secondary chemotherapy followed by surgery and HIPEC (269/314-85.6%). Mortality and morbidity rates were respectively 1% and 30.9%. Median follow-up was 50 months, 5-year overall survival was 38.0%, with no difference between platinum-sensitive or -resistant patients and 5-year disease-free survival was 14%.

CONCLUSION

HIPEC allows encouraging survival in the treatment of FROC, better in case of complete surgery, with acceptable mortality and morbidity rates.

Professional risks when carrying out cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal malignancy with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): A French multicentric survey

BACKGROUND

Over the last two decades, many surgical teams have developed programs to treat peritoneal carcinomatosis with extensive cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Currently, there are no specific recommendations for HIPEC procedures concerning environmental contamination risk management, personal protective equipment (PPE), or occupational health supervision.

METHODS

A survey of the institutional practices among all French teams currently performing HIPEC procedures was carried out via the French network for the treatment of rare peritoneal malignancies (RENAPE).

RESULTS

Thirty three surgical teams responded, 14 (42.4%) which reported more than 10 years of HIPEC experience. Some practices were widespread, such as using HIPEC machine approved by the European Community (100%), individualized or centralized smoke evacuation (81.8%), "open" abdominal coverage during perfusion (75.8%), and maintaining the same surgeon throughout the procedure (69.7%). Others were more heterogeneous, including laminar flow air circulation (54.5%) and the provision of safety protocols in the event of perfusate spills (51.5%). The use of specialized personal protective equipment is ubiquitous (93.9%) but widely variable between programs.

CONCLUSION

Protocols regarding cytoreductive surgery/HIPEC and the associated professional risks in France lack standardization and should be established.

[Prophylactic surgery in patients mutated BRCA or high risk: retrospective study of 61 patients in the ICO]

BACKGROUND

Genetic predisposition is involved in only 10% of patients with breast cancer. This study was to evaluate the impact of prophylactic surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 61 patients who received prophylactic breast surgery. Data collection was carried out through the computer file of the ICO. The inclusion criteria were: patients who benefited from a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy. There were no exclusion criteria. Patients received a satisfaction questionnaire to complete.

RESULTS

Our study included 61 patients, 67% had a history of breast cancer. Bilateral prophylactic surgery was performed in 40 patients. It was made an average of two interventions, 44.3% of them presented postoperative complications, 18% recovery. Forty-three patients were satisfied with the medical information before surgery. The end result matched the expectations of 54.4% and 67.4% of patients would be ready to start. It was found pain associated with breast surgery in 56.5% of patients and almost half reported a change in their sexual life.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Prophylactic mastectomy is the most effective technique to prevent the risk of breast cancer. The consequences of such an action are important. It is necessary to better select patients who would benefit most from this type of surgery.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis treated with cytoreductive surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) for advanced ovarian carcinoma: a French multicentre retrospective cohort study of 566 patients

BACKGROUND

Despite a high response rate to front-line therapy, prognosis of epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) remains poor. Approaches that combine Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) have been developed recently. The purpose of this study was to assess early and long-term survival in patients treated with this strategy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort multicentric study from French centres was performed. All consecutive patients with advanced and recurrent EOC treated with CRS and HIPEC were included.

RESULTS

The study included 566 patients from 13 centres who underwent 607 procedures between 1991 and 2010. There were 92 patients with advanced EOC (first-line treatment), and 474 patients with recurrent EOC. A complete cytoreductive surgery was performed in 74.9% of patients. Mortality and grades 3 to 4 morbidity rates were 0.8% and 31.3%, respectively. The median overall survivals were 35.4 months and 45.7 months for advanced and recurrent EOC, respectively. There was no significant difference in overall survival between patients with chemosensitive and with chemoresistant recurrence. Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) that evaluated disease extent was the strongest independent prognostic factor for overall and disease-free survival in all groups.

CONCLUSION

For advanced and recurrent EOC, curative therapeutic approach combining optimal CRS and HIPEC should be considered as it may achieve long-term survival in patients with a severe prognosis disease, even in patients with chemoresistant disease. PCI should be used for patient's selection.

Primary peritoneal serous carcinoma treated by cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. A multi-institutional study of 36 patients

AIM

Primary peritoneal serous carcinoma (PPSC) is a rare condition, histologically identical to ovarian serous carcinoma and often diagnosed at late stage. There is not any standardized treatment for PPSC. A retrospective multicentric study was performed in French speaking centers to evaluate cytoreduction surgery and Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis from different origins. The manuscript's aim was to study the particular population with PPSC.

METHODS

Between September 1997 and July 2007, 36 patients with PPSC from 9 institutions underwent 39 procedures.

RESULTS

Mortality and morbidity rates were 5.6% and 20.6% respectively. The overall survival at 1, 3 and 5 years are respectively 93.6, 71.5 and 57.4%. The median overall survival was not reached. By univariate analysis, the only factor that had prognostic value was PCI (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic approach combining cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC may achieve long-term survival in patients with PPSC.

Prevalence of and risk factors for morbidity after elective left colectomy: cancer vs noncomplicated diverticular disease

HYPOTHESIS

Independent risk factors for postoperative morbidity after colectomy are most likely linked to disease characteristics.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Twenty-eight centers of the French Federation for Surgical Research.

PATIENTS

In total, 1721 patients (1230 with colon cancer [CC] and 491 with diverticular disease [DD]) from a databank of 7 prospective, multisite, randomized trials on colorectal resection.

INTERVENTION

Elective left colectomy via laparotomy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Preoperative and intraoperative risk factors for postoperative morbidity.

RESULTS

Overall postoperative morbidity was higher in CC than in DD (32.4% vs 30.3%) but the difference was not statistically significant (P = .40). Two independent risk factors for morbidity in CC were antecedent heart failure (odds ratio [OR], 3.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.42-6.32) (P = .003) and bothersome intraluminal fecal matter (2.08; 1.42-3.06) (P = .001). Three independent risk factors for morbidity in DD were at least 10% weight loss (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.25-3.40) (P = .004), body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) exceeding 30 (2.05; 1.15-3.66) (P = .02), and left hemicolectomy (vs left segmental colectomy) (2.01; 1.19-3.40) (P = .009).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing elective left colectomy for CC or for DD constitute 2 distinct populations with completely different risk factors for morbidity, which should be addressed differently. Improving colonic cleanliness (by antiseptic enema) may reduce morbidity in CC. In DD, morbidity may be reduced by appropriate preoperative nutritive support (by immunonutrition), even in patients with obesity, and by preference of left segmental colectomy over left hemicolectomy. By decreasing morbidity, mortality should be lowered as well, especially when reoperation becomes necessary.

Phase III randomized equivalence trial of early breast cancer treatments with or without axillary clearance in post-menopausal patients results after 5 years of follow-up

BACKGROUND

Axillary lymph node clearance (ALNC) improves locoregional control and provides prognostic information for early breast cancer treatment, but effects on survival are controversial. This multicentre, randomized pragmatic equivalence trial compares outcomes for post-menopausal early invasive breast cancer patients after locoregional treatment with ALNC and adjuvant therapies to outcomes after locoregional treatment without ALNC and adjuvant therapies.

METHODS

From 1995-2005, women aged ≥ 50 years with early breast cancer (tumor ≤ 10 mm) and clinically-negative axillary nodes were randomized to receive treatment with ALNC (Ax) or without (no-Ax). Adjuvant therapies were prescribed according to hormonal receptor status and individual histological results. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS); secondary endpoints were event-free survival (EFS) and functional outcomes. The trial was terminated due to lack of equivalence and low accrual after first interim analyses.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT00210236.

RESULTS

Of 625 patients, 297 no-Ax and 310 Ax patients were maintained for final per-protocol analyses. OS and EFS at five years were not equivalent (Ax vs. no-Ax: 98% vs. 94% and 96% vs. 90% respectively). Recurrence was higher for no-Ax, particularly in the first five years after surgery. Axillary nodes were positive for 14% Ax patients but only 2% no-Ax patients experienced axillary node recurrence. Functional impairments were greater after ALNC.

CONCLUSION

Our results fail to demonstrate equivalence of outcomes when ALNC is omitted from post-menopausal early breast cancer patient treatment. However the low locoregional recurrence rates warrant further examination over a longer duration, in particular to consider whether these would impact on survival.

[Retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy and survival of patients treated for an advanced ovarian cancer: the CARACO trial]

The standard management for advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer is optimum cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum based chemotherapy. However, retroperitoneal lymph node resection remains controversial. The multiple directions of the lymph drainage pathway in ovarian cancer have been recognized. The incidence and pattern of lymph node involvement depends on the extent of the disease and the histological type. Several published cohorts suggest the survival benefit of pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. A recent large randomized trial have demonstrated the potential benefit for surgical removal of bulky lymph nodes in term of progression-free survival but failed to show any overall survival benefit because of a critical methodology. Further randomised trials are needed to balance risks and benefits of systematic lymphadenectomy in advanced-stage disease. CARACO is a French ongoing trial, built to bring a reply to this important question. A huge effort for inclusion of the patients, and involving new teams, are mandatory.

Toward curative treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis from nonovarian origin by cytoreductive surgery combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy: a multi-institutional study of 1,290 patients

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from nonovarian malignancies long has been regarded as a terminal disease. Over the past decade, new locoregional therapeutic approaches combining cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) have evolved that have demonstrated improved survival.

METHODS

A retrospective, multicenter cohort study was performed in French-speaking institutions to evaluate toxicity and principal prognostic factors after cytoreductive surgery and PIC (hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy [HIPEC] and/or early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy [EPIC]) for PC from nongynecologic malignancies.

RESULTS

The study included 1290 patients from 25 institutions who underwent 1344 procedures between February 1989 and December 2007. HIPEC was performed in 1154 procedures. The principal origins of PC were colorectal adenocarcinoma (N = 523), pseudomyxoma peritonei (N = 301), gastric adenocarcinoma (N = 159), peritoneal mesothelioma (N = 88), and appendiceal adenocarcinoma (N = 50). The overall morbidity and mortality rates were 33.6% and 4.1%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, patient age, the extent of PC, and institutional experience had a significant influence on toxicity. The overall median survival was 34 months; and the median survival was 30 months for patients with colorectal PC, not reached for patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei, 9 months for patients with gastric PC, 41 months for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, and 77 months for patients with PC from appendiceal adenocarcinoma. Independent prognostic indicators in multivariate analysis were institution, origin of PC, completeness of cytoreductive surgery, extent of carcinomatosis, and lymph node involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

A therapeutic approach that combined cytoreductive surgery with PIC was able to achieve long-term survival in a selected group of patients who had PC of nonovarian origin and had acceptable morbidity and mortality. The current results indicated that this treatment should be centralized to institutions with expertise in the management of PC.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer: a multi-institutional study of 159 patients treated by cytoreductive surgery combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from gastric cancer has long been regarded a terminal disease with a short median survival. New locoregional therapeutic approaches combining cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) have evolved and suggest improved survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective multicentric study was performed in French-speaking centers to evaluate the toxicity and the principal prognostic factors in order to identify the best indications. All patients had cytoreductive surgery and PIC: hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and/or early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC).

RESULTS

The study included 159 patients from 15 institutions between February 1989 and August 2007. The median follow-up was 20.4 months. HIPEC was the PIC used for 150 procedures. Postoperative mortality and grade 3-4 morbidity rates were 6.5 and 27.8%, respectively. By multivariate analysis, the institution had a significant influence on toxicity. The overall median survival was 9.2 months and 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 43, 18, and 13%, respectively. The only independent prognostic indicator by multivariate analysis was the completeness of cytoreductive surgery. For patients treated by complete cytoreductive surgery, the median survival was 15 months with a 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rate of 61, 30, and 23%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic approach combining cytoreductive surgery with PIC for patients with gastric carcinomatosis may achieve long-term survival in a selected group of patients (limited and resectable PC). The high mortality rate underlines this necessarily strict selection that should be reserved to experienced institutions involved in the management of PC and gastric surgery.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer: a multi-institutional study of 159 patients treated by cytoreductive surgery combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from gastric cancer has long been regarded a terminal disease with a short median survival. New locoregional therapeutic approaches combining cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) have evolved and suggest improved survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective multicentric study was performed in French-speaking centers to evaluate the toxicity and the principal prognostic factors in order to identify the best indications. All patients had cytoreductive surgery and PIC: hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and/or early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC).

RESULTS

The study included 159 patients from 15 institutions between February 1989 and August 2007. The median follow-up was 20.4 months. HIPEC was the PIC used for 150 procedures. Postoperative mortality and grade 3-4 morbidity rates were 6.5 and 27.8%, respectively. By multivariate analysis, the institution had a significant influence on toxicity. The overall median survival was 9.2 months and 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 43, 18, and 13%, respectively. The only independent prognostic indicator by multivariate analysis was the completeness of cytoreductive surgery. For patients treated by complete cytoreductive surgery, the median survival was 15 months with a 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rate of 61, 30, and 23%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic approach combining cytoreductive surgery with PIC for patients with gastric carcinomatosis may achieve long-term survival in a selected group of patients (limited and resectable PC). The high mortality rate underlines this necessarily strict selection that should be reserved to experienced institutions involved in the management of PC and gastric surgery.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei: a French multicentric study of 301 patients treated with cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy

OBJECTIVE

To analyze a large series of patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) treated with cytoreductive surgery associated with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) in 18 French-speaking centers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From March 1993 to December 2007, 301 patients with diffuse PMP were treated by cytoreductive surgery with PIC. Complete cytoreductive surgery was achieved in 219 patients (73%), and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was performed in 255 (85%), mainly during the latter period of the study.

RESULTS

Postoperative mortality and morbidity were 4.4% and 40%, respectively. The mean follow-up was 88 months. The 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates were 73% and 56%, respectively. The multivariate analysis identified 5 prognostic factors: the extent of peritoneal seeding (p=0.004), the center (p=0.0004), the pathologic grade (p=0.03), gender (p=0.02), and the use of HIPEC (p=0.04). When only the 206 patients with complete cytoreductive surgery were considered, the extent of peritoneal seeding was the only significant prognostic factor (p=0.004).

CONCLUSION

This large multicentric retrospective study confirms that cytoreductive surgery combined with PIC (with the use of hyperthermia) should be considered as the gold standard treatment of PMP and should be performed in specialized centers. It underlines the prognostic impact of the extent of peritoneal seeding, especially in patients treated by complete cytoreductive surgery. This prognostic impact appears to be greater than that of the pathologic grade.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei: a French multicentric study of 301 patients treated with cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy

OBJECTIVE

To analyze a large series of patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) treated with cytoreductive surgery associated with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) in 18 French-speaking centers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From March 1993 to December 2007, 301 patients with diffuse PMP were treated by cytoreductive surgery with PIC. Complete cytoreductive surgery was achieved in 219 patients (73%), and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was performed in 255 (85%), mainly during the latter period of the study.

RESULTS

Postoperative mortality and morbidity were 4.4% and 40%, respectively. The mean follow-up was 88 months. The 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates were 73% and 56%, respectively. The multivariate analysis identified 5 prognostic factors: the extent of peritoneal seeding (p=0.004), the center (p=0.0004), the pathologic grade (p=0.03), gender (p=0.02), and the use of HIPEC (p=0.04). When only the 206 patients with complete cytoreductive surgery were considered, the extent of peritoneal seeding was the only significant prognostic factor (p=0.004).

CONCLUSION

This large multicentric retrospective study confirms that cytoreductive surgery combined with PIC (with the use of hyperthermia) should be considered as the gold standard treatment of PMP and should be performed in specialized centers. It underlines the prognostic impact of the extent of peritoneal seeding, especially in patients treated by complete cytoreductive surgery. This prognostic impact appears to be greater than that of the pathologic grade.

Peritoneal colorectal carcinomatosis treated with surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy: retrospective analysis of 523 patients from a multicentric French study

PURPOSE Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer traditionally is considered a terminal condition. Approaches that combine cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) have been developed recently. The purpose of this study was to assess early and long-term survival in patients treated with that strategy. PATIENTS AND METHODS A retrospective-cohort, multicentric study from French-speaking countries was performed. All consecutive patients with PC from colorectal cancer who were treated with CRS and PIC (with or without hyperthermia) were included. Patients with PC of appendiceal origin were excluded. Results The study included 523 patients from 23 centers in four French-speaking countries who underwent operation between 1990 and 2007. The median follow-up was 45 months. Mortality and grades 3 to 4 morbidity at 30 days were 3% and 31%, respectively. Overall median survival was 30.1 months. Five-year overall survival was 27%, and five-year disease-free survival was 10%. Complete CRS was performed in 84% of the patients, and median survival was 33 months. Positive independent prognostic factors identified in the multivariate analysis were complete CRS, PC that was limited in extent, no invaded lymph nodes, and the use of adjuvant chemotherapy. Neither the grade of disease nor the presence of liver metastases had a significant prognostic impact. CONCLUSION This combined treatment approach against PC achieved low postoperative morbidity and mortality, and it provided good long-term survival in patients with peritoneal scores lower than 20. These results should improve in the future, because the different teams involved will gain experience. This approach, when feasible, is now considered the gold standard in the French guidelines.

Peritoneal colorectal carcinomatosis treated with surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy: retrospective analysis of 523 patients from a multicentric French study

PURPOSE Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer traditionally is considered a terminal condition. Approaches that combine cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) have been developed recently. The purpose of this study was to assess early and long-term survival in patients treated with that strategy. PATIENTS AND METHODS A retrospective-cohort, multicentric study from French-speaking countries was performed. All consecutive patients with PC from colorectal cancer who were treated with CRS and PIC (with or without hyperthermia) were included. Patients with PC of appendiceal origin were excluded. Results The study included 523 patients from 23 centers in four French-speaking countries who underwent operation between 1990 and 2007. The median follow-up was 45 months. Mortality and grades 3 to 4 morbidity at 30 days were 3% and 31%, respectively. Overall median survival was 30.1 months. Five-year overall survival was 27%, and five-year disease-free survival was 10%. Complete CRS was performed in 84% of the patients, and median survival was 33 months. Positive independent prognostic factors identified in the multivariate analysis were complete CRS, PC that was limited in extent, no invaded lymph nodes, and the use of adjuvant chemotherapy. Neither the grade of disease nor the presence of liver metastases had a significant prognostic impact. CONCLUSION This combined treatment approach against PC achieved low postoperative morbidity and mortality, and it provided good long-term survival in patients with peritoneal scores lower than 20. These results should improve in the future, because the different teams involved will gain experience. This approach, when feasible, is now considered the gold standard in the French guidelines.

Cytoreductive surgery combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for the management of peritoneal carcinomatosis from digestive or primitive origin: A multi-institutional study of 1,290 patients

4102

Background: Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from non-gynecologic malignancies has long been regarded a terminal disease with a short median survival. Over the past decade, new locoregional therapeutic approaches combining cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) have evolved and suggest improved survival. Methods: A retrospective multicentric study was performed in French speaking centers to evaluate the toxicity and the principal prognostic factors in order to identify the best indications. All patients had cytoreductive surgery and PIC (hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and or early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC)). Results: The study included 1290 patients from 25 institutions between February 1989 and December 2007. The principal etiologies of PC were colorectal adenocarcinoma (N=523), pseudomyxoma peritonei (N=301), gastric adenocarcinoma (N=159), peritoneal mesothelioma (N=88), and appendiceal adenocarcinoma (N=50). Mortality and morbidity rates were 4.1% and 33.8%, respectively. By multivariate analysis, age, extent of the PC, and the institution's experience had a significant influence on toxicity. The overall median survival was 34 months: 30 months for colorectal PC, not reached for pseudomyxoma peritonei, 9 months for gastric PC, 41 months for peritoneal mesothelioma, and 77 months for PC from appendiceal adenocarcinoma. Independent prognostic indicators by multivariate analysis were the institution's experience, etiology, completeness of cytoreductive surgery, extent of carcinomatosis, and lymph node involvement. Conclusions: The therapeutic approach combining cytoreductive surgery with PIC may achieve long-term survival in a selected group of patients with PC from non-gynecologic origin with acceptable mortality and morbidity. This treatment should be reserved to experienced institutions involved in the management of PC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Prognostic factors of survival in repeat liver resection for recurrent colorectal metastases: review of sixty-two cases treated at a single institution

PURPOSE

Liver metastases develop in 50 percent of patients with colorectal carcinoma. Recurrent liver disease is usual. Repeat liver resection remains the only curative treatment. The aim of this study was to review our data on repeat hepatectomy and to analyze potential prognostic factors of survival.

METHOD

Patients who underwent repeat liver resection for metastases of colorectal carcinoma between January 1992 and August 2007 were identified from a prospective database and their medical records were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 62 patients who underwent a second hepatectomy, 15 underwent a third hepatectomy, and two underwent a fourth hepatectomy. There was no perioperative mortality. Morbidity was less than 20 percent for the first and second hepatectomies. Overall 5-year survival rate after first hepatectomy was 40 percent. Univariate analysis identified three risk factors confirmed by log-rank test and multivariate Cox regression analysis: serum carcinoembryonic antigen concentrations >5 ng/ml at first hepatectomy (HR = 2.265; CI = 1.140-4.497; P = 0.020), anatomic resection (HR = 2.124; CI = 1.069-4.218; P = 0.031), and tumors > or =3 cm at the second resection (HR = 2.039; CI = 1.013-4.103; P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that repeat hepatectomy for liver metastases of colorectal carcinoma may be performed with low mortality and morbidity. Preoperative concentration of carcinoembryonic antigen at first hepatectomy, tumor size, and type of anatomic resection are independent prognostic factors.

Prospective Multicentric Randomized Study Comparing Periareolar and Peritumoral Injection of Radiotracer and Blue Dye for the Detection of Sentinel Lymph Node in Breast Sparing Procedures: FRANSENODE Trial

Purpose

To determine the optimal injection path for blue dye and radiocolloid for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in early breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

A prospective randomized multicentric study was initiated to compare the peritumoral (PT) injection site to the periareolar (PA) site in 449 patients.

Results

The detection rate of axillary SLN by lymphoscintigraphy was significantly higher (P = .03) in the PA group (85.2%) than in the PT group (73.2%). Intraoperative detection rate by blue dye and/or gamma probe was similar (99.11%) in both groups. The rate of SLN detection was somewhat higher in the PA group than in the PT group: 95.6% versus 93.8% with blue dye (P = .24) and 98.2% versus 96.0% by probe (P = .16), respectively. The number of SLNs detected by lymphoscintigraphy and by probe was significantly higher in the PA group than in the PT group, 1.5 versus 1.2 (P = .001) and 1.9 versus 1.7 (P = .02). The blue and hot concordance was 95.6% in the PA group and 91.5% in the PT group (P = .08). The mean ex vivo count of the SLN was significantly higher in the PA group than in the PT group (P < .0001).

Conclusion

This study strongly validates the PA injection technique given the high detection rate (99.1%) of SLN and the high concordance (95.6%) between blue dye and the radiotracer, as well as higher significant ex and in vivo counts, improving SLN probe detection.

Repeat hepatectomy for recurrent colorectal liver metastases

PURPOSE

Liver resection represents the best and potentially curative treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer (MCC) to the liver. After resection, however, most patients develop recurrent disease, often isolated to the liver. The aim of this study was to determine the value of repeat liver resection for recurrent MCC and to analyze the factors that can predict survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 1992 to October 2002, 42 patients from a group of 168 patients resected for MCC were submitted to 55 repeat hepatectomies (42 second, 11 third, and 2 fourth hepatectomies). Records were retrospectively reviewed. The primary tumor was carcinoma of the colon in 26 patients and carcinoma of the rectum in 16 patients. Liver metastases were synchronous in 24 patients (57.1%).

RESULTS

There were 25 men and 17 women with the mean age of 63.5 years (range: 34-80). There was no intraoperative or postoperative mortality. The morbidity rates were 9.5%, 14.3%, and 18.2% (P = 0.6) respectively after a first, second, or third hepatectomies. No patients needed reoperation. Operative duration was longer after a second or third hepatectomie than after a first hepatectomie without difference for operative bleeding. Overall 5-year survivals were 33%, 21%, and 36% respectively after a first, second, or third hepatectomies. Factors of prognostic value on univariate analysis included serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels (P = 0.01) during the first hepatectomy, the presence of extrahepatic disease (P = 0.05) and tumor size larger than 5 cm (P = 0.04) during the second hepatectomie.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat hepatectomies can provide long-term survival rates similar to those of first hepatectomies.

Clinical experience with 99mTc-MIBI scintimammography in patients with breast microcalcifications

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether 99mTc-MIBI scintimammography can improve the diagnostic value of mammography for the differentiation of benign and malignant breast microcalcifications. In 41 women presenting 45 clusters of microcalcifications, a 99mTc-MIBI scintimammography was performed before open biopsy. There were 24 malignant lesions (53%). The sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP) of 99mTc-MIBI scintimammography were 58.3% and 81%, and the positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) were 78% and 63%, respectively. SE and PPV increased for lesions over 10 mm and for the younger patients (under 50 years). No correlation was found between true positive uptake and breast cancer invasiveness: 69% (9/13) for invasive lesions and 45% (5/11) for noninvasive lesions (P = 0.48). 99mTc-MIBI scintimammography was more often positive in high grade than in low- or intermediate-grade ductal carcinoma in situ (P = 0.03). The results were analysed according to the morphologic aspect of the microcalcifications. 99mTc-MIBI scintimammography could not be used for routine evaluation of all the microcalcifications detected by mammography.

Cytoreductive surgery combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for the management of peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal cancer: a multi-institutional study

PURPOSE

The three principal studies dedicated to the natural history of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer consistently showed median survival ranging between 6 and 8 months. New approaches combining cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy suggest improved survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective multicenter study was performed to evaluate the international experience with this combined treatment and to identify the principal prognostic indicators. All patients had cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (intraperitoneal chemohyperthermia and/or immediate postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy). PC from appendiceal origin was excluded.

RESULTS

The study included 506 patients from 28 institutions operated between May 1987 and December 2002. Their median age was 51 years. The median follow-up was 53 months. The morbidity and mortality rates were 22.9% and 4%, respectively. The overall median survival was 19.2 months. Patients in whom cytoreductive surgery was complete had a median survival of 32.4 months, compared with 8.4 months for patients in whom complete cytoreductive surgery was not possible (P <.001). Positive independent prognostic indicators by multivariate analysis were complete cytoreduction, treatment by a second procedure, limited extent of PC, age less than 65 years, and use of adjuvant chemotherapy. The use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, lymph node involvement, presence of liver metastasis, and poor histologic differentiation were negative independent prognostic indicators.

CONCLUSION

The therapeutic approach combining cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy achieved long-term survival in a selected group of patients with PC from colorectal origin with acceptable morbidity and mortality. The complete cytoreductive surgery was the most important prognostic indicator.

Métastases thyroïdiennes d’un corticosurrénalome 41 ans après le diagnostic de la tumeur initiale

Thyroid metastasis are rare and represent less than 4% of malignant thyroid tumors in clinical series. They can develop many years after diagnosis of the primary tumor. We report a case of thyroid metastasis of adrenocortical carcinoma, 41 years after the diagnosis of the primary tumor. Such a long latent interval is exceptional. To our knowledge, this is the first case published. Based on current literature, we offer a brief review on thyroid metastasis and differential diagnosis of thyroid gland clear cell neoplasm.

Breast microcalcifications: multivariate analysis of radiologic and clinical factors for carcinoma

Screening mammography contributes to the improvement of breast carcinoma survival through early detection and treatment of non-palpable lesions. Microcalcifications are of fundamental importance in this process. The percentage of malignant lesions found in biopsies for microcalcifications varies from 10% to 40%. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between clinical and radiologic records and the presence of malignant breast diseases. To establish the basis for the study, 211 mammographic files showing clustered microcalcifications from 204 women were prospectively reviewed and clinical records were retrospectively drawn. Definitive pathologic analysis was available for all. The value for cancer of each criterion was investigated by univariate and multivariate analyses. A first analysis was performed on the entire population and a second one was performed with stratification on morphologic subgroups. There were 99 malignant lesions (47%). In the entire group, no clinical criterion was significant. In the univariate analysis, five radiologic variables were significant: morphologic type(p < 0.0001), number of calcifications per cluster(p < 0.0001), linear or triangular distribution(p < 0.0002), diameter of the area (p < 0.01),and number of clusters (p = 0.011). In the multivariate analysis, two criteria remained significant: morphologic type 4 (irregularly punctiform) or 5 (vermicular) microcalcifications(Le Gal's classification) (p < 0.0001) and diameter of the cluster larger than 25 mm (p = 0.032). In subgroups,in the multivariate analysis, the "age > 60 years" criterion was statistically significant in the group of regular punctiform microcalcifications (type 2); for irregularly punctiform microcalcifications (type 4), "number of microcalcifications > 20" was significant. The morphologic features of microcalcifications must be the first criterion evaluated. They permit identification of characteristically benign (annular calcifications) or malignant calcifications (vermicular calcifications). For the remainder of the calcification types, other criteria must be taken into account, and their value vary with (according to) the morphologic aspect. These findings have implications for the management of women with microcalcifications and could help breast specialists make treatment decisions.

Experimental assessment of tumor growth and dissemination of a microscopic peritoneal carcinomatosis after CO2 peritoneal insufflation or laparotomy

BACKGROUND

Based on clinical observations and previous animal studies, laparoscopic surgery for malignant disease is regarded as controversial. We used a rat model to measure and compare the tumor growth, proliferation, and dissemination of a microscopic peritoneal carcinomatosis after CO(2) intraperitoneal insufflation or laparotomy.

METHODS

Peritoneal carcinomatosis was induced in three groups of 27 BD IX rats each with intraperitoneal injections of 106 DHD/K12 cells, an aneuploid tumor cell line. At 48 h after tumor cell injection, the animals were randomly divided into three groups to undergo different types of intervention. All animals were anesthetized for 20 min (Halothane). The control group had no surgical intervention (group C), group I had CO(2) insufflation (7 mmHg),and group L had a midline laparotomy (5-cm). Neither bowel manipulation nor any other traumatic action was performed. Two weeks later, the rats were killed and the incidence, type, and dissemination of carcinomatosis were evaluated. We also measured the tumor's weight. Malignant omentum was sampled for flow cytometry analysis (DNA ploidy, S-phase fraction).

RESULTS

The incidence of carcinomatosis did not differ among the groups. The mean score of macroscopic characteristics of the carcinomatosis was 2.8 +/- 1.9 in group L, 2.9 +/- 1.9 in group I, and 3 +/- 1.9 in group C (NS). The location of the implants did not differ, except for parietal peritoneum location, which was more frequent in group L (p < 0.01). The tumor weight was 4.96 g +/- 3.2 in group L, 5.55 g +/- 3.2 in group C, and 5.75 g +/- 3.4 in group I (NS). The percentage of aneuploid cells and S-phase fraction did not differ statistically among the groups.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that CO(2) insufflation does not cause more effects than laparotomy when tumors cells are present before the beginning of the surgery. Further studies are needed to determine the influence of other steps in laparoscopic surgery on tumor growth and dissemination.

[Is ambulatory surgery suitable for cancer patients?]

The aim of this inquiry was to question 50 patients before a traditional hospitalization in a regional center, in order to know their opinion about one-day surgery. Among 44 answers from 41 women and 3 men, 29 were against, 11 favourable and 4 without opinion. After their hospitalization, only 4 changed their mind. The main reasons, in case of unfavourable answer, were lack of security and fear of pain. Psychologic aid in traditional hospitalization is frequently cited (34%). This has to be taken into account in ambulatory cases.

[Ovarian serous tumors of limited malignancy and invasive peritoneal implants. Review of the literature]

The prognosis for patients with ovarian serous borderline tumors is generally considered to be excellent. It is worse for women with an advanced stage, especially when invasive peritoneal implants are present. There is no general agreement regarding standard treatment in such cases. To clarify the significance of this invasive peritoneal proliferation and to devise a rational treatment approach, we review the available series. From this review of literature, it appears necessary to emphasize the importance of an initial adequate peritoneal staging of all ovarian tumors. After a complete removal of the lesions, the question of adjuvant therapy must be discussed.

[Parietal tumor seeding after thoracoscopic surgery: apropos of a case]

The authors report one case of port site recurrence 5 months after thoracoscopic resection of a pulmonary metastasis in a 68-year-old woman.

Metastatic gastric cancer arising from breast carcinoma: endoscopic ultrasonographic aspects

Linitis plastica of the stomach was diagnosed in four patients. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) was performed in four cases; they were monitored by EUS and had their treatment adapted accordingly. According to the present study, the typical criteria of gastric linitis at EUS are: (a) rigidity of the gastric wall; (b) a wall thickness exceeding 6 mm; (c) a second enlarged layer marginally more echogenic than the fourth hypoechogenic layer (muscularis propria); (d) a third hyperechogenic enlarged layer; and (e) a poor demarcation between layers. Gastric linitis appears more likely to be specific metastasis from lobular breast carcinoma. In most of the follow-up cases, EUS showed correlation with a subsequent decrease of the CA15.3 level. At present, EUS seems to be the most effective and least invasive examination for clinical diagnosis and treatment surveillance of secondary gastric linitis arising from infiltrating lobular carcinoma (ILC) of the breast.

p185 overexpression in 220 samples of breast cancer undergoing primary surgery: comparison with c-erbB-2 gene amplification

In breast cancer, DNA amplification of the oncogene c-erbB-2, encoding for the p185 protein, is associated with a poor prognosis. A retrospective study on a population of 220 cases of primary breast cancer permitted a quantitative measure of p185 oncoprotein overexpression by an immunoenzymetric assay and the determination of c-erbB-2 amplification by the Southern blot method. A correlation existed between the two measurements (r=0.85) using the double cut-off: DNA 2 copies and p185 400 U/mg protein, and only 2.7% of the cases were discordant. 13.2% of the tumors showed p185 overexpression. The percentage of tumors overexpressing p185 was significantly different between the groups with amplified and non-amplified c-erbB-2. We observed a significant correlation between p185 levels and tumor grade (p=0.03), and an inverse correlation with hormonal receptors (p=0.0001). The p185 assay could be an additional prognostic factor to better define patient subgroups with node negative, grade II, and positive or negative hormonal receptors.