Recall bias in pain scores evaluating abdominal wall and groin pain surgery

PURPOSE

To determine whether levels of pre-operative pain as recalled by a patient in the post-operative phase are possibly overestimated or underestimated compared to prospectively scored pain levels. If so, a subsequent misclassification may induce recall bias that may lead to an erroneous effect outcome.

METHODS

Data of seven retrospective cohort studies on surgery for chronic abdominal wall and groin pain using three different pain scores were systematically analyzed. First, it was assessed whether retrospectively acquired pre-operative pain levels, as scored by the patient in the post-operative phase, differed from prospectively obtained pre-operative pain scores. Second, it was determined if errors associated with retrospectively obtained pain scores potentially lead to a misclassification of treatment outcome. Third, a meta-analysis established whether recall misclassifications, if present, affected overall study conclusions.

RESULTS

Pain data of 313 patients undergoing remedial surgery were evaluated. The overall prevalence of misclassification due to a recall error was 13.7%. Patients not benefitting from surgery ('failures') judged their pre-operative pain level as more severe than it actually was. In contrast, patients who were pain free after remedial surgery ('successes') underestimated pre-operative pain scores. Recall misclassifications were significantly more present in failures than in successful patients (odds ratio 2.4 [95% CI 1.2-4.8]).

CONCLUSION

One in seven patients undergoing remedial groin surgery is misclassified on the basis of retrospectively obtained pre-operative pain scores (success instead of failure, or vice versa). Misclassifications are relatively more present in failures after surgery. Therefore, the effect size of a therapy erroneously depends on its success rate.

Role Of Ovarian Metastases In Colorectal Cancer (ROMIC): a Dutch study protocol to evaluate the effect of prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy in postmenopausal women

Background

The mean incidence of ovarian metastases (OM) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is 3.4%. The 5-year survival of these patients, even when operated with curative intent, is remarkably low. The lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is approximately 1.3%. Prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy (PSO, or surgical removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes) could reduce the number of CRC patients that develop OM after removal of the primary tumor, as well as preventing the occurrence of primary ovarian cancer. Recently, the care pathway for CRC has been changed in several hospitals in line with the updated Dutch guideline. The possibility of PSO is now discussed with postmenopausal CRC patients in these hospitals. The aims of the current study are firstly to estimate the incidence of OM and primary ovarian cancer in postmenopausal patients with CRC, and secondly to evaluate the effect of PSO in these patients.

Methods

An information bulletin and decision guide on this topic was implemented in several Dutch hospitals in 2020. Post-decision outcomes will be collected prospectively. The study population consists of postmenopausal (≥ 60 years of age) patients that are operated with curative intent for CRC. Based on their own preference, patients will be divided into two groups: those who choose to undergo PSO and those who do not. The main study parameters are the reduction in incidence of ovarian malignancies (metastatic or primary) following PSO, and the number needed to treat (NNT) by PSO to prevent one case of ovarian malignancy.

Discussion

This will be the first study to evaluate the effect of PSO in postmenopausal CRC patients that is facilitated by an altered CRC care pathway. The results of this study are expected to provide relevant information on whether PSO adds significant value to postmenopausal patients with CRC.

Trial registration

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, NL7870. Registered on 2019 July 12. URL of trial registry record: https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NL7870.

Protocol version: 1.0, date 2021 June 8. 

Are polypropylene mesh implants associated with systemic autoimmune inflammatory syndromes? A systematic review

Purpose

The surgical implantation of polypropylene (PP) meshes has been linked to the occurrence of systemic autoimmune disorders. We performed a systematic review to determine whether PP implants for inguinal, ventral hernia or pelvic floor surgery are associated with the development of systemic autoimmune syndromes.

Methods

We searched Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane library, clinicaltrialsregister.eu, clinicaltrails.gov and WHO-ICTR platform. Last search was performed on November 24th 2021. All types of studies reporting systemic inflammatory/autoimmune response in patients having a PP implant for either pelvic floor surgery, ventral or inguinal hernia repair were included. Animal studies, case reports and articles without full text were excluded. We intended to perform a meta-analysis. The quality of evidence was assessed with the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. This study was registered at Prospero (CRD42020220705).

Results

Of 2137 records identified, 4 were eligible. Two retrospective matched cohort studies focused on mesh surgery for vaginal prolapse or inguinal hernia compared to hysterectomy and colonoscopy, respectively. One cohort study compared the incidence of systemic conditions in women having urinary incontinence surgery with and without mesh. These reports had a low risk of bias. A meta-analysis showed no association when comparing systemic disease between mesh and control groups. Calculated risk ratio was 0.9 (95% CI 0.82–0.98). The fourth study was a case series with a high risk of bias, with a sample of 714 patients with systemic disease, 40 of whom had PP mesh implanted.

Conclusion

There is no evidence to suggest a causal relationship between being implanted with a PP mesh and the occurrence of autoimmune disorders.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10029-021-02553-y.

Factors related to patient-reported cosmetic outcome after breast-conserving therapy for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Multiple factors can affect cosmetic outcome after breast-conserving therapy. We investigated which combination of factors could optimally predict patient reported cosmetic outcome.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Dutch patients treated with BCT between 2008 and 2013 were retrospectively analysed. Demographics, tumour characteristics, and treatment-related factors were obtained from available digital medical records. Patients were asked to indicate their degree of cosmetic satisfaction using the Harvard scale. Both univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to create a prediction model.

RESULTS

The present study based on 220 patients shows that univariable analysis radiotherapy boost (OR 4.01 [1.85-8.70], p ≤ 0.001) and adjuvant chemotherapy (OR 2.67 [1.45-4.92], p = 0.002) were significantly associated with unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome. In multivariable analyses, only a radiotherapy boost remained significantly associated (OR 4.08 [1.76-9.49], p = 0.001) with poor cosmetic outcome, while adjuvant chemotherapy was no longer associated with it (OR 1.61 [0.81-3.24), p = 0.18). These two factors, together with tumour histology and lymph node staging, showed the highest predictive values, although the predictive property of the overall model was limited (AUC = 0.69).

CONCLUSION

In the present study, a variety of factors is explored. However, a radiotherapy boost was the only factor that was independently associated with a poor cosmetic outcome after BCT. This finding can be used for counselling in daily clinical practice. Creation of a prediction model will require further investigation.

Breast cancer patient-reported outcome of factors influencing cosmetic satisfaction after breast-conserving therapy

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate which factors patients considered to be important for determining the degree of cosmetic satisfaction with regards to perceived body image after previous breast-conserving therapy (BCT).

Methods

Outcomes considered relevant by the patients were first identified using interviews. A questionnaire based on this group input was then devised and added to the physician-based Sneeuw questionnaire. Next, a quantitative study using this questionnaire was conducted in Dutch patients treated at least 6 months earlier for (non-) invasive breast cancer by BCT. Exclusion criteria were: previous mastectomy or BCT of the contralateral breast, BCT with nipple resection, metastatic disease, local recurrence or (previous) plastic breast surgery. Descriptive statistics were used throughout.

Results

A total of 149 patients (aged 36–87 years) completed the questionnaire. From this focus group input, the top three factors in overall importance (important or very important) for satisfaction were: ‘wearability of bra’ (67%), ‘breast sensitivity’ (59%) and ‘asymmetry’ (51%). Younger patients (< 55 years) considered ‘breast size’ to be most important, whereas ‘wearability of bra’ was most frequently reported by older patients (> 55 years). Time since BCT did not significantly influence the rating of relevant factors.

Conclusion

Patients consider ‘wearability of bra’, ‘breast sensitivity’ and ‘asymmetry’ as the most important factors when assessing their satisfaction with regards to cosmetic outcome and body image. These factors should be addressed in routine clinical practice during (pre) counseling.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12282-021-01287-0.

Should all gallbladders be examined routinely or selectively by microscopy after cholecystectomy? Population-based Dutch study over a decade

The need for routine histopathological examination of gallbladders after cholecystectomy is debated. This study suggests that selective histopathological examination of the gallbladder may be considered oncologically safe.

While the necessity of a routine histopathologic examination of gallbladders after cholecystectomy is debated. This study suggests that a selective histopathologic examination of the gallbladder may be considered as oncologically safe.

Survival of sentinel node biopsy versus observation in intermediate-thickness melanoma: A Dutch population-based study

Background

The Multicenter Selective Lymphadenectomy Trial (MSLT-1) comparing survival after a sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) versus nodal observation in melanoma patients did not show a significant benefit favoring SLNB. However, in subgroup analyses melanoma-specific survival among patients with nodal metastases seemed better.

Aim

To evaluate the association of performing a SLNB with overall survival in intermediate thickness melanoma patients in a Dutch population-based daily clinical setting.

Methods

Survival, excess mortality adjusted for age, gender, Breslow-thickness, ulceration, histological subtype, location, co-morbidity and socioeconomic status were calculated in a population of 1,989 patients diagnosed with malignant cutaneous melanoma (1.2–3.5 mm) on the trunk or limb between 2000–2016 in ten hospitals in the South East area, The Netherlands.

Results

A SLNB was performed in 51% of the patients (n = 1008). Ten-year overall survival after SLNB was 75% (95%CI, 71%-78%) compared to 61% (95%CI 57%-64%) following observation. After adjustment for risk factors, a lower risk on death (HR = 0.80, 95%CI 0.66–0.96) was found after SLNB compared to observation only.

Conclusions

SLNB in patients with intermediate-thickness melanoma on trunk or limb resulted in a 14% absolute and significant 10-year survival difference compared to those without SLNB.

Selective Histological Examination After Cholecystectomy: An Analysis of Current Daily Practice in The Netherlands

BACKGROUND

The 2016 Dutch national guidelines on handling of a removed gallbladder for cholelithiasis proposes a selective histopathologic policy (Sel-HP) rather than routine policy (Rout-HP). The aim of this study was to determine the current implementation of the present guideline and the daily practice of Sel-HP.

METHODS

Surgeons who were engaged in gallbladder surgery in the Netherlands and were involved in local hospitals' gallbladder protocols completed a questionnaire study regarding gallbladder policy, between December 2017 and May 2018. Data were analyzed using standard statistics.

RESULTS

A 100% response rate was obtained (n = 74). Approximately 64% of all gallbladders (n = 22,500) were examined microscopically. Sixty-nine (93.2%) hospitals confirmed they were aware of the new guidelines, and 56 (75.7%) knew the guideline was adjusted in favor of Sel-HP. Half of the hospitals (n = 35, 47.3%) had adopted a Sel-HP, and 39 (52.7%) a Rout-HP. Of the 39 hospitals who had a Rout-HP, 36 were open to a transition to a Sel-HP although some expressed the need for more evidence on safety or novel guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

The current implementation of the 2016 Dutch guideline advising a selective microscopic analysis of removed gallbladders for gallstone disease is suboptimal. Evidence demonstrating safety and cost-effectiveness of an on demand histopathological examination will aid in the implementation process.

Prognostic impact of repeat sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with ipsilateral breast tumour recurrence

BACKGROUND

Ipsilateral breast tumour recurrence (IBTR) has an unfavourable prognosis, with a significant subsequent risk of distant recurrence. Repeat sentinel lymph node biopsy (rSLNB) has recently been demonstrated to be technically feasible and useful in tailoring adjuvant treatment plans in patients with IBTR. The prognostic impact of rSLNB in patients with IBTR remains unclear. This study analysed the risk of distant recurrence after IBTR, and evaluated the prognostic impact of rSLNB and other patient and tumour characteristics on distant recurrence-free survival.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the SNARB (Sentinel Node and Recurrent Breast Cancer) study. Cox proportional hazards analyses were performed to assess the prognostic effect of tumour, patient and treatment factors on distant recurrence-free survival.

RESULTS

Of the 515 included patients, 230 (44·7 per cent) had a tumour-negative rSLNB and 46 (8·9 per cent) a tumour-positive rSLNB. In 239 patients (46·4 per cent) the rSLNB procedure was unsuccessful. After a median follow-up of 5·1 years, 115 patients (22·3 per cent) had developed a recurrence. The overall 5-year distant recurrence-free survival rate was 84·2 (95 per cent c.i. 80·7 to 87·7) per cent. An interval of less than 2 years between primary breast cancer treatment and ipsilateral recurrence (P = 0·018), triple-negative IBTR (P = 0·045) and absence of adjuvant chemotherapy after IBTR (P = 0·010) were independently associated with poor distant recurrence-free survival. The association between the outcome of rSLNB and distant recurrence-free survival was not statistically significant (P = 0·682).

CONCLUSION

The outcome of rSLNB is not an important prognostic factor for distant recurrence, and its value as a staging tool in patients with IBTR seems disputable.

Outcome of Surgical Inspection of the Gallbladder in Relation to Final Pathology

INTRODUCTION

Routine histopathologic gallbladder examination after cholecystectomy has been a point of discussion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the macroscopic examination by the surgeon in relation to the final histology.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted to investigate the practice of macroscopic gallbladder examination by a surgeon compared to routine histopathology by a pathologist. All consecutive cholecystectomies were included between November 2009 and February 2011.

RESULTS

A total of 319 consecutive cholecystectomies were performed. Of all macroscopic examinations, the surgeon identified 62 gallbladders with macroscopic abnormalities, ranging from polyps to wall thickening or ulcers. In 55 (17.2%) cases, the surgeon judged that further examination of the specimen by the pathologist could possibly lead to additional and relevant findings. There was a strong agreement between the surgeon and the pathologist concerning the macroscopic examination (κappa = 0.822). The surgeon and the pathologist had disagreement on the macroscopic examination of 18 gallbladders, without clinical consequences for the patient.

DISCUSSION

The present prospective study shows that the surgeon should be able to select those gallbladders needing a microscopic gallbladder examination. Potentially, about 80% of this kind of routine histology can be reduced.

Patient-reported outcome measurement compared with professional judgment of cosmetic results after breast-conserving therapy

Background

In the present study, we set out to compare patient-reported outcomes with professional judgment about cosmesis after breast-conserving therapy (bct) and to evaluate which items (position of the nipple, color, scar, size, shape, and firmness) correlate best with subjective outcome.

Methods

Dutch patients treated with bct between 2008 and 2009 were analyzed. Exclusion criteria were prior amputation or bct of the contralateral breast, metastatic disease, local recurrence, or any prior cosmetic breast surgery. Structured questionnaires and standardized six-view photographs were obtained with a minimum of 3 years' follow-up. Cosmetic outcome was judged by the patients and, based on photographs, by 5 different medical professionals using 3 different scoring systems: the Harvard scale, the Sneeuw questionnaire, and a numeric rating scale. Agreement was scored using the intraclass correlation coefficient (icc). The association between items of the Sneeuw questionnaire and a fair-poor Harvard score was estimated using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The study included 108 female patients (age: 40-91 years). Based on the Harvard scale, agreement on cosmetic outcome between the professionals was good (icc: 0.78). In contrast, agreement between professionals as a group compared with the patients was found to be fair to moderate (icc range: 0.38-0.50). The items "size" and "shape" were identified as the strongest determinants of cosmetic outcome.

Conclusions

Cosmetic outcome was scored differently by patients and professionals. Agreement was greater between the professionals than between the patients and the professionals as a group. In general, size and shape were the most prominent items on which cosmetic outcome was judged by patients and professionals alike.

Laparoscopic mesh removal for otherwise intractable inguinal pain following endoscopic hernia repair is feasible, safe and may be effective in selected patients

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is preferred over an open technique because of reduced recovery time, favorable cost effectiveness, and less chronic postoperative inguinal pain. Nevertheless, some patients develop a nociceptive inguinal pain syndrome possibly related to the presence of the mesh. This is the first study describing feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of laparoscopic mesh removal in patients with chronic pain after endoscopic hernia repair.

METHODS

Pre- and intraoperative data of chronic pain patients scheduled for endoscopic mesh removal were prospectively collected by a standard evaluation form. Long-term efficacy was determined using pain scores, patient satisfaction, and quality of life questionnaire. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to determine significant differences between pre- and postoperative pain scores.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were studied (11 males, median 52 years). Median operating time was 103 min. Conversion to open surgery was not required. One intraoperatively recognized bladder laceration was laparoscopically closed. Otherwise, no intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. Eight months postoperatively (median), pain scores had dropped from eight to four (p < 0.01). Satisfaction was good or excellent in ten patients. A recurrent hernia developed in two patients requiring an open mesh repair in one.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic mesh removal is a feasible, safe, and effective option in selected patients with chronic groin pain after endoscopic hernia repair in the hands of an experienced surgeon.

Systematic review of exercise training in colorectal cancer patients during treatment

Colorectal cancer surgery results in considerable postoperative morbidity, mortality and reduced quality of life. As many patients will undergo additional (neo)adjuvant therapy, it is imperative that each individual optimize their physical function. To elucidate the potential of exercise in patient optimization, we investigated the evidence for an exercise program before and after surgical treatment in colorectal cancer patients. A systematic review was conducted according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, the guidelines of the Physical Therapy Journal and the PRISMA guidelines. No literature pertaining to exercise training during preoperative neoadjuvant treatment was found. Seven studies, investigating the effects of regular exercise during adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with colorectal cancer or a mixed population, were identified. A small effect (effect size (ES) 0.4) of endurance/interval training and strength training (ES 0.4) was found in two studies conducted in patients with colorectal and gastrointestinal cancer. In five studies that included a mixed population of cancer patients, interval training resulted in a large improvement (ES 1.5; P≤.05). Endurance training alone was found to increase both lower extremity strength and endurance capacity. The effects of strength training in the lower extremity are moderate, whereas, in the upper extremity, the increase is small. There is limited evidence available on exercise training during treatment in colorectal cancer patients. One study concluded exercise therapy may be beneficial for colorectal cancer patients during adjuvant treatment. The possible advantages of training during neoadjuvant treatment may be explored by prehabilitation trials.

Abstract P2-01-04: Use of axillary ultrasound impacts outcome of node positive breast cancer patients

Background The Z0011 trial initiated a paradigm shift in the treatment of axillary node positive breast cancer patients. Treatment strategy, however, starts with the information gathered by the diagnostic axillary work up. This can either be done by sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or ultrasound guided lymph node biopsy (UGLNB). We examined whether there are relevant clinical and prognostic differences between patients found node positive by these two diagnostic selection processes.

Methods Patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the Netherlands between January 2000 and December 2013 were studied. Patients with no clinically palpable lymphadenopathy (cN0) and node-positive disease after an axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) were included. Patients with stage IV breast cancer, with clinical stage T3-T4 breast tumor according to the TNM-classification, those treated within the neo-adjuvant setting, patients with palpable axillary nodes (cN≥1) and patients who did not undergo an ALND were excluded.

Results A total of 14,730 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, of whom 9,448 were included in the SLNB group and 5,282 in the UGLNB group. Patients in the UGLNB group were older at diagnosis (p&lt;0.001), had larger tumors (p&lt;0.001), a higher tumor grade (p=0.001), and were more likely to have a negative hormonal receptor status (p&lt;0.001) and to undergo a mastectomy (p&lt;0.001). Patients in the UGLNB group were also more likely to have ≥3 positive axillary lymph nodes (p&lt;0.001) and, after adjustment for these differences, had a worseoverall survival (HR=1.64; 95% CI=1.53-1.75) compared to the node-positive patients in the SLNB group.

Conclusion Our multicenter study shows that patients with a positive UGLNB have less favorable disease characteristics and a worse prognosis compared to patients with a positive SLNB. The diagnostic selection process plays an important role when axillary treatment strategies are considered. Therefore, we conclude that the conclusions of the Z0011 trial cannot (yet) be applied to patients with a positive UGLNB.

Citation Format: Verheuvel NC, Voogd AC, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Roumen RMH. Use of axillary ultrasound impacts outcome of node positive breast cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-01-04.

Abstract P2-01-03: What to do with non-visualized sentinel nodes; to dissect or not to dissect the axilla?

Background Both in the literature and in international guidelines evidence is scarce on clinicopathological characteristics and axillary treatment recommendations in patients with a non-visualized sentinel node (nvSN) during the sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedure. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the prevalence of nvSN in a Dutch population of breast cancer patients and to compare their characteristics and prognosis with patients in whom the SLN could be visualized. Moreover, we have distributed a questionnaire among certified oncological surgeons in the Netherlands in order to determine their routine regarding the axillary treatment after a nvSN.

Methods A retrospective population based study was performed including patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the Netherlands between January 2000 and December 2013. Patients were included if they had no clinically palpable lymphadenopathy (cN0) or clinically apparent metastases (cM0). Patients receiving neo-adjuvant systemic treatment, patients with palpable axillary nodes and patients who did not undergo a SLN procedure were excluded.

Also, a questionnaire containing 10 questions regarding clinical routine during the sentinel node procedure and axillary treatment of nvSN patients was distributed among 150 oncological (breast) surgeons.

Results Of the 101,289 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 2545 (2.5%) had a nvSN. Univariate and multivariate analyses show that patients with a nvSN were older (p&lt;0.001), were more often diagnosed in the years 2000-2005 (p&lt;0.001), had a larger tumor (p=0.003) with more often a mastectomy (p=0.02) and were more likely to have ≥3 positive lymph nodes (p&lt;0.001) compared to patients in whom the SLN could be visualized. However, adjusted survival analyses showed a borderline not-significant survival difference between these groups (HR=1.23, 95%CI=0.99-1.28). Of the 2545 patients with a nvSN, 2127 (84%) patients underwent an axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Multivariate analyses show that patients receiving an ALND were more often diagnosed in the years 2000-2005, had a larger tumor and more often received adjuvant systemic therapy with both hormonal and chemotherapy. Adjusted survival analyses showed no statistically significant association between ALND and survival (HR=0.89, 95%CI=0.92-1.27).

The questionnaire was completed by 122 (24%) oncological (breast) surgeons. It showed that 39% of the respondents estimated the prevalence of a nvSN to be 1-2%. Most surgeons are currently more reserved to perform an ALND than before the Z0011 trial, depending on various clinicopathological characteristics; 23 respondents answered to opt for an alternative axillary treatment option.

Conclusion NvSN patients had worse disease characteristics compared to patients in whom the sentinel node could be visualized, though an ALND was not associated with a better survival. The results of the questionnaire show that surgeons are more reluctant to perform an ALND in case of a nvSN, especially after publication of the Z0011 trial, and that they would like the guideline to be revised and clarified regarding the axillary treatment in case of a nvSN.

Citation Format: Verheuvel NC, Voogd AC, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Roumen RMH. What to do with non-visualized sentinel nodes; to dissect or not to dissect the axilla? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-01-03.

[Chronic neuralgia after knee surgery]

BACKGROUND

Chronic knee symptoms after surgery around the knee may be neuropathic. These symptoms are often described after intramedullary osteosynthesis of the lower leg, placement of total knee prosthesis and arthroscopy. This neuropathic pain may be caused by partial damage to the infrapatellar nerve.

CASE DESCRIPTION

An 18-year-old patient had chronic neuropathic symptoms after intramedullary osteosynthesis of the lower leg. The diagnosis was made through physical examination and injection of lidocaine 1%. After surgical removal of the infrapatellar nerve, the patient became symptom-free for a long time.

CONCLUSION

In case of chronic pain around the knee, neuropathic pain resulting from infrapatellar nerve damage should be part of the differential diagnosis. Neurectomy of the patellar nerve is a good treatment if conservative therapy did not lead to improvement of the symptoms.

Intraoperative modifiable risk factors of colorectal anastomotic leakage: Why surgeons and anesthesiologists should act together

BACKGROUND

Colorectal anastomotic leakage (CAL) is a major surgical complication in intestinal surgery. Despite many optimizations in patient care, the incidence of CAL is stable (3-19%) [1]. Previous research mainly focused on determining patient and surgery related risk factors. Intraoperative non-surgery related risk factors for anastomotic healing also contribute to surgical outcome. This review offers an overview of potential modifiable risk factors that may play a role during the operation.

METHODS

Two independent literature searches were performed using EMBASE, Pubmed and Cochrane databases. Both clinical and experimental studies published in English from 1985 to August 2015 were included. The main outcome measure was the risk of anastomotic leakage and other postoperative complications during colorectal surgery. Determined risk factors of CAL were stated as strong evidence (level I and II high quality studies), and potential risk factors as either moderate evidence (experimental studies level III), or weak evidence (level IV or V studies).

RESULTS

The final analysis included 117 articles. Independent factors of CAL are diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia and a high HbA1c, anemia, blood loss, blood transfusions, prolonged operating time, intraoperative events and contamination and a lack of antibiotics. Unequivocal are data on blood pressure, the use of inotropes/vasopressors, oxygen suppletion, type of analgesia and goal directed fluid therapy. No studies could be found identifying the impact of body core temperature or mean arterial pressure on CAL. Subjective factors such as the surgeons' own assessment of local perfusion and visibility of the operating field have not been the subject of relevant studies for occurrence in patients with CAL.

CONCLUSION

Both surgery related and non-surgery related risk factors that can be modified must be identified to improve colorectal care. Surgeons and anesthesiologists should cooperate on these items in their continuous effort to reduce the number of CAL. A registration study determining individual intraoperative risk factors of CAL is currently performed as a multicenter cohort study in the Netherlands.

Randomized clinical trial comparing self-gripping mesh with a standard polypropylene mesh for open inguinal hernia repair

Background

The introduction of mesh for open inguinal hernia repair has reduced the rate of recurrence, allowing research to focus on prevention of postoperative pain. In an effort to reduce chronic pain, a semiresorbable, lighter and self-gripping mesh was developed.

Methods

A double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted comparing the self-gripping mesh with a standard polypropylene mesh repair. Patients over 18 years of age undergoing open primary hernia repair were included. Pain was measured on a six-point verbal rating scale (VRS) and a 150-mm visual analogue scale (VAS). Postoperative pain reduction from baseline pain (ΔVAS), complications and return to work/hobbies were studied. Data were collected at baseline, 3 weeks, 3 months and 1 year after surgery (primary outcome).

Results

A total of 363 patients were analysed. Median age was 59 (range 19–88) years. Baseline VRS and VAS scores were similar for the two groups. There was no difference in VRS scores at 1-year follow-up. Duration of surgery was significantly shorter with the self-gripping mesh (mean 40 min versus 49 min for standard mesh repair; P &lt; 0·001). At 3 weeks, ΔVAS in patients receiving the self-gripping mesh was significantly larger (−10·6 versus −5·0 respectively; P = 0·049) and less subjective discomfort was reported (P = 0·016). Complication rates, return to work and recurrence rates were similar, although there were more recurrences in the self-gripping mesh group (5·5 versus 2·2 per cent; P = 0·103).

Conclusion

A self-gripping mesh for hernia repair may result in less pain in the early postoperative phase but chronic postherniorraphy pain is not affected. Recurrence rates may be a potential disadvantage. Registration number: NTR1212 (http://www.trialregister.nl).

Abstract P1-13-06: Does histological subtype play a role in treatment decision-making for hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer? A study of the Southeast Netherlands breast cancer consortium

Introduction

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with distinct biological subtypes. Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) are the two most frequent histological breast cancer subtypes. With this study, we aimed to provide insight into the role of histological subtype on the characteristics, choices with respect to systemic therapy in daily practice and outcome of patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Patients and methods

We analyzed 815 patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in eight hospitals between 2007 and 2009. All hormone receptor (HR) positive patients with either IDC or (mixed) ILC were included. Patient and tumor characteristics, outcomes and treatment data were collected. Survival curves and time to first palliative systemic therapy (either chemotherapy or endocrine therapy) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using log-rank tests. To explore the association of palliative systemic therapy with the survival of patients with metastatic breast cancer a Cox proportional hazards model was performed with palliative chemotherapy and endocrine therapy as a time-dependent covariates.

Results

A total of 568 patients with HR-positive tumors were included; 437 with IDC and 131 with (mixed) ILC. Patients with ILC were older at diagnosis of primary breast cancer, had larger primary tumors and more node-positive disease compared with IDC. Median survival was not different between the subtypes (29 months for ILC and 25 months for IDC, P=0.53).

One year after diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer, less patients with HR-positive ILC received chemotherapy (33% of patients with ILC and 47% of patients with IDC) and their time to first palliative chemotherapy was significantly longer compared with HR-positive IDC (P=0.001). Time to first palliative endocrine therapy was significantly shorter for ILC compared with IDC (P=0.0001).

In multivariable analysis for patients with ILC with palliative endocrine therapy and palliative chemotherapy as time-dependent covariates, palliative chemotherapy as first given systemic therapy was associated with an unfavorable outcome (hazard ratio 2.8, 95% CI 1.7-4.6, P&lt;.0001) compared to no palliative chemotherapy and treatment with palliative endocrine therapy as first given systemic therapy was associated with a favorable outcome (hazard ratio 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.8, P=0.005). In multivariable analysis for patients with IDC, treatment with palliative chemotherapy as first given systemic therapy was also associated with unfavorable outcome (hazard ratio 2.1, 95% CI 1.6-2.7. P&lt;.0001), whereas treatment with palliative endocrine therapy as first given systemic therapy was not associated with outcome for patients with IDC (hazard ratio 0.9, 95% CI 0.6-1.2, P=0.4).

Conclusion

There was no difference in survival of metastatic breast cancer patients with HR-positive ILC compared with those with IDC. This similar outcome was achieved with different treatment strategies, in which patients with ILC were more likely to receive endocrine therapy and less likely to receive chemotherapy.

Citation Format: Lobbezoo DJA, Truin W, Voogd AC, Roumen RMH, Vreudgenhil G, Dercksen MW, van den Berkmortel F, Smilde TJ, van de Wouw AJ, van Kampen RJW, van Riel JMGH, Peters NAJB, Peer PGM, Tjan-Heijnen VCG. Does histological subtype play a role in treatment decision-making for hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer? A study of the Southeast Netherlands breast cancer consortium. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-13-06.

Two decades of axillary management in breast cancer

Background

Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in patients with breast cancer provides prognostic information. For many years, positive nodes were the most important indication for adjuvant systemic therapy. It was also believed that regional control could not be achieved without axillary clearance in a positive axilla. However, during the past 20 years the treatment and staging of the axilla has undergone many changes. This large population-based study was conducted in the south-east of the Netherlands to evaluate the changing patterns of care regarding the axilla, including the introduction of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in the late 1990s, implementation of the results of the American College of Surgeons Oncology Group Z0011 study, and the initial effects of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer AMAROS study.

Methods

Data from the population-based Eindhoven Cancer Registry of all women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the south of the Netherlands between January 1993 and July 2014 were used.

Results

The proportion of 34 037 women staged by SLNB without completion ALND increased from 0 per cent in 1993–1994 to 69·0 per cent in 2013–2014. In the same period the proportion undergoing ALND decreased from 88·8 to 18·7 per cent. Among women with one to three positive lymph nodes, the proportion undergoing SLNB alone increased from 10·6 per cent in 2011–2012 to 37·6 per cent in 2013–2014.

Conclusion

This population-based study demonstrated the radical transformation in management of the axilla since the introduction of SLNB and following the recent publication of trials on management of the axilla with a low metastatic burden.

Differences in Response and Surgical Management with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Invasive Lobular Versus Ductal Breast Cancer

Background

This study was conducted to determine the impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) on the likelihood of breast-conserving surgery (BCS) performed for patients with invasive lobular breast carcinoma (ILC) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Methods

Female patients with a diagnosis of ILC or IDC in The Netherlands between July 2008 and December 2012 were identified through the population-based Netherlands Cancer Registry.

Results

A total of 466 ILC patients received NAC compared with 3622 IDC patients. Downstaging by NAC was seen in 49.7 % of the patients with ILC and in 69.6 % of the patients with IDC, and a pathologic complete response (pCR) was observed in 4.9 and 20.2 % of these patients, respectively (P < 0.0001). Breast-conserving surgery was performed for 24.4 % of the patients with ILC receiving NAC versus 39.4 % of the patients with IDC. In the ILC group, 8.2 % of the patients needed surgical reinterventions after BCS due to tumor-positive resection margins compared with 3.4 % of the patients with IDC (P < 0.0001). Lobular histology was independently associated with a higher mastectomy rate (odds ratio 1.91; 95 % confidence interval 1.49–2.44). Among the patients with clinical T2 and T3 disease, BCS was achieved more often when NAC was administered in ILC as well as IDC.

Conclusion

The patients with ILC receiving NAC were less likely to experience a pCR and less likely to undergo BCS than the patients with IDC. With regard to BCS, the impact of NAC for ILC patients was lower than for patients receiving surgery without NAC. However, despite the high number to treating in order to achieve BCS, a small subset of ILC patients, especially cT2 and cT3 patients, still may benefit from NAC.

Trends in surgery for screen-detected and interval breast cancers in a national screening programme

Background

This population-based study aimed to evaluate trends in surgical approach for screen-detected cancer versus interval breast cancer, and to determine the factors associated with positive resection margins.

Methods

Screening mammograms of women aged 50–75 years, who underwent biennial screening in a Dutch breast-screening region between 1997 and 2011, were included. Patient and tumour characteristics were compared between women who underwent mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for screen-detected or interval cancer, and women with a negative or positive resection margin after BCS.

Results

Some 417 013 consecutive screening mammograms were included. A total of 2224 screen-detected and 825 interval cancers were diagnosed. The BCS rate remained stable (mean 6·1 per 1000 screened women; P = 0·099), whereas mastectomy rates increased significantly during the study from 0·9 (1997–1998) to 1·9 (2009–2010) per 1000 screened women (P &lt; 0·001). The proportion of positive resection margins for invasive cancer was 19·6 and 7·6 per cent in 1997–1998 and 2009–2010 respectively (P &lt; 0·001), with significant variation between hospitals. Dense breasts, preoperative magnetic resonance imaging, microcalcifications, architectural distortion, tumour size over 20 mm, axillary lymph node metastasis and treating hospital were independent risk factors for mastectomy. Interval cancer, image-guided tumour localization, microcalcifications, breast parenchyma asymmetry, tumour size greater than 20 mm, lobular tumour histology, low tumour grade, extensive invasive component and treating hospital were independent risk factors for positive resection margins.

Conclusion

Mastectomy rates doubled during a 14-year period of screening mammography and the proportion of positive resection margins decreased, with variation among hospitals. The latter observation stresses the importance of quality control programmes for hospitals treating women with breast cancer.

Local recurrence following breast-conserving treatment in women aged 40 years or younger: trends in risk and the impact on prognosis in a population-based cohort of 1143 patients

AIM

To evaluate trends in the risk of local recurrences after breast-conserving treatment (BCT) and to examine the impact of local recurrence (LR) on distant relapse-free survival in a large, population-based cohort of women aged ≤40 years with early-stage breast cancer.

METHODS

All women (n=1143) aged ≤40 years with early-stage (pT1-2/cT1-2, N0-2, M0) breast cancer who underwent BCT in the south of the Netherlands between 1988 and 2010 were included. BCT consisted of local excision of the tumour followed by irradiation of the breast.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 8.5 (0.1-24.6)years, 176 patients had developed an isolated LR. The 5-year LR-rate for the subgroups treated in the periods 1988-1998, 1999-2005 and 2006-2010 were 9.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 7.1-12.5), 5.9% (95% CI 3.2-8.6) and 3.3% (95% CI 0.6-6.0), respectively (p=0.006). In a multivariate analysis, adjuvant systemic treatment was associated with a reduced risk of LR of almost 60% (hazard ratio (HR) 0.42; 95%CI 0.28-0.60; p<0.0001). Patients who experienced an early isolated LR (≤5 years after BCT) had a worse distant relapse-free survival compared to patients without an early LR (HR 1.83; 95% CI 1.27-2.64; p=0.001). Late local recurrences did not negatively affect distant relapse-free survival (HR 1.24; 95% CI 0.74-2.08; p=0.407).

CONCLUSION

Local control after BCT improved significantly over time and appeared to be closely related to the increased use and effectiveness of systemic therapy. These recent results underline the safety of BCT for young women with early-stage breast cancer.

A prospective evaluation of a breast cancer prognosis signature in the observational RASTER study

The 70-gene signature (MammaPrint™) has been developed on retrospective series of breast cancer patients to predict the risk of breast cancer distant metastases. The microarRAy-prognoSTics-in-breast-cancER (RASTER) study was the first study designed to prospectively evaluate the performance of the 70-gene signature, which result was available for 427 patients (cT1–3N0M0). Adjuvant systemic treatment decisions were based on the Dutch CBO 2004 guidelines, the 70-gene signature and doctors' and patients' preferences. Five-year distant-recurrence-free-interval (DRFI) probabilities were compared between subgroups based on the 70-gene signature and Adjuvant! Online (AOL) (10-year survival probability <90% was defined as high-risk). Median follow-up was 61.6 months. Fifteen percent (33/219) of the 70-gene signature low-risk patients received adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) versus 81% (169/208) of the 70-gene signature high-risk patients. The 5-year DRFI probabilities for 70-gene signature low-risk (n = 219) and high-risk (n = 208) patients were 97.0% and 91.7%. The 5-year DRFI probabilities for AOL low-risk (n = 132) and high-risk (n = 295) patients were 96.7% and 93.4%. For 70-gene signature low-risk–AOL high-risk patients (n = 124), of whom 76% (n = 94) had not received ACT, 5-year DRFI was 98.4%. In the AOL high-risk group, 32% (94/295) less patients would be eligible to receive ACT if the 70-gene signature was used. In this prospective community-based observational study, the 5-year DRFI probabilities confirmed the additional prognostic value of the 70-gene signature to clinicopathological risk estimations such as AOL. Omission of adjuvant chemotherapy as judged appropriate by doctors and patients and instigated by a low-risk 70-gene signature result, appeared not to compromise outcome.

Management of diverticulitis: results of a survey among gastroenterologists and surgeons

AIM

The study aimed to investigate current management strategies for left-sided diverticulitis and compare them with current international guidelines. Differences between surgeons and gastroenterologists and between gastrointestinal and nongastrointestinal surgeons were assessed.

METHOD

A web-based survey of treatment options for uncomplicated and complicated diverticulitis was carried out among surgeons and gastroenterologists in the Netherlands. Only surgeons were asked about surgical strategy.

RESULTS

A total of 292 surgeons and 87 gastroenterologists responded, representing 92% of all surgical and 46% of all gastroenterology departments. Ninety per cent of respondents treated mild diverticulitis without antibiotics. About one-fifth (18% gastroenterologists; 19% surgeons) regarded a CT scan as mandatory in the initial assessment. Most surgeons and gastroenterologists used some form of bowel rest, would consider outpatient treatment and would perform a colonoscopy on follow up. For Hinchey Stage 3, 78% of surgeons would consider resection and primary anastomosis and laparoscopic lavage was viewed as a valid alternative by 30% of gastrointestinal and 2% of nongastrointestinal surgeons. For Hinchey stage 4, 46% of gastrointestinal and 72% of nongastrointestinal surgeons would always perform Hartmann's procedure.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of diverticulitis in the Netherlands shows major differences when compared with guidelines for all stages of disease.

Risk factors for conversion during laparoscopic cholecystectomy - experiences from a general teaching hospital

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard for treating symptomatic cholelithiasis. Conversion, however, is sometimes necessary. The aim of this study was to determine predictive factors of conversion in patients undergoing LC for various indications in elective and acute settings in a general teaching hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 972 consecutive patients who underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Máxima Medical Centre in Veldhoven, the Netherlands, from January 2000 till January 2006. Recorded data were sex, age, indication for LC, conversion to open cholecystectomy, reason for conversion, performing surgeon, co-morbidity, type of complication, length of hospital stay and 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Conversion to open cholecystectomy was performed in 121 patients (12%). The most frequent reasons for conversion were infiltration/fibrosis of Calot's triangle (30%) and adhesions (27%). In the multivariate analyses male gender (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.07-2.59), age >65 years (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.32-3.34), acute cholecystitis (OR 11.8, 95% CI 6.98-20.1), recent acute cholecystitis (OR 4.71, 95% CI 2.42-9.18) and recent obstructive jaundice (OR 20.6, 95% CI 4.52-94.1) were independent predictive factors for conversion.

CONCLUSIONS

Male gender, age >65 years, (recent) acute cholecystitis and recent obstructive jaundice are independent predictive risk factors for conversion. By appreciating these risk factors for conversion, preoperative patient counselling can be improved.

Value of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center nomogram in clinical decision making for sentinel lymph node-positive breast cancer

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the value of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) nomogram for individual decision making in a Dutch cohort of women with breast cancer with a positive sentinel lymph node (SLN) but at low risk of additional nodal metastases.

Methods

Data were collected on 168 patients with a positive SLN who underwent completion axillary lymph node dissection. The predicted probability of non-SLN metastases was calculated for each patient, using the MSKCC nomogram. Specificity and false-negative rates were calculated for subgroups with a predicted risk of no more than 5, 10 or 15 per cent. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed and the area under the curve (AUC) calculated.

Results

The discrimination of the MSKCC nomogram, measured by the AUC, was 0·68. For low predicted probability cut-off values of no more than 5, 10 and 15 per cent, the false-negative rates were 20, 14 and 19 per cent, and the specificities were 4, 27 and 32 per cent, respectively. The low-risk category (5 per cent or less) consisted of only 3·0 per cent of the study population.

Conclusion

The performance of the MSKCC nomogram was insufficient to make it a useful tool for individual decision making in this cohort of women with SLN-positive breast cancer.

Patterns of care in Dutch postmenopausal patients with hormone-sensitive early breast cancer participating in the Tamoxifen Exemestane Adjuvant Multinational (TEAM) trial

BACKGROUND

The Tamoxifen and Exemestane Adjuvant Multinational (TEAM) trial investigates the efficacy and safety of adjuvant exemestane alone and in sequence after tamoxifen in postmenopausal women with hormone-sensitive early breast cancer. As there was a nationwide participation in The Netherlands, we studied the variations in patterns of care in the Comprehensive Cancer Centre Regions (CCCRs) and compliance with national guidelines.

METHODS

Clinicopathological characteristics, carried out local treatment strategies and adjuvant chemotherapy data were collected.

RESULTS

From 2001 to January 2006, 2754 Dutch patients were randomised to the study. Mean age of patients was 65 years (standard deviation 9). Tumours were < or =2 cm in 46% (within CCCRs 39%-50%), node-negative disease varied from 25% to 45%, and PgR status was determined in 75%-100% of patients. Mastectomy was carried out in 55% (45%-70%), sentinel lymph node procedure in 68% (42%-79%) and axillary lymph node dissections in 77% (67%-83%) of patients, all different between CCCRs (P < 0.0001). Adjuvant chemotherapy was given in 15%-70% of eligible patients (P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

In spite of national guidelines, breast cancer treatment on specific issues widely varied between the various Dutch regions. These data provide valuable information for breast cancer organisations indicating (lack of) guideline adherence and areas for breast cancer care improvement.

Leucocyte depletion of perioperative blood transfusion does not affect long-term survival and recurrence in patients with gastrointestinal cancer

BACKGROUND

Perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion may be associated with a poor prognosis in cancer surgery. Allogeneic leucocytes are assumed to play a causal role. This study evaluated the long-term effect of transfusion with leucocyte-depleted (LD) blood in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

METHODS

The Transfusion Associated Complications = Transfusion Induced Complications? (TACTIC) study is a multicentre randomized controlled trial evaluating the short-term benefits of LD versus non-LD RBC transfusions. The present study evaluated 5-year survival and cancer recurrence among 512 patients with gastrointestinal cancer included in the TACTIC study.

RESULTS

Some 89.2 per cent of patients had a primary tumour and 79.7 per cent underwent surgery with curative intent; 243 patients received perioperative RBC transfusion (median 3 units). The 5-year overall survival rate of patients with any type of gastrointestinal cancer was 50.8 per cent in the LD group and 45.8 per cent in the non-LD group (P = 0.191). Corresponding 5-year disease-free survival rates were 60.0 and 56.6 per cent (P = 0.482), and recurrence rates 32.9 and 34.3 per cent (P = 0.864).

CONCLUSION

Leucocyte depletion is not associated with better long-term survival and lower recurrence rates in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

[Elderly women with abdominal pain due to an incarcerated 'femoral hernia']

Symptoms and findings during physical examination of patients with a femoral hernia are notoriously aspecific. Signs in the inguinal region tend to be overlooked, particularly in obese patients. Three women aged 72, 83 and 68, presented with abdominal pain and ileus due to incarcerated femoral hernias. A correct diagnosis was not considered prior to emergency laparotomy. One progressively septic patient with disseminated breast cancer refused reintervention after successful correction of the femoral hernia, and succumbed. The other two recovered uneventfully. Any older female patient with recurrent abdominal complaints may harbour a femoral hernia. The inguinal region should be examined, if possible in the upright position. Ultrasound, CT or MRI scans should establish the diagnosis. Open or laparoscopic intervention is required in patients fit for surgery since incarceration of a femoral hernia is associated with considerable morbidity and even mortality.

Randomized clinical trial evaluating elective laparoscopic appendicectomy for chronic right lower-quadrant pain

BACKGROUND

It is questionable whether elective appendicectomy can effectively reduce persistent or recurrent right lower-quadrant abdominal pain due to chronic or recurrent appendicitis.

METHODS

This single-centre double-blind randomized clinical trial studied the effects of elective laparoscopic appendicectomy on pain 6 months after operation in patients with persistent or recurrent lower-quadrant pain. A secondary outcome evaluated was the relationship between clinical response and appendiceal histopathology. The analysis was performed on an intention-to-treat basis.

RESULTS

Forty patients were randomized to laparoscopic appendicectomy (18) or laparoscopic inspection only (22). Postoperative pain scores differed significantly between the groups, favouring appendicectomy (P = 0.005). Relative risk calculations indicated that there was a 2.4 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 1.3 to 4.0) times greater chance of improvement in pain after laparoscopic appendicectomy. The number needed to treat was 2.2 (95 per cent c.i. 1.5 to 6.5). There was no association between postoperative pain scores and histopathology findings.

CONCLUSION

Persistent or recurrent lower abdominal pain can be treated by elective appendicectomy with significant pain reduction in properly selected cases. Histopathology may not be abnormal.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN48831122 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).

[The sentinel lymph node procedure also feasible in patients with recurrent breast cancer]

The sentinel lymph node (SLN) concept has become a standard option for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with primary invasive breast cancer. The implementation of this SLN concept has created a new category of patients: those who had breast-conserving therapy without complete axillary lymph node dissection following a negative SLN biopsy. In cases of local relapse in the ipsilateral breast, questions arise on the lymphatic drainage of this new tumour. Such is also the case for patients who have been treated for ductal carcinoma in situ, who have had a previous mastectomy, or even after previous benign breast or axillary surgery. To date the literature on SLN biopsy in patients with recurrent breast cancer is scarce: only to publications dealing with 116 patients. It is concluded that a SLN procedure in recurrent disease is feasible and can possibly lead to the identification of specific or aberrant lymphatic drainages. This could then lead to useful changes being made to the multidisciplinary treatment strategy in selected patients following a successful SLN biopsy. Since there are still no proper guidelines for performing such a repeat SLN biopsy, it is necessary to reach consensus on this new indication in the short-term.

Classifying post-herniorrhaphy pain syndromes following elective inguinal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Chronic post-herniorrhaphy pain is diverse in origin. The aim of our study was to classify post-herniorrhaphy pain syndromes following elective inguinal hernia repair.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients with an elective inguinal hernia repair performed between January 2000 and August 2005 received a questionnaire evaluating chronic inguinal pain (visual analog scale, VAS 0-10). Patients with moderate to severe pain complaints (VAS score >or= 3) were invited for an interview and an outpatient department physical examination.

RESULTS

A total of 2,164 cases underwent an elective hernia repair and received the questionnaire; 1,766 individuals responded (response rate: 81.6%). Moderate to severe pain was present in 211 patients (11.9%). Follow-up was performed in 148 patients. Three separate groups of diagnoses were identified. Group I: neuropathic pain (n = 72) indicating inguinal nerve damage; group II: non-neuropathic pain (n = 40) due to an array of diagnoses including periostitis (n = 18) and recurrent hernia (n = 13); and group III: a tender spermatic cord and/or a tight feeling in the lower abdomen (n = 43).

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic pain following elective hernia repair is common and diverse in etiology but may allow for a classification contributing to the development of tailored treatment regimens.

[A patient with vague inguinal complaints due to a leiomyosarcoma of the inferior caval vein]

A 64-year-old male presented with progressive right-sided inguinal pain radiating to the right flank and lower back. He had noticed an infrequent altered sensibility on frontal parts of his right upper leg. Physical examination demonstrated the presence of a process in the lower abdomen. Computer tomography showed a retroperitoneal tumor with a 10 cm diameter that probably originated from the inferior caval vein (ICV). During an explorative laparotomy a tumor that was compressing the right N. genitofemoralis was radically removed together with the right kidney and the ventral wall of the ICV. The histological diagnosis was a radically removed leiomyosarcoma. Based on the clinical picture, diagnostic imaging and pathologic examination the diagnosis leiomyosarcoma ofthe ICV was confirmed. A leiomyosarcoma of the ICV is a rare tumor with atypical symptomatology and a slow growth rate often leading to a late diagnosis. Surgery is the only effective treatment. The prognosis is moderate.

Second thoughts on sentinel lymph node biopsy in node-negative breast cancer

Not quite as safe as was thought

Survival after negative sentinel lymph node biopsy in breast cancer at least equivalent to after negative extensive axillary dissection

AIM

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) without completion axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is replacing ALND as the axillary staging procedure of choice in breast cancer patients with a clinically negative axilla even though it is unclear whether this influences patient survival. Our aim was to compare the survival of breast cancer patients with a negative SLNB without completion ALND to that of extensive ALND-negative patients.

METHODS

Eindhoven Cancer Registry data on breast cancer patients diagnosed between 1989 and 2002 with follow-up to 1 January 2005 was used. Survival was compared between 880 SLNB-negative women (median follow-up 3.6years) without completion ALND and 1681 ALND-negative women (median follow-up 7.7years) with at least 10 axillary nodes removed. Conclusions were made after correcting for age, tumour size, tumour location, tumour histology, tumour grade, mitotic activity index (MAI), hormone receptor status, and local and systemic treatment in uni- and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Crude 5-year survival rates were 85% for ALND-negative and 89% for SLNB-negative breast cancer patients (p=0.026). After correction for potential confounders in a multivariate Cox regression analyses, the hazard ratio for overall mortality of ALND-negative compared to SLNB-negative patients without completion ALND was 1.23 (95% confidence interval: 0.93-1.64).

CONCLUSION

Survival after a SLNB without completion ALND is at least equivalent to after an extensive ALND in node-negative breast cancer patients. This means that the SLNB only can safely replace ALND as the procedure of choice for axillary staging in breast cancer patients with a clinically negative axilla.

[Diagnostic image (326). A man with a painful swelling in the upper leg]

A 33-year-old man had a painful swelling in his left upper leg caused by a textiloma due to a ribbon fragment apparently left behind at a bicycle accident 7 years earlier when the handlebars had penetrated the leg.

Chronic sequelae of common elective groin hernia repair

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess long-term chronic pain, numbness and functional impairment after open and laparoscopic groin hernia repair in a teaching hospital.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study in which all adult patients with a groin hernia repair between January 2000 and August 2005 received a questionnaire by post. It contained questions concerning frequency and intensity of pain, presence of bulge, numbness, and functional impairment.

RESULTS

One thousand seven hundred and sixty-six questionnaires were returned (81.6%) and after a median follow-up period of nearly 3 years 40.2% of patients reported some degree of pain. Thirty-three patients (1.9%) experienced severe pain. Almost one-fourth reported numbness which correlated significantly with pain (P < 0.001). Other variables, identified as risk factors for the development of pain were age (P < 0.001) and recurrent hernia repair (P = 0.003). One-fifth of the patients felt functionally impaired in their work or leisure activities.

CONCLUSION

Chronic pain and functional impairment are very common long-term complications after groin herniorrhapy in Dutch teaching hospitals.

[Diagnostic image (294). A man with a painful, red, swollen finger]

A 35-year-old man presented with a tendineal panaritium and lymphangitis of his arm caused by a group A beta-haemolytic streptococcal infection after an accidental splinter injury.

Lymphatic mapping and sentinel node harvesting in patients with recurrent breast cancer

AIMS

To evaluate the feasibility and consequences of lymphatic mapping and a ("repeat") sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedure in patients with breast cancer relapse after previous breast and axillary surgery.

METHODS

Review and presentation of a patient cohort. All SLN procedures included lymphoscintigraphy and blue dye injection technique.

RESULTS

Twelve cases are described: two patients after a previous SLN procedure and ten after a previous complete axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Ten patients (83%) had a successful repeat SLN biopsy. After previous ALND, lymphoscintigraphy revealed drainage towards the internal mammary chain in three patients, and contralateral axillary drainage in four. Based on the information from the "repeat" SLN biopsy further treatment strategy was altered in seven of the 12 patients.

CONCLUSION

Lymphatic mapping and (repeat) SLN biopsy is possible and can be informative in patients who present with a relapse of breast cancer after previous surgery for primary breast cancer.

[Abdominal intercostal neuralgia: a forgotten cause of abdominal pain]

Four patients, 3 women aged 39, 36 and 58 and a man aged 51, had been experiencing recurring bouts of abdominal pain for periods varying from a few months to years. The pain could be provoked by palpation of a small circumscript area in the lower abdomen. A positive Carnett's sign (pain intensification during palpation while contracting the abdominal muscles by raising the head, whilst lying flat) may aid the diagnosis. An injection ofa local anaesthetic agent confirmed the diagnosis of nerve entrapment and appeared therapeutic in one patient. The other three patients experienced long-term relief following surgical nerve excision. Establishing a diagnosis in patients with abdominal cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome is often delayed due to physicians being unaware of this condition. Most patients have to undergo numerous investigations including laparoscopies and explorative laparotomies, often to no avail. This syndrome should be considered in patients with chronic abdominal pain syndromes.

Increased risk of second malignancies after in situ breast carcinoma in a population-based registry

Among 1276 primary breast carcinoma in situ (BCIS) patients diagnosed in 1972-2002 in the Southern Netherlands, 11% developed a second cancer. Breast carcinoma in situ patients exhibited a two-fold increased risk of second cancer (standardised incidence ratios (SIR): 2.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7-2.5). The risk was highest for a second breast cancer (SIR: 3.4, 95% CI: 2.6-4.3; AER: 66 patients per 10,000 per year) followed by skin cancer (SIR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1-2.6; AER: 17 patients per 10,000 per year). The increased risk of second breast cancer was similar for the ipsilateral (SIR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3-2.7) and contralateral (SIR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4-2.8) breast. Risk of second cancer was independent of age at diagnosis, type of initial therapy, histologic type of BCIS and period of diagnosis. Standardised incidence ratios of second cancer after BCIS (SIR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.8-2.8) resembled that after invasive breast cancer (SIR: 2.2, 95% CI: 2.1-2.4). Surveillance should be directed towards second (ipsi- and contra-lateral) breast cancer.

The significance of one positive axillary node

AIMS

The aim of this study was to identify a subgroup of patients with breast cancer that can safely avoid axillary dissection.

METHODS

Using data collected by the Eindhoven Cancer Registry, we compared the clinico-pathological features of 489 patients with only one positive lymph node to those of 817 patients with more than one positive lymph node in the axilla. All patients underwent complete axillary dissection, not preceded by a sentinel node biopsy.

RESULTS

Tumour size greater than 1cm, harvesting more than 15 axillary lymph nodes at histopathological examination, metastasis size larger than 2mm, extranodal extension, and nodal involvement of the axillary apex are independently associated with the occurrence of more than one metastatic axillary lymph node.

CONCLUSION

No subgroup could be identified in which axillary dissection can always be omitted. However, tumour size<1cm, finding a micrometastasis rather than a macrometastasis, and especially not finding extranodal extension were independently associated with finding only one positive axillary lymph node.