Müllerian-type carcinosarcoma arising in gastric endometriosis: Case report and review of the literature

Although endometriosis is a common condition, both extrapelvic endometriosis and endometriosis associated malignancy (EAM) are rare. We describe the first reported case of a patient with Müllerian-type carcinosarcoma arising in gastric endometriosis.

PDGFRβ Signaling Cooperates with β-Catenin to Modulate c-Abl and Biologic Behavior of Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis

PURPOSE

This study sought to identify β-catenin targets that regulate desmoid oncogenesis and determine whether external signaling pathways, particularly those inhibited by sorafenib (e.g., PDGFRβ), affect these targets to alter natural history or treatment response in patients.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

In vitro experiments utilized primary desmoid cell lines to examine regulation of β-catenin targets. Relevance of results was assessed in vivo using Alliance trial A091105 correlative biopsies.

RESULTS

CTNNB1 knockdown inhibited hypoxia-regulated gene expression in vitro and reduced levels of HIF1α protein. ChIP-seq identified ABL1 as a β-catenin transcriptional target that modulated HIF1α and desmoid cell proliferation. Abrogation of either CTNNB1 or HIF1A inhibited desmoid cell-induced VEGFR2 phosphorylation and tube formation in endothelial cell co-cultures. Sorafenib inhibited this activity directly but also reduced HIF1α protein expression and c-Abl activity while inhibiting PDGFRβ signaling in desmoid cells. Conversely, c-Abl activity and desmoid cell proliferation were positively regulated by PDGF-BB. Reduction in PDGFRβ and c-Abl phosphorylation was commonly observed in biopsy samples from patients after treatment with sorafenib; markers of PDGFRβ/c-Abl pathway activation in baseline samples were associated with tumor progression in patients on the placebo arm and response to sorafenib in patients receiving treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The β-catenin transcriptional target ABL1 is necessary for proliferation and maintenance of HIF1α in desmoid cells. Regulation of c-Abl activity by PDGF signaling and targeted therapies modulates desmoid cell proliferation, thereby suggesting a reason for variable biologic behavior between tumors, a mechanism for sorafenib activity in desmoids, and markers predictive of outcome in patients.

Integrated Clinical-Molecular Classification of Colorectal Liver Metastases: A Biomarker Analysis of the Phase 3 New EPOC Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Personalized treatment approaches for patients with oligometastatic colorectal liver metastases are critically needed. We previously defined 3 biologically distinct molecular subtypes of colorectal liver metastases: (1) canonical, (2) immune, and (3) stromal.

Objective

To independently validate these molecular subtypes in the phase 3 New EPOC randomized clinical trial.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective secondary analysis of the phase 3 New EPOC randomized clinical trial included a bi-institutional discovery cohort and multi-institutional validation cohort. The discovery cohort comprised patients who underwent hepatic resection for limited colorectal liver metastases (98% received perioperative chemotherapy) from May 31, 1994, to August 14, 2012. The validation cohort comprised patients who underwent hepatic resection for liver metastases with perioperative chemotherapy (fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan based) with or without cetuximab from February 26, 2007, to November 1, 2012. Data were analyzed from January 18 to December 10, 2021.

Interventions

Resected metastases underwent RNA sequencing and microRNA (miRNA) profiling in the discovery cohort and messenger RNA and miRNA profiling with microarray in the validation cohort.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A 31-feature (24 messenger RNAs and 7 miRNAs) neural network classifier was trained to predict molecular subtypes in the discovery cohort and applied to the validation cohort. Integrated clinical-molecular risk groups were designated based on molecular subtypes and the clinical risk score. The unique biological phenotype of each molecular subtype was validated using gene set enrichment analyses and immune deconvolution. The primary clinical end points were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 240 patients were included (mean [range] age, 63.0 [56.3-68.0] years; 151 [63%] male), with 93 in the discovery cohort and 147 in the validation cohort. In the validation cohort, 73 (50%), 28 (19%), and 46 (31%) patients were classified as having canonical, immune, and stromal metastases, respectively. The biological phenotype of each subtype was concordant with the discovery cohort. The immune subtype (best prognosis) demonstrated 5-year PFS of 43% (95% CI, 25%-60%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.37; 95% CI, 0.20-0.68) and OS of 63% (95% CI, 40%-79%; HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17-0.86), which was statistically significantly higher than the canonical subtype (worst prognosis) at 14% (95% CI, 7%-23%) and 43% (95% CI, 32%-55%), respectively. Adding molecular subtypes to the clinical risk score improved prediction (the Gönen and Heller K for discrimination) from 0.55 (95% CI, 0.49-0.61) to 0.62 (95% CI, 0.57-0.67) for PFS and 0.59 (95% CI, 0.52-0.66) to 0.63 (95% CI, 0.56-0.70) for OS. The low-risk integrated group demonstrated 5-year PFS of 44% (95% CI, 20%-66%; HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.19-0.76) and OS of 78% (95% CI, 44%-93%; HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.08-0.84), superior to the high-risk group at 16% (95% CI, 10%-24%) and 43% (95% CI, 32%-52%), respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this prognostic study, biologically derived colorectal liver metastasis molecular subtypes and integrated clinical-molecular risk groups were highly prognostic. This novel molecular classification warrants further study as a possible predictive biomarker for personalized systemic treatment for colorectal liver metastases.

Trial Registration

isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN22944367.

Alignment of RVU Targets With Operating Room Block Time

Background

Surgeon productivity is measured in relative value units (RVUs). The feasibility of attaining RVU productivity targets requires surgeons to have enough allocated block time to generate RVUs. However, it is unknown how much block time is required for surgeons to attain specific RVU targets. We aimed to estimate the effect of surgeon and practice environment characteristics (SPECs) on block time needed to attain fixed RVU targets.

Methods

We computationally simulated individual surgeons' annual caseloads under a variety of SPECs in the following way. First, empirical case data were sampled from ACS NSQIP in accordance with surgeon specialty, case-mix complexity, and RVU target. Surgeons' operating schedules were then constructed according to the block length, turnover time, and scheduling flexibility of the practice environment. These 6 SPECs were concurrently varied over their ranges for a 6-way sensitivity analysis.

Results

Annual operating schedules for 60,000,000 surgeons were simulated. The number of blocks required to attain RVU targets varied significantly with surgeon specialty and increased with increased case-mix complexity, increased turnover time, and decreased scheduling flexibility. Intraspecialty variation in block requirement with variation in environmental characteristics exceeded interspecialty variation with fixed environmental characteristics. Multivariate linear models predicted block utilization across surgical specialties with consideration for the stated factors. An online tool is shared with which to apply these results to one's particular practice.

Conclusions

Block time required to attain RVU targets varies widely with SPECs; intraspecialty variation exceeds interspecialty variation. The feasibility of attaining RVU targets requires alignment between targets and allocated operating time with consideration for surgical specialty and other practice conditions.

Utility of Perioperative Measurement of Cell-Free DNA and Circulating Tumor DNA in Informing the Prognosis of GI Cancers: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

Current surveillance imaging and tumor markers lack sensitivity for the early detection of recurrence in GI cancers. This study critically evaluates the current literature on the role of sequential measurement of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) before and after curative resection in informing recurrence.

METHODS

A systematic search using a predefined, registered protocol was conducted for studies published between January 2010 and May 2020. Included studies described patients with GI cancers treated with curative-intent surgical resection and measurement of ctDNA both before and after surgery. Patients were divided into three groups on the basis of the presence or absence of ctDNA at these time points. The primary outcome was recurrence-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

The search yielded 3,873 articles; five met the inclusion criteria and collectively evaluated 57 patients. Pooled median RFS was 62 months (interquartile range 19 to not reached). Although median RFS was not reached in group 1 (- to -) or group 2 (+ to -), median RFS in group 3 (+ to +) was 15 months (interquartile range 9.6-60.4 months). Cox hazard ratio was 4.46 (95% CI, 1.17 to 16.99; P = .028) between group 1 and group 2, and 10.47 (95% CI, 2.91 to 37.74; P < .001) between group 2 and group 3.

CONCLUSION

Detectable ctDNA, either preoperatively or postoperatively, and its persistence after curative surgery are associated with a greater risk of recurrence and decreased RFS in GI cancers. Thus, perioperative measurement of ctDNA may be a useful postoperative risk stratification tool and guide additional therapies.

Phase II Prospective, Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Standard of Care Chemotherapy With and Without Sequential Cytoreductive Interventions for Patients with Oligometastatic Foregut Adenocarcinoma and Undetectable Circulating Tumor Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid (ctDNA) Levels

BACKGROUND

Metastatic adenocarcinomas of foregut origin are aggressive and have limited treatment options, poor quality of life, and a dismal prognosis. A subset of such patients with limited metastatic disease might have favorable outcomes with locoregional metastasis-directed therapies. This study investigates the role of sequential cytoreductive interventions in addition to the standard of care chemotherapy in patients with oligometastatic foregut adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

This is a single-center, phase II, open-label randomized clinical trial. Eligible patients include adults with synchronous or metachronous oligometastatic (metastasis limited to two sites and amenable for curative/ablative treatment) adenocarcinoma of the foregut without progression after induction chemotherapy and having undetectable ctDNA. These patients will undergo induction chemotherapy and will then be randomized (1:1) to either sequential curative intervention followed by maintenance chemotherapy versus routine continued chemotherapy. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS), and a total of 48 patients will be enrolled to detect an improvement in the median PFS in the intervention arm with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.5 with 80% power and a one-sided alpha of 0.1. Secondary endpoints include disease-free survival (DFS) in the intervention arm, overall survival (OS), ctDNA conversion rate pre/post-induction chemotherapy, ctDNA PFS, PFS2, adverse events, quality of life, and financial toxicity.

DISCUSSION

This is the first randomized study that aims to prospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of surgical/ablative interventions in patients with ctDNA-negative oligometastatic adenocarcinoma of foregut origin post-induction chemotherapy. The results from this study will likely develop pertinent, timely, and relevant knowledge in oncology.

Cytoreductive Surgery for Selected Patients Whose Metastatic Gastric Cancer was Treated with Systemic Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

The authors hypothesized that cytoreductive surgery (CRS, comprising gastrectomy combined with metastasectomy) in addition to systemic chemotherapy (SC) is associated with a better survival than chemotherapy alone for patients with metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma (MGA).

METHODS

Patients with MGA who received SC between 2004 and 2016 were identified using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Nearest-neighbor 1:1 propensity score-matching was used to create comparable groups. Overall survival (OS) was compared between subgroups using Kaplan-Meier analyses. Immortal bias analysis was performed among those who survived longer than 90 days.

RESULTS

The study identified 29,728 chemotherapy-treated patients, who were divided into the following four subgroups: no surgery (NS, n = 25,690), metastasectomy alone (n = 1170), gastrectomy alone (n = 2248), and CRS (n = 620) with median OS periods of 8.6, 10.9, 14.8, and 16.3 months, respectively (p < 0.001). Compared with the patients who underwent NS, the patients who had CRS were younger (58.9 ± 13.4 vs 62.0 ± 13.1 years), had a lower proportion of disease involving multiple sites (4.6% vs 19.1%), and were more likely to be clinically occult (cM0 stage: 59.2% vs 8.3%) (p < 0.001 for all). The median OS for the propensity-matched patients who underwent CRS (n = 615) was longer than for those with NS (16.4 vs 9.3 months; p < 0.001), including in those with clinical M1 stage (n = 210). In the Cox regression model using the matched data, the hazard ratio for CRS versus NS was 0.56 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49-0.63). In the immortal-matched cohort, the corresponding median OS was 17.0 versus 9.5 months (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to SC, CRS may be associated with an OS benefit for a selected group of MGA patients meriting further prospective investigation.

A prospective trial of stereotactic body radiation therapy for unresectable pancreatic cancer testing ablative doses

Background

We explored the safety and efficacy of ablative doses of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for unresectable pancreatic cancer.

Methods

This phase I/II trial included patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer previously treated with any number of cycles of induction chemotherapy. Patients were enrolled according to a 3+3 dose escalation design at 10, 12.5, and 15 Gy ×3, with subsequent patients at the maximally tolerated dose (MTD). Treatment was delivered to gross tumor delineated with MRI fusion using image-guidance to fiducial markers. Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as grade 3+ toxicity within 30 days. Secondary endpoints included late gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity, freedom from local failure (FFLF), and survival.

Results

Fifteen patients received a median 10 cycles of chemotherapy. There were no DLTs, and the MTD was 15 Gy ×3. Thirty-day toxicity included grade 2 nausea (46%) and grade 2 diarrhea (7%). Median survival after SBRT was 12.8 months (23 months after diagnosis) and median relapse-free survival was 7 months. At 1-year, FFLF was 80%. Four patients had grade 3+ GI bleeding after 30 days (median 6 months). Grade 3+ GI bleeding was associated with tumor volume (P=0.01), heterogeneity of dose within the planning target volume (PTV) (V120, P=0.03), and duodenal dose (V26-30 Gy, P<0.2).

Conclusions

This aggressive SBRT regimen demonstrated limited 30-day morbidity, a moderate degree of local control, and a moderate risk for late GI bleeding. Further work is necessary to define the most appropriate hypofractionated radiation therapy (RT) regimen in the ablative dose range.

Personalized Antibodies for Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma (PANGEA): A Phase II Study Evaluating an Individualized Treatment Strategy for Metastatic Disease

The one-year and median overall survival (mOS) rates of advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas (GEA) are ∼50% and <12 months, respectively. Baseline spatial and temporal molecular heterogeneity of targetable alterations may be a cause of failure of targeted/immunooncologic therapies. This heterogeneity, coupled with infrequent incidence of some biomarkers, has resulted in stalled therapeutic progress. We hypothesized that a personalized treatment strategy, applied at first diagnosis then serially over up to three treatment lines using monoclonal antibodies combined with optimally sequenced chemotherapy, could contend with these hurdles. This was tested using a novel clinical expansion-platform type II design with a survival primary endpoint. Of 68 patients by intention-to-treat, the one-year survival rate was 66% and mOS was 15.7 months, meeting the primary efficacy endpoint (one-sided P = 0.0024). First-line response rate (74%), disease control rate (99%), and median progression-free survival (8.2 months) were superior to historical controls. The PANGEA strategy led to improved outcomes warranting a larger randomized study. SIGNIFICANCE: This study highlights excellent outcomes achieved by individually optimizing chemotherapy, biomarker profiling, and matching of targeted therapies at baseline and over time for GEA. Testing a predefined treatment strategy resulted in improved outcomes versus historical controls. Therapeutic resistance observed in correlative analyses suggests that dual targeted inhibition may be beneficial.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 211.

Medically Necessary, Time-Sensitive Procedures: Scoring System to Ethically and Efficiently Manage Resource Scarcity and Provider Risk During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Hospitals have severely curtailed the performance of nonurgent surgical procedures in anticipation of the need to redeploy healthcare resources to meet the projected massive medical needs of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Surgical treatment of non-COVID-19 related disease during this period, however, still remains necessary. The decision to proceed with medically necessary, time-sensitive (MeNTS) procedures in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic requires incorporation of factors (resource limitations, COVID-19 transmission risk to providers and patients) heretofore not overtly considered by surgeons in the already complicated processes of clinical judgment and shared decision-making. We describe a scoring system that systematically integrates these factors to facilitate decision-making and triage for MeNTS procedures, and appropriately weighs individual patient risks with the ethical necessity of optimizing public health concerns. This approach is applicable across a broad range of hospital settings (academic and community, urban and rural) in the midst of the pandemic and may be able to inform case triage as operating room capacity resumes once the acute phase of the pandemic subsides.

Virtual Surgical Fellowship Recruitment During COVID-19 and Its Implications for Resident/Fellow Recruitment in the Future

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has overlapped with the scheduled interview periods of over 20 surgical subspecialty fellowships, including the Complex General Surgical Oncology (CGSO) fellowships in the National Resident Matching Program and the Society of Surgical Oncology’s Breast Surgical Oncology fellowships. We outline the successful implementation of and processes behind a virtual interview day for CGSO fellowship recruitment after the start of the pandemic.

Methods

The virtual CGSO fellowship interview process at the University of Chicago Medicine and NorthShore University Health System was outlined and implemented. Separate voluntary, anonymous online secure feedback surveys were email distributed to interview applicants and faculty interviewers after the interview day concluded.

Results

Sixteen of 20 interview applicants (80.0%) and 12 of 13 faculty interviewers (92.3%) completed their respective feedback surveys. Seventy-five percent (12/16) of applicants and all faculty respondents (12/12) stated the interview process was ‘very seamless’ or ‘seamless’. Applicants and faculty highlighted decreased cost, time savings, and increased efficiency as some of the benefits to virtual interviewing.

Conclusions

Current circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic require fellowship programs to adapt and conduct virtual interviews. Our report describes the successful implementation of a virtual interview process. This report describes the technical steps and pitfalls of organizing such an interview and provides insights into the experience of the interviewer and interviewee.

Evaluation of the Association of Perioperative UGT1A1 Genotype-Dosed gFOLFIRINOX With Margin-Negative Resection Rates and Pathologic Response Grades Among Patients With Locally Advanced Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma: A Phase 2 Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (ie, stage ≥T3 and/or node positive) have high rates of recurrence despite surgery and adjunctive perioperative therapies, which also have high toxicity profiles. Evaluation of pharmacogenomically dosed perioperative gFOLFIRINOX (fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and UGT1A1 genotype-directed irinotecan) to optimize efficacy while limiting toxic effects may have value.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the coprimary end points of margin-negative (R0) resection rates and pathologic response grades (PRGs) of gFOLFIRINOX therapy among patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This single-group phase 2 trial, conducted at 2 academic medical centers from February 2014 to March 2019, enrolled 36 evaluable patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction, and gastric body. Data analysis was conducted in May 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients received biweekly gFOLFIRINOX (fluorouracil, 2400 mg/m2 over 46 hours; oxaliplatin, 85 mg/m2; irinotecan, 180 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 6/6, 135 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 6/7, or 90 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 7/7; and prophylactic peg-filgastrim, 6 mg) for 4 cycles before and after surgery. Patients with tumors positive for ERBB2 also received trastuzumab (6-mg/kg loading dose, then 4 mg/kg).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Margin-negative resection rate and PRG.

RESULTS

A total of 36 evaluable patients (27 [78%] men; median [range] age, 66 [27-85] years; 10 [28%] with gastric body cancer; 24 [67%] with intestinal-type tumors; 6 [17%] with ERBB2-positive tumors; 19 [53%] with UGT1A1 genotype 6/6; 16 [44%] with genotype 6/7; and 1 [3%] with genotype 7/7) were enrolled. Of these, 35 (97%) underwent surgery; 1 patient (3%) died after completing neoadjuvant chemotherapy while awaiting surgery. Overall, R0 resection was achieved in 33 of 36 patients (92%); 2 patients (6%) with linitis plastica achieved R1 resection. Pathologic response grades 1, 2, and 3 occurred in 13 patients (36%), 9 patients (25%), and 14 patients (39%), respectively, and PRG 1 was observed in 11 of 24 intestinal-type tumors (46%). Median disease-free survival was 30.1 months (95% CI, 15.0 months to not reached), and median overall survival was not reached (95% CI, 8.3 months to not reached). There were no differences in outcomes by UGT1A1 genotype group. A total of 38 patients, including 2 (5%) with antral tumors, were evaluable for toxic effects. Grade 3 or higher adverse events occurring in 5% or more of patients during the perioperative cycles included diarrhea (7 patients [18%]; 3 of 19 patients [16%] with genotype 6/6; 2 of 16 patients [13%] with genotype 6/7; 2 of 3 patients [67%] with genotype 7/7), anemia (2 patients [5%]), vomiting (2 patients [5%]), and nausea (2 patients [5%]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, perioperative pharmacogenomically dosed gFOLFIRINOX was feasible, providing downstaging with PRG 1 in more than one-third of patients and an R0 resection rate in 92% of patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02366819.

Personalized ANtibodies for GastroEsophageal Adenocarcinoma (PANGEA): Primary efficacy analysis of the phase II platform trial (NCT02213289)

356

Background: 1-yr OS is ~40% for HER2- & ~55% for HER2+ advanced (aGEA). Targeted therapies (tx) have had limited benefit due to molecular heterogeneity. Methods: This phase 2a study of a personalized tx strategy (PTS) enrolled newly diagnosed aGEA pts who then received up to 3 cytotoxic (cx) lines: first line (1L) 5FU + oxaliplatin, 2L 5FU + irinotecan & 3L 5FU + docetaxel. Baseline biomarker profiling (BP) was mandated on primary & metastatic tumors (PT/MT) & progressive disease points (PD1, PD2). Assigned antibody (AN) was added to cx by a predefined prioritized tx algorithm (PTA) (Table) based on the MT BP. At PD1, pts went to 2L cx + initial AN. Upon results of PD1 BP, pts changed AN only if BP evolved per PTA. The same was done at PD2. If AN was unavailable (MET/FGFR2), these pts were tx’d with cx alone (not ITT). The 10 endpt was 1-yr OS of the PTS. Assuming historical 50% 1-yr OS for all aGEA pts, 68 pts tx’d per protocol PTS provided 80% power to detect an HR=0.67, corresponding to a 1-yr OS rate of 63% (under exponential survival), using a 1-sided test at the 0.10 alpha level. 20 endpts: safety, feasibility, PT/MT BP discordance at baseline & over tx line, & OS/PFS/ORR by tx line & BP group. Results: Between 6/2015-5/2019, 80 consecutive pts enrolled at 3 sites: ECOG PS 0-2 40/33/7; Male 80%; median age 60, range 28-81, peritoneal disease 36%. AN assigned by PTA at 1L & 1-yr OS are shown (Table). PT/MT discordance was 37%. Of 68 pts treated by PTS ITT, the 1-yr OS was 69.4% (p<0.001). The mOS was 16.4m [95%CI 13.8-20.8]. Any grade >3 tox thru all 3 tx lines was seen in 32% of pts. 20 analyses will be presented. Conclusions: PANGEA was feasible & met its 10 efficacy objective with observed 1-yr OS of 69.4%, meriting a randomized study. Clinical trial information: NCT02213289 . U.S. National Institutes of Health.[Table: see text]

Cytoreductive surgery in selected patients with metastatic gastric cancer treated with systemic chemotherapy

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Background: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS – gastrectomy combined with metastasectomy) for non-palliative indications is controversial for patients with metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma (MGA). We hypothesized that CRS in addition to systemic chemotherapy is associated with an improved survival when compared to patients with MGA receiving chemotherapy alone. Methods: Patients with MGA who received systemic chemotherapy between 2004-2016 were identified using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Nearest neighbor 1:1 propensity score matching of demographic, tumor-related and treatment-related factors was used to create comparable groups. Overall survival (OS) was compared between subgroups using Kaplan-Meier analyses. Immortal bias analysis was performed among those that survived at least 90 days. Results: We identified 29,728 chemotherapy-treated patients who were divided into 4 subgroups: No surgery (NS, n = 25,690), metastasectomy alone (n = 1170), gastrectomy alone (n = 2248) and CRS (n = 620) with a median OS of 8.6, 10.9, 14.8 and 16.3 months, respectively (p < 0.001). Compared to patients who underwent no surgery, patients who underwent CRS were younger (58.9±13.4 vs. 62.0±13.1 years), had lower proportion of disease involving multiple sites (5.0% vs. 26.2%), and were more likely to have clinically occult disease (cM0 58.9% vs. 7.3%) - all p < 0.001. OS for propensity matched patients who underwent CRS (n = 490) was longer than NS (16.3 vs. 8.8 months, p < 0.001), including those with clinical M1 stage (n = 203) in both unmatched and propensity matched (median OS 19.7 vs. 8.6 months, p < 0.001) cohorts. On Cox regression model using the matched data, the hazard ratio for CRS vs. NS was 0.80 (95%CI 0.76-0.84). In the immortal matched cohort, the corresponding median OS was 16.7 vs. 9.7 months, p < 0.001. Conclusions: CRS in addition to systemic chemotherapy may be associated with an OS benefit in a selected group of patients with metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma. Suboptimal matching for tumor burden is our major limitation. In contrast to studies that focus on gastrectomy alone in the setting of MGA, this study highlights the role of CRS among patients receiving systemic chemotherapy.

What Is the Appropriate Use of Laparoscopy over Open Procedures in the Current COVID-19 Climate?

INTRODUCTION

Among surgeons worldwide, a concern with the use of minimally invasive techniques has been raised due to a proposed risk of viral transmission of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) with the creation of pneumoperitoneum. Due to this proposed concern, we sought to collect the available data and evaluate the use of laparoscopy and the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

METHODS

A literature review of viral transmission in surgery and of the available literature regarding the transmission of the COVID-19 virus was performed. We additionally reviewed surgical society guidelines and recommendations regarding surgery during this pandemic.

RESULTS

Few studies have been performed on viral transmission during surgery, but to date there is no study that demonstrates or can suggest the ability for a virus to be transmitted during surgical treatment whether open or laparoscopic. There is no societal consensus on limiting or restricting laparoscopic or robotic surgery; however, there is expert consensus on the modification of standard practices to minimize any risk of transmission.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite very little evidence to support viral transmission through laparoscopic or open approaches, we recommend making modifications to surgical practice such as the use of smoke evacuation and minimizing energy device use among other measures to minimize operative staff exposure to aerosolized particles.

Facilities that service economically advantaged neighborhoods perform surgical metastasectomy more often for patients with colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

Metastasectomy of isolated colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) requires significant clinical expertise and may not be readily available or offered. The authors hypothesized that hospitals that treat a greater percentage of patients from higher income catchment areas are more likely to perform metastasectomies regardless of patient or tumor characteristics.

METHODS

Using the National Cancer Data Base, the authors classified facilities into facility income quartiles (FIQs) based on the percentage of patients from the wealthiest neighborhoods (by zip code). Quartile 1 included facilities with <2.1% of the patients residing within the highest income zip codes, quartile 2 included facilities with 2.2% to 15.6% of patients residing within the highest income zip codes, quartile 3 included facilities with 15.7% to 40.2% of patients residing within the highest income zip codes, and quartile 4 included facilities with 40.3% to 90.5% of patients residing within the highest income ZIP codes. Patient, tumor, and facility characteristics were analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression to identify associations between metastasectomy and FIQ.

RESULTS

Patients with CRLM were more likely to undergo metastasectomy at facilities in the highest FIQ compared with the lowest FIQ (18% vs 11% in FIQ4; P = .001). This trend was not observed in the resection of primary tumors for nonmetastatic CRLM (rates of 95% vs 93%; P = .94). After adjusting for individual insurance status, distance traveled, zip code-level individual income, tumor, and host, patients who were treated at the highest FIQ facilities were found to be more likely to undergo metastasectomy (odds ratio, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.02-1.72 [P = .03]).

CONCLUSIONS

Metastasectomy for CRLM is more likely to occur at facilities that serve a greater percentage of patients from high-income catchment areas, regardless of individual patient characteristics. This disparity uniquely affects those patients with advanced cancers for which specialized expertise for therapy is necessary.

Comparative Age-Based Prospective Multi-Institutional Observations of 12,367 Patients Enrolled to the American College of Surgeons Oncology Group (ACOSOG) Z901101 Trials (Alliance)

BACKGROUND

The risk of surgery, particularly for older cancer patients with serious, extensive comorbidities, can make this otherwise curative modality precarious. Leveraging data from the American College of Surgeons Oncology Group, this study sought to characterize age-based comparative demographics, adverse event rates, and study completion rates to define how best to conduct research in older cancer patients.

METHODS

This study relied on clinical data from 21 completed studies to assess whether older patients experienced more grade 3 or worse adverse events and were more likely to discontinue study participation prematurely than their younger counterparts.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 12,367 patients. The median age was 60 years, and 36% of the patients were 65 years of age or older. Among 4008 patients with adverse event data, 1067 (27%) had experienced a grade 3 or worse event. The patients 65 years or older had higher rates of grade 3 or worse adverse events compared to younger patients [32% vs. 24%; odds ratio (OR), 1.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.3-1.7; p < 0.0001]. This association was not observed in multivariate analyses. The study protocol was completed by 97% of the patients. No association was observed between age and trial completion (OR 0.8; 95% CI 0.7-1.1; p = 0.14). Only the older gastrointestinal cancer trial patients were less likely to complete their studies compared to younger patients (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.30-0.70; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Despite higher rates of adverse events, the older patients typically completed the study protocol, thereby contributing relevant data on how best to render care to older cancer patients and affirming the important role of enrolling these patients to surgical trials.

For Gastroesophageal Junction Cancers, Does an "Esophageal" or "Gastric" Surgical Approach Offer Better Perioperative and Oncologic Outcomes?

BACKGROUND

The optimal surgical approach to the resection of gastoesophageal junction cancer is unknown. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to further compare the esophageal and gastric approaches to gastroesophageal junction cancer.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature from January 1990 to May 2018 was performed to determine whether an esophageal or gastric surgical approach offers better perioperative and oncologic outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 179 abstracts were identified and after excluding publications for non-English language, primary focus on neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant treatment, lack of comparison of surgical approaches or not addressing morbidity, mortality, or survival-related outcomes, a total of 14 nonrandomized, comparative studies were reviewed in detail.

CONCLUSIONS

The proximal and distant extent of the tumor based on Siewert type classification greatly influences choice of operation. Overall survival rates and surgical outcomes are comparable, and surgical approach should be dictated by patient factors.

Perioperative Gemcitabine + Erlotinib Plus Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Resectable Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: ACOSOG Z5041 (Alliance) Phase II Trial

BACKGROUND

There is considerable interest in a neoadjuvant approach for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This study evaluated perioperative gemcitabine + erlotinib (G+E) for resectable PDAC.

METHODS

A multicenter, cooperative group, single-arm, phase II trial was conducted between April 2009 and November 2013 (ACOSOG Z5041). Patients with biopsy-confirmed PDAC in the pancreatic head without evidence of involvement of major mesenteric vessels (resectable) were eligible. Patients (n = 123) received an 8-week cycle of G+E before and after surgery. The primary endpoint was 2-year overall survival (OS), and secondary endpoints included toxicity, response, resection rate, and time to progression. Resectability was assessed retrospectively by central review. The study closed early due to slow accrual, and no formal hypothesis testing was performed.

RESULTS

Overall, 114 patients were eligible, consented, and initiated protocol treatment. By central radiologic review, 97 (85%) of the 114 patients met the protocol-defined resectability criteria. Grade 3+ toxicity was reported in 60% and 79% of patients during the neoadjuvant phase and overall, respectively. Twenty-two of 114 (19%) patients did not proceed to surgery; 83 patients (73%) were successfully resected. R0 and R1 margins were obtained in 67 (81%) and 16 (19%) resected patients, respectively, and 54 patients completed postoperative G+E (65%). The 2-year OS rate for the entire cohort (n = 114) was 40% (95% confidence interval [CI] 31-50), with a median OS of 21.3 months (95% CI 17.2-25.9). The 2-year OS rate for resected patients (n = 83) was 52% (95% CI 41-63), with a median OS of 25.4 months (95% CI 21.8-29.6).

CONCLUSIONS

For resectable PDAC, perioperative G+E is feasible. Further evaluation of neoadjuvant strategies in resectable PDAC is warranted with more active systemic regimens.

Perioperative (P) UGT1A1 genotype guided irinotecan (iri) dosing ‘gFOLFIRINOX’ for gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA)

4050

Background: Complete resection (R0) and pathologic response grade (PRG) correlate with long-term GEA outcome. FOLFIRINOX demonstrated efficacy in advanced GEA; gFOLFIRINOX improved tolerability. We evaluated R0, PRG and tolerability in this pilot P study. Methods: Gastric body (GB) + esophagogastric (EGJ) GEA patients (pts) with ≥T3Nx or TxN+ were enrolled & treated with 4 pre + 4 postoperative biweekly cycles of gFOLFIRINOX (5-FU 2400mg/m2 over 46 hrs; oxaliplatin 85mg/m2; iri: 180mg/m2 for UGT1A1 genotype 6/6, 135mg/m2 for 6/7, 90mg/m2 for 7/7) (+ trastuzumab (T) 6mg/kg then 4mg/kg for HER2+) with prophylactic peg-filgastrim. 1°endpoint R0 resection required 36 pts to assess for a 90% R0 rate (intention to treat (ITT)) with 90% power + 0.05 alpha; ≥30/36 R0 considered positive. Co-1°endpoint was PRG (Becker); 36 pts provided 85% power with 0.05 alpha for a complete (pCR G1a) rate of 16%. 2°endpoints were safety/toxicity, PET response, & R0/PRG by tumor site, histologic subtype, HER2 status, & UGT1A1 genotype. We report efficacy and toxicity data from the neoadjuvant (Neo) portion of the study; postop data & survival outcomes will be presented at the meeting. Results: 4 sites enrolled 36 ITT pts between 2/2014-8/2018; 75% male, median age 66 (range 27-85). All pts completed all 4 cycles of Neo therapy: 10% had any dose reduction of iri (16%/0%/25% by genotype 6/6, 6/7, 7/7); any G3+ toxicity occurred in 35% of pts (32% 6/6, 29% 6/7, 75% 7/7). G3+ toxicity in ≥5% of pts: diarrhea (17.5%; 6/6 21%, 6/7 11%, 7/7 25%), anemia (5%), vomiting (5%). Efficacy is shown in the Table. Of pts going to surgery, both R1 resections were GB linitus. PRG1(a+b) was achieved in 36% of ITT pts, 46% of intestinal type histology. Conclusions: Neo gFOLFIRINOX was tolerable with surrogate efficacy comparable to FLOT. Clinical trial information: NCT02366819. [Table: see text]

DNA Methylation Controls Metastasis-Suppressive 14q32-Encoded miRNAs

Expression of 14q32-encoded miRNAs is a favorable prognostic factor in patients with metastatic cancer. In this study, we used genomic inhibition of DNA methylation through disruption of DNA methyltransferases DNMT1 and DNMT3B and pharmacologic inhibition with 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC, decitabine) to demonstrate that DNA methylation predominantly regulates expression of metastasis-suppressive miRNAs in the 14q32 cluster. DNA demethylation facilitated CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) recruitment to the maternally expressed gene 3 differentially methylated region (MEG3-DMR), which acts as a cis-regulatory element for 14q32 miRNA expression. 5-Aza-dC activated demethylation of the MEG3-DMR and expression of 14q32 miRNAs, which suppressed adhesion, invasion, and migration (AIM) properties of metastatic tumor cells. Cancer cells with MEG3-DMR hypomethylation exhibited constitutive expression of 14q32 miRNAs and resistance to 5-Aza-dC-induced suppression of AIM. Expression of methylation-dependent 14q32 miRNAs suppressed metastatic colonization in preclinical models of lung and liver metastasis and correlated with improved clinical outcomes in patients with metastatic cancer. These findings implicate epigenetic modification via DNA methylation in the regulation of metastatic propensity through miRNA networks and identify a previously unrecognized action of decitabine on the activation of metastasis-suppressive miRNAs. SIGNIFICANCE: This study investigates epigenetic regulation of metastasis-suppressive miRNAs and the effect on metastasis.

Interdisciplinary Oncology Education: a National Survey of Trainees and Program Directors in the United States

Oncologists must have a strong understanding of collaborating specialties in order to deliver optimal cancer care. The objective of this study was to quantify current interdisciplinary oncology education among oncology training programs across the USA, identify effective teaching modalities, and assess communication skills training. Web-based surveys were sent to oncology trainees and program directors (PDs) across the USA on April 1, 2013 and October 8, 2013, respectively. Question responses were Yes/No, five-point Likert scales (1 = not at all, 2 = somewhat, 3 = moderately, 4 = quite, 5 = extremely), or free response. Respondents included the following (trainees/PDs): 254/55 medical oncology, 160/42 surgical oncology, 102/24 radiation oncology, and 41/20 hospice and palliative medicine (HPM). Trainees consistently reported lower rates of interdisciplinary education for each specialty compared with PDs as follows: medical oncology 57 vs. 77% (p < 0.01), surgical oncology 30 vs. 44% (p < 0.01), radiation oncology 70 vs. 89% (p < 0.01), geriatric oncology 19 vs. 30% (p < 0.01), and HPM 55 vs. 74% (p < 0.01). The predominant teaching method used (lectures vs. rotations vs. tumor board attendance vs. workshop vs. other) varied according to which discipline was being taught. The usefulness of each teaching method was rated statistically different by trainees for learning about select disciplines. Furthermore, statistically significant differences were found between PDs and trainees for the perceived usefulness of several teaching modalities. This study highlights a deficiency of interdisciplinary education among oncology training programs in the USA. Efforts to increase interdisciplinary education opportunities during training may ultimately translate into improved collaboration and quality of cancer care.

Steps to Getting Your Manuscript Published in a High-Quality Medical Journal

Publication of your research represents the culmination of your scientific activities. The key to getting manuscripts accepted is to make them understandable and informative so that your colleagues will read and benefit from them. We describe key criteria for acceptance of manuscripts and outline a multi-step process for writing the manuscript. The likelihood that a manuscript will be accepted by a major journal is significantly increased if the manuscript is written in polished and fluent scientific English. Although scientific quality is the most important consideration, clear and concise writing often makes the difference between acceptance and rejection. As with any skill, efficient writing of high-quality manuscripts comes with experience and repetition. It is very uncommon for a manuscript to be accepted as submitted to a journal. Thoughtful and respectful responses to the journal reviewers' comments are critical. Success in scientific writing, as in surgery, is dependent on effort, repetition, and commitment. The transfer of knowledge through a well-written publication in a high-quality medical journal will have an impact not only in your own institution and country, but also throughout the world.

Combination of radiotherapy and vaccination overcomes checkpoint blockade resistance

The majority of cancer patients respond poorly to either vaccine or checkpoint blockade, and even to the combination of both. They are often resistant to high doses of radiation therapy as well. We examined prognostic markers of immune cell infiltration in pancreatic cancer. Patients with low CD8⁺ T cell infiltration and high PD-L1 expression (CD8⁺ T^loPD-L1^hi) experienced poor outcomes. We developed a mouse tumor fragment model with a trackable model antigen (SIYRYYGL or SIY) to mimic CD8⁺ T^loPD-L1^hi cancers. Tumors arising from fragments contained few T cells, even after vaccination. Fragment tumors responded poorly to PD-L1 blockade, SIY vaccination or radiation individually. By contrast, local ionizing radiation coupled with vaccination increased CD8⁺ T cell infiltration that was associated with upregulation of CXCL10 and CCL5 chemokines in the tumor, but demonstrated modest inhibition of tumor growth. The addition of an anti-PD-L1 antibody enhanced the effector function of tumor-infiltrating T cells, leading to significantly improved tumor regression and increased survival compared to vaccination and radiation. These results indicate that sequential combination of radiation, vaccination and checkpoint blockade converts non-T cell-inflamed cancers to T cell-inflamed cancers, and mediates regression of established pancreatic tumors with an initial CD8⁺ T^loPD-L1^hi phenotype. This study has opened a new strategy for shifting “cold” to hot tumors that will respond to immunotherapy.

Genomic Heterogeneity as a Barrier to Precision Medicine in Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma

Gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA) is a lethal disease where targeted therapies, even when guided by genomic biomarkers, have had limited efficacy. A potential reason for the failure of such therapies is that genomic profiling results could commonly differ between the primary and metastatic tumors. To evaluate genomic heterogeneity, we sequenced paired primary GEA and synchronous metastatic lesions across multiple cohorts, finding extensive differences in genomic alterations, including discrepancies in potentially clinically relevant alterations. Multiregion sequencing showed significant discrepancy within the primary tumor (PT) and between the PT and disseminated disease, with oncogene amplification profiles commonly discordant. In addition, a pilot analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) sequencing demonstrated the feasibility of detecting genomic amplifications not detected in PT sampling. Lastly, we profiled paired primary tumors, metastatic tumors, and cfDNA from patients enrolled in the personalized antibodies for GEA (PANGEA) trial of targeted therapies in GEA and found that genomic biomarkers were recurrently discrepant between the PT and untreated metastases. Divergent primary and metastatic tissue profiling led to treatment reassignment in 32% (9/28) of patients. In discordant primary and metastatic lesions, we found 87.5% concordance for targetable alterations in metastatic tissue and cfDNA, suggesting the potential for cfDNA profiling to enhance selection of therapy.Significance: We demonstrate frequent baseline heterogeneity in targetable genomic alterations in GEA, indicating that current tissue sampling practices for biomarker testing do not effectively guide precision medicine in this disease and that routine profiling of metastatic lesions and/or cfDNA should be systematically evaluated. Cancer Discov; 8(1); 37-48. ©2017 AACR.See related commentary by Sundar and Tan, p. 14See related article by Janjigian et al., p. 49This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1.

In Vivo Delivery and Therapeutic Effects of a MicroRNA on Colorectal Liver Metastases

Multiple therapeutic agents are typically used in concert to effectively control metastatic tumors. Recently, we described microRNAs that are associated with the oligometastatic state, in which a limited number of metastatic tumors progress to more favorable outcomes. Here, we report the effective delivery of an oligometastatic microRNA (miR-655-3p) to colorectal liver metastases using nanoscale coordination polymers (NCPs). The NCPs demonstrated a targeted and prolonged distribution of microRNAs to metastatic liver tumors. Tumor-targeted microRNA miR-655-3p suppressed tumor growth when co-delivered with oxaliplatin, suggesting additive or synergistic interactions between microRNAs and platinum drugs. This is the first known example of systemically administered nanoparticles delivering an oligometastatic microRNA to advanced metastatic liver tumors and demonstrating tumor-suppressive effects. Our results suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for metastatic liver disease by the co-delivery of microRNAs and conventional cytotoxic agents using tumor-specific NCPs.

Extremes of body mass index and postoperative complications after esophagectomy

Obesity has been variously associated with reduced or similar rates of postoperative complications compared to normal weight patients undergoing esophagectomy for cancer. In contrast, little is known about esophagectomy risks in the underweight population. The relationship between the extremes of body mass index (BMI) and postoperative complications after esophagectomy was evaluated. Consecutive esophagectomy patients (2000-2013) were reviewed. The patients were stratified based on BMI at the time of diagnosis: underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5-24.9), overweight (25-29.9), obese I (30-34.9), and obese II or III (≥35). Hospital length of stay as well as postoperative complications and their accordion severity grading were evaluated according to the BMI category. Of 388 patients, 78.6% were male with a median age of 62 years at the time of operation. Pathologic cancer stage was 0 to I in 53%. BMI distribution was as follows: 5.6% underweight, 28.7% normal, 31.4% overweight, 22.8% obese I, and 11.5% obese II or III. Performance status was 0 or 1 in 99.2%. Compared to normal BMI patients, underweight patients had increased pulmonary complications (odds ratio (OR) 3.32, P = 0.014) and increased other postoperative complications (OR 3.00, P = 0.043). Patients who were overweight did not have increased complications compared to normal BMI patients. BMI groups did not differ in mortality rates or complication accordion severity grading. Hospital length of stay trended toward a longer duration in the underweight population (P = 0.06). Underweight patients are at increased risk for postoperative pulmonary and other complications. Underweight patients may benefit from preoperative nutritional repletion and mitigation for sarcopenia. Aggressive postoperative pulmonary care may help reduce complications in these patients. In contrast, the operative risk in overweight and obese patients is similar to normal BMI patients.

Implementing a resident acute care surgery service: Improving resident education and patient care

BACKGROUND

To simulate the duties and responsibilities of an attending surgeon and allow senior residents more intraoperative and perioperative autonomy, our program created a new resident acute care surgery consult service.

METHODS

We structured resident acute care surgery as a new admitting and inpatient consult service managed by chief and senior residents with attending supervision. When appropriate, the chief resident served as a teaching assistant in the operation. Outcomes were recorded prospectively and reviewed at weekly quality improvement conferences. The following information was collected: (1) teaching assistant case logs for senior residents preimplentation (n = 10) and postimplementation (n = 5) of the resident acute care surgery service; (2) data on the proportion of each case performed independently by residents; (3) resident evaluations of the resident acute care surgery versus other general operative services; (4) consult time for the first 12 months of the service (June 2014 to June 2015).

RESULTS

During the first year after implementation, the number of total teaching assistant cases logged among graduating chief residents increased from a mean of 13.4 ± 13.0 (range 4-44) for preresident acute care surgery residents to 30.8 ± 8.8 (range 27-36) for postresident acute care surgery residents (P < .01). Of 323 operative cases, the residents performed an average of 82% of the case independently. There was a significant increase in the satisfaction with the variety of cases (mean 5.08 vs 4.52, P < .01 on a 6-point Likert scale) and complexity of cases (mean 5.35 vs 4.94, P < .01) on service evaluations of resident acute care surgery (n = 27) in comparison with other general operative services (n = 127). In addition, creation of a 1-team consult service resulted in a more streamlined consult process with average consult time of 22 minutes for operative consults and 25 minutes for nonoperative consults (range 5-90 minutes).

CONCLUSION

The implementation of a resident acute care surgery service has increased resident autonomy, teaching assistant cases, and satisfaction with operative case variety, as well as the efficiency of operative consultation at our institution.

Advanced Animal Model of Colorectal Metastasis in Liver: Imaging Techniques and Properties of Metastatic Clones

Patients with a limited number of hepatic metastases and slow rates of progression can be successfully treated with local treatment approaches^1,2. However, little is known about the heterogeneity of liver metastases, and animal models capable of evaluating the development of individual metastatic colonies are needed. Here, we present an advanced model of hepatic metastases that provides the ability to quantitatively visualize the development of individual tumor clones in the liver and estimate their growth kinetics and colonization efficiency. We generated a panel of monoclonal derivatives of HCT116 human colorectal cancer cells stably labeled with luciferase and tdTomato and possessing different growth properties. With a splenic injection followed by a splenectomy, the majority of these clones are able to generate hepatic metastases, but with different frequencies of colonization and varying growth rates. Using the In Vivo Imaging System (IVIS), it is possible to visualize and quantify metastasis development with in vivo luminescent and ex vivo fluorescent imaging. In addition, Diffuse Luminescent Imaging Tomography (DLIT) provides a 3D distribution of liver metastases in vivo. Ex vivo fluorescent imaging of harvested livers provides quantitative measurements of individual hepatic metastatic colonies, allowing for the evaluation of the frequency of liver colonization and the growth kinetics of metastases. Since the model is similar to clinically observed liver metastases, it can serve as a modality for detecting genes associated with liver metastasis and for testing potential ablative or adjuvant treatments for liver metastatic disease.

Basal Tumor Cell Isolation and Patient-Derived Xenograft Engraftment Identify High-Risk Clinical Bladder Cancers

Strategies to identify tumors at highest risk for treatment failure are currently under investigation for patients with bladder cancer. We demonstrate that flow cytometric detection of poorly differentiated basal tumor cells (BTCs), as defined by the co-expression of CD90, CD44 and CD49f, directly from patients with early stage tumors (T1-T2 and N0) and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) engraftment in locally advanced tumors (T3-T4 or N+) predict poor prognosis in patients with bladder cancer. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of bladder tumor cells isolated from PDXs indicates unique patterns of gene expression during bladder tumor cell differentiation. We found cell division cycle 25C (CDC25C) overexpression in poorly differentiated BTCs and determined that CDC25C expression predicts adverse survival independent of standard clinical and pathologic features in bladder cancer patients. Taken together, our findings support the utility of BTCs and bladder cancer PDX models in the discovery of novel molecular targets and predictive biomarkers for personalizing oncology care for patients.

Transhiatal Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

Survival for esophageal cancer has improved over the past four decades, probably as a result of a combination of more accurate staging, improved surgical outcomes, advances in adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies, and the increasing implementation of multimodality treatment. Surgical resection still remains the mainstay in the treatment of localized esophageal adenocarcinoma. Multiple techniques have been described for esophagectomy, which are based on either a transthoracic or transhiatal approach. Despite proponents of each technique touting potential advantages such as superior oncologic resection with more extensive transthoracic lymphadenectomy compared to the relatively limited morbidity and mortality with a transhiatal resection, the superiority of one technique over another is not clear and may be relegated to a topic of historical significance in the era of minimally invasive surgery. With the increased acceptance of neoadjuvant multimodality therapy, both approaches have been shown to have acceptable outcomes. And in the hands of experienced surgeons, both techniques can provide excellent short-term results. Moreover, surgeon and hospital volume have shown to be strongly associated with improved operative morbidity and oncologic outcomes, which may supersede the type of approach selected for an individual patient.

Abstract LB-251: Radiotherapy sensitizes pancreatic cancer to immunotherapy by promoting T cell infiltration

Pancreatic cancer patients often fail to respond to immunotherapy, such as vaccines or checkpoint inhibitors. It is unknown if an immune phenotype predicts the efficacy of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer and what standard modalities are required to facilitate the response of pancreatic cancer to immunotherapy. We examined prognostic markers of immune cell infiltration in pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer patients with low CD8+ T cell infiltration and high PD-L1 expression (CD8+ TloPD-L1hi) experienced worse outcomes compared to patients whose tumors demonstrate CD8+ TloPD-L1lo, CD8+ ThiPD-L1hi or CD8+ ThiPD-L1lo profiles. To understand how to improve tumor control in CD8+ TloPD-L1hi pancreatic cancers, we developed a mouse tumor fragment model with a trackable model antigen (SIYRYYGL or SIY) to mimic CD8+ TloPD-L1hi pancreatic cancers. Similar to pancreatic cancers, tumors arising from fragments contained few T cells, even after vaccination. Fragment tumors responded poorly to PD-L1 blockade, SIY vaccination or radiation as individual treatments. By contrast, local ionizing radiation coupled with vaccination increased CD8+ T cell infiltration that was associated with upregulation of CXCL10 and CCL5 chemokines in the tumor, but demonstrated modest inhibition of tumor growth. The addition of an anti-PD-L1 antibody enhanced the effector function of tumor-infiltrating T cells, leading to significantly improved tumor regression and increased survival compared to vaccination and radiation. These results indicate that combination of radiation, vaccination and checkpoint blockade could convert non-T cell-inflamed cancers to T cell-inflamed cancers, and thus effectively treat established pancreatic tumors with an initial CD8+ TloPD-L1hi phenotype. This suggests a novel immunostimulatory role for radiotherapy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Citation Format: Wenxin Zheng, Kinga B. Skowron, Jukes P. Namm, Byron Burnette, Christian Fernandez, Ainhoa Arina, Hua Liang, Michael T. Spiotto, Mitchell C. Posner, Yang-Xin Fu, Ralph R. Weichselbaum. Radiotherapy sensitizes pancreatic cancer to immunotherapy by promoting T cell infiltration. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-251.

Consensus Conference on North American Training in Hepatopancreaticobiliary Surgery: A Review of the Conference and Presentation of Consensus Statements

The findings and recommendations of the North American consensus conference on training in hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) surgery held in October 2014 are presented. The conference was hosted by the Society for Surgical Oncology (SSO), the Americas Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Association (AHPBA), and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS). The current state of training in HPB surgery in North America was defined through three pathways-HPB, surgical oncology, and solid organ transplant fellowships. Consensus regarding programmatic requirements included establishment of minimum case volumes and inclusion of quality metrics. Formative assessment, using milestones as a framework and inclusive of both operative and nonoperative skills, must be present. Specific core HPB cases should be defined and used for evaluation of operative skills. The conference concluded with a focus on the optimal means to perform summative assessment to evaluate the individual fellow completing a fellowship in HPB surgery. Presentations from the hospital perspective and the American Board of Surgery led to consensus that summative assessment was desired by the public and the hospital systems and should occur in a uniform but possibly modular manner for all HPB fellowship pathways. A task force composed of representatives of the SSO, AHPBA, and ASTS are charged with implementation of the consensus statements emanating from this consensus conference.

Peri-operative modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX) in resectable pancreatic cancer (PDAC): A pilot study

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Background: Surgical resection plus adjuvant gemcitabine or 5-FU is standard therapy for resectable PDAC. Infusional 5-FU, leucovorin, irinotecan and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) has substantial activity in metastatic PDAC. Efficacy and tolerability of peri-operative FOLFIRINOX in resectable PDAC is unknown. Methods: Patients (pts) with ECOG PS 0/1 and resectable PDAC confirmed by multidisciplinary review received 4 cycles of mFOLFIRINOX (mFFX)(oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, irinotecan 180 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2 day 1, 5-FU 2400 mg/m2 x 48 hours, peg-filgrastim 6 mg SQ day 3) pre- and 4 cycles post- surgery. Results: 21/21 enrolled pts started therapy (median age: 63 (47-78), 81% ECOG 0). 20/21 pts completed 4 cycles of preoperative mFFX (1 withdrew for toxicity), 17/21 pts had successful surgical resection (3 had disease noted in the liver at surgery) and 14/21 completed 4 cycles of postoperative mFFX (2 pts expired prior to postoperative mFFX within 90 days of surgery -1 from an M.I. and 1 from a GI bleed; 1 pt had excessive toxicity after cycle 5). Radiographic response by RECIST following preoperative therapy was 1 CR, 3 PR, 16 SD, 0 PD. Of the 17 (81%) patients undergoing curative-intent surgery, 16/17 (94%) had R0 resections. Treatment effect was seen in 10/17 specimens with 1 pathologic CR. Doses were modified per protocol in 30% pts preoperatively (neuropathy 1; thrombocytopenia 2; neutropenia 3; diarrhea 2) and 26% postoperatively (neuropathy 3; diarrhea 3; allergic reaction 1). Grade III and IV adverse events were observed in 23% and 14% pts (overlapping) in the preoperative, and 26% and 0.06% pts in the postoperative phases. 18 pts are alive with a median follow up of 17.3 months. Conclusions: 17/21 (81%) pts completed neoadjuvant mFFX and surgical resection. 14/21 (66%) pts completed all planned therapy. Radiographic responses were rare but efficacy is suggested by the high R0 resection rate: 16/17 (94%) in pts undergoing resection, and 16/21 (76%) pts overall. Toxicity was manageable and within the expected range. 8 cycles of mFFX is a feasible and tolerable peri-operative regimen in pts with resectable PDAC and ECOG PS 0/1. Definitive assessment of efficacy will require longer follow up and larger studies. Clinical trial information: NCT01660711.

14q32-encoded microRNAs mediate an oligometastatic phenotype

Oligometastasis is a clinically distinct subset of metastasis characterized by a limited number of metastases potentially curable with localized therapies. We analyzed pathways targeted by microRNAs over-expressed in clinical oligometastasis samples and identified suppression of cellular adhesion, invasion, and motility pathways in association with the oligometastatic phenotype. We identified miR-127-5p, miR-544a, and miR-655-3p encoded in the 14q32 microRNA cluster as co-regulators of multiple metastatic pathways through repression of shared target genes. These microRNAs suppressed cellular adhesion and invasion and inhibited metastasis development in an animal model of breast cancer lung colonization. Target genes, including TGFBR2 and ROCK2, were key mediators of these effects. Understanding the role of microRNAs expressed in oligometastases may lead to improved identification of and interventions for patients with curable metastatic disease, as well as an improved understanding of the molecular basis of this unique clinical entity.

Oncogenic CXCL10 signalling drives metastasis development and poor clinical outcome

Background:

The CXCL10/CXCR3 signalling mediates paracrine interactions between tumour and stromal cells that govern leukocyte trafficking and angiogenesis. Emerging data implicate noncanonical CXCL10/CXCR3 signalling in tumourigenesis and metastasis. However, little is known regarding the role for autocrine CXCL10/CXCR3 signalling in regulating the metastatic potential of individual tumour clones.

Methods:

We performed transcriptomic and cytokine profiling to characterise the functions of CXCL10 and CXCR3 in tumour cells with different metastatic abilities. We modulated the expression of the CXCL10/CXCR3 pathway using shRNA-mediated silencing in both in vitro and in vivo models of B16F1 melanoma. In addition, we examined the expression of CXCL10 and CXCR3 and their associations with clinical outcomes in clinical data sets derived from over 670 patients with melanoma and colon and renal cell carcinomas.

Results:

We identified a critical role for autocrine CXCL10/CXCR3 signalling in promoting tumour cell growth, motility and metastasis. Analysis of publicly available clinical data sets demonstrated that coexpression of CXCL10 and CXCR3 predicted an increased metastatic potential and was associated with early metastatic disease progression and poor overall survival.

Conclusion:

These findings support the potential for CXCL10/CXCR3 coexpression as a predictor of metastatic recurrence and point towards a role for targeting of this oncogenic axis in the treatment of metastatic disease.

Research gaps in pancreatic cancer research and comparative effectiveness research methodologies

Despite advances in cancer care, pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the most lethal tumors. Most patients with pancreatic cancer are diagnosed with late stage disease, and approximately 6 % of patients are alive 5 years after diagnosis. Of the 10-20 % of patients who are candidates for resection and multi-modality therapy, most will succumb to the disease with 5-year survival rates only reaching approximately 25 % (Lim et al. in Annals of surgery 237(1):74-85, 2003 [1]; Trede et al. in Annals of surgery 211(4):447-458, 1990 [2]; Crist et al. in Annals of surgery 206(3):358-365, 1987 [3]). Clearly, there is a need to improve the management of this disease. To identify gaps in research and formulate strategies to address these issues, we designed a framework to encompass the scope of research for pancreatic cancer. In this chapter, we will examine each topic heading within this framework for gaps in knowledge and present research strategies focusing on diverse comparative effectiveness research (CER) methodologies to address the identified gaps.

Preservation of beta cell function after pancreatic islet autotransplantation: University of Chicago experience

The aim of the study was to assess the rate of insulin independence in patients after total pancreatectomy (TP) and islet autotransplantation in our center. TP followed by islet autotransplantation was performed in 10 patients. Severe unrelenting pain associated with chronic pancreatitis was the major indication for surgery. Islets were isolated using the modified Ricordi method and infused through the portal vein. Exogenous insulin therapy was implemented for at least two months posttransplant to support islet engraftment and was subsequently weaned off, if possible. Median follow-up was 26 months (range, 2 to 60 months). Median islet yield was 158,860 islet equivalents (IEQ) (range, 40,203 to 330,472 IEQ) with an average islet yield of 2,478 IEQ/g (range, 685 to 6,002 IEQ/g) of processed pancreas. One patient developed transient partial portal vein thrombosis, which resolved without sequela. Five (50%) patients are currently off insulin with excellent glucose control and HbA1c below 6. Patients who achieved and maintained insulin independence were transplanted with significantly more islets (median, 202,291 IEQ; range, 145,000 to 330,474 IEQ) than patients who required insulin support (64,348 IEQ; range, 40,203 to 260,476 IEQ; P < 0.05). Patient body mass index and time of chronic pancreatitis prior transplant procedure did not correlate with the outcome. The remaining five patients, who require insulin support, had present C-peptide in blood and experience good glucose control without incidence of severe hypoglycemic episodes. Islet autotransplantation efficiently preserved beta cell function in selected patients with chronic pancreatitis and the outcome correlated with transplanted islet mass.