Prognostic value of the lymph node ratio in surgically treated stage III colorectal cancer patients with high numbers of harvested lymph nodes

BACKGROUND

The lymph node ratio (LNR), defined as the number of positive lymph nodes (LN) divided by the total number of harvested LN, has been demonstrated to be an independent factor in the prognosis of surgically treated colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. This study aims to establish the prognostic value of LNR in stage III CRC patients with high numbers of LN removed.

METHODS

Stage III CRC patients who underwent curative resections over an 8-year period were included to the study. Demographics, clinicopathological features, surgical as well as recurrence and survival outcomes were recorded and statistically analyzed. Calculations for LNR were carried out as a function of percentage rates and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to determine its effect on disease-free and overall survival.

RESULTS

Among a total of 493 surgically treated CRC cases, 104 patients were included to the study consisting of 68 (65.4%) men and 36 (34.6%) women with a median age of 64 (inter-quartile range: 55-74) years. The mean number of harvested LN was 31.6 ± 21.0 (range: 12-103). Multivariate Cox regression analyses proved LNR to be a significant factor in both disease-free and overall survival (p = 0.007 and p = 0.003, respectively). Forward elimination analyses showed that a 1% increase in LNR resulted with a 2% increase in both the risks of recurrence and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The LNR may be assessed as an adjunct to the current staging systems for the prediction of oncological outcomes and survival of surgically treated stage III CRC patients.

The effects of clinicopathological and imaging findings on recurrence and survival in mammary Paget's disease

OBJECTIVE

Mammary Paget's disease (MPD) is a rare presentation type of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological and imaging features affecting the invasive component, loco-regional recurrence, prognosis, and survival of MPD.

METHODS

Patients who had undergone surgery due to MPD in a 10-year period were included. Parameters including mammography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, tumor stage, molecular subtype, axillary involvement, presence of invasive carcinoma, loco-regional recurrence, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) were recorded and statistically analyzed. P<0.05 was determined as statistically significant.

RESULTS

The study group consisted of 49 women with a mean age of 67.05±14.43 (range: 23-90) years. There was a significant association between the presence of invasive carcinoma and a mass lesion in the MRI (p=0.002). The frequency of sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastasis was significantly higher in patients with multicentric tumors (p=0.029; p<0.05). Locoregional recurrence and distant metastasis were significantly more frequent in patients with axillary involvement (p=0.0336; p<0.05). The mean DFS was 115.02±7.28 months, while the mean OS was 119.29±6.57 months.

CONCLUSION

The presence of a mass lesion on MRI was determined to be significant in recognizing invasive carcinoma in MPD. The rate of SLN metastasis was higher in patients with multicentric tumors than in patients with unifocal tumors. Axillary involvement was associated with impaired DFS.

Open vs robotic gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy: a propensity score-matched analysis on 1469 patients from the IMIGASTRIC prospective database

BACKGROUND

Comparative data on D2-robotic gastrectomy (RG) vs D2-open gastrectomy (OG) are lacking in the Literature. Aim of this paper is to compare RG to OG with a focus on D2-lymphadenectomy.

STUDY DESIGN

Data of patients undergoing D2-OG or RG for gastric cancer were retrieved from the international IMIGASTRIC prospective database and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 1469 patients were selected for inclusion in the study. After 1:1 propensity score matching, a total of 580 patients were matched and included in the final analysis, 290 in each group, RG vs OG. RG had longer operation time (210 vs 330 min, p < 0.0001), reduced intraoperative blood loss (155 vs 119.7 ml, p < 0.0001), time to liquid diet (4.4 vs 3 days, p < 0.0001) and to peristalsis (2.4 vs 2 days, p < 0.0001), and length of postoperative stay (11 vs 8 days, p < 0.0001). Morbidity rate was higher in OG (24.1% vs 16.2%, p = 0.017).

CONCLUSION

RG significantly expedites recovery and reduces the risk of complications compared to OG. However, long-term survival is similar.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Recurrence and Survival Analysis of 49 Patients

Background: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumor originating from the gastrointestinal tract and have a broad spectrum of clinicopathological features affecting disease management regarding the treatment modalities. Methods: A retrospective study of 49 patients who underwent surgery for gastrointestinal tumors between 2008 and 2016 was conducted. Clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical features of patients with and without recurrence were statistically analyzed. Results: Twenty-nine (59.1%) patients had gastric; 16 (32.6%) had small intestinal; 3 (6.1%) had mesenteric; and 1 (2.2%) had rectal GISTs. Microscopic tumor necrosis and tumor ulceration were also significant for disease recurrence (P = 0.005, P = 0.049). High-risk patients according to Miettinen's risk classification were more likely to develop a recurrence (P < 0.001). Additionally, high-grade tumors were also a risk factor for recurrence (P < 0.001). Ki-67 levels were available in 40 patients and the mean Ki-67 level was 16.8 in patients with recurrence, which was a significant risk factor in regression analysis (HR: 1.24, 95%, CI: 1.08-1-43). Five-year disease-free survival rates of non-gastric and gastric GISTs were 62.3% and 90%, respectively (P = 0.044). Conclusion: Larger tumors and higher mitotic rates are more likely to develop recurrence. High Ki-67 levels were also associated with recurrence.

The Effect of the Mucinous Component Presence on the Clinical Outcomes of Colorectal Cancer

Background. The effect of colorectal cancer (CRC) histological subtypes on the prognosis is still a controversial issue. We aimed to compare clinical findings, histopathologic data, and survival outcomes in CRC patients with classical and mucinous subtypes. Methods. Patients who were operated on for CRC between 2010 and 2017 were included in the study. Patients were classified into two groups according to the presence of a mucinous component: mucinous adenocarcinoma (MAC) - mucinous component > 50% and classical adenocarcinoma (CAC). Clinical and histopathologic findings, recurrence, metastasis, and survival rates were compared. Results. Data of the 484 CRC patients were documented. Sixty-nine patients (14.3%) were in the MAC group and 415 (85.7%) patients were in the CAC group. The mean age of patients with MAC and CAC was 63.4 ± 13.5 and 68.5 ± 12.7 years, respectively (p = 0.002). Proximal colon localization was found in 30 (43.5%) MAC patients and 123 (29.6%) CAC patients (p = 0.029). The number of patients with metastatic lymph nodes was higher in the MAC group (58% vs. 41.2%, p = 0.03). Nevertheless, there was no significant difference between the CAC and MAC groups in terms of disease-free survival (63.1% vs. 69.6%, p = 0.37) and disease-related mortality (23.6% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.94) over the follow-up period. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of perineural invasion, patient’s age, and disease stage were associated with mortality in CRC patients. Conclusions. MACs occurred at a younger age than CACs and were more likely localized in the proximal colon as compared to CACs. Despite increased lymph node metastasis in MAC patients, no statistical significance was detected in overall survival or disease-free survival. Multivariate analysis revealed that age, perineural invasion, and disease stage were relevant to mortality in CRC patients.

Analysis of physical violence incidents against physicians in Turkey between 2008 and 2018

BACKGROUND

Violence against physicians is a global issue that causes impaired physical and mental health, declined work quality, resignations, and even suicides. Studies regarding violence against physicians are very limited. Therefore, our aim is to investigate the physical violence incidents against physicians presented in print media between 2008 and 2018.

METHODS

A total of 8612 news reports acquired in national news database via 45 keywords were assessed. Five hundred and sixty-four of the reports met the inclusion criteria and were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 5964 news reports, 3754 (62.9%) were reprimands and protests against violence incidents. In 11 years, 560 individual incidents occurred where 647 physicians were physically assaulted, with 2267 news reports written on those incidents. The number of incidents increased over the years, and in 2012 both the number of incidents (n=91) and news reports count per incident were found highest. About 77.7% of assaulted physicians were male, and incident rate was higher in Western Turkey (42.15%). In 11 years, ten dedicated physicians have lost their lives in the line of duty. Emergency medicine (20.4%), primary care (9.89%) were the departments most exposed to physical violence. The claim of receiving inadequate medical attention was noted to be the primary allegation of the assailants.

CONCLUSION

The frequency of physical violence incidents against physicians is increasing. Throughout the study period, news reports containing condemnations, critiques, and protests are also more frequently, yet not adequately, placed in print media. Thus, social and public awareness ought to be enhanced through national and global media outlets. Furthermore, extensive measures must be taken by governments in order to prevent and eliminate violence.

Histological patterns of thyroid lesions among different age groups in Mogadishu, Somalia

Background: Thyroid nodules are seen in 4-7% of the population which are more common in women. Excising all of these lesions is impractical and associated with certain risk factors as well. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is the most relevant diagnostic procedure to decide those that need to be surgically excised or not. Methodology: The present study was conducted in Liban clinic, Mogadishu, Somalia. 220 patients whom were diagnosed with various types of tyroid lesions within 2 years of period were included in the study. Main objectives were to put forward the distribution of histological findings according to fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy results among different age groups, and to define the prevelance of certain subtypes of thyroid nodules in the region. Results: 207 patients had ‘benign’ nodules and 13 patients had ‘malignant’ nodules according histological evaluationof fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy results. ‘31-40’ years of age interval was found to have the highest percentage of histologically ‘benign findings’, while patients within ‘41-50’ years of age had the highest rate of ‘malignant lesions’ in count among the study population. ‘Papillary’ (n=8)(61.5%) and ‘medullary’ (n=5)(38.5%) carcinomas were most common malignant features.Mostly recorded benign lesions were ‘colloidal goiter, multinodular goiter (MNG), nodular hyperplasia and adenomatoid goiter’ (n=94)(45.4%). Conclusion: Characteristics of thyroidlesions in region of Mogadishu, Somalia show similar patterns based upon correlation of age with histological differences compared to recent literature. With the aid of FNA, majority of the population can be managed conservatively safely without need of surgical interventions. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 21(1) 2022 Page : 67-71

Perioperative Short Term Prophylaxis against Deep Vein Thrombosis after Major Abdominal Cancer Surgery: Retrospective Cohort Study

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis given for short-term duration to the patients who underwent major abdominal surgery for colorectal and gastric cancer.

Methods

Materials and This retrospective cohort study was performed in consecutive patients who underwent major abdominal surgery for colorectal and gastric cancer and received short-term pharmacological thromboprophylaxis during hospital stay were enrolled. Complete duplex ultrasonography of the lower limbs was performed for all patients to investigate both symptomatic and asymptomatic deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Results

Overall, 278 patients were evaluated for inclusion and 62 colorectal and 27 gastric cancer patients were enrolled. Of 89 patients, the incidence of total and symptomatic DVT was 4.5% and 2.2%, respectively. The patients with symptomatic DVT were diagnosed within the first four months. The incidence of coronary artery disease, mucinous adenocarcinoma and vascular tumor invasion were significantly higher in patients with DVT (P-values<0.001, 0.009, and 0.02, respectively).

Conclusion

Short-term pharmacological thromboprophylaxis after major abdominal surgery for colorectal and gastric cancer does not increase symptomatic DVT rates of patients with low Caprini score. Postoperative DVT surveillance may benefit patients with coronary artery disease, mucinous adenocarcinoma or vascular invasion of the tumor.

Computed Tomography-based Morphological Differences between Histologic Subtypes of Periampullary Ductal Adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the computed tomography (CT)-based differences between pancreaticobiliary (PBST) and intestinal (IST) subtypes of periampullary pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC).

STUDY DESIGN

Analytical study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Training and Research Hospital, Turkey between 2015 and 2018.

METHODOLOGY

Overall 24 periampullary PDAC cases, in whom histomorphologic evaluation and CDx2 expression were used to discriminate between PBST and IST, were included. The lesion morphology (infiltrative versus nodular), common bile and main pancreatic ducts' dilation, tumor grade, enhancement pattern, pancreaticoduodenal groove, pancreaticoduodenal artery and lymphatic involvement were evaluated by CT.

RESULTS

Overall 24 PDAC cases [median age 67.5 (60.5-76.5) years] were enrolled. Histopathology revealed 9 (25%) IST and 18 (75%) PBST. The age [72.5 (69-81) versus 63 (57.75-75.5) years, respectively, p=0.204] and gender [3 (50%) versus 12 (66.7%) males, respectively, p=0.635] and the prevalence of all CT characteristics were similar between groups (p>0.05 for all) except for lesion morphology. Infiltrative morphology was more frequent in PBST than IST [14 (77.8%) versus 1 (16.7%), respectively, p=0.015]. Multiple variable logistic regression analysis revealed infiltrative morphology as the only independent CT predictor of PBST [OR: 14.9, 95% CI: 1.2-186), p=0.036]. The interrater reproducibility for lesion morphology was moderate (Cohen's Kappa: 0.55, p<0.007).

CONCLUSION

Infiltrative appearance is associated with PBST; whereas, nodular appearance more likely predicts IST. The potential role of CT lesion morphology on guiding appropriate chemotherapy in cases with no chance for surgery or biopsy requires addressing. Key Words: Intestinal differentiation, Pancreatobiliary differentiation, Periampullary adenocarcinoma.

Comparison of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery, Non-oncoplastic Breast Conserving Surgery and Mastectomy in Early Breast Cancer: A Single Center Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

Surgical procedures applied in the treatment of early breast cancer (EBC) to achieve satisfactory oncological results lie in a wide spectrum. There has been a major shift toward less-invasive treatments during the past decades. We compared the outcomes of oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS), non-oncoplastic breast conserving surgery (NBCS) and mastectomy in the treatment of EBC.

METHODS

The records of 412 patients with EBC who underwent OBS, NBCS or mastectomy at our institution between January 2012 and June 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative complications, local recurrences (LR) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared between the groups. EBC patients with unilateral stage-I, IIa and IIb tumors were studied. All patients received adjuvant, targeted and/or endocrine therapy according to the tumor characteristics, followed by radiotherapy (all OBS and NBCS cases, and selected mastectomy patients).

RESULTS

Postoperative complications were similar in all groups except for six fat necrosis and partial nipple-areola necrosis in two diabetic patients treated with OBS. Re-excision rate was lower in OBS (6.5%) than NBCS (8%). There was no statistical difference between the groups regarding recurrence (P=1.000) or DFS (P=0.937).

CONCLUSION

OBS, NBCS and mastectomy are equally acceptable procedures in EBC in terms of both oncological and surgical aspects.

Gastric Glomus Tumor: Report of a Case

Abstract not available Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.20(3) 2021 p.662-664

Global surgery: Improving health in low-income countries

The aim of this report is to examine the definition of global surgery, discuss the problems and propose some suggestions. Global surgery aims to improve the surgical conditions to maintain a standard and equal surgical care, especially in low- and middle-income countries where burden of surgical diseases are increasing over the years. According to Lancet Commission on Global Surgery, 1.27 million more surgical healthcare workers will be required to provide minimal surgical workforce, by 2030. In resource-limited settings of the world-wide where medical education and post-graduation training programs are disrupted due to brain drain, instable conditions and economic reasons, sustaining a standard and accessible surgical care are possible by training surgeons. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.20(3) 2021 p.483-486

Clinical Impact of Stump Closure Reinforced With Hemopatch on the Prevention of Clinically Relevant Pancreatic Fistula After Distal Pancreatectomy: A Multicenter Randomized Trial

Introduction

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is the most dreaded complication after distal pancreatectomy (DP). This multicenter randomized trial evaluated the efficacy, safety, and tolerance of Hemopatch in preventing clinically relevant (grades B/C according to the ISGPS classification) POPF after DP.

Material and methods

After stump closure, patients were randomized to affix Hemopatch to the stump or not. Statistical significance was set at 0.025. Clinical significance was defined as the number of patients needed to treat (NNT) to avoid 1 B/C POPF.

Results

Of 631 eligible patients, 360 were randomized and 315 analyzed per protocol (155 in the standard closure group; 160 in the Hemopatch group). The rates of B/C POPF (the primary endpoint) were 23.2% and 16.3% (P = 0.120), while the number of patients with 1 or more complications (including patients with B/C POPF) was 34.8% and 24.4% (P = 0.049) in the standard and Hemopatch groups, respectively. In patients with hand-sewn stump and main duct closure, the rates were 26.2% versus 10.0% (P = 0.014) and 23.3% versus 7.7% (P = 0.015) in the standard and Hemopatch groups, respectively. The NNT in these 2 subgroups was 6 and 6.4, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of the first randomized trial evaluating Hemopatch-reinforced pancreatic stump after DP to prevent type B/C POPF do not allow us to conclude that the risk of B/C POPF was lower. Based on the NNT, however, routine use of Hemopatch after DP may result in fewer complications (including POPF) overall, especially in cases with hand-sewn closure of the pancreatic stump or main pancreatic duct.

Timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute cholecystitis

Background

Timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in acute cholecystitis (AC) is still debated.

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of timing on operative results; from the first appearance of symptoms to the operation.

Methods

The study included 57 sequential patients operated laparoscopically for AC. Patients operated within the first 3 days of admission (Group 1), those operated between 4^th and 7^th days (Group 2) and those operated after 7^th day (Group 3) were evaluated and compared with respect to demographics, time from admission to operation, duration of operation, adhesion score, complications, conversion rates, duration of hospital stay, morbidity and mortality rates, bile culture results, and histopathological evaluation.

Results

A total of 63% of the patients were female and 21 (37%) were male. The mean age was 48 years (range, 21-74). There was no significant difference among the groups with respect to demographics (P > 0.05, for each). The duration of operation was significantly shorter in Group 1 than both Groups 2 and 3 (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). Duration of operation was also significantly shorter in Group 2 than Group 3 (P < 0.001). Group 1 had significantly fewer adhesions compared to Group 2 and Group 3 (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively), and no significant difference was found between Group 2 and Group 3 (P > 0.05). Duration of hospital stay was significantly shorter in Group 1 compared to Group 2 and Group 3 (P < 0.001) and also was significantly shorter in Group 2 than Group 3 (P < 0.05). Group 1 had significantly lower rate of culture proliferation than Group 3 (P < 0.001), whereas no significant differences were evident in other inter-group analyses (P > 0.05, for each).

Conclusion

LC can safely be performed within 7 days of admission in cases of AC.

Diagnostic accuracy of sentinel lymph node biopsy in determining the axillary lymph node metastasis

Background

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is accepted as the standard procedure to determine the axillary lymph node metastasis in breast cancer at early stage. However, in many cases with sentinel lymph node positivity, the axilla does not contain any tumor cells. As a result, the accuracy of SLNB to predict axillary lymph node metastasis must be evaluated.

Patients and Methods

Thousand hundred and fourteen women operated for breast cancer were retrospectively examined. Breast cancer patients without axillary metastasis on clinical examination who had undergone SLNB were included in the study. Sentinel lymph node positivity and axillary lymph node positivity were compared.

Results

Among 1114 women operated for breast cancer, 230 were clinically node negative preoperatively and undergone SLNB. Eighty-three (36%) of the patients were SLNB positive and undergone axillary dissection. Forty-three (51.8%) of them had tumor positive axillary lymph nodes and 40 (48.2%) of them had tumor negative axillary lymph nodes.

Interpretation

In 48.2% of the patients, positive sentinel lymph node does not demonstrate a positive axilla. This finding supports sparing axillary dissection in patients with favorable prognostic factors even if the sentinel lymph node is found to be positive.

Conclusion

Axillary lymph node dissection(ALND) may be spared even if there are macrometastatic sentinel lymph nodes in patients with favorable tumor types who will undergo breast-conserving surgery.

Breast cancer epidemiology among surgically treated patients in Jordan: A retrospective study

Background: Multiple risk factors contribute to the development of breast cancer, including age, positive family history, early menarche, late menopause and the strongest factor being female gender. In this study, we aimed to investigate the proportion of breast cancer patients with certain risk factors, the prevalence of each cancer type, in addition to the surgical procedures performed.

Methods: The medical records of patients diagnosed with breast cancer from January 2010 to November 2015 were evaluated retrospectively regarding demographics, breast cancer risk factors, comorbidities, diagnostic methods, tumor location, cancer type and stage, pathological findings, tumor markers, harvested lymph nodes and the types of surgical procedures. The collected data were statistically analyzed as number, mean, and frequency as percentages. Cases with deficient medical records were excluded from the analysis of certain parameters.

Results: The sample consisted of 120 patients, 118 (98.3%) of whom were women. The mean age was 56.5±12.0 years. The most common diagnostic method at presentation was self-exam in 93.3% of patients. Invasive ductal carcinoma was the most common type of tumor (80.0%). The pathological stages could be determined for only 106 patients, and 26 patients (24.5%) were at stage 1 disease, 45 patients (42.5%) were at stage 2 whereas 34 patients (32.1%) were at stage 3. According to the results of pathological examinations, 72.6% (85 patients) of the cases were estrogen receptor positive, 61.2% (71 patients) were progesterone receptor positive while 24.8% (27 patients) were HER positive. Modified radical mastectomy (MRM) was performed in 52 (43.3%) patients and wide local excision (WLE) was preferred in 46 (38.3%) cases.

Conclusion: Advanced age, positive family history, and prolonged estrogen exposure were remarkable in the majority of patients. Moreover, the most common type of breast cancer was invasive ductal carcinoma, and around half of the patients presented at stage 2 disease. Modified radical mastectomy and WLE were the most commonly performed surgical procedures.

Cancer surgery during the Covid-19 pandemic in Turkey

The coronavirus disease (Covid-19), which has spread rapidly all over the world after its appearance in December 2019, soon became a pandemic. In many places struck by the epidemic, clinical branches have prepared new guidelines for approaching the management of the disease in their area during the pandemic. Surgeons have also delayed elective surgeries. The first case of Covid-19 in Turkey was detected on March 10, 2020. After this date, 39 patients with a diagnosis of cancer were operated on in our clinic. In this study, we wanted to reveal the results of the cancer surgeries that we have performed during this period.

Relationship Between Metabolic Syndrome and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic syndrome is associated with an increased risk of diabetes mellitus (DM) and coronary heart disease. It may also be associated with a higher risk of some common cancers. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between metabolic syndrome and breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

We present a prospective cohort study of postmenopausal women. This cohort was divided into two groups: the «benign diagnosis group», including women who were studied after breast cancer screening; and the «malignant tumor group», including patients with breast cancer that had been diagnosed by biopsy. Age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), abdominal perimeter, serum glucose, LDL, HDL and insulin levels were analyzed as variables under study. The HOMA-IR homeostatic model formula was used to assess insulin resistance. The differences were considered statistically significant when P<.05.

RESULTS

Two hundred women with a mean age of 61.5±9.6 (range: 37-93) were enrolled in the study, consisting of 150 (75%) patients with a benign diagnosis and 50 (25%) patients with a malignant tumor. BMI and abdominal perimeter were higher in the group with a malignant tumor (P<.05). The incidence of DM and metabolic syndrome was higher in the malignant tumor group (P<.005). In the malignant tumor group, much higher incidences correlated with fasting glycemic levels >100mg/dL, insulin levels >10mIU/L and HOMA-IR scores >2.7 (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a relationship between metabolic syndrome and postmenopausal breast cancer. More studies are needed to establish methods for the prevention of breast cancer in women with metabolic syndrome.

Diagnostic accuracy of molecular testing with three molecular markers on thyroid fine-needle aspiration cytology with abnormal category

BACKGROUND

Cases with abnormal category, determined by thyroid fine-needle aspiration (FNA), frequently undergo surgical resection, despite the majority of cases being identified as benign after resection. Additional diagnostic markers are needed to guide the management of patients with abnormal thyroid nodules.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The retrospective study enrolled 150 cases diagnosed abnormal by FNA cytology that had undergone molecular testing with three markers (BRAF V600E, NRAS, and KRAS) on the cell block. Seventy-one cases had a surgical follow-up.

RESULTS

When NIFTP is not considered as malignant, positive predictive values (PPVs) of cytology and combined cytology and molecular testing (CC-MT) were 67.6% (95% CI: 0.555-0.782) and 89.2% (95% CI: 0.746-0.970) (P = .004), respectively. The sensitivity of the CC-MT was 68.8%, specificity was 82.5%, and the false-positive rate was 17.4%. When NIFTP is considered as malignant, PPVs of cytology and CC-MT were 83.1% (95% CI: 0.743-0.918) and 94.6% (95% CI: 0.873-1.018) (P = .047), respectively. The sensitivity of the CC-MT was 59.3%, specificity was 83.3%, and the false-positive rate was 16.7%.

CONCLUSION

The addition of molecular testing with a small panel to FNA cytology may increase the PPV of cytology in abnormal categories. Small panel (BRAF V600E, KRAS, and NRAS) with high specificity and high PPVs may be used particularly for the detection of thyroid malignancy. Cell blocks can be an especially useful and straightforward method for molecular diagnostic studies.

Percutaneous Cholecystostomy as an Alternative to Cholecystectomy in High-Risk Patients with Acute Cholecystitis

Background: Cholecystectomy is the standard treatment for patients with acute cholecystitis. On the other hand, percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) is an alternative for patients at high-risk for surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of PC. Methods: Surgically high-risk patients with acute cholecystits having undergone PC at our institution between January 2014 – January 2017 were evaluated. Data including the indications for PC, route of insertion, technical success, clinical improvement, length of hospital stay, mortality rates, procedure related complications, subsequent admissions and performance of interval cholecystectomy were recorded and analyzed. Results: The study group consisted of 30 patients with a mean age of 75.3 ( range: 49–99) years. The indications for PC were acute calculous cholecystitis in 28 (93.3%) and acalculous cholecystitis in 2 (6.7%) patients.  All procedures were performed via the transhepatic route. Twenty-five PCs (84.4%) resulted in clinical improvement within five days. A repeated PC was performed in two (6.7%) patients.  Seven (23.3%) patients underwent a subsequent cholecystectomy after 6 weeks. An emergent cholecystectomy was performed in one (3.3%) patient. Five (16.7%) patients died from underlying comorbid diseases, unrelated to the biliary system, during the follow-up. Conclusions: Patients with acute cholecystitis were promptly relieved from their symptoms following PC. There were only minor complications following the procedure and an interval cholecystectomy was necessary in only 23.3% of the patients. PC is a safe alternative to choecystectomy in high-risk patients with acute cholecystitis with satisfactory results.

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging for the detection of thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

Nodular thyroid disease possesses the potential to harbor malignancy. Our aim was to evaluate the significance of cervical diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) for the detection of malignant thyroid nodules.

METHODS

Sixty-five thyroid nodules from 58 patients who had undergone surgery were evaluated. Preoperative parameters, demographic data, ultrasound findings, fine-needle aspiration biopsy results and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the nodules at DW-MRI were compared with the results from postoperative pathology examinations.

RESULTS

The "benign group" included 50 (76.9%) nodules, while 15 (23.1%) nodules constituted the "malignancy group". Minimum, maximum and mean ADC values of the nodules were significantly lower in the malignancy group (p < 0.05). The best cutoff value for the mean ADC value was 1.33 × 10-3 mm2/s, with a sensitivity of 66.67%, a specifity of 89.13%, a positive predictive value of 53.63% and a negative predictive value of 89.13%. A mean ADC value equal to or lower than 1.33 × 10-3 mm2/s was associated with 9 times higher risk of malignancy (odds ratio: 9.111, 95% confidence interval: 2.49-33.21).

CONCLUSIONS

The ADC value detected by cervical DW-MRI can be considered a predictive parameter for the detection of thyroid cancer.

Protective effects of thymoquinone on the healing process of experimental left colonic anastomosis

PURPOSE

Colorectal cancer is globally the third most common cancer. Anastomotic complications remain to be an important issue for colorectal surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of thymoquinone (TQ) on the healing process of left colonic anastomosis in an experimental model.

METHODS

Thirty-two male rats were divided into two groups, as the TQ group and the control group. TQ was administered to the TQ group, whereas the control group was given a standard feed and water for 2 wk. Following the creation of a left colonic anastomosis, subjects in both groups were sacrificed on the postoperative (PO) third and seventh days. Anastomotic burst pressures were measured mechanically. Immunohistochemical stainings for proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cluster of differentiation (CD) 31, CD45 were performed, and the matrix metalloproteinase-2 levels were measured. Histologic total scores were calculated according to Ehrlich-Hunt model. A value of P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

RESULTS

One rat in the control group that died on the PO fourth day was excluded. Anastomotic burst pressures on the PO seventh day were higher in the TQ group than the control group (P < 0.01). Histopathological total scores on the PO third and seventh days were higher in the TQ group (P < 0.01). In addition, the TQ group revealed lower matrix metalloproteinase-2 scores on the PO third day and higher hydroxyproline levels on the PO seventh day (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of TQ in colorectal surgery cases with left-sided colonic anastomosis resulted with increased anastomotic burst pressures and increased tissue hydroxyproline levels.

Validation of microsatellite instability histology scores with Bethesda guidelines in hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer

AIMS

Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is a subgroup of colorectal cancer (CRC) which should be differentiated because of the high risk for additional cancers and risk evaluation for other family members, especially for CRC. It is not practical to perform genetic testing for all CRC patients; therefore, various prediction modalities, for example, Bethesda guideline (BG) were studied in the literature. We aimed to assess the association of microsatellite instability (MSI), histology scores, and BG for predicting HNPCC risk.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Data were collected from CRC patients between 2009 and 2012. A total of 127 patients were retrospectively reviewed for BG status and the MSI scores, MsPath, and PathScore.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Definitive statistical methods (mean, standard deviation, median, frequency, and percentage) were used to evaluate the study data. Comparison used Student's t-test, Continuity (Yates) correction, Fisher-Freeman-Halton test, Pearson correlation, and receiver operating characteristics curve analysis.

RESULTS

Patients who were detected as Bethesda-positive had significantly higher MsPath and PathScore scores (P = 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively). According to the cut-off value of 2.8 and 2.9 for MsPath and PathScore, respectively, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 90%, 43%, 22.8%, 95.8%, and 50.4% for MsPath, and 55%, 83.2%, 37.9%, 90.8%, and 78.7% for PathScore, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The MSI scoring systems, MsPath, and PathScore, are reliable systems and effectively correlated with BG for predicting patients who need advanced analysis techniques because of the risk of HNPCC.

Evaluating factors affecting survival in colon and rectum cancer: A prospective cohort study with 161 patients

Context

Colorectal cancers are frequent among cancers of gastrointestinal system. Whether there are any differences between survival in rectum and colon cancer patients is controversial.

Aims

In this study, we aimed to compare survival in surgically treated rectum and colon cancers and determine the factors affecting survival.

Subjects and Methods

The patients with colon and rectum cancer operated between 2009 and 2013 were examined retrospectively using prospective database. Patients were categorized as colon and rectum according to the tumor's location. Survival was identified as the primary outcome. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank tests in survival assessment were used.

Results

One hundred and sixty-one patients with a mean age of 62.8 ± 12.7 years were included in the study. Male/female ratio was 1.6. Colon and rectum patients were counted as 92 (%57.1) and 69 (%42.9), respectively. Both groups were similar in demographic data (P > 0.05). It was observed that in 46 months (mean) of follow-up, 39.7% (n: 64) died, and 60.3% (n: 97) survived. Median survival time was 79 months, and 5-year cumulative survival rate was 60.8%. Five-year cumulative survival rates in stages for 1, 2, 3 and 4 were 88.2%, 64.7%, 48.5%, and 37.0%, respectively. It was noted that median survival time for colon cancer was 78 months and for rectum cancer was 79 months. Five-year cumulative survival rates for colon and rectum cancers were calculated as 56.7% and 63.4%, respectively. There were no significant differences in colon and rectum cancers in the means of survival rate (P: 0.459).

Conclusions

While location of colorectal cancers shows no significant effect on survival, treatment in the early stages increases survival rate.

Sixth Class Students' Performance and Confidence Levels Before and After Training in Clinical Skills Laboratories

Background: Acquisition of basic clinical skills by undergraduate medical students is becoming of greater concern. Clinical skills laboratories may provide a comfortable environment for training and may allow students to gain adequate performance level. The aim of this study is to evaluate students' performance and confidence levels before and after training of selected procedural skills; also to explore students' expectation towards skills laboratory training. Methods: Two questionnaires were conducted before and after training sessions in the clinical skills laboratory, school of medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan. The skills selected for this study: suture practice, venous access, arterial access, intradermal and intramuscular injection, central venous cannulation, male and female urinary catheterization, nasogastric tube placement and rectal examination. Although fifty-seven 6th year medical students filled the first questionnaire at the beginning before training, only 29 students could attend all training sessions, and fill the second questionnaire. Results: For all trained clinical skills, the mean students' performance scores and confidence levels were significantly increased after training (P <0.001). Expectations of students for skills laboratory were high. Conclusions: The students' performance and confidence levels were significantly improved after training in the clinical skills laboratory.

Minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer: A comparison between robotic, laparoscopic and open surgery

AIM

To investigate the role of minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer and determine surgical, clinical, and oncological outcomes.

METHODS

This is a propensity score-matched case-control study, comparing three treatment arms: robotic gastrectomy (RG), laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG), open gastrectomy (OG). Data collection started after sharing a specific study protocol. Data were recorded through a tailored and protected web-based system. Primary outcomes: harvested lymph nodes, estimated blood loss, hospital stay, complications rate. Among the secondary outcomes, there are: operative time, R0 resections, POD of mobilization, POD of starting liquid diet and soft solid diet. The analysis includes the evaluation of type and grade of postoperative complications. Detailed information of anastomotic leakages is also provided.

RESULTS

The present analysis was carried out of 1026 gastrectomies. To guarantee homogenous distribution of cases, patients in the RG, LG and OG groups were 1:1:2 matched using a propensity score analysis with a caliper = 0.2. The successful matching resulted in a total sample of 604 patients (RG = 151; LG = 151; OG = 302). The three groups showed no differences in all baseline patients characteristics, type of surgery (P = 0.42) and stage of the disease (P = 0.16). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the LG (95.93 ± 119.22) and RG (117.91 ± 68.11) groups compared to the OG (127.26 ± 79.50, P = 0.002). The mean number of retrieved lymph nodes was similar between the RG (27.78 ± 11.45), LG (24.58 ± 13.56) and OG (25.82 ± 12.07) approach. A benefit in favor of the minimally invasive approaches was found in the length of hospital stay (P < 0.0001). A similar complications rate was found (P = 0.13). The leakage rate was not different (P = 0.78) between groups.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic and robotic surgery can be safely performed and proposed as possible alternative to open surgery. The main highlighted benefit is a faster postoperative functional recovery.

IL-8 gene polymorphism in acute biliary and non biliary pancreatitis: probable cause of high level parameters?

Backgrounds/Aims

Inflammatory mediators of the innate immune response play fundamental roles in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis. The correlation between interleukin-8 (IL-8) gene polymorphism with types of acute pancreatitis and severity of pancreatitis, was evaluated in this study.

Methods

According to the diagnostic criteria, 176 patients with acute pancreatitis were grouped into biliary (n=83) and nonbiliary pancreatitis (n=93). Healthy blood donors (n=100) served as controls. Serum alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, total and direct bilirubin, amylase, lypase, white blood cell count and c-reactive protein levels were evaluated to correlate with IL-8 rs4073 (-251T/A) polymorphism, which was analyzed using a real-time polymerase chain reaction method with melting point analysis.

Results

The IL-8 AA genotype was detected with a significantly higher frequency among the patients with acute biliary pancreatitis having higher alanine transaminase levels than the median range. Homozygote alleles were significantly higher among patients with acute biliary pancreatitis having amylase levels higher than the median range.

Conclusions

Determination of the frequency of IL-8 polymorphism in acute pancreatitis is informative and provides further evidence concerning the role of IL-8 in laboratory tests.

The Diagnostic and Prognostic Significance of Serum Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin Levels in Patients with Colorectal Cancer

AIM OF THE STUDY

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is an inflammatory biomarker that is stored in neutrophil granules. Recent studies revealed that NGAL expression increases in tissue samples of patients with inflammatory gastrointestinal system diseases and cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive significance of plasma NGAL levels in various stages of adenoma-carcinoma sequence of colorectal cancer. Materials and Methods: Eighty cases were included in the study and separated into 3 groups. "Cancer Group" consisted of 27 colorectal cancer patients who underwent curative resection, whereas 24 patients with colorectal adenomatous polyps detected by colonoscopy were classified as the "Polyp Group", and 29 patients with normal colonoscopy findings were classified as the "Control Group". The serum NGAL, CEA and CA19-9 levels and histopathology findings were determined. Results: The mean plasma NGAL levels for control group, polyp group and cancer group were found to be 91.5 ng/ml, 139.6ng/ml and 184.3ng/ml, respectively. Plasma NGAL levels were found to be significantly higher in cancer group compared to the control group (p:0.006). Plasma NGAL levels were detected statistically significant and positive correlated with tumor diameter and number of metastatic lymph nodes (p:0.047, r:%38.6 and p:0.026, r:%42.8, respectively) in cancer group. Conclusions: We are of the opinion that pre-operative plasma NGAL level is a potential diagnostic biomarker for colorectal cancer patients. Although more comprehensive studies are needed for definitive judgments, serum NGAL levels may be used as a diagnostic and/or predictive biomarker for lymph node metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer.

Factors affecting sentinel lymph node metastasis in Turkish breast cancer patients: Predictive value of Ki-67 and the size of lymph node

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to analyze the factors that affect the axillary lymph node involvement in Turkish breast cancer patients with clinically non-palpable axillary lymph node.

BACKGROUND

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is the gold standard technique to evaluate the axillary lymph node status that directly influences the prognosis and the treatment options in breast cancer.

METHODS

Breast cancer patients without axillary lymph node involvement in clinic examination were enrolled the study. Patients were categorized into the two groups according to existence of axillary lymph node metastasis or not. Demographic, histopathological and clinical data of patients were revealed retrospectively.

RESULTS

One-hundred and eighty-seven patients were analyzed and 101 of patients fulfilled the criteria and were included the study. Metastatic lymph node was detected in 38 (37.6 %) patients (Group 1), and was negative in 63 (62.4 %) patients (Group 2). Sentinel lymph node metastasis were statistically significant higher in patients with Ki-67 ≥ 14 % than patients with Ki-67 < 14 % (51.9 % vs 22.4 %; p < 0.01). Likewise, the mean size of the sentinel lymph node was statistically significant higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Ki-67 proliferation index and sentinel lymph node size may provide a higher prediction about the sentinel lymph node involvement in patients with clinically negative axillary lymph nodes (Tab. 3, Fig. 1, Ref. 31).

Chylopericardium presenting as cardiac tamponade secondary to mediastinal lymphangioma

Mediastinal lymphangioma is a rare entity and chylopericardium is a rare form of pericardial effusion. We report a case of acute chylous cardiac tamponade due to a cervicomediastinal lymphangioma in a one-year-old boy. A chest x-ray revealed marked cardiac enlargement and echocardiography showed massive pericardial effusion. Emergency surgery was performed whereby a pericardial window was created, followed by excision of the lymphangioma.

Incidental findings during routine pathological evaluation of gallbladder specimens: review of 1,747 elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy cases

Introduction Cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder diseases can lead to previously undiagnosed gallbladder cancer during histopathological evaluation. Despite some controversy over its usefulness, histopathological evaluation of all gallbladder specimens is common in most hospitals. We evaluated the results of routine pathology of the gallbladder after cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder diseases with regard to unexpected primary gallbladder cancer (UPGC). Methods Patients undergoing cholecystectomy because of benign gallbladder diseases between 2009 and 2013 were enrolled in this study. All gallbladder specimens were sent to the pathology department, and histopathological reports were examined in detail. The impact of demographic features on pathological diagnoses and prevalence of UPGC assessed. Data on additional interventions and postoperative survival for patients with UPGC were collected. Results We enrolled 1,747 patients (mean age, 48.7±13.6 years). Chronic cholecystitis was the most common diagnosis (96.3%) and was associated significantly with being female (p=0.001). Four patients had UPGC (0.23%); one was stage T3 at the time of surgery, and the remaining three cases were stage T2. Conclusions Routine histopathological examination of the gallbladder is valuable for identification of cancer that requires further postoperative management.

Factors Effecting Mastalgia

BACKGROUND

Breast pain is one of the leading complaints that ends up with referral to breast surgery clinics. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the factors that cause mastalgia, and its relation with benign or malignant breast disease.

METHODS

The study was performed in 700 patients. Data obtained from surveys, and imaging findings were prospectively recorded, and analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean age was 45.20 ± 10.78 years. The mastalgia group included 500 cases; the asymptomatic group comprised 200 individuals. Stressful lifestyle, caffeine consumption, and smoking were associated with mastalgia (p < 0.05). Rates of women who had breast fed 3 times or more were higher in the mastalgia group (p < 0.05). Increased breast density, and breast imaging-reporting and data system (BI-RADS) 2 mammography findings were related with mastalgia (p < 0.05). Cysts and fibroadenomas were more common in the mastalgia group (p < 0.05). The incidence of a past history of malignant breast disease was significantly higher in the mastalgia group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Stress, caffeine, smoking, lactation frequency, and benign disorders were factors detected to be related with mastalgia. Although a significant relation between mastalgia and malignant breast disease was detected in our study, more controlled studies are still required to investigate this issue further.

The Effect of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone on Tumor Size in Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma

We evaluated the correlation between serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and tumor size and other invasiveness parameters of tumor in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). Several clinical studies have reported that TSH may also have a role as a regulator of the development and function of the thyroid gland. It is currently not clear whether TSH is involved in the existence of thyroid cancer or progression of thyroid cancer or both. Patients with DTC who underwent thyroid surgery between 2003 and 2008 were included this study. Preoperative serum T3, T4, and TSH levels were compared with the size and invasiveness of cancer, retrospectively. DTC was observed in 110 patients over the 5-year period. Seventy-seven (70 %) of them were euthyroid and classified as the "normal-TSH group" (NTG), and 33 (30 %) have an overt or subclinical hyperthyroidism, classified as the "low-TSH group" (LTG). The mean tumor diameter in the LTG was found to be 8.91 ± 8.03 mm; however, it was found to be 18.19 ± 16.24 mm in the NTG. There were significantly differences among the groups related to the diameter of tumor (p = 0.001). Microcarcinoma was determined in 36 patients (46.8 %) in the NTG and 23 patients (69.7 %) in the LTG (p = 0.027). Although there were no significant differences, tumor capsule invasion (33.8 vs. 18.2 %, p = 0.099) and lymphovascular invasion (16.9 vs. 6.1 %, p = 0.130) rates were higher in the NTG. These findings suggest that TSH has effects on growing and proliferation of not only normal thyroid cells but also cancer cells in DTC. This study revealed that serum TSH level can be explored as an important factor that affects the size and invasiveness of tumor in DTC.

Single-site multiport combined splenectomy and cholecystectomy with conventional laparoscopic instruments: Case series and review of literature

INTRODUCTION

Conventional laparoscopic procedures have been used for splenic diseases and concomitant gallbladder stones, frequently in patients with hereditary spherocytosis since 1990's. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of single-site surgery with conventional instruments in combined procedures.

PRESENTATION OF CASE SERIES

Six consecutive patients who scheduled for combined cholecystectomy and splenectomy because of hereditary spherocytosis or autoimmune hemolytic anemia were included this study. Both procedures were performed via trans-umbilical single-site multiport approach using conventional instruments. All procedures completed successfully without conversion to open surgery or conventional laparoscopic surgery. An additional trocar was required for only one patient. The mean operation time was 190min (150-275min). The mean blood loss was 185ml (70-300ml). Median postoperative hospital stay was two days. No perioperative mortality or major complications occurred in our series. Recurrent anemia, hernia formation or wound infection was not observed during the follow-up period.

DISCUSSION

Nowadays, publications are arising about laparoscopic or single site surgery for combined diseases. Surgery for combined diseases has some difficulties owing to the placement of organs and position of the patient during laparoscopic surgery. Single site laparoscopic surgery has been proposed to have better cosmetic outcome, less postoperative pain, greater patient satisfaction and faster recovery compared to standard laparoscopy.

CONCLUSION

We consider that single-site multiport laparoscopic approach for combined splenectomy and cholecystectomy is a safe and feasible technique, after gaining enough experience on single site surgery.

Rural surgery in Guinea Bissau: an experience of Doctors Worldwide Turkey

OBJECTIVE

In Africa, there is critical shortage of surgeons. Majority of the surgeons work in urban centers, and almost none of them is working in the rural areas. This study documents surgical interventions performed in Guinea-Bissau by Doctors Worldwide Turkey.

METHODS

A group of surgeons from the Doctors Worldwide Turkey performed various surgical interventions in the Simao Mendes, Gabu and Bafata community hospitals. Demographics, surgical methods, anesthesia techniques and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Sixty- four procedures were undertaken between 5-16 February 2010 and 6-11 May 2011. The patient population consisted of 47 male (82.5%) and 10 female (17.5%) patients with a mean age of 44.5 (range: 6-81) years. Five emergency cases were observed. Hartmann's procedure for rectal carcinoma; modified radical mastectomy for breast carcinoma; 2 right total thyroidectomies, 1 bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy; 2 incisional hernia repairs with mesh, 1 breast lumpectomy, 3 mass excisions, 2 keloidectomies, and various techniques of hernia repair for 35 inguinal hernias (4 bilateral, 3 strangulated and 2 coexisting with hydrocele), Winkelmann's procedure for 5 hydroceles (1 bilateral), and unilateral orchiectomy for 1 bilateral hydrocele were recorded. Sixteen patients received general (23.5%), 23 spinal (33.8%), 7 epidural (10.3%), 15 local (22.1%), and 7 ketamine (10.3%) anesthesia. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSION

Surgical diseases, majority of which are hernias threaten public health in underdeveloped regions of Africa. Blitz surgery may be an efficient temporary solution.

Robotic, laparoscopic and open surgery for gastric cancer compared on surgical, clinical and oncological outcomes: a multi-institutional chart review. A study protocol of the International study group on Minimally Invasive surgery for GASTRIc Cancer-IMIGASTRIC

INTRODUCTION

Gastric cancer represents a great challenge for healthcare providers and requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach in which surgery plays a major role. Minimally invasive surgery has been progressively developed, first with the advent of laparoscopy and recently with the spread of robotic surgery, but a number of issues are currently being debated, including the limitations in performing an effective extended lymph node dissection, the real advantages of robotic systems, the role of laparoscopy for Advanced Gastric Cancer, the reproducibility of a total intracorporeal technique and the oncological results achievable during long-term follow-up.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A multi-institutional international database will be established to evaluate the role of robotic, laparoscopic and open approaches in gastric cancer, comprising of information regarding surgical, clinical and oncological features. A chart review will be conducted to enter data of participants with gastric cancer, previously treated at the participating institutions. The database is the first of its kind, through an international electronic submission system and a HIPPA protected real time data repository from high volume gastric cancer centres.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study is conducted in compliance with ethical principles originating from the Helsinki Declaration, within the guidelines of Good Clinical Practice and relevant laws/regulations. A multicentre study with a large number of patients will permit further investigation of the safety and efficacy as well as the long-term outcomes of robotic, laparoscopic and open approaches for the management of gastric cancer.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02325453; Pre-results.

Strategies to treat idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: retrospective analysis of 40 patients

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare benign breast disease which often mimics breast carcinoma both clinically and radiologically. Confirmation of diagnosis is only made by histopathological analysis. This study aims to define clinical and demographic features of IGM patients and discuss the results of treatment modalities.

METHODS

Forty patients with IGM who were assigned in Istanbul Medeniyet University General Surgery Clinic between March 2008 and October 2013 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Mean age was 39.07 ± 11.5. The most common complaint was breast mass (55%). Nipple retraction was present in 6 patients (15%) and 9 patients (22.5%) had fistulizing abscess. Two patients had erythema nodosum on the lower extremity. Breast ultrasonography (USG) (n:40), mammography (MG) (n:20), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (n:20) were used for imaging. Selected treatment methods were antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents (27.5%), steroids (15%), abscess drainage (40%), and surgical excision (17.5%). Fifteen patients had recurrence after their first line treatment protocol. Mean follow-up period was 24.85 ± 19.7 months.

CONCLUSION

Surgical excision still seems to be the best treatment method for IGM patients. Administration of steroids for large lesions prior to surgery may help minimize the lesion size and obtain better cosmesis.

The predictive value of physical examination in the decision of laparotomy in penetrating anterior abdominal stab injury

A selective conservative treatment for penetrating anterior abdominal stab injuries is an increasingly recognized approach. We analyzed patients who followed-up and treated for penetrating anterior abdominal stab injuries. The anterior region was defined as the area between the arcus costa at the top and the mid-axillary lines at the laterals and the inguinal ligaments and symphysis pubis at the bottom. An emergency laparotomy was performed on patients who were hemodynamically unstable or had symptoms of peritonitis or organ evisceration; the remaining patients were followed-up selectively and conservatively. A total of 175 patients with purely anterior abdominal injuries were included in the study. One hundred and sixty-five of the patients (94.29%) were males and 10 (5.71%) were females; the mean age of the cohort was 30.85 years (range: 14-69 years). While 16 patients (9%) were made an emergency laparotomy due to hemodynamic instability, peritonitis or evisceration, the remaining patients were hospitalized for observation. During the selective conservative follow-up, an early laparotomy was performed in 20 patients (12%), and a late laparotomy was performed in 13 patients (7%); the remaining 126 patients (72%) were discharged after non-operative follow-up. A laparotomy was performed on 49 patients (28%); the laparotomy was therapeutic for 42 patients (86%), non-therapeutic for 4 patients (8%), and negative for 3 patients (6%). A selective conservative approach based on physical examination and clinical follow-up in penetrating anterior abdominal stab injuries is an effective treatment approach.

Surgical indicators for the operative treatment of acute mechanical intestinal obstruction due to adhesions

Purpose

Our aim was to investigate the predictive factors indicating strangulation, and the requirement for surgery in patients with acute mechanical intestinal obstruction due to adhesions.

Methods

This study retrospectively evaluated the records of patients with adhesive acute mechanical intestinal obstruction. The surgical treatment (group S), conservative treatment (group C), intraoperative bowel ischemia (group I), and intraoperative adhesion only (group A) groups were statistically evaluated according to the diagnostic and surgical parameters.

Results

The study group of 252 patients consisted of 113 women (44.8%), and 139 men (55.2%). The mean age was 62.79 ± 18.08 years (range, 20-98 years). Group S consisted of 50 patients (19.8%), and 202 (80.2%) were in group C. Group I consisted of 19 patients (38%), where as 31 (62%) were in group A. In group S, the prehospital symptomatic period was longer, incidence of fever was increased, and elevated CRP levels were significant (P < 0.05). Plain abdominal radiography, and abdominal computerized tomography were significantly sensitive for strangulation (P < 0.05). The elderly were more prone to strangulation (P < 0.05). Fever, rebound tendernes, and urea & creatinine levels were significantly higher in the presence of strangulation (P < 0.05, P < 0.05, and P < 0.05, consecutively).

Conclusion

Fever, rebound tenderness, urea & creatinine levels, plain abdominal radiography, and abdominal computerized tomography images were important indicators of bowel ischemia. Longer prehospital symptomatic period was related with a tendency for surgical treatment, and the elderly were more prone to strangulation. CRP detection was considered to be useful for the decision of surgery, but not significantly predictive for strangulation.

Agenesis of the gallbladder diagnosed by magnetic resonance cholangiography: report of a case and review of the literature

Gallbladder agenesis (GA) is a rare congenital anomaly of the biliary system often associated with other congenital abnormalities. Patients become symptomatic in 23% of cases (Richards et al., 1993). GA is often misinterpreted as other diseases, therefore, leading to unnecessary surgery. Many of these patients develop a typical symptomatology of cholelithiasis that leads them to operating theatre. If an operative procedure is done, it is better to remain at the level of laparoscopy because further surgical investigation may lead to detrimental biliary tract injuries (Waisberg et al., 2002). We present a case of GA, diagnosed by magnetic resonance with cholangiopancreatography.