A population-based analysis on the incidence of metachronous colon cancer after endoscopic resection of advanced adenomas with high-grade dysplasia: does location matter?

BACKGROUND

Advanced adenomas (AAs) with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) represent a risk factor for metachronous neoplasia, with guidelines recommending short-interval surveillance. Although the worse prognosis of proximal (vs distal) colon cancers (CCs) is established, there is paucity of evidence on the impact of laterality on the risk of subsequent neoplasia for these AAs.

METHODS

Adults with HGD adenomas undergoing polypectomy were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2000-2019). Cumulative incidence of malignancy was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Fine-Gray models assessed the effect of patient and disease characteristics on CC incidence.

RESULTS

Of 3199 patients, 26% had proximal AAs. A total of 65 cases of metachronous adenocarcinoma were identified after polypectomy of 35 proximal and 30 distal adenomas with HGD. The 10-year cumulative incidence of CC was 2.3%; when stratified by location, it was 4.8% for proximal vs 1.4% for distal adenomas. Proximal location was significantly associated with increased incidence of metachronous cancer (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.32; 95% CI, 2.05-5.38).

CONCLUSION

Proximal location of AAs with HGD was associated with >3-fold increased incidence of metachronous CC and shorter time to diagnosis. These data suggest laterality should be considered in the treatment and follow-up of these patients.

Contemporary management of rectal cancer

The management of rectal cancer has undergone significant changes over the past 50 years, and this has been associated with major improvements in overall outcomes and quality of life. From standardization of total mesorectal excision to refinements in radiation delivery and shifting of chemoradiotherapy treatment to favor a neoadjuvant approach, as well as the development of targeted chemotherapeutics, these management strategies have continually aimed to achieve locoregional and systemic control while limiting adverse effects and enhance overall survival. This article highlights evolving aspects of rectal cancer therapy including improved staging modalities, total neoadjuvant therapy, the role of short-course and more selective radiotherapy strategies, as well as organ preservation. We also discuss the evolving role of minimally invasive surgery and comment on lateral pelvic lymph node dissection.

Key message

Rectal cancer management is constantly evolving through refinements in radiation timing and delivery, modification of chemoradiotherapy treatment schedules, and increasing utilization of minimally invasive surgical techniques and organ preservation strategies. This manuscript aims to provide a synopsis of recent changes in the management of rectal cancer, highlighting contemporary modifications in neoadjuvant approaches and surgical management to enhance the knowledge of surgeons who care for this challenging population.

Diet-induced shifts in the gut microbiota influence anastomotic healing in a murine model of colonic surgery

Host diet and gut microbiota interact to contribute to perioperative complications, including anastomotic leak (AL). Using a murine surgical model of colonic anastomosis, we investigated how diet and fecal microbial transplantation (FMT) impacted the intestinal microbiota and if a predictive signature for AL could be determined. We hypothesized that a Western diet (WD) would impact gut microbial composition and that the resulting dysbiosis would correlate with increased rates of AL, while FMT from healthy, lean diet (LD) donors would reduce the risk of AL. Furthermore, we predicted that surgical outcomes would allow for the development of a microbial preclinical translational tool to identify AL. Here, we show that AL is associated with a dysbiotic microbial community characterized by increased levels of Bacteroides and Akkermansia. We identified several key taxa that were associated with leak formation, and developed an index based on the ratio of bacteria associated with the absence and presence of leak. We also highlight a modifiable connection between diet, microbiota, and anastomotic healing, potentially paving the way for perioperative modulation by microbiota-targeted therapeutics to reduce AL.

Intracorporeal or extracorporeal anastomosis after minimally invasive right colectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

As part of the wide adoption of minimally invasive surgery, intracorporeal anastomosis is becoming increasingly common. The benefits of minimally invasive versus open right colectomy are well known although the additional benefits of an intracorporeal anastomosis, performed laparoscopically or robotically, are unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the current literature comparing intracorporeal and extracorporeal anastomosis in the setting of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted right colectomy.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA and AMSTAR methods. Studies included were randomized controlled trials and prospective or retrospective cohort studies, between January 1 2010 and July 1 2021, comparing intracorporeal and extracorporeal anastomosis with laparoscopic and robotic approaches. Four groups were identified: laparoscopic extracorporeal anastomosis (L-ECA), laparoscopic intracorporeal anastomosis (L-ICA), robotic extracorporeal anastomosis (R-ECA), and robotic intracorporeal anastomosis (R-ICA). Operative time, rate of conversion to an open procedure, surgical site infection, reoperation within 30 days, postoperative complications within 30 days, and length of hospital stay were assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty-one retrospective cohort studies were included in the final analysis. R-ICA and R-ECA had comparable operative times, but a robotic approach required more time than laparoscopic (68 min longer, p < 0.00001). Conversion to open surgery was 55% less likely in the R-ICA group vs. L-ICA, and up to 94% less likely in the R-ICA group in comparison to the R-ECA group. Length of hospital stay was shorter for R-ICA by a half day vs. R-ECA, and up to 1 day less vs. L-ECA. There were no differences in postoperative complications, reoperations, or surgical site infections, regardless of approach. However, the included studies all had high risks of bias due to confounding variables and patient selection.

CONCLUSION

Robotic-assisted right colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis was associated with shorter length of hospitalization and decreased rate of conversion to open surgery, compared to either laparoscopic or extracorporeal robotic approaches. Prospective studies are needed to better understand the true impact of robotic approach and intracorporeal anastomosis in right colectomy.

Endoscopic polypectomy for malignant polyps: Should tumor location (right versus left side) guide clinical decisions?

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines consider endoscopic resection appropriate treatment for malignant colon polyps with negative margins, low-grade histology, and no lymphovascular invasion. While increasing literature demonstrates a worse prognosis for advanced stage right- versus left-sided colon cancers after curative treatment, there is paucity of data regarding prognostic effect of location in patients undergoing endoscopic resection of T1 polyps. We hypothesized the more aggressive biologic behavior observed in advanced right-sided cancers would be similarly represented in malignant polyps, and this location would be associated with lower overall survival.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for adults with T1NxMx tumors who underwent endoscopic polypectomy (2004-2017). Patients with positive margins or without follow-up information were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 2,337 patients met inclusion criteria; 22% had right-sided polyps. Endoscopically excised proximal tumors were more common in elderly, and those with public insurance and more comorbidities (all P < .01). Among patients with complete pathologic data, there were no statistical differences between right- and left-sided polyps with 1 cm median size, >92% without lymphovascular invasion, and 100% without tumor deposits. Univariate analysis showed 73% vs 86% 5-year overall survival for right versus left polyps (P < .01). After adjustment for available confounders, right-sided location remained significantly associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio 1.49, 95% confidence interval 1.21-1.83).

CONCLUSION

In this national cohort of patients with endoscopically excised malignant polyps, we identified right colon location as an independent prognostic factor associated with increased risk of mortality. Our data suggest polyp location should be taken into consideration when making clinical decisions regarding treatment and/or surveillance.

Colon and Rectal Cancer Management in Low-Resource Settings

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is rising in low- and middle-income countries, which also face disproportionate mortality from CRC, mainly due to diagnosis at late stages. Various challenges to CRC care exist at multiple societal levels in underserved populations. In this article, barriers to CRC care, strategies for screening, and treatment in resource-limited settings, and future directions are discussed within a global context.

Abdominal Surgical Procedures in Adult Patients With Cystic Fibrosis: What Are the Risks?

BACKGROUND

With advances in medical care, patients with cystic fibrosis are more commonly living into adulthood, yet there are limited data describing the need for GI surgery and its outcomes in adult cystic fibrosis patients.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to use a national administrative database to evaluate trends in abdominal GI surgery and associated postoperative outcomes among adult cystic fibrosis patients.

DESIGN

This was a national retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

A national all-payor administrative database from 2000 to 2014 was used.

PATIENTS

Patients included adults (age ≥18 years) with cystic fibrosis undergoing abdominal GI surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was trend over time in number of surgical admissions. Secondary outcomes included morbidity and mortality by procedure type.

RESULTS

We identified 3075 admissions for abdominal surgery, of which 28% were elective. Major GI surgical procedures increased over the study period ( p < 0.01), whereas appendectomy and cholecystectomy did not demonstrate a clear trend ( p = 0.90). The most common procedure performed was cholecystectomy ( n = 1280; 42%). The most common major surgery was segmental colectomy ( n = 535; 18%). Obstruction was the most common surgical indication ( n = 780; 26%). For major surgery, in-hospital mortality was 6%, morbidity was 37%, and mean length of stay was 15.9 days (SE 1.2).

LIMITATIONS

The study is limited by a lack of granular physiological and clinical data within the administrative data source.

CONCLUSIONS

Major surgical admissions for adult patients with cystic fibrosis are increasing, with the majority being nonelective. Major surgery is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and prolonged length of hospital stay. These findings may inform perioperative risk for adult patients with cystic fibrosis in need of GI surgery. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B850 .

PROCEDIMIENTOS QUIRRGICOS ABDOMINALES EN PACIENTES ADULTOS CON FIBROSIS QUSTICA CULES SON LOS RIESGOS

ANTECEDENTES:Con los avances en la medicina, los pacientes con fibrosis quística viven más comúnmente hasta la edad adulta, pero hay datos escasos que describan la necesidad de cirugía gastrointestinal y sus resultados en pacientes adultos con fibrosis quística.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo es utilizar una base de datos administrativa nacional para evaluar las tendencias en la cirugía gastrointestinal abdominal y los resultados posoperatorios asociados entre los pacientes adultos con fibrosis quística.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo nacional.AJUSTE:Base de datos administrativa nacional de todas las instituciones pagadoras desde 2000 a 2014.PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes adultos (edad> 18) con fibrosis quística sometidos a cirugía gastrointestinal abdominal.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El resultado primario fue la tendencia a lo largo del tiempo en el número de ingresos quirúrgicos. Los resultados secundarios incluyeron morbilidad y mortalidad por tipo de procedimiento.RESULTADOS:Identificamos 3.075 ingresos por cirugía abdominal de los cuales el 28% fueron electivos. Los procedimientos quirúrgicos gastrointestinales mayores aumentaron durante el período de estudio (p <0,01) mientras que la apendicectomía y la colecistectomía no demostraron una tendencia clara (p = 0,90). El procedimiento realizado con mayor frecuencia fue la colecistectomía (n = 1.280; 42%). La cirugía mayor más común fue la colectomía segmentaria (n = 535; 18%). La obstrucción fue la indicación quirúrgica más común (n = 780; 26%). Para la cirugía mayor, la mortalidad hospitalaria fue del 6%, la morbilidad del 37% y la estadía media de 15,9 días (EE 1,2).LIMITACIONES:El estudio está limitado por la falta de datos clínicos y fisiológicos granulares dentro de la fuente de datos administrativos.CONCLUSIONES:Los ingresos quirúrgicos mayores de pacientes adultos con fibrosis quística están aumentando y la mayoría no son electivos. La cirugía mayor se asocia con una morbilidad y mortalidad significativas y una estancia hospitalaria prolongada. Estos hallazgos pueden informar el riesgo perioperatorio para pacientes adultos con fibrosis quística que necesitan cirugía gastrointestinal. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B850 . (Traducción-Dr. Felipe Bellolio ).

Factors Associated With Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship Program Ranking Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Immunofluorescence in Robotic Colon and Rectal Surgery

The indocyanine green fluorescence imaging system is a surgical tool with increasing applications in colon and rectal surgery that has received growing acceptance in various surgical disciplines as a potentially valid method to enhance surgical field visualization, improve lymph node retrieval, and decrease anastomotic leak. Small noncomparative prospective trials have shown that intraoperative fluorescence imaging is a safe and feasible method to assess anastomotic perfusion and that its use may impact anastomotic leak rates. However, larger prospective and randomized studies are required to validate its role and impact in colorectal surgery. The purpose of this article is to review the current status of the use of immunofluorescence in colon and rectal surgery, as well as new applications in robotic colon and rectal resections.

A Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation of Surgical Approaches to Proctectomy

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery is increasingly used for proctectomy, but the cost-effectiveness of this approach is uncertain. Robotic surgery is considered more expensive than open or laparoscopic approaches, but in certain situations has been demonstrated to be cost-effective. We examined the cost-effectiveness of open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches to proctectomy from societal and healthcare system perspectives.

METHODS

We developed a decision-analytic model to evaluate one-year costs and outcomes of robotic, laparoscopic, and open proctectomy based on data from the available literature. The robustness of our results was tested with one-way and multi-way sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

Open proctectomy had increased cost and lower quality of life (QOL) compared with laparoscopy and robotic approaches. In the societal perspective, robotic proctectomy costs $497/case more than laparoscopy, with minimal QOL improvements, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $751,056 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). In the healthcare sector perspective, robotic proctectomy resulted in $983/case more and an ICER of $1,485,139/QALY. One-way sensitivity analyses demonstrated factors influencing cost-effectiveness primarily pertained to the operative cost and the postoperative length of stay (LOS). In a probabilistic sensitivity analysis, the cost-effective approach to proctectomy was laparoscopic in 42% of cases, robotic in 39%, and open in 19% at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) of $100,000/QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic and robotic proctectomy cost less and have higher QALY than the open approach. Based on current data, laparoscopy is the most cost-effective approach. Robotic proctectomy can be cost-effective if modest differences in costs or postoperative LOS can be achieved.

Impact of adjuvant chemotherapy on outcomes in appendiceal cancer

BACKGROUND

The impact of using adjuvant chemotherapy following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma is not known. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of adjuvant chemotherapy following complete cytoreduction in patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

Retrospective medical record review of all patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma treated at our institution between 2006 and 2015. Kaplan-Meier plots were used to summarize overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival over time, and log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazards models were used to test for differences in survival between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 103 patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma received care at our institution during the study period. Complete cytoreduction (cytoreductive score 0-1) was achieved in 68 patients (66%). Of these 68 patients, 26 received adjuvant chemotherapy. The most common regimens were capecitabine (n = 11), capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (n = 7), and 5-FU plus oxaliplatin (n = 6). Tumor histopathology and grade, and the ability to achieve complete cytoreduction were significant predictors of overall survival. The median OS for non-low-grade and well-differentiated tumor patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy following complete cytoreduction was 9.03 years, compared to 2.88 years for patients who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy (P = .02). Among low-grade and well-differentiated tumor patients who underwent complete cytoreduction, there was no statistically significant difference in OS between those who received adjuvant chemotherapy and those who did not.

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant chemotherapy seems to have benefit in appendiceal cancer patients with non-low-grade or well-differentiated tumor type but not in low-grade or well-differentiated tumors.

Incidence and predictors of incisional hernia after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Background and objectives: The incidence of incisional hernia (IH) after cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is largely unknown. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study to identify patients who underwent CRS/HIPEC from 2001 to 2016. Patients were followed postoperatively for a minimum of two years. The primary outcome was the occurrence of an IH identified either on CT scan or physical examination. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to test associations with IH. Results: We identified 155 patients who underwent CRS/HIPEC; 26 patients (17%) were diagnosed with an IH at a median time of 245 days (Interquartile range [IQR] 175 - 331 days). On multivariable analysis, older age [50-64 vs. 18-49 years: hazard ratio (HR) = 0.08; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.01 to 0.64)], female gender (HR  =  0.09; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.75), and increased BMI (>30 vs. <25; HR  =  0.03; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.37) were significant independent predictors of IH. Conclusions: The incidence of IH in this high-risk patient population treated with CRS/HIPEC is similar to that after other abdominal cancer operations. Nevertheless, the occurrence of IH is an important patient outcome, so alternative closure techniques for reducing IH should be studied in this patient population. Synopsis In a single-institutional study, the incidence of incisional hernia was 17% after cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Independent risk factors of incisional hernia were older age, female gender and obesity.

Workplace Exposures

Workplace exposure in colorectal surgery is unique compared with other surgical specialties and generally underreported. Although the most common device-associated exposure in surgery is suture needle injury, colorectal surgeons are increasingly exposed to gastrointestinal-related infectious agents, radiation, and other hazards in multiple different clinical settings. Highlighting the unique workplace exposures in colorectal surgery may help increase awareness, improve education, and identify possible targets for early intervention in order to minimize these risks.

Combined Hartmann's Reversal and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: Defining Postoperative Morbidity

BACKGROUND

Ventral hernias are common after Hartmann's procedure and add complexity to Hartmann's reversal. Colostomy reversal and abdominal wall reconstruction may be performed in a staged or concurrent fashion, although data are limited as to which strategy is optimal. We aimed to define the complication profile of concurrent abdominal wall reconstruction with colostomy reversal as compared to either procedure alone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For this retrospective cohort study, we used the National Surgery Quality Improvement Project Database from 2012 to 2015. All patients undergoing elective colostomy reversal, abdominal wall reconstruction with component separation, or combined colostomy reversal with component separation were identified. Propensity score matching was used to compare outcomes among similar patients undergoing colostomy reversal alone versus combined procedure. Groups were evaluated for postoperative morbidity including reoperation.

RESULTS

We identified 11,689 patients; 6951 (64%) underwent component separation alone, 4563 (35%) colostomy reversal alone, and 175 (1%) combined component separation and colostomy reversal. The combined group, as compared to colostomy reversal alone, showed an increased overall complication rate (39% versus 25%; P < 0.01) and increased rate of reoperation (9% versus 5%; P = 0.03). Differences in overall complication rate (43% versus 24%; P < 0.01) and reoperation rate (9% versus 3%; P = 0.03) persisted on propensity matched analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis shows that in patients undergoing colostomy takedown, concurrent abdominal wall reconstruction is associated with increased morbidity including increased rate of reoperation, even when controlling for patient factors. Consideration may be given to a staged approach.

Decreased Use of Sphincter-Preserving Procedures Among African Americans with Rectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Improved multimodality rectal cancer treatment has increased the use of sphincter-preserving surgery. This study sought to determine whether African American (AA) patients with rectal cancer receive sphincter-preserving surgery at the same rate as non-AA patients.

METHODS

The study used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample for years 1998-2012 to compare AA and non-AA patients with rectal cancer undergoing low anterior resection or abdominoperineal resection. The logistic regression model was used to adjust for age, gender, admission type, Elixhauser comorbidity index, and hospital factors such as size, location (urban vs.rural), teaching status, and procedure volume.

RESULTS

The search identified 22,697 patients, 1600 of whom were identified as AA. After adjustment for age and gender, the analysis showed that AA patients were less likely to undergo sphincter-preserving surgery than non-AA patients [odds ratio (OR) 0.70; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63-0.78; p < 0.0001). After further adjustment for the Elixhauser comorbidity index, admission type, hospital-specific factors, and insurance status, the analysis showed that AA patients still were less likely to undergo sphincter-preserving surgery (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.70-0.87; p < 0.0001). Although the proportion of non-AA patients undergoing sphincter-preserving surgery increased during the study period (p = 0.0003), this trend was not significant for the AA patients (p = 0.13).

CONCLUSION

In this data analysis, the AA patients with rectal cancer had lower rates of sphincter-preserving surgery than the non-AA patients, even after adjustment for patient- and hospital-specific factors. Further work is required to elucidate why. Eliminating racial disparities in rectal cancer treatment should continue to be a priority for the surgical community.

Diverticulitis Diagnosed in the Emergency Room: Is It Safe to Discharge Home?

BACKGROUND

Inpatient treatment of patients with colon diverticulitis represents a significant financial and clinical burden to the health care system and patients. The aim of this study was to compare patients with diverticulitis in the emergency department (ED), who were discharged to home vs admitted to the hospital.

STUDY DESIGN

We reviewed all patients evaluated in the ED of a metropolitan health system, with the primary diagnosis of diverticulitis (ICD-9 562.11), from 2010 through 2012. Only patients diagnosed with CT and those with follow-up were included.

RESULTS

We identified 240 patients; 132 (55%) were women and mean age was 59.1 years (SD 16.1 years). Imaging findings included extraluminal air (21%), pericolic or pelvic abscess (12%), free fluid (16%), and pneumoperitoneum (6%). One hundred forty-four (60%) were admitted to the hospital and 96 (40%) were discharged to home on oral antibiotics. Patients admitted to the hospital were more likely to be older than 65 years (p = 0.0007), have a Charlson comorbidity score ≥ 2 (p = 0.0025), to be on steroids or immunosuppression (p = 0.0019), and have extraluminal air (p < 0.0001) or diverticular abscess (p < 0.0001) on imaging. Median follow-up for all patients was 36.5 months (interquartile range 25.2 to 43 months). Among patients discharged from the ED, 12.5% returned to the ED or were readmitted within 30 days, with only 1 patient (1%) requiring emergency surgery, but not until 20 months later. Patients admitted to the hospital had similar rates of readmission (15%; p = 0.65).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients diagnosed with uncomplicated diverticulitis in the emergency room can be safely discharged home on oral antibiotics, as long as CT findings are included in the decision-making process. Patients with complicated diverticulitis on CT scan should be admitted to the hospital with surgical consultation.

Extradural sacrococcygeal subcutaneous ependymoma misdiagnosed as pilonidal disease: case report and review of the literature

Ependymoma is a type of glial tumor that arises from the ependymal lining of the ventricular system of the central nervous system. These tumors may present as a rare extraspinal variety at the sacrococcygeal region, and may be misdiagnosed as pilonidal disease in the post-sacral area or present with mass-effect symptoms on the bowel or bladder in the pre-sacral region. This is a case of soft tissue swelling at the post-sacral area that, after clinical examination, was diagnosed as pilonidal disease. Surgical excision and pathologic examination revealed a subcutaneous sacrococcygeal ependymoma.

Rectal cancer: An evidence-based update for primary care providers

Rectal adenocarcinoma is an important cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and key anatomic differences between the rectum and the colon have significant implications for management of rectal cancer. Many advances have been made in the diagnosis and management of rectal cancer. These include clinical staging with imaging studies such as endorectal ultrasound and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging, operative approaches such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery and laparoscopic and robotic assisted proctectomy, as well as refined neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies. For stage II and III rectal cancers, combined chemoradiotherapy offers the lowest rates of local and distant relapse, and is delivered neoadjuvantly to improve tolerability and optimize surgical outcomes, particularly when sphincter-sparing surgery is an endpoint. The goal in rectal cancer treatment is to optimize disease-free and overall survival while minimizing the risk of local recurrence and toxicity from both radiation and systemic therapy. Optimal patient outcomes depend on multidisciplinary involvement for tailored therapy. The successful management of rectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary approach, with the involvement of enterostomal nurses, gastroenterologists, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and surgeons. The identification of patients who are candidates for combined modality treatment is particularly useful to optimize outcomes. This article provides an overview of the diagnosis, staging and multimodal therapy of patients with rectal cancer for primary care providers.

Postoperative diarrhea and high ostomy output impact postoperative outcomes after elective colon and rectal operations regardless of Clostridium difficile infection

BACKGROUND

We aimed to review and compare outcomes of patients with and without Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) after elective colorectal operations.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of patients with CDI after elective colon and rectal operations from 2007 to 2012 (Group A) was conducted. Outcomes were compared with patients with a negative C. difficile toxin assay performed for postoperative diarrhea or high stoma output (Group B) and matched controls (Group C).

RESULTS

Forty-four patients (median age 53 years) developed CDI postoperatively (Group A). Fourteen patients (32%) had surgical site infections. Both Group A and Group B patients received ertapenem as preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis significantly more often than matched controls (P < .0001), and also had significantly more surgical site infections (P = .004), longer hospital stays (P = .003), and more readmissions (P = .02) compared with Group C patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, postoperative CDI was uncommon, of low morbidity, and no mortality. Postoperative diarrhea and high stoma output, whether in patients who are C. difficile positive or not, appear to impact postoperative outcomes.

Metachronous adenocarcinoma of the anal canal after anterior resection for sporadic primary rectal adenocarcinoma: A rare case report

•

We present a case of metachronous anal canal adenocarcinoma.

•

A short discussion on the subtypes of anal adenocarcinoma and their management is provided.

•

Immunohistology of anal canal adenocarcinoma is highlighted.

Introduction

Anal canal adenocarcinoma is an extremely rare malignancy with poorly defined diagnostic and treatment criteria.

Presentation of case

A 42-year-old women was diagnosed with primary anal canal adenocarcinoma 11 months after undergoing anterior resection for primary sporadic rectal adeocarcinoma. Transanal excision was performed and additional adjuvant chemotherapy was given. Immunohistology showed positivity for cytokeratin (CK) 20 and CDX2, and negative CK7, which is compatible with colorectal subtype anal adenocarcinoma. At 6 months follow-up the patient has no evidence of recurrent or metastatic disease.

Discussion

Diagnosis of primary anal adenocarcinoma is typically delayed because of its rarity, and vague clinical presentation. Exact histologic criteria remain poorly defined but the use of immunohistology has improved the overall diagnostic accuracy of anal adenocarcinoma and it also helps define its correct origin. Reports on the management and outcomes of this cancer consist mainly of retrospective studies with no consistent treatment strategy and limited comparison data. Most authors currently recommend neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and radical resection. Despite aggressive therapy, rates of local failure and distant recurrence remain high.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of the anal canal is difficult but specific immunohistolgic patterns help to correctly identify its correct origin and subtype. Defining the correct subtype of anal adenocarcinoma may impact treatment strategies of this rare cancer.

Multidisciplinary and evidence-based management of fistulizing perianal Crohn's disease

Perianal symptoms are common in patients with Crohn's disease and cause considerable morbidity. The etiology of these symptoms include skin tags, ulcers, fissures, abscesses, fistulas or stenoses. Fistula is the most common perianal manifestation. Multiple treatment options exist although very few are evidence-based. The phases of treatment include: drainage of infection, assessment of Crohn's disease status and fistula tracts, medical therapy, and selective operative management. The impact of biological therapy on perianal Crohn's disease is uncertain given that outcomes are conflicting. Operative treatment to eradicate the fistula tract can be attempted once infection has resolved and Crohn's disease activity is controlled. The operative approach should be tailored according to the anatomy of the fistula tract. Definitive treatment is challenging with medical and operative treatment rarely leading to true healing with frequent complications and recurrence. Treatment success must be weighed against the risk of complications, specially anal sphincter injury. A full understanding of the etiology and all potential therapeutic options is critical for success. Multidisciplinary management of fistulizing perianal Crohn's disease is crucial to improve outcomes.

Percutaneous drainage of colonic diverticular abscess: is colon resection necessary?

BACKGROUND

Recurrent diverticulitis has been reported in up to 30% to 40% of patients who recover from an episode of colonic diverticular abscess, so elective interval resection is traditionally recommended.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to review the outcomes of patients who underwent percutaneous drainage of colonic diverticular abscess without subsequent operative intervention.

DESIGN

This was an observational study.

SETTINGS

This investigation was conducted at a tertiary care academic medical center and a single-hospital health system.

PATIENTS

Patients treated for symptomatic colonic diverticular abscess from 2002 through 2007 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were complications, recurrence, and colectomy-free survival.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighteen patients underwent percutaneous drainage of colonic diverticular abscesses. Thirty-two patients (15%) did not undergo subsequent colonic resection. Abscess location was pelvic (n = 9) and paracolic (n = 23), the mean abscess size was 4.2 cm, and the median duration of percutaneous drainage was 20 days. The comorbidities of this group of patients included severe cardiac disease (n = 16), immunodeficiency (n = 7), and severe pulmonary disease (n = 6). Freedom from recurrence at 7.4 years was 0.58 (95% CI 0.42-0.73). All recurrences were managed nonoperatively. Recurrence was significantly associated with an abscess size larger than 5 cm. Colectomy-free survival at 7.4 years was 0.17 (95% CI 0.13-0.21).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective, nonexperimental design and short follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In selected patients, observation after percutaneous drainage of colonic diverticular abscess appears to be a safe and low-risk management option.

Eosinophilic colitis: university of Minnesota experience and literature review

Eosinophilic colitis is a rare form of primary eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease that is poorly understood. Neonates and young adults are more frequently affected. Clinical presentation is highly variable depending on the depth of inflammatory response (mucosal, transmural, or serosal). The pathophysiology of eosinophilic colitis is unclear but is suspected to be related to a hypersensitivity reaction given its correlation with other atopic disorders and clinical response to corticosteroid therapy. Diagnosis is that of exclusion and differential diagnoses are many because colonic tissue eosinophilia may occur with other colitides (parasitic, drug-induced, inflammatory bowel disease, and various connective tissue disorders). Similar to other eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, steroid-based therapy and diet modification achieve very good and durable responses. In this paper, we present our experience with this rare pathology. Five patients (3 pediatric and 2 adults) presented with diarrhea and hematochezia. Mean age at presentation was 26 years. Mean duration of symptoms before pathologic diagnosis was 8 months. Mean eosinophil count per patient was 31 per high-power field. The pediatric patients responded very well to dietary modifications, with no recurrences. The adult patients were treated with steroids and did not respond. Overall mean followup was 22 (range, 2-48) months.

Results of combined medical and surgical treatment of recto-vaginal fistula in Crohn's disease

AIM

Surgical repair of recto-vaginal fistula (RVF) in Crohn's disease (CD) has been associated with high rates of failure. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome in patients with CD who underwent RVF surgery with or without infliximab infusion.

METHOD

A retrospective review was carried out of 51 consecutive patients with CD treated for a symptomatic RVF between March 1998 and December 2004.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients (mean age 39 years) underwent 65 procedures, including seton drainage (n = 35), advancement flap (n = 8), fibrin glue injection (n = 8), transperineal repair (n = 6), collagen plug placement (n = 4) and bulbocavernosus flap (n = 4). All patients were on medical treatment at the time of surgery and 26 patients had received preoperative infliximab treatment (minimum of three infusions, 5 mg/kg). Ten patients underwent preoperative diversion. At a mean follow up of 38.6 months, 27 fistulas (53%) had healed and 24 (47%) had recurred. Fistula healing occurred in 60% of patients treated with preoperative diversion, whereas 51% of nondiverted repairs were successful. Neither active proctitis nor infliximab therapy significantly affected fistula healing. Fourteen (27%) patients eventually required proctectomy.

CONCLUSION

RVF in CD is difficult to treat. Failure rates are significant despite repeated surgical interventions and concomitant medical treatment.

Fistula-associated anal adenocarcinoma in Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Adenocarcinoma arising from perianal fistulae in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) is rare. The literature consists mainly of case reports and small series making characterization of this clinical entity difficult. We present 6 patients with CD and fistula-associated anal adenocarcinoma (FAAA) and a systematic review of published series.

METHODS

Retrospective charts were reviewed of 6 consecutive patients with FAAA in CD treated from 1992 through 2007. All available variables of our patients and of all available published cases were included for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

All patients treated at our institution had severe perianal CD at presentation. The average age at time of diagnosis was 45.5 years. All patients underwent abdominoperineal resection (APR) and 4 received chemoradiation. Four patients died with metastatic disease, 1 is alive with pelvic recurrence at 55 months, and 1 is alive without evidence of disease at 19 months follow-up. A total of 23 publications including 65 patients (37 female, mean age 53 years) with FAAA were reviewed in our systematic review. The average fistula duration was 14 years. Mean delay of cancer diagnosis was 11 months. APR was performed in 56 patients with an overall 3-year survival rate of 54%. Thirteen of 15 patients with node-positive tumors died with recurrent disease following surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Adenocarcinoma arising from long-standing perianal CD fistulae is being increasingly reported. The outcome is poor following operative treatment, especially if perirectal lymph nodes are involved. Periodical cancer surveillance should be performed in all patients with long-standing perianal CD fistulae.

Perianal Paget's disease treated with wide excision and gluteal skin flap reconstruction: report of a case and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Paget's disease of the anus is a rare perianal disorder. The condition is often associated with underlying invasive carcinoma and the prognosis is poor when underlying adenocarcinoma is present.

METHODS

We report the case of a 72-year-old woman suffering from a two-year history of perianal itching, bleeding, and irritation. Perianal Paget's disease was confirmed by histopathologic demonstration of Paget's cells from a biopsy. Synchronous malignancy and metastasis were excluded.

RESULTS

A first-stage operation consisted of a wide excisional biopsy with frozen section margin assessment. Permanent sections confirmed absence of invasive carcinoma and clear margins. Four days after wide excision, bilateral gluteal skin flap reconstruction was performed with a temporary diverting colostomy. No adjuvant therapy was necessary, and after one-year follow-up, the patient remains disease free.

CONCLUSION

Perianal Paget's disease continues to pose problems in diagnosis and treatment. Our case report of perianal Paget's disease shows one method of management for advanced non invasive disease.

Does infliximab infusion impact results of operative treatment for Crohn's perianal fistulas?

PURPOSE

Infliximab is an effective treatment for active intestinal Crohn's disease; however, the efficacy of infliximab in perianal Crohn's disease is controversial. This study was designed to compare patients with Crohn's disease who underwent perianal fistula surgery with or without infliximab infusion.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 226 consecutive patients with Crohn's disease who underwent operative treatment with or without infliximab (3-6 infusions of 5 mg/kg) from March 1991 through December 2005 was completed. Patients were classified as completely healed, minimally symptomatic (seton placement with minimal drainage and/or infliximab dependence), and failure (persistent or recurrent symptomatic fistula, diverting procedure, or proctectomy).

RESULTS

A total of 226 patients underwent operative treatment alone (n = 147) or in combination with infliximab infusion (n = 79). Age, gender, and preoperative history of intestinal and perianal Crohn's disease were similar between groups. Mean follow-up was 30 (range, 6-216) months. Operative treatment consisted of seton drainage (n = 112), conventional fistulotomy (n = 92), fibrin glue injection (n = 14), advancement flap (n = 5), collagen plug insertion (n = 2), and transperineal repair (n = 1). Eighty-eight patients (60 percent) healed completely with operative treatment alone, and 47 patients (59 percent) healed after operative treatment in combination with infliximab (P = not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

Operative treatment of perianal fistulas in patients with Crohn's disease resulted in complete healing in approximately 60 percent of patients. Preoperative infliximab infusion did not affect overall healing rates.

Experimental evaluation of four biologic prostheses for ventral hernia repair

PURPOSE

To evaluate two bioprostheses derived from bovine pericardium, one cross-linked (Peri-Guard) and the other non-cross-linked (Veritas), and to compare them with Alloderm and Permacol for abdominal wall repair.

METHODS

The four prostheses were tested in acute and chronic hernia models. Prostheses were either sutured to the edge of the abdominal wall defect (inlay) or secured as an underlay with surgical tacks. Evaluation at 3 and 6 months included adhesion formation, defect area size and thickness, tensile strength, and histology.

RESULTS

Mean adhesion coverage area ranged from 25 to 31%. The two cross-linked materials, Permacol and Peri-Guard, showed greater tensile strength. Significant defect contraction followed repair with Veritas, whereas Alloderm stretched. All prostheses had cellular ingrowth and neovascularization by 3 months. No significant differences were found in prosthesis to abdominal wall breaking strength. Operative site infection occurred in six animals (5 Peri-Guard, 1 Veritas), and overlying skin ulceration in six others (6 Peri-Guard).

CONCLUSIONS

Permacol provided a strong and durable repair for up to six months. Peri-Guard was equally strong but prone to infection and to skin ulceration. With time, Veritas and Alloderm lost tensile strength associated with marked thinning and with hernia-like bulging in the case of Alloderm.

Two experimental models for generating abdominal adhesions

PURPOSE

To develop dependable rat models for generating abdominal adhesions that allow for objective evaluation and quantification.

METHODS

Two adhesion models were devised and compared with conventional side-wall models involving cecal abrasion and peritoneal excision or abrasion. model T (tissue): removal of a 2.5 by 2.5 cm segment of full-thickness abdominal wall with overlying skin closure, exposing the viscera to subcutaneous tissue; model M (mesh): removal of an identical segment, replacing the defect with a 2.5 by 2.5 cm polypropylene mesh sewn to the cut edges. This exposed the viscera directly to the mesh surface. Seven days after operation, the character and extent of the adhesions were assessed at autopsy. Results were expressed as the percent area of subcutaneous tissue involved (T) or of mesh surface involved (M). For model T the percent involvement of the circumference of the defect edge was also recorded. The extent of omental and intestinal adhesions were evaluated individually.

RESULTS

The classical side-wall models showed inconsistent patterns of adhesion formation and were difficult to evaluate. Every animal from both models M and T developed extensive adhesions. The mean coverage of mesh surface (M) was 93% and subcutaneous surface (T) 82%. In model T the mean involvement of the defect cut edge was 80% of the circumference. All model T animals had both intestinal and omental adhesions whereas there were no intestinal attachments in model M. Tenacity of adhesions did not differ significantly between animals or models.

CONCLUSIONS

Adhesion models M and T are consistent, predictable, and dependable. They each yield extensive adhesion coverage to a defined site, which allow for standardized measurement.

Bovine pericardium buttress reinforces colorectal anastomoses in a canine model

PURPOSE

The consequences of an anastomotic leak or disruption can be devastating, particularly in the colorectal surgery population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare colon anastomoses with or without a collagen matrix buttress derived from bovine pericardium.

METHODS

A circular stapler was used to create colon-colon anastomoses in a canine model. Twenty animals underwent two anastomoses each: one buttressed with bovine pericardium, and one without any reinforcement. Staple lines were evaluated at Days 0, 3, 7, 14, 42, and 84. Three animals were killed at each time interval, and evaluation included bursting pressure, bursting location, and histology.

RESULTS

Colon segments with nonbuttressed anastomoses were more likely to burst at the staple line (63 percent), whereas buttressed anastomoses were more likely to burst at the adjacent intestine (74 percent; P=0.048). The burst pressure of nonbuttressed staple lines tended to be consistently, although not significantly, higher than the burst pressure of buttressed staple lines (P=0.651). At histologic analysis, the bovine pericardium buttress demonstrated an ability to allow cellular ingrowth at Day 3 and neovascularization at Day 7. There was no evidence of stenosis or infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a collagen matrix buttress in colorectal anastomoses was safe in a canine model. Our study indicates that true burst strength of the majority of buttressed anastomoses was greater than the adjacent intestine.