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Introduction: Currently, anastomosis dehiscence represents one of the major complications in both elective colorectal surgery and urgent surgery. This is associated with high morbidity and mortality, increased hospital stay, and greater consumption of resources. The search for acute phase reactants as inducers for the arrest and anticipation of anastomotic dehiscence after surgery continues to be studied. Procalcitonin and C-Reactive Protein are the markers used in our center to monitor postoperative complications. The need for reoperation and anastomotic dehiscence are two closely linked concepts; every Colorectal Surgery unit should know and follow protocols to carry out a more effective, efficient and safe treatment. Methods: Observational and retrospective study nested in a cohort of 435 patients operated on for colorectal cancer at the Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol (CHUF) between 2017-2020. Statistical analysis consisted of contrast tests and regression models. Results:The incidence of anastomotic dehiscence was 7.59%; PCT and PCR measurement on the second and fourth postoperative day showed an upward trend in cases that required reintervention, especially PCR seriation which, in terms of Odd ratio (OR), implies 3.30 times more probability of said event. Conclusions: The PCT and PCR serialization on the second and fourth postoperative days did not have a great impact on the time until surgery. However, the increasing values of both PCR and PCT suggest the need for additional tests., Introducción: Actualmente, la dehiscencia de anastomosis representa una de las grandes complicaciones tanto en la cirugía colorrectal programada como en la cirugía urgente. Esta se asocia a una gran morbimortalidad, aumento de la estancia hospitalaria y mayor consumo de recursos. Continúa en estudio la búsqueda de reactantes de fase aguda como inductores para la detención y la anticipación de la dehiscencia de anastomosis tras la cirugía. La Procalcitonina y la Proteína-C-Reactiva son los marcadores utilizados en nuestro centro para el seguimiento de complicaciones postoperatorias. La necesidad de reintervención y la dehiscencia de anastomosis son dos conceptos íntimamente ligados; toda unidad de Cirugía Colorrectal debería conocer y protocolizar para realizar un tratamiento más eficaz, eficiente y seguro. Métodos: Estudio observacional y retrospectivo anidado en una cohorte de 435 pacientes intervenidos por cáncer colorrectal del Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol (CHUF) entre 2017-2020.El análisis estadístico consistió en test de contraste y modelos de regresión. Resultados: La incidencia de dehiscencia de anastomosis fue del 7,59%; la medición de PCT y PCR al segundo y al cuarto día postoperatorio mostró una tendencia al alza en los casos que necesitaron reintervención, sobre todo la seriación PCR que, en términos de Odd ratio (OR), implica 3,30 veces más probabilidad de dicho evento. Conclusiones: La seriación de PCT y PCR al segundo y cuarto día postoperatorio no presenta un gran impacto en el tiempo hasta la reintervención. No obstante, los valores en ascenso tanto de la PCR como de la PCT sugieren la necesidad de realización de pruebas complementarias.

BACKGROUND: The optimal treatment of anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection is unclear. This worldwide cohort study aimed to provide an overview of four treatment strategies applied. METHODS: Patients from 216 centres and 45 countries with anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection between 2014 and 2018 were included. Treatment was categorized as salvage surgery, faecal diversion with passive or active (vacuum) drainage, and no primary/secondary faecal diversion. The primary outcome was 1-year stoma-free survival. In addition, passive and active drainage were compared using propensity score matching (2 : 1). RESULTS: Of 2470 evaluable patients, 388 (16.0 per cent) underwent salvage surgery, 1524 (62.0 per cent) passive drainage, 278 (11.0 per cent) active drainage, and 280 (11.0 per cent) had no faecal diversion. One-year stoma-free survival rates were 13.7, 48.3, 48.2, and 65.4 per cent respectively. Propensity score matching resulted in 556 patients with passive and 278 with active drainage. There was no statistically significant difference between these groups in 1-year stoma-free survival (OR 0.95, 95 per cent c.i. 0.66 to 1.33), with a risk difference of -1.1 (95 per cent c.i. -9.0 to 7.0) per cent. After active drainage, more patients required secondary salvage surgery (OR 2.32, 1.49 to 3.59), prolonged hospital admission (an additional 6 (95 per cent c.i. 2 to 10) days), and ICU admission (OR 1.41, 1.02 to 1.94). Mean duration of leak healing did not differ significantly (an additional 12 (-28 to 52) days). CONCLUSION: Primary salvage surgery or omission of faecal diversion likely correspond to the most severe and least severe leaks respectively. In patients with diverted leaks, stoma-free survival did not differ statistically between passive and active drainage, although the increased risk of secondary salvage surgery and ICU admission suggests residual confounding.

BACKGROUND: The optimal treatment of anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection is unclear. This worldwide cohort study aimed to provide an overview of four treatment strategies applied. METHODS: Patients from 216 centres and 45 countries with anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection between 2014 and 2018 were included. Treatment was categorized as salvage surgery, faecal diversion with passive or active (vacuum) drainage, and no primary/secondary faecal diversion. The primary outcome was 1-year stoma-free survival. In addition, passive and active drainage were compared using propensity score matching (2 : 1). RESULTS: Of 2470 evaluable patients, 388 (16.0 per cent) underwent salvage surgery, 1524 (62.0 per cent) passive drainage, 278 (11.0 per cent) active drainage, and 280 (11.0 per cent) had no faecal diversion. One-year stoma-free survival rates were 13.7, 48.3, 48.2, and 65.4 per cent respectively. Propensity score matching resulted in 556 patients with passive and 278 with active drainage. There was no statistically significant difference between these groups in 1-year stoma-free survival (OR 0.95, 95 per cent c.i. 0.66 to 1.33), with a risk difference of -1.1 (95 per cent c.i. -9.0 to 7.0) per cent. After active drainage, more patients required secondary salvage surgery (OR 2.32, 1.49 to 3.59), prolonged hospital admission (an additional 6 (95 per cent c.i. 2 to 10) days), and ICU admission (OR 1.41, 1.02 to 1.94). Mean duration of leak healing did not differ significantly (an additional 12 (-28 to 52) days). CONCLUSION: Primary salvage surgery or omission of faecal diversion likely correspond to the most severe and least severe leaks respectively. In patients with diverted leaks, stoma-free survival did not differ statistically between passive and active drainage, although the increased risk of secondary salvage surgery and ICU admission suggests residual confounding.

Aortic paravalvular leak represents one of the most frequent complications after surgical or percutaneous aortic valve replacement. In recent years, this complication can be treated percutaneously, avoiding repeated surgery. We describe a case of percutaneous aortic paravalvular leak closure, who was discharged the same day, focusing on educating the patient and family to ensure a safe process. A 79-year-old male with a mechanical aortic prosthesis implanted in 2001. The patient deveoped dyspnea with minimal efforts (NYHA III), which worsened within the last six months due to an aortic paravalvular leak. After a Heart Team evaluation, percutaneous paravalvular leak closure was indicated, and the patient was assessed for a same-day discharge program. One first visit was arranged before the procedure, then, an educational intervention for the patient and family, regarding recommendations after discharge, early complication detection, and treatment changes, was performed before discharge. Finally, an early follow-up, at 24 h and one month after intervention, was carried out by the advanced practice nurse. Diagnostics were formulated following NANDA-NIC-NOC methodology, based on Marjory Gordon’s 11 Functional Health Patterns, in four different phases of the process and interventions were oriented to the altered patterns and evaluated using a Likert Scale. A comprehensive assessment of the patient by the multidisciplinary team and the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria allowed a correct selection of the candidate patient for a same-day discharge program. The advanced nurse practitioner contributes with a holistic and individualized vision of the whole process., La fuga perivalvular aórtica es una de las complicaciones que se pueden presentar tras la sustitución de válvula quirúrgica o percutánea. En los últimos años, esta complicación puede tratarse de manera percutánea, evitando una reintervención quirúrgica. Describimos un caso clínico de cierre percutáneo aórtico que se fue de alta el mismo día, centrado en la educación al paciente y familia para garantizar un proceso seguro. Se trata de un hombre de 79 años, portador de prótesis aórtica mecánica implantada en 2001. Presenta disnea a pequeños esfuerzos (NYHA III), que ha empeorado en los últimos seis meses debido a la fuga perivalvular. Tras valoración por parte del Heart Team, se decidió cierre de leak aórtico percutáneo ambulatorio. Se realizó una primera visita, previa al procedimiento, y una visita educativa respecto a las recomendaciones al alta, detección de complicaciones y cambios en el tratamiento posterior. Finalmente, se llevó a cabo un seguimiento precoz por parte de la enfermera de práctica avanzada, a las 24 h y al mes. Los diagnósticos se formularon según la metodología NANDA-NIC-NOC, basándonos en la valoración de los 11 patrones funcionales de Marjory Gordon, en cuatro fases distintas del proceso y los objetivos fueron evaluadas mediante escala Likert. Una valoración integral del paciente por parte del equipo multidisciplinar y la aplicación estricta de unos criterios de inclusión y exclusión, permitieron una correcta selección del paciente candidato al alta precoz. La enfermera de práctica avanzada aporta una visión holística e individualizada del proceso.

IntroductionRigid proctosigmoidoscopy (RP) and flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) are two modalities commonly used for intraoperative evaluation of colorectal anastomoses. This study seeks to determine whether there is an association between the endoscopic modality used to evaluate colorectal anastomoses and the rate of anastomotic leak (AL), organ space infection, and overall infectious complication.MethodsThe 2012-2018 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients undergoing colorectal anastomoses. Anastomotic evaluation method (RP versus FS) was identified by Current Procedural Terminologycoding and used for group classification. Outcomes measured included AL, organ space infections, and overall infection. Multivariable logistic regression analysis for predicting AL was performed.ResultsWe identified 7100 patients who underwent a colorectal anastomosis with intraoperative endoscopic evaluation. RP was utilized in 3397 (47.8%) and FS in 3703 (52.2%) patients. RP was used more commonly in diverticulitis (44.5% versus 36.2%, P < 0.01), while FS was used more frequently in malignancy (47.5% versus 36.7%, P < 0.01). Anastomotic evaluation with FS was associated with lower rates of organ space infection (3.8% versus 4.8%, P = 0.025) and AL (2.9% versus 3.8%, P = 0.028) compared to RP. On multivariate logistic regression modeling, anastomotic evaluation with RP was associated with a higher risk of AL (odds ratio 1.403, 95% CI 1.028-1.916, P = 0.033) compared to FS.ConclusionsCompared to FS, rigid proctosigmoidoscopic evaluation of a colorectal anastomosis was associated with an increased rate of AL and organ space infection.

PURPOSE: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common in colorectal surgery. Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) in conjunction with oral antibiotics (OABs) have been shown to reduce SSI rates. It however is still unclear which OABs to use, and how this can be implemented in practice. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study carried out in Swansea Bay University Health Board during 2019-2021, evaluating the introduction of OABs in a stepwise manner on the incidence of SSI in major colorectal surgery. A control group having MBP only was compared to two OAB groups: one group had MBP plus metronidazole only and the second MBP plus metronidazole and neomycin. A 30-day follow-up after surgery was ascertained via chart review and telephone contact. Logistic regression was performed to estimate the relation between OAB use and SSI, with adjustment for confounding. In a subset of patients, faecal samples were analysed through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing before and after OAB treatment, depicting the impact of the gut microbiome. RESULTS: In total 160 patients were analysed: 46 patients had MBP only, whilst 76 patients had MBP plus metronidazole only and 38 patients had MBP with metronidazole/neomycin. The SSI rate in the entire cohort was 33.8%, whilst the adjusted ORs for the single- and dual-OAB groups were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.17-1.81) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.17-1.52). The microbial analysis demonstrated that the relative abundance for many bacterial genera was changed before and after OAB treatment, but no link with SSI development could be shown. CONCLUSIONS: Introduction of OABs in conjunction with MBP in colorectal surgery is feasible, and may potentially lead to lower rates of SSI, as well as altering the community structure of the faecal microbiome. More research is needed, especially considering different OABs and mechanistic studies of the gut microbiome in the context of colorectal surgery.

Background: Preoperative inflammation might cause and also be a marker for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Available biomarker indices such as the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) or the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) may be clinically useful for leakage assessment. Methods: Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during 2014–2018 from a multicentre retrospective cohort were included. Data from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer registry and chart review at each hospital were collected. In a subset of patients, preoperative laboratory assessments were available, constituting the exposures mGPS and CAR. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was the outcome. Causally oriented analyses were conducted with adjustment for confounding, as well as predictive models. Results: A total of 418 patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients had mGPS = 0 (84.7%), while mGPS = 1 (10.8%) and mGPS = 2 (4.5%) were less common. mGPS = 2 (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 1.69–10.03) seemed to confer anastomotic leakage, while this was not seen for mGPS = 1 (OR 1.09; 95% CI: 0.53–2.25). A cut off point of CAR > 0.36 might be indicative of leakage (OR 2.25; 95% CI: 1.21–4.19). Predictive modelling using mGPS rendered an area-under-the-curve of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.67–0.79) at most. Discussion: Preoperative inflammation seems to be involved in the development of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for cancer. Inclusion into prediction models did not result in accurate leakage prediction, but high degrees of systemic inflammation might still be important in clinical decision-making.

PURPOSE: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common in colorectal surgery. Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) in conjunction with oral antibiotics (OABs) have been shown to reduce SSI rates. It however is still unclear which OABs to use, and how this can be implemented in practice. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study carried out in Swansea Bay University Health Board during 2019-2021, evaluating the introduction of OABs in a stepwise manner on the incidence of SSI in major colorectal surgery. A control group having MBP only was compared to two OAB groups: one group had MBP plus metronidazole only and the second MBP plus metronidazole and neomycin. A 30-day follow-up after surgery was ascertained via chart review and telephone contact. Logistic regression was performed to estimate the relation between OAB use and SSI, with adjustment for confounding. In a subset of patients, faecal samples were analysed through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing before and after OAB treatment, depicting the impact of the gut microbiome. RESULTS: In total 160 patients were analysed: 46 patients had MBP only, whilst 76 patients had MBP plus metronidazole only and 38 patients had MBP with metronidazole/neomycin. The SSI rate in the entire cohort was 33.8%, whilst the adjusted ORs for the single- and dual-OAB groups were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.17-1.81) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.17-1.52). The microbial analysis demonstrated that the relative abundance for many bacterial genera was changed before and after OAB treatment, but no link with SSI development could be shown. CONCLUSIONS: Introduction of OABs in conjunction with MBP in colorectal surgery is feasible, and may potentially lead to lower rates of SSI, as well as altering the community structure of the faecal microbiome. More research is needed, especially considering different OABs and mechanistic studies of the gut microbiome in the context of colorectal surgery.

Background: Preoperative inflammation might cause and also be a marker for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Available biomarker indices such as the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) or the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) may be clinically useful for leakage assessment. Methods: Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during 2014–2018 from a multicentre retrospective cohort were included. Data from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer registry and chart review at each hospital were collected. In a subset of patients, preoperative laboratory assessments were available, constituting the exposures mGPS and CAR. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was the outcome. Causally oriented analyses were conducted with adjustment for confounding, as well as predictive models. Results: A total of 418 patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients had mGPS = 0 (84.7%), while mGPS = 1 (10.8%) and mGPS = 2 (4.5%) were less common. mGPS = 2 (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 1.69–10.03) seemed to confer anastomotic leakage, while this was not seen for mGPS = 1 (OR 1.09; 95% CI: 0.53–2.25). A cut off point of CAR > 0.36 might be indicative of leakage (OR 2.25; 95% CI: 1.21–4.19). Predictive modelling using mGPS rendered an area-under-the-curve of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.67–0.79) at most. Discussion: Preoperative inflammation seems to be involved in the development of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for cancer. Inclusion into prediction models did not result in accurate leakage prediction, but high degrees of systemic inflammation might still be important in clinical decision-making.

PURPOSE: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common in colorectal surgery. Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) in conjunction with oral antibiotics (OABs) have been shown to reduce SSI rates. It however is still unclear which OABs to use, and how this can be implemented in practice. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study carried out in Swansea Bay University Health Board during 2019-2021, evaluating the introduction of OABs in a stepwise manner on the incidence of SSI in major colorectal surgery. A control group having MBP only was compared to two OAB groups: one group had MBP plus metronidazole only and the second MBP plus metronidazole and neomycin. A 30-day follow-up after surgery was ascertained via chart review and telephone contact. Logistic regression was performed to estimate the relation between OAB use and SSI, with adjustment for confounding. In a subset of patients, faecal samples were analysed through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing before and after OAB treatment, depicting the impact of the gut microbiome. RESULTS: In total 160 patients were analysed: 46 patients had MBP only, whilst 76 patients had MBP plus metronidazole only and 38 patients had MBP with metronidazole/neomycin. The SSI rate in the entire cohort was 33.8%, whilst the adjusted ORs for the single- and dual-OAB groups were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.17-1.81) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.17-1.52). The microbial analysis demonstrated that the relative abundance for many bacterial genera was changed before and after OAB treatment, but no link with SSI development could be shown. CONCLUSIONS: Introduction of OABs in conjunction with MBP in colorectal surgery is feasible, and may potentially lead to lower rates of SSI, as well as altering the community structure of the faecal microbiome. More research is needed, especially considering different OABs and mechanistic studies of the gut microbiome in the context of colorectal surgery.

Background: Preoperative inflammation might cause and also be a marker for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Available biomarker indices such as the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) or the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) may be clinically useful for leakage assessment. Methods: Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during 2014–2018 from a multicentre retrospective cohort were included. Data from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer registry and chart review at each hospital were collected. In a subset of patients, preoperative laboratory assessments were available, constituting the exposures mGPS and CAR. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was the outcome. Causally oriented analyses were conducted with adjustment for confounding, as well as predictive models. Results: A total of 418 patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients had mGPS = 0 (84.7%), while mGPS = 1 (10.8%) and mGPS = 2 (4.5%) were less common. mGPS = 2 (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 1.69–10.03) seemed to confer anastomotic leakage, while this was not seen for mGPS = 1 (OR 1.09; 95% CI: 0.53–2.25). A cut off point of CAR > 0.36 might be indicative of leakage (OR 2.25; 95% CI: 1.21–4.19). Predictive modelling using mGPS rendered an area-under-the-curve of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.67–0.79) at most. Discussion: Preoperative inflammation seems to be involved in the development of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for cancer. Inclusion into prediction models did not result in accurate leakage prediction, but high degrees of systemic inflammation might still be important in clinical decision-making.

BACKGROUND: The impact of surgeon and hospital operative volume on esophagectomy outcomes is well-described; however, studies examining the influence of surgeon specialty remain limited. Therefore, we evaluated the impact of surgeon specialty on short-term outcomes following esophagectomy for cancer. METHODS: The 2016-2019 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (ACS NSQIP) was queried to identify all patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Surgeon specialty was categorized as general (GS) or thoracic (TS). Entropy balancing was used to generate sample weights that adjust for baseline differences between GS and TS patients. Weights were subsequently applied to multivariable linear and logistic regressions, which were used to evaluate the independent association of surgeon specialty with 30-day mortality, complications, and postoperative length of stay. RESULTS: Of 2657 esophagectomies included for analysis, 54.1% were performed by TS. Both groups had similar distributions of age, sex, and body mass index. TS patients more frequently underwent transthoracic esophagectomy, while GS patients more commonly received minimally invasive surgery. After adjustment, surgeon specialty was not associated with altered odds of 30-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.10 p = 0.73) or anastomotic leak (AOR 0.87, p = 0.33). However, TS patients exhibited a 40-min reduction in operative duration and faced greater odds of perioperative transfusion, relative to GS. CONCLUSION: Among ACS NSQIP participating centers, surgeon specialty influenced operative duration and blood product utilization, but not mortality and anastomotic leak. Our results support the relative safety of esophagectomy performed by select GS and TS.

AimThere is little evidence to support choice of technique and configuration for stapled anastomoses after right hemicolectomy and ileocaecal resection. This study aimed to determine the relationship between stapling technique and anastomotic failure.MethodAny unit performing gastrointestinal surgery was invited to contribute data on consecutive adult patients undergoing right hemicolectomy or ileocolic resection to this prospective, observational, international, multicentre study. Patients undergoing stapled,side-to-side ileocolic anastomoses were identified and multilevel, multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to explore factors associated with anastomotic leak. Results One thousand three hundred and forty-seven patients were included from 200 centres in 32 countries. The overall anastomotic leak rate was 8.3%. Upon multivariate analysis there was no difference in leak rate with use of a cutting stapler for apical closure compared with a noncutting stapler (8.4%vs8.0%, OR 0.91, 95%CI 0.54–1.53,P=0.72). Oversewing of the apical staple line, whether in the cutting group (7.9%vs9.7%,OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.52–1.46,P=0.60) or noncutting group (8.9%vs5.7%, OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.46–4.23,P=0.55) also conferred no benefit in terms of reducing leak rates. Surgeons reporting to be general surgeons had a significantly higher leak rate than those reporting to be colorectal surgeons (12.1%vs7.3%, OR1.65, 95% CI 1.04–2.64,P=0.04).ConclusionThis study did not identify any difference in anastomotic leak rates according to the type of stapling device used to close the apical aspect. In addition, oversewing of the anastomotic staple lines appears to confer no benefit in terms of reducing leak rates. Although general surgeons operated on patients with more high-risk characteristics than colorectal surgeons, a higher leak rate for general surgeons which remained after risk adjustment needs further exploration

Introduction Some evidence suggests that primary anastomosis following left sided colorectal resection in the emergency setting may be safe in selected patients, and confer favourable outcomes to permanent enterostomy. The aim of this study was to compare the major postoperative complication rate in patients undergoing end stoma vs primary anastomosis following emergency left sided colorectal resection. MethodsA pre-planned analysis of the European Soci-ety of Coloproctology 2017 audit. Adult patients(>16 years) who underwent emergency (unplanned, within 24 h of hospital admission) left sided colonic orrectal resection were included. The primary endpoint was the 30-day major complication rate (Clavien-Dindograde 3 to 5).ResultsFrom 591 patients, 455 (77%) received an end stoma, 103 a primary anastomosis (17%) and 33 primary anastomosis with defunctioning stoma (6%). Inmultivariable models, anastomosis was associated with asimilar major complication rate to end stoma (adjustedodds ratio for end stoma 1.52, 95%CI 0.83–2.79,P=0.173). Although a defunctioning stoma was notassociated with reduced anastomotic leak (12% defunc-tioned [4/33]vs13% not defunctioned [13/97],adjusted odds ratio 2.19, 95%CI 0.43–11.02,P=0.343), it was associated with less severe complica-tions (75% [3/4] with defunctioning stoma, 86.7%anastomosis only [13/15]), a lower mortality rate (0%[0/4]vs20% [3/15]), and fewer reoperations (50%[2/4]vs73% [11/15]) when a leak did occur.ConclusionsPrimary anastomosis in selected patients appears safe after left sided emergency colorectal resection. A defunctioning stoma might mitigate against risk of subsequent complications.

AimThere is little evidence to support choice of technique and configuration for stapled anastomoses after right hemicolectomy and ileocaecal resection. This study aimed to determine the relationship between stapling technique and anastomotic failure.MethodAny unit performing gastrointestinal surgery was invited to contribute data on consecutive adult patients undergoing right hemicolectomy or ileocolic resection to this prospective, observational, international, multicentre study. Patients undergoing stapled,side-to-side ileocolic anastomoses were identified and multilevel, multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to explore factors associated with anastomotic leak. Results One thousand three hundred and forty-seven patients were included from 200 centres in 32 countries. The overall anastomotic leak rate was 8.3%. Upon multivariate analysis there was no difference in leak rate with use of a cutting stapler for apical closure compared with a noncutting stapler (8.4%vs8.0%, OR 0.91, 95%CI 0.54–1.53,P=0.72). Oversewing of the apical staple line, whether in the cutting group (7.9%vs9.7%,OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.52–1.46,P=0.60) or noncutting group (8.9%vs5.7%, OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.46–4.23,P=0.55) also conferred no benefit in terms of reducing leak rates. Surgeons reporting to be general surgeons had a significantly higher leak rate than those reporting to be colorectal surgeons (12.1%vs7.3%, OR1.65, 95% CI 1.04–2.64,P=0.04).ConclusionThis study did not identify any difference in anastomotic leak rates according to the type of stapling device used to close the apical aspect. In addition, oversewing of the anastomotic staple lines appears to confer no benefit in terms of reducing leak rates. Although general surgeons operated on patients with more high-risk characteristics than colorectal surgeons, a higher leak rate for general surgeons which remained after risk adjustment needs further exploration

Introduction Some evidence suggests that primary anastomosis following left sided colorectal resection in the emergency setting may be safe in selected patients, and confer favourable outcomes to permanent enterostomy. The aim of this study was to compare the major postoperative complication rate in patients undergoing end stoma vs primary anastomosis following emergency left sided colorectal resection. MethodsA pre-planned analysis of the European Soci-ety of Coloproctology 2017 audit. Adult patients(>16 years) who underwent emergency (unplanned, within 24 h of hospital admission) left sided colonic orrectal resection were included. The primary endpoint was the 30-day major complication rate (Clavien-Dindograde 3 to 5).ResultsFrom 591 patients, 455 (77%) received an end stoma, 103 a primary anastomosis (17%) and 33 primary anastomosis with defunctioning stoma (6%). Inmultivariable models, anastomosis was associated with asimilar major complication rate to end stoma (adjustedodds ratio for end stoma 1.52, 95%CI 0.83–2.79,P=0.173). Although a defunctioning stoma was notassociated with reduced anastomotic leak (12% defunc-tioned [4/33]vs13% not defunctioned [13/97],adjusted odds ratio 2.19, 95%CI 0.43–11.02,P=0.343), it was associated with less severe complica-tions (75% [3/4] with defunctioning stoma, 86.7%anastomosis only [13/15]), a lower mortality rate (0%[0/4]vs20% [3/15]), and fewer reoperations (50%[2/4]vs73% [11/15]) when a leak did occur.ConclusionsPrimary anastomosis in selected patients appears safe after left sided emergency colorectal resection. A defunctioning stoma might mitigate against risk of subsequent complications.

PURPOSE: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common in colorectal surgery. Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) in conjunction with oral antibiotics (OABs) have been shown to reduce SSI rates. It however is still unclear which OABs to use, and how this can be implemented in practice. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study carried out in Swansea Bay University Health Board during 2019-2021, evaluating the introduction of OABs in a stepwise manner on the incidence of SSI in major colorectal surgery. A control group having MBP only was compared to two OAB groups: one group had MBP plus metronidazole only and the second MBP plus metronidazole and neomycin. A 30-day follow-up after surgery was ascertained via chart review and telephone contact. Logistic regression was performed to estimate the relation between OAB use and SSI, with adjustment for confounding. In a subset of patients, faecal samples were analysed through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing before and after OAB treatment, depicting the impact of the gut microbiome. RESULTS: In total 160 patients were analysed: 46 patients had MBP only, whilst 76 patients had MBP plus metronidazole only and 38 patients had MBP with metronidazole/neomycin. The SSI rate in the entire cohort was 33.8%, whilst the adjusted ORs for the single- and dual-OAB groups were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.17-1.81) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.17-1.52). The microbial analysis demonstrated that the relative abundance for many bacterial genera was changed before and after OAB treatment, but no link with SSI development could be shown. CONCLUSIONS: Introduction of OABs in conjunction with MBP in colorectal surgery is feasible, and may potentially lead to lower rates of SSI, as well as altering the community structure of the faecal microbiome. More research is needed, especially considering different OABs and mechanistic studies of the gut microbiome in the context of colorectal surgery.

BACKGROUND: The optimal treatment of anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection is unclear. This worldwide cohort study aimed to provide an overview of four treatment strategies applied. METHODS: Patients from 216 centres and 45 countries with anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection between 2014 and 2018 were included. Treatment was categorized as salvage surgery, faecal diversion with passive or active (vacuum) drainage, and no primary/secondary faecal diversion. The primary outcome was 1-year stoma-free survival. In addition, passive and active drainage were compared using propensity score matching (2 : 1). RESULTS: Of 2470 evaluable patients, 388 (16.0 per cent) underwent salvage surgery, 1524 (62.0 per cent) passive drainage, 278 (11.0 per cent) active drainage, and 280 (11.0 per cent) had no faecal diversion. One-year stoma-free survival rates were 13.7, 48.3, 48.2, and 65.4 per cent respectively. Propensity score matching resulted in 556 patients with passive and 278 with active drainage. There was no statistically significant difference between these groups in 1-year stoma-free survival (OR 0.95, 95 per cent c.i. 0.66 to 1.33), with a risk difference of -1.1 (95 per cent c.i. -9.0 to 7.0) per cent. After active drainage, more patients required secondary salvage surgery (OR 2.32, 1.49 to 3.59), prolonged hospital admission (an additional 6 (95 per cent c.i. 2 to 10) days), and ICU admission (OR 1.41, 1.02 to 1.94). Mean duration of leak healing did not differ significantly (an additional 12 (-28 to 52) days). CONCLUSION: Primary salvage surgery or omission of faecal diversion likely correspond to the most severe and least severe leaks respectively. In patients with diverted leaks, stoma-free survival did not differ statistically between passive and active drainage, although the increased risk of secondary salvage surgery and ICU admission suggests residual confounding.

BACKGROUND: The optimal treatment of anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection is unclear. This worldwide cohort study aimed to provide an overview of four treatment strategies applied. METHODS: Patients from 216 centres and 45 countries with anastomotic leak after rectal cancer resection between 2014 and 2018 were included. Treatment was categorized as salvage surgery, faecal diversion with passive or active (vacuum) drainage, and no primary/secondary faecal diversion. The primary outcome was 1-year stoma-free survival. In addition, passive and active drainage were compared using propensity score matching (2 : 1). RESULTS: Of 2470 evaluable patients, 388 (16.0 per cent) underwent salvage surgery, 1524 (62.0 per cent) passive drainage, 278 (11.0 per cent) active drainage, and 280 (11.0 per cent) had no faecal diversion. One-year stoma-free survival rates were 13.7, 48.3, 48.2, and 65.4 per cent respectively. Propensity score matching resulted in 556 patients with passive and 278 with active drainage. There was no statistically significant difference between these groups in 1-year stoma-free survival (OR 0.95, 95 per cent c.i. 0.66 to 1.33), with a risk difference of -1.1 (95 per cent c.i. -9.0 to 7.0) per cent. After active drainage, more patients required secondary salvage surgery (OR 2.32, 1.49 to 3.59), prolonged hospital admission (an additional 6 (95 per cent c.i. 2 to 10) days), and ICU admission (OR 1.41, 1.02 to 1.94). Mean duration of leak healing did not differ significantly (an additional 12 (-28 to 52) days). CONCLUSION: Primary salvage surgery or omission of faecal diversion likely correspond to the most severe and least severe leaks respectively. In patients with diverted leaks, stoma-free survival did not differ statistically between passive and active drainage, although the increased risk of secondary salvage surgery and ICU admission suggests residual confounding.

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after colorectal surgery, but the mechanism behind this complication is still not fully understood. Despite the advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care, the complication rates have remained steady. Recently, it has been suggested that colon microbiota may be involved in the development of complications after colorectal surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of gut microbiota in the development of colorectal AL and their possible virulence strategies to better understand the phenomenon. Using 16S rRNA sequencing of samples collected on the day of surgery and the sixth day following surgery, we analyzed the changes in tissue-associated microbiota at anastomotic sites created in a model of rats with ischemic colon resection. We discovered a trend for lower microbial diversity in the AL group compared to non-leak anastomosis (NLA). There were no differences in relative abundance in the different types of microbial respiration between these groups and the high abundance of the facultative anaerobic Gemella palaticanis is a marker species that stands out as a distinctive feature.

Aim: Colorectal anastomotic leakage (AL) is a serious complication. Studies on the impact of AL on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are scarce. We aimed to investigate the association between AL and HRQoL in colorectal cancer patients up to 2 years after diagnosis, and to evaluate whether AL is associated with a clinically relevant decrease in HRQoL over time. Methods: Patients diagnosed with Stage I–III colorectal cancer undergoing elective surgical resection with primary anastomosis between 2010 and 2017 were included. HRQoL was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30, represented by the summary score, and analysed at diagnosis and at 6 months and 2 years post-diagnosis. Multivariable linear regression was performed to assess the association between AL and HRQoL, while multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the association between AL and a clinically relevant HRQoL decrease (≥10 points) during follow-up compared to the time of diagnosis. Results: In total, 1197 patients were included of whom 63 (5%) developed AL. AL was not associated with HRQoL at 6 months post-diagnosis nor at 2 years post-diagnosis. However, having AL was associated with an increased risk of a clinically relevant decrease in HRQoL at 6 months post-diagnosis (OR 3.65, 95% CI 1.62–8.21) but not at 2 years after diagnosis (OR 1.91, 95% CI 0.62–5.93). Conclusion: Although AL was not associated with HRQoL at 6 months or 2 years post-diagnosis, AL was a determinant of a clinically relevant decrease in HRQoL at 6 months after diagnosis. Future work should identify feasible and effective strategies to prevent declines in QoL in this patient population.

PURPOSE: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common in colorectal surgery. Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) in conjunction with oral antibiotics (OABs) have been shown to reduce SSI rates. It however is still unclear which OABs to use, and how this can be implemented in practice. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study carried out in Swansea Bay University Health Board during 2019-2021, evaluating the introduction of OABs in a stepwise manner on the incidence of SSI in major colorectal surgery. A control group having MBP only was compared to two OAB groups: one group had MBP plus metronidazole only and the second MBP plus metronidazole and neomycin. A 30-day follow-up after surgery was ascertained via chart review and telephone contact. Logistic regression was performed to estimate the relation between OAB use and SSI, with adjustment for confounding. In a subset of patients, faecal samples were analysed through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing before and after OAB treatment, depicting the impact of the gut microbiome. RESULTS: In total 160 patients were analysed: 46 patients had MBP only, whilst 76 patients had MBP plus metronidazole only and 38 patients had MBP with metronidazole/neomycin. The SSI rate in the entire cohort was 33.8%, whilst the adjusted ORs for the single- and dual-OAB groups were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.17-1.81) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.17-1.52). The microbial analysis demonstrated that the relative abundance for many bacterial genera was changed before and after OAB treatment, but no link with SSI development could be shown. CONCLUSIONS: Introduction of OABs in conjunction with MBP in colorectal surgery is feasible, and may potentially lead to lower rates of SSI, as well as altering the community structure of the faecal microbiome. More research is needed, especially considering different OABs and mechanistic studies of the gut microbiome in the context of colorectal surgery.

Background: Preoperative inflammation might cause and also be a marker for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Available biomarker indices such as the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) or the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) may be clinically useful for leakage assessment. Methods: Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during 2014–2018 from a multicentre retrospective cohort were included. Data from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer registry and chart review at each hospital were collected. In a subset of patients, preoperative laboratory assessments were available, constituting the exposures mGPS and CAR. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was the outcome. Causally oriented analyses were conducted with adjustment for confounding, as well as predictive models. Results: A total of 418 patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients had mGPS = 0 (84.7%), while mGPS = 1 (10.8%) and mGPS = 2 (4.5%) were less common. mGPS = 2 (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 1.69–10.03) seemed to confer anastomotic leakage, while this was not seen for mGPS = 1 (OR 1.09; 95% CI: 0.53–2.25). A cut off point of CAR > 0.36 might be indicative of leakage (OR 2.25; 95% CI: 1.21–4.19). Predictive modelling using mGPS rendered an area-under-the-curve of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.67–0.79) at most. Discussion: Preoperative inflammation seems to be involved in the development of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for cancer. Inclusion into prediction models did not result in accurate leakage prediction, but high degrees of systemic inflammation might still be important in clinical decision-making.

Background: Preoperative inflammation might cause and also be a marker for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Available biomarker indices such as the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) or the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) may be clinically useful for leakage assessment. Methods: Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during 2014–2018 from a multicentre retrospective cohort were included. Data from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer registry and chart review at each hospital were collected. In a subset of patients, preoperative laboratory assessments were available, constituting the exposures mGPS and CAR. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was the outcome. Causally oriented analyses were conducted with adjustment for confounding, as well as predictive models. Results: A total of 418 patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients had mGPS = 0 (84.7%), while mGPS = 1 (10.8%) and mGPS = 2 (4.5%) were less common. mGPS = 2 (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 1.69–10.03) seemed to confer anastomotic leakage, while this was not seen for mGPS = 1 (OR 1.09; 95% CI: 0.53–2.25). A cut off point of CAR > 0.36 might be indicative of leakage (OR 2.25; 95% CI: 1.21–4.19). Predictive modelling using mGPS rendered an area-under-the-curve of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.67–0.79) at most. Discussion: Preoperative inflammation seems to be involved in the development of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for cancer. Inclusion into prediction models did not result in accurate leakage prediction, but high degrees of systemic inflammation might still be important in clinical decision-making.

BACKGROUND: Preoperative inflammation might cause and also be a marker for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Available biomarker indices such as the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) or the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) may be clinically useful for leakage assessment. METHODS: Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during 2014-2018 from a multicentre retrospective cohort were included. Data from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer registry and chart review at each hospital were collected. In a subset of patients, preoperative laboratory assessments were available, constituting the exposures mGPS and CAR. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was the outcome. Causally oriented analyses were conducted with adjustment for confounding, as well as predictive models. RESULTS: A total of 418 patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients had mGPS = 0 (84.7%), while mGPS = 1 (10.8%) and mGPS = 2 (4.5%) were less common. mGPS = 2 (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 1.69-10.03) seemed to confer anastomotic leakage, while this was not seen for mGPS = 1 (OR 1.09; 95% CI: 0.53-2.25). A cut off point of CAR > 0.36 might be indicative of leakage (OR 2.25; 95% CI: 1.21-4.19). Predictive modelling using mGPS rendered an area-under-the-curve of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.67-0.79) at most. DISCUSSION: Preoperative inflammation seems to be involved in the development of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for cancer. Inclusion into prediction models did not result in accurate leakage prediction, but high degrees of systemic inflammation might still be important in clinical decision-making.

Objective: To assess the benefit of protective ostomies on anastomotic leak rate, urgent re-operations, and mortality due to anastomotic leak complications in ovarian cancer surgery. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for all studies on anastomotic leak and ostomy formation related to ovarian cancer surgery. Non-controlled studies, case series, abstracts, case reports, study protocols, and letters to the editor were excluded. Meta-analysis was performed on the primary endpoint of anastomotic leak rate. Subgroup analysis was carried out based on type of bowel resection and bevacizumab use. Secondary endpoints were urgent re-operations and mortality associated with anastomotic leak, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications, 30-day readmission rate, adjuvant chemotherapy, survival, and reversal surgery in ostomy and non-ostomy patients. Results: A total of 17 studies (2,719 patients) were included: 16 retrospective cohort studies, and 1 case-control study. Meta-analysis of 17 studies did not show a decrease in anastomotic leak rate in ostomy patients (odds ratio [OR]=1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.60–1.70; p=0.980). Meta-analysis of ten studies (1,452 women) did not find a decrease in urgent re-operations in the ostomy group (OR=0.72; 95% CI=0.35–1.46; p=0.360). Other outcomes were not considered for meta-analysis due to the lack of data in included studies. Conclusion: Protective ostomies did not decrease anastomotic leak rates, and urgent re-operations in ovarian cancer surgery. This evidence supports the use of ostomies in very select cases.

Introduction: Post-surgical esophagojejunal anastomosis fistulas can be life-threatening. Currently, there are several treatment alternatives. In recent years, endoscopic negative pressure therapy has emerged as an innovative treatment for these fistulas, offering numerous benefits. Case presentation: A 72-year-old man diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma of the body and fundus underwent total gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy and Roux-en-Y anastomosis with curative intent in a quaternary care hospital in Popayán, Colombia. However, in the postoperative period, he presented systemic inflammatory response syndrome and acute abdomen due to an esophagojejunal fistula. Initial management included a laparotomy, two peritoneal washings, and an abdominal drainage. Then the patient developed frozen abdomen, so it was not possible to access the esophagojejunal anastomosis. Fistula closure was attempted by inserting a self-expandable metallic stent, yet the procedure was not successful. Salvage therapy was started using an endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) system. After 5 replacements of the VAC system, complete drainage of the intra-abdominal collection, complete closure of the peritoneal cavity, and closure of the esophagojejunal leak, with a small residual diverticular formation, were achieved. The patient's condition improved progressively, resuming oral intake 20 days after initiation of VAC therapy. In addition, no new abdominal complications were reported during the follow-up period (17 months). Conclusions: Endoscopic VAC therapy is a new safe and effective alternative to treat complex post-surgical fistulas caused by esophagojejunal anastomosis., Introducción. Las fístulas de las anastomosis esófago-yeyunales postquirúrgicas pueden llegar a ser mortales. En la actualidad, existen varias alternativas de tratamiento, y en los últimos años la terapia endoscópica de presión negativa se ha convertido en un método innovador y con grandes ventajas para el manejo de estas fístulas. Presentación del caso. Hombre de 72 años diagnosticado con adenocarcinoma gástrico de cuerpo y fondo a quien se le realizó una gastrectomía total con linfadenectomía D2 y una anastomosis en Y de Roux con intención curativa en un hospital de cuarto nivel en Popayán, Colombia. Sin embargo, en el posoperatorio presentó síndrome de respuesta inflamatoria sistémica y abdomen agudo producto de fístula esófago-yeyunal. Se realizó manejo inicial con laparotomía, dos lavados de cavidad peritoneal y drenaje abdominal. Posteriormente, el paciente desarrolló abdomen congelado, por lo que no fue posible acceder a la anastomosis esófago-yeyunal. Se intentó cierre de fístula mediante la inserción de prótesis metálica autoexpandible, pero el procedimiento no fue exitoso. Se inició terapia de rescate mediante sistema de cierre asistido por vacío (VAC) por vía endoscópica. Luego de 5 recambios del sistema VAC, se logró el drenaje completo de la colección intraabdominal encontrada, el cierre completo de la cavidad peritoneal y el cierre de la fuga esófago-yeyunal, con una pequeña formación diverticular residual. La condición del paciente mejoró progresivamente, con reinicio de la vía oral a los 20 días del inicio de la terapia VAC. Además, no se reportaron nuevas complicaciones abdominales en el periodo de seguimiento (17 meses). Conclusión. La terapia endoscópica de VAC es una nueva alternativa segura y efectiva para el tratamiento de fístulas postquirúrgicas complejas producto de anastomosis esófago-yeyunales.

Background Post-operative pain is frequent following gastrointestinal surgery and may result in prolonged hospitalisation, delayed recovery, and lower quality of life. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective analgesics and recommended by Enhanced Recovery After Surgery guidelines as part of opioid-sparing multimodal treatment. However, perioperative NSAID treatment may be associated with increased risk of harm. We will investigate the risks of serious adverse events associated with perioperative NSAID treatment in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Methods This protocol uses the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols. We wish to assess the effects of NSAIDs versus placebo, usual care, or no intervention on the incidence of serious adverse in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. We will include all randomised trials. To identify trials, we will search the medical literature analysis and retrieval system online, excerpta medica database, cochrane central register of controlled trials, web of science core collection, and BIOSIS. Two authors will screen the literature and extract data. We will use the 'Risk of Bias 2 tool' to assess the risks of systematic errors. We will perform meta-analyses using R. We will use Trial Sequential Analysis to account for the risks of random errors. We will create a "Summary of Findings"-table in which we will present our primary and secondary outcome results. We will assess the certainty of the evidence using grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation. Discussion This systematic review can potentially elucidate the risks of perioperative NSAID treatment in gastrointestinal surgery and inform the already established non-opioid multimodal pain treatment regimen recommended by enhanced recovery after surgery guidelines.

Objective: To assess the benefit of protective ostomies on anastomotic leak rate, urgent re-operations, and mortality due to anastomotic leak complications in ovarian cancer surgery. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for all studies on anastomotic leak and ostomy formation related to ovarian cancer surgery. Non-controlled studies, case series, abstracts, case reports, study protocols, and letters to the editor were excluded. Meta-analysis was performed on the primary endpoint of anastomotic leak rate. Subgroup analysis was carried out based on type of bowel resection and bevacizumab use. Secondary endpoints were urgent re-operations and mortality associated with anastomotic leak, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications, 30-day readmission rate, adjuvant chemotherapy, survival, and reversal surgery in ostomy and non-ostomy patients. Results: A total of 17 studies (2,719 patients) were included: 16 retrospective cohort studies, and 1 case-control study. Meta-analysis of 17 studies did not show a decrease in anastomotic leak rate in ostomy patients (odds ratio [OR]=1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.60–1.70; p=0.980). Meta-analysis of ten studies (1,452 women) did not find a decrease in urgent re-operations in the ostomy group (OR=0.72; 95% CI=0.35–1.46; p=0.360). Other outcomes were not considered for meta-analysis due to the lack of data in included studies. Conclusion: Protective ostomies did not decrease anastomotic leak rates, and urgent re-operations in ovarian cancer surgery. This evidence supports the use of ostomies in very select cases.

Achtergrond: Continue monitoring van vitale parameters na bariatrische chirurgie kan postoperatieve bloedingen of naadlekkage detecteren. Doelstellingen: Dit rapport beschrijft de ontwikkeling van een continue remote early warning score (CREWS). Dit is een op EWS gebaseerd meldingsprotocol voor detectie van verslechtering bij bariatrische patiënten. Omgeving: Catharina Ziekenhuis, Nederland. Methoden: Verschillende CREWS-protocollen werden ontwikkeld door verschillende thresholds te combineren die indicatief zijn voor tachycardie en tachypneu met behulp van literatuurinzichten en expertsessies. Deze protocollen werden retrospectief getest met continu gemeten vitale functies in een cohort van 185 patiënten die primaire bariatrische chirurgie ondergingen. Een draagbaar bewakingsapparaat op afstand (Healthdot, Philips) werd gebruikt in het ziekenhuis en thuis tot 14 dagen na de operatie. De opgenomen uitkomsten waren demografie, gebruik van bètablokkers en complicaties die her-interventie noodzakelijk maakten. Resultaten: Thresholds van 110 slagen per minuut (bpm) en 20 ademhalingen per minuut (rpm) voor respectievelijk hartslag en ademhalingsfrequentie detecteerden postoperatieve bloedingen en anastomoselekkage met een gevoeligheid van 75% (3/4 patiënten). Het protocol was stil (geen alarmen/dag) bij 69,5% van de patiënten en produceerde meer dan 1 alarm/dag bij 1,6% van de patiënten. De gemiddelde postoperatieve hartslag werd niet beïnvloed door het gebruik van bètablokkers. Conclusies: Een beschrijving van de stappen in de ontwikkeling van een EWS-protocol bij bariatrische patiënten op basis van continue monitoring van de vitale functies is nuttig. Het meest gevoelige en stille protocol meet de hartslag en ademhalingsfrequentie met drempels van 110 bpm en 20 rpm en leek haalbaar voor klinisch gebruik. Er leek geen klinisch relevant effect van bètablokkers te zijn. Dit CREWS-protocol kan een startpunt zijn voor toekomstige, Background: Continuous monitoring of vital parameters after bariatric surgery can detect postoperative bleeding or anastomotic leakage. Objectives: This report describes the development of a continuous remote early warning score (CREWS). This is an EWS-based notification protocol for deterioration detection in bariatric patients. Setting: Catharina Hospital, the Netherlands. Methods: Several CREWS protocols were developed by combining thresholds indicative of tachycardia and tachypnea using literature insights and expert sessions. These protocols were tested retrospectively using continuously measured vital signs in a cohort of 185 patients who underwent primary bariatric surgery. A wearable remote monitoring device (Healthdot, Philips) was used in hospital and at home up to 14 days after surgery. The outcomes included were demographics, use of beta-blockers, and complications necessitating reintervention. Results: Thresholds of 110 beats per minute (bpm) and 20 breaths per minute (rpm) for heart rate and respiration rate, respectively, detected postoperative bleeding and anastomotic leakage with 75% (3/4 patients) sensitivity. The protocol was silent (no alarms/day) in 69.5% of patients and produced more than 1 alarm/day in 1.6% of patients. The average postoperative heart rate was unaffected by the use of beta-blockers. Conclusions: A description of the steps in the development of an EWS protocol in bariatric patients based on continuous vital sign monitoring is useful. The most sensitive and silent protocol measured heart rate and respiratory rate with thresholds of 110 bpm and 20 rpm and appeared to be feasible for clinical use. There seemed to be no clinically relevant impact of beta-blockers. This CREWS protocol could be a starting point for future studies. Keywords: EWS; Remote; Bariatric surgery; Vital parameters; Monitoring

Objective: The objective of the present study was to define and validate an anastomotic leak prognostic score based on previously described and reported anastomotic leak risk factors (OVA-LEAK: https://n9.cl/ova-leakscore) and to establish if the use of OVA-LEAK score is better than clinical criteria (surgeon's choice) selecting anastomosis to be protected with a diverting ileostomy. Material & methods: This is a retrospective, multicentre cohort study that included patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery for primary advanced or relapsed ovarian cancer with colorectal resection and anastomosis between January 2011 and June 2021. Data from patients already included in the previous predictive model were not considered in the present analysis. To validate the performance of our logistic regression model, we used the OVA-LEAK formula (Annex I: https://n9.cl/ova-leakscore) for estimating leakage probabilities in a new independent cohort. Then, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed and area under the curve (AUC) was used to measure the performance of the model. Additionally, the Brier score was also estimated. 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each of the estimated performance measures were also calculated. Results: 848 out of 1159 recruited patients were finally included in the multivariable logistic regression model validation. The AUC of the new cohort was 0.63 for predicting anastomotic leak. Considering a cut-off point of 22.1% to be ‘positive’ (to get a leak) this would provide a sensitivity of 0.45, specificity of 0.80, positive predictive value of 0.09 and negative predictive value of 0.97 for anastomotic leak. If we consider this cut-off point to select patients at risk of leak for bowel diversion, up to 22.5% of the sampled patients would undergo a diverting ileostomy and 47% (18/40) of the anastomotic leaks would be ‘protected’ with the stoma. Nevertheless, if we consider only the ‘clinical criteria’ for performing or not a div

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Background Post-operative pain is frequent following gastrointestinal surgery and may result in prolonged hospitalisation, delayed recovery, and lower quality of life. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective analgesics and recommended by Enhanced Recovery After Surgery guidelines as part of opioid-sparing multimodal treatment. However, perioperative NSAID treatment may be associated with increased risk of harm. We will investigate the risks of serious adverse events associated with perioperative NSAID treatment in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Methods This protocol uses the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols. We wish to assess the effects of NSAIDs versus placebo, usual care, or no intervention on the incidence of serious adverse in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. We will include all randomised trials. To identify trials, we will search the medical literature analysis and retrieval system online, excerpta medica database, cochrane central register of controlled trials, web of science core collection, and BIOSIS. Two authors will screen the literature and extract data. We will use the 'Risk of Bias 2 tool' to assess the risks of systematic errors. We will perform meta-analyses using R. We will use Trial Sequential Analysis to account for the risks of random errors. We will create a "Summary of Findings"-table in which we will present our primary and secondary outcome results. We will assess the certainty of the evidence using grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation. Discussion This systematic review can potentially elucidate the risks of perioperative NSAID treatment in gastrointestinal surgery and inform the already established non-opioid multimodal pain treatment regimen recommended by enhanced recovery after surgery guidelines.

BackgroundPostoperative gastrointestinal leak and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are devastating complications of bariatric surgery. The performance of currently available predictive models for these complications remains wanting, while machine learning has shown promise to improve on traditional modeling approaches. The purpose of this study was to compare the ability of two machine learning strategies, artificial neural networks (ANNs), and gradient boosting machines (XGBs) to conventional models using logistic regression (LR) in predicting leak and VTE after bariatric surgery.MethodsANN, XGB, and LR prediction models for leak and VTE among adults undergoing initial elective weight loss surgery were trained and validated using preoperative data from 2015 to 2017 from Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database. Data were randomly split into training, validation, and testing populations. Model performance was measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) on the testing data for each model.ResultsThe study cohort contained 436,807 patients. The incidences of leak and VTE were 0.70% and 0.46%. ANN (AUC 0.75, 95% CI 0.73-0.78) was the best-performing model for predicting leak, followed by XGB (AUC 0.70, 95% CI 0.68-0.72) and then LR (AUC 0.63, 95% CI 0.61-0.65, p < 0.001 for all comparisons). In detecting VTE, ANN, and XGB, LR achieved similar AUCs of 0.65 (95% CI 0.63-0.68), 0.67 (95% CI 0.64-0.70), and 0.64 (95% CI 0.61-0.66), respectively; the performance difference between XGB and LR was statistically significant (p = 0.001).ConclusionsANN and XGB outperformed traditional LR in predicting leak. These results suggest that ML has the potential to improve risk stratification for bariatric surgery, especially as techniques to extract more granular data from medical records improve. Further studies investigating the merits of machine learning to improve patient selection and risk management in b

Introduction: Post-surgical esophagojejunal fistulas can be life threatening. Currently, there are several alternatives for their treatment. In recent years, endoscopic negative pressure therapy has become an innovative method for treating these fistulas that offers great advantages. Case presentation: 72-year-old man diagnosed with body and fundos gastric adenocarcinoma of body and fundus who underwent total gastrectomy, D2 lymphadenectomy and Roux-en-Y anastomosis with curative intent in a quaternary care hospital in Popayán, Colombia. However, in the postoperative period, he presented systemic inflammatory response syndrome and acute abdomen due to a esophagojejunal fistula. Initial management included a laparotomy, two peritoneal cavity washings and abdominal drainage. Then the patient developed frozen abdomen, so it was not possible to access the esophago-jejunal anastomosis. Fistula closure was attempted by inserting a self-expandable metallic stent, yet the procedure was not successful. Salvage therapy was started using a vacuum assisted closure (VAC) system endoscopically. After 5 replacements of the VAC system, complete drainage of the peritonitis, complete closure of the peritoneal cavity and the closure of the esophagojejunal leak, with a small residual diverticular formation, were achieved. The patient's condition improved progressively, resuming oral intake at 20 days. In addition, no new abdominal complications were reported during the follow-up period (17 months). Conclusions: Endoscopic VAC therapy is a new safe and effective way to treat complex post-surgical fistulas caused by esophagealjejunal anastomoses., Introducción. Las fístulas esófago-yeyunales postquirúrgicas pueden llegar a ser mortales. En la actualidad, existen varias alternativas de tratamiento. En los últimos años, la terapia endoscópica de presión negativa se ha convertido un método innovador para el manejo de estas fístulas que ofrece grandes ventajas. Presentación del caso. Hombre de 72 años diagnosticado con adenocarcinoma gástrico de cuerpo y fondo a quien se le realizó gastrectomía total, linfadenectomía D2 y anastomosis en Y de Roux con intención curativa en un hospital de cuarto nivel en Popayán, Colombia. Sin embargo, en el posoperatorio, presentó síndrome de respuesta inflamatoria sistémica (SRIS) y abdomen agudo producto de fístula esófago-yeyunal. Se realizó manejo inicial con laparotomía, dos lavados de cavidad peritoneal y drenaje abdominal. Posteriormente, el paciente desarrolló abdomen congelado, por lo que no fue posible acceder la anastomosis esófago-yeyunal. Se intentó cierre de fístula mediante la inserción de prótesis metálica autoexpandible, pero el procedimiento no fue exitoso. Se inició terapia de rescate mediante sistema de cierre asistido por vacío (VAC) por vía endoscópica. Luego de 5 recambios del sistema VAC, se logró el drenaje completo de la peritonitis, el cierre completo de la cavidad peritoneal y el cierre de la fuga esófago-yeyunal, con una pequeña formación diverticular residual. La condición del paciente mejoró progresivamente, con reinicio de la vía oral a los 20 días. Además, no se reportaron nuevas complicaciones abdominales en el periodo de seguimiento (17 meses). Conclusión. La terapia endoscópica de VAC es una nueva alternativa segura y efectiva para el tratamiento de fístulas post quirúrgicas complejas producto de anastomosis esófago-yeyunales.

PURPOSE: Insertion of a nutritional jejunostomy in conjunction with esophagectomy is performed with the intention to decrease the risk for postoperative malnutrition and improve recovery without adding significant catheter-related complications. However, previous research has shown no clear benefit and there is currently no consensus of practice. METHODS: All patients treated with esophagectomy due to cancer during the period 2006-2017 reported in the Swedish National Register for Esophageal and Gastric Cancer were included in this register-based cohort study from a national database. Patients were stratified into two groups: esophagectomy alone and esophagectomy with jejunostomy. RESULTS: A total of 847 patients (45.27%) had no jejunostomy inserted while 1024 patients (54.73%) were treated with jejunostomy. The groups were comparable, but some differences were seen in histological tumor type and tumor stage between the groups. No significant differences in length of hospital stay, postoperative surgical complications, Clavien-Dindo score, or 90-day mortality rate were seen. There was no evidence of increased risk for significant jejunostomy-related complications. Patients in the jejunostomy group with anastomotic leaks had a statistically significant lower risk for severe morbidity defined as Clavien-Dindo score ≥ IIIb (adjusted odds ratio 0.19, 95% CI: 0.04-0.94, P = 0.041) compared to patients with anastomotic leaks and no jejunostomy. CONCLUSION: A nutritional jejunostomy is a safe method for early postoperative enteral nutrition which might decrease the risk for severe outcomes in patients with anastomotic leaks. Nutritional jejunostomy should be considered for patients undergoing curative intended surgery for esophageal and gastro-esophageal junction cancer.

BackgroundIndocyanine green fluoroscopy has been shown to improve anastomotic leak rates in early phase trials.ObjectiveWe hypothesized that the use of fluoroscopy to ensure anastomotic perfusion may decrease anastomotic leak after low anterior resection.DesignWe performed a 1:1 randomized controlled parallel study. Recruitment of 450 to 1000 patients was planned over 2 years.SettingsThis was a multicenter trial.PatientsIncluded patients were those undergoing resection defined as anastomosis within 10 cm of the anal verge.InterventionPatients underwent standard evaluation of tissue perfusion versus standard in conjunction with perfusion evaluation using indocyanine green fluoroscopy.Main outcome measuresPrimary outcome was anastomotic leak, with secondary outcomes of perfusion assessment and the rate of postoperative abscess requiring intervention.ResultsThis study was concluded early because of decreasing accrual rates. A total of 25 centers recruited 347 patients, of whom 178 were randomly assigned to perfusion and 169 to standard. The groups had comparable tumor-specific and patient-specific demographics. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation was performed in 63.5% of perfusion and 65.7% of standard (p > 0.05). Mean level of anastomosis was 5.2 ± 3.1 cm in perfusion compared with 5.2 ± 3.3 cm in standard (p > 0.05). Sufficient visualization of perfusion was reported in 95.4% of patients in the perfusion group. Postoperative abscess requiring surgical management was reported in 5.7% of perfusion and 4.2% of standard (p = 0.75). Anastomotic leak was reported in 9.0% of perfusion compared with 9.6% of standard (p = 0.37). On multivariate regression analysis, there was no difference in anastomotic leak rates between perfusion and standard (OR = 0.845 (95% CI, 0.375-1.905); p = 0.34).LimitationsThe predetermined sample size to adequately reduce the risk of type II error was not achieved.ConclusionsSuccessful visualization of perfusion can be achieved with indocyanine green

BACKGROUND: No evidence currently exists characterising global outcomes following major cancer surgery, including esophageal cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise impact of high income countries (HIC) versus low and middle income countries (LMIC) on the outcomes following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. METHOD: This international multi-center prospective study across 137 hospitals in 41 countries included patients who underwent an esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, with 90-day follow-up. The main explanatory variable was country income, defined according to the World Bank Data classification. The primary outcome was 90-day postoperative mortality, and secondary outcomes were composite leaks (anastomotic leak or conduit necrosis) and major complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade III - V). Multivariable generalized estimating equation models were used to produce adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%). RESULTS: Between April 2018 to December 2018, 2247 patients were included. Patients from HIC were more significantly older, with higher ASA grade, and more advanced tumors. Patients from LMIC had almost three-fold increase in 90-day mortality, compared to HIC (9.4% vs 3.7%, p < 0.001). On adjusted analysis, LMIC were independently associated with higher 90-day mortality (OR: 2.31, CI95%: 1.17-4.55, p = 0.015). However, LMIC were not independently associated with higher rates of anastomotic leaks (OR: 1.06, CI95%: 0.57-1.99, p = 0.9) or major complications (OR: 0.85, CI95%: 0.54-1.32, p = 0.5), compared to HIC. CONCLUSION: Resections in LMIC were independently associated with higher 90-day postoperative mortality, likely reflecting a failure to rescue of these patients following esophagectomy, despite similar composite anastomotic leaks and major complication rates to HIC. These findings warrant further research, to identify potential issues and solutions to improve global outcomes following esophagectomy for cancer.

BackgroundPostoperative gastrointestinal leak and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are devastating complications of bariatric surgery. The performance of currently available predictive models for these complications remains wanting, while machine learning has shown promise to improve on traditional modeling approaches. The purpose of this study was to compare the ability of two machine learning strategies, artificial neural networks (ANNs), and gradient boosting machines (XGBs) to conventional models using logistic regression (LR) in predicting leak and VTE after bariatric surgery.MethodsANN, XGB, and LR prediction models for leak and VTE among adults undergoing initial elective weight loss surgery were trained and validated using preoperative data from 2015 to 2017 from Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database. Data were randomly split into training, validation, and testing populations. Model performance was measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) on the testing data for each model.ResultsThe study cohort contained 436,807 patients. The incidences of leak and VTE were 0.70% and 0.46%. ANN (AUC 0.75, 95% CI 0.73-0.78) was the best-performing model for predicting leak, followed by XGB (AUC 0.70, 95% CI 0.68-0.72) and then LR (AUC 0.63, 95% CI 0.61-0.65, p < 0.001 for all comparisons). In detecting VTE, ANN, and XGB, LR achieved similar AUCs of 0.65 (95% CI 0.63-0.68), 0.67 (95% CI 0.64-0.70), and 0.64 (95% CI 0.61-0.66), respectively; the performance difference between XGB and LR was statistically significant (p = 0.001).ConclusionsANN and XGB outperformed traditional LR in predicting leak. These results suggest that ML has the potential to improve risk stratification for bariatric surgery, especially as techniques to extract more granular data from medical records improve. Further studies investigating the merits of machine learning to improve patient selection and risk management in b

BackgroundIndocyanine green fluoroscopy has been shown to improve anastomotic leak rates in early phase trials.ObjectiveWe hypothesized that the use of fluoroscopy to ensure anastomotic perfusion may decrease anastomotic leak after low anterior resection.DesignWe performed a 1:1 randomized controlled parallel study. Recruitment of 450 to 1000 patients was planned over 2 years.SettingsThis was a multicenter trial.PatientsIncluded patients were those undergoing resection defined as anastomosis within 10 cm of the anal verge.InterventionPatients underwent standard evaluation of tissue perfusion versus standard in conjunction with perfusion evaluation using indocyanine green fluoroscopy.Main outcome measuresPrimary outcome was anastomotic leak, with secondary outcomes of perfusion assessment and the rate of postoperative abscess requiring intervention.ResultsThis study was concluded early because of decreasing accrual rates. A total of 25 centers recruited 347 patients, of whom 178 were randomly assigned to perfusion and 169 to standard. The groups had comparable tumor-specific and patient-specific demographics. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation was performed in 63.5% of perfusion and 65.7% of standard (p > 0.05). Mean level of anastomosis was 5.2 ± 3.1 cm in perfusion compared with 5.2 ± 3.3 cm in standard (p > 0.05). Sufficient visualization of perfusion was reported in 95.4% of patients in the perfusion group. Postoperative abscess requiring surgical management was reported in 5.7% of perfusion and 4.2% of standard (p = 0.75). Anastomotic leak was reported in 9.0% of perfusion compared with 9.6% of standard (p = 0.37). On multivariate regression analysis, there was no difference in anastomotic leak rates between perfusion and standard (OR = 0.845 (95% CI, 0.375-1.905); p = 0.34).LimitationsThe predetermined sample size to adequately reduce the risk of type II error was not achieved.ConclusionsSuccessful visualization of perfusion can be achieved with indocyanine green

People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PWH) have reduced gut barrier integrity ("leaky gut") that permits diffusion of microbial antigens (microbial translocation) such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into the circulation, stimulating inflammation. A potential source of this disturbance, in addition to gut lymphoid tissue CD4+ T-cell depletion, is the interaction between the gut barrier and gut microbes themselves. We evaluated the relationship of gut barrier integrity, as indexed by plasma occludin levels (higher levels corresponding to greater loss of occludin from the gut barrier), to gut microbial diversity. PWH and people without HIV (PWoH) participants were recruited from community sources and provided stool, and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was used to characterize the gut microbiome. Microbial diversity was indexed by Faith's phylogenetic diversity (PD). Participants were 50 PWH and 52 PWoH individuals, mean ± SD age 45.6 ± 14.5 years, 28 (27.5%) women, 50 (49.0%) non-white race/ethnicity. PWH had higher gut microbial diversity (Faith's PD 14.2 ± 4.06 versus 11.7 ± 3.27; p = 0.0007), but occludin levels were not different (1.84 ± 0.311 versus 1.85 ± 0.274; p = 0.843). Lower gut microbial diversity was associated with higher plasma occludin levels in PWH (r = -0.251; p = 0.0111), but not in PWoH. A multivariable model demonstrated an interaction (p = 0.0459) such that the correlation between Faith's PD and plasma occludin held only for PWH (r = -0.434; p = 0.0017), but not for PWoH individuals (r = -0.0227; p = 0.873). The pattern was similar for Shannon alpha diversity. Antiretroviral treatment and viral suppression status were not associated with gut microbial diversity (ps > 0.10). Plasma occludin levels were not significantly related to age, sex or ethnicity, nor to current or nadir CD4 or plasma viral load. Higher occludin levels were associated with higher plasma sCD14 and LPS, both markers of microbial translocation. Together, the findings sugg

Background Esophagectomy is the cornerstone in curative treatment for esophageal and gastroesophageal junctional cancer. Esophageal resection is an advanced procedure with many complications, whereof anastomotic leak is the most dreaded. This study aimed to monitor the microcirculation with microdialysis analysis of local lactate levels in real-time on both sides of the esophagogastric anastomosis in totally minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Materials and Methods Twenty-five patients planned for esophageal resection with gastric conduit reconstruction and intrathoracic anastomosis were recruited. A sampling device, the OnZurf(R) Probe, along with the CliniSenz(R) Analyser (Senzime AB, Uppsala Sweden) was utilized for measurements. Lactate levels from both sides of the anastomosis were analysed in real time, on site, by a transportable analyser device. Measurements were made every 30 min during the first 24 h, and thereafter every 2 hours for up to 4 days. Results All probes could be positioned as planned and on the third postoperative day 19/25 and 15/25 of the esophageal and gastric probes, respectively, continued to deliver measurements. In total, 89.6% (1539/1718) and 72.4% (1098/1516) of the measurements were deemed successful. The average lactate level on the esophageal side of the anastomosis and the gastric conduit ranged between 1.1-11.5 and 0.8-7.0 mM, respectively. Two anastomotic leaks occurred, one of which had persisting high lactate levels on the gastric side of the anastomosis. Conclusion Application and use of the novel CliniSenz(R) analyser system, in combination with the OnZurf(R) Probe was feasible and safe. Continuous monitoring of analytes from the perianastomotic area has the potential to improve care after esophageal resection.

Background: No evidence currently exists characterising global outcomes following major cancer surgery, including esophageal cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise impact of high income countries (HIC) versus low and middle income countries (LMIC) on the outcomes following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Method: This international multi-center prospective study across 137 hospitals in 41 countries included patients who underwent an esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, with 90-day follow-up. The main explanatory variable was country income, defined according to the World Bank Data classification. The primary outcome was 90-day postoperative mortality, and secondary outcomes were composite leaks (anastomotic leak or conduit necrosis) and major complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade III-V). Multivariable generalized estimating equation models were used to produce adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%). Results: Between April 2018 to December 2018, 2247 patients were included. Patients from HIC were more significantly older, with higher ASA grade, and more advanced tumors. Patients from LMIC had almost three-fold increase in 90-day mortality, compared to HIC (9.4% vs 3.7%, p < 0.001). On adjusted analysis, LMIC were independently associated with higher 90-day mortality (OR: 2.31, CI95%: 1.17-4.55, p = 0.015). However, LMIC were not independently associated with higher rates of anastomotic leaks (OR: 1.06, CI95%: 0.57-1.99, p = 0.9) or major complications (OR: 0.85, CI95%: 0.54-1.32, p = 0.5), compared to HIC. Conclusion: Resections in LMIC were independently associated with higher 90-day postoperative mortality, likely reflecting a failure to rescue of these patients following esophagectomy, despite similar composite anastomotic leaks and major complication rates to HIC. These findings warrant further research, to identify potential issues and solutions to improve global outcomes following esophagectomy for cancer. (C) 2020 Else, For complete list of authors see http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ejso.2020.12.006

Background Esophagectomy is the cornerstone in curative treatment for esophageal and gastroesophageal junctional cancer. Esophageal resection is an advanced procedure with many complications, whereof anastomotic leak is the most dreaded. This study aimed to monitor the microcirculation with microdialysis analysis of local lactate levels in real-time on both sides of the esophagogastric anastomosis in totally minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Materials and Methods Twenty-five patients planned for esophageal resection with gastric conduit reconstruction and intrathoracic anastomosis were recruited. A sampling device, the OnZurf(R) Probe, along with the CliniSenz(R) Analyser (Senzime AB, Uppsala Sweden) was utilized for measurements. Lactate levels from both sides of the anastomosis were analysed in real time, on site, by a transportable analyser device. Measurements were made every 30 min during the first 24 h, and thereafter every 2 hours for up to 4 days. Results All probes could be positioned as planned and on the third postoperative day 19/25 and 15/25 of the esophageal and gastric probes, respectively, continued to deliver measurements. In total, 89.6% (1539/1718) and 72.4% (1098/1516) of the measurements were deemed successful. The average lactate level on the esophageal side of the anastomosis and the gastric conduit ranged between 1.1-11.5 and 0.8-7.0 mM, respectively. Two anastomotic leaks occurred, one of which had persisting high lactate levels on the gastric side of the anastomosis. Conclusion Application and use of the novel CliniSenz(R) analyser system, in combination with the OnZurf(R) Probe was feasible and safe. Continuous monitoring of analytes from the perianastomotic area has the potential to improve care after esophageal resection.

Background Esophagectomy is the cornerstone in curative treatment for esophageal and gastroesophageal junctional cancer. Esophageal resection is an advanced procedure with many complications, whereof anastomotic leak is the most dreaded. This study aimed to monitor the microcirculation with microdialysis analysis of local lactate levels in real-time on both sides of the esophagogastric anastomosis in totally minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Materials and Methods Twenty-five patients planned for esophageal resection with gastric conduit reconstruction and intrathoracic anastomosis were recruited. A sampling device, the OnZurf(R) Probe, along with the CliniSenz(R) Analyser (Senzime AB, Uppsala Sweden) was utilized for measurements. Lactate levels from both sides of the anastomosis were analysed in real time, on site, by a transportable analyser device. Measurements were made every 30 min during the first 24 h, and thereafter every 2 hours for up to 4 days. Results All probes could be positioned as planned and on the third postoperative day 19/25 and 15/25 of the esophageal and gastric probes, respectively, continued to deliver measurements. In total, 89.6% (1539/1718) and 72.4% (1098/1516) of the measurements were deemed successful. The average lactate level on the esophageal side of the anastomosis and the gastric conduit ranged between 1.1-11.5 and 0.8-7.0 mM, respectively. Two anastomotic leaks occurred, one of which had persisting high lactate levels on the gastric side of the anastomosis. Conclusion Application and use of the novel CliniSenz(R) analyser system, in combination with the OnZurf(R) Probe was feasible and safe. Continuous monitoring of analytes from the perianastomotic area has the potential to improve care after esophageal resection.

Background Esophagectomy is the cornerstone in curative treatment for esophageal and gastroesophageal junctional cancer. Esophageal resection is an advanced procedure with many complications, whereof anastomotic leak is the most dreaded. This study aimed to monitor the microcirculation with microdialysis analysis of local lactate levels in real-time on both sides of the esophagogastric anastomosis in totally minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Materials and Methods Twenty-five patients planned for esophageal resection with gastric conduit reconstruction and intrathoracic anastomosis were recruited. A sampling device, the OnZurf(R) Probe, along with the CliniSenz(R) Analyser (Senzime AB, Uppsala Sweden) was utilized for measurements. Lactate levels from both sides of the anastomosis were analysed in real time, on site, by a transportable analyser device. Measurements were made every 30 min during the first 24 h, and thereafter every 2 hours for up to 4 days. Results All probes could be positioned as planned and on the third postoperative day 19/25 and 15/25 of the esophageal and gastric probes, respectively, continued to deliver measurements. In total, 89.6% (1539/1718) and 72.4% (1098/1516) of the measurements were deemed successful. The average lactate level on the esophageal side of the anastomosis and the gastric conduit ranged between 1.1-11.5 and 0.8-7.0 mM, respectively. Two anastomotic leaks occurred, one of which had persisting high lactate levels on the gastric side of the anastomosis. Conclusion Application and use of the novel CliniSenz(R) analyser system, in combination with the OnZurf(R) Probe was feasible and safe. Continuous monitoring of analytes from the perianastomotic area has the potential to improve care after esophageal resection.

PURPOSE: Insertion of a nutritional jejunostomy in conjunction with esophagectomy is performed with the intention to decrease the risk for postoperative malnutrition and improve recovery without adding significant catheter-related complications. However, previous research has shown no clear benefit and there is currently no consensus of practice. METHODS: All patients treated with esophagectomy due to cancer during the period 2006-2017 reported in the Swedish National Register for Esophageal and Gastric Cancer were included in this register-based cohort study from a national database. Patients were stratified into two groups: esophagectomy alone and esophagectomy with jejunostomy. RESULTS: A total of 847 patients (45.27%) had no jejunostomy inserted while 1024 patients (54.73%) were treated with jejunostomy. The groups were comparable, but some differences were seen in histological tumor type and tumor stage between the groups. No significant differences in length of hospital stay, postoperative surgical complications, Clavien-Dindo score, or 90-day mortality rate were seen. There was no evidence of increased risk for significant jejunostomy-related complications. Patients in the jejunostomy group with anastomotic leaks had a statistically significant lower risk for severe morbidity defined as Clavien-Dindo score ≥ IIIb (adjusted odds ratio 0.19, 95% CI: 0.04-0.94, P = 0.041) compared to patients with anastomotic leaks and no jejunostomy. CONCLUSION: A nutritional jejunostomy is a safe method for early postoperative enteral nutrition which might decrease the risk for severe outcomes in patients with anastomotic leaks. Nutritional jejunostomy should be considered for patients undergoing curative intended surgery for esophageal and gastro-esophageal junction cancer.

BACKGROUND: The complexity of oesophageal surgery and the significant risk of morbidity necessitates that oesophagectomy is predominantly performed by a consultant surgeon, or a senior trainee under their supervision. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of trainee involvement in oesophagectomy on postoperative outcomes in an international multicentre setting. METHODS: Data from the multicentre Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Study Group (OGAA) cohort study were analysed, which comprised prospectively collected data from patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer between April 2018 and December 2018. Procedures were grouped by the level of trainee involvement, and univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to compare patient outcomes across groups. RESULTS: Of 2232 oesophagectomies from 137 centres in 41 countries, trainees were involved in 29.1 per cent of them (n = 650), performing only the abdominal phase in 230, only the chest and/or neck phases in 130, and all phases in 315 procedures. For procedures with a chest anastomosis, those with trainee involvement had similar 90-day mortality, complication and reoperation rates to consultant-performed oesophagectomies (P = 0.451, P = 0.318, and P = 0.382, respectively), while anastomotic leak rates were significantly lower in the trainee groups (P = 0.030). Procedures with a neck anastomosis had equivalent complication, anastomotic leak, and reoperation rates (P = 0.150, P = 0.430, and P = 0.632, respectively) in trainee-involved versus consultant-performed oesophagectomies, with significantly lower 90-day mortality in the trainee groups (P = 0.005). CONCLUSION: Trainee involvement was not found to be associated with significantly inferior postoperative outcomes for selected patients undergoing oesophagectomy. The results support continued supervised trainee involvement in oesophageal cancer surgery.

Background Esophagectomy is the cornerstone in curative treatment for esophageal and gastroesophageal junctional cancer. Esophageal resection is an advanced procedure with many complications, whereof anastomotic leak is the most dreaded. This study aimed to monitor the microcirculation with microdialysis analysis of local lactate levels in real-time on both sides of the esophagogastric anastomosis in totally minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Materials and Methods Twenty-five patients planned for esophageal resection with gastric conduit reconstruction and intrathoracic anastomosis were recruited. A sampling device, the OnZurf(R) Probe, along with the CliniSenz(R) Analyser (Senzime AB, Uppsala Sweden) was utilized for measurements. Lactate levels from both sides of the anastomosis were analysed in real time, on site, by a transportable analyser device. Measurements were made every 30 min during the first 24 h, and thereafter every 2 hours for up to 4 days. Results All probes could be positioned as planned and on the third postoperative day 19/25 and 15/25 of the esophageal and gastric probes, respectively, continued to deliver measurements. In total, 89.6% (1539/1718) and 72.4% (1098/1516) of the measurements were deemed successful. The average lactate level on the esophageal side of the anastomosis and the gastric conduit ranged between 1.1-11.5 and 0.8-7.0 mM, respectively. Two anastomotic leaks occurred, one of which had persisting high lactate levels on the gastric side of the anastomosis. Conclusion Application and use of the novel CliniSenz(R) analyser system, in combination with the OnZurf(R) Probe was feasible and safe. Continuous monitoring of analytes from the perianastomotic area has the potential to improve care after esophageal resection.

Background: The gut microbiota (GM) has been proposed as one of the main determinants of colorectal surgery complications and theorized as the “missing factor” that could explain still poorly understood complications. Herein, we investigate this theory and report the current evidence on the role of the GM in colorectal surgery. Methods: We first present the findings associating the role of the GM with the physiological response to surgery. Second, the change in GM composition during and after surgery and its association with colorectal surgery complications (ileus, adhesions, surgical-site infections, anastomotic leak, and diversion colitis) are reviewed. Finally, we present the findings linking GM science to the application of the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol, for the use of oral antibiotics with mechanical bowel preparation and for the administration of probiotics/synbiotics. Results: According to preclinical and translational evidence, the GM is capable of influencing colorectal surgery outcomes. Clinical evidence supports the application of an ERAS protocol and the preoperative administration of multistrain probiotics/synbiotics. GM manipulation with oral antibiotics with mechanical bowel preparation still has uncertain benefits in right-sided colic resection but is very promising for left-sided colic resection. Conclusions: The GM may be a determinant of colorectal surgery outcomes. There is an emerging need to implement translational research on the topic. Future clinical studies should clarify the composition of preoperative and postoperative GM and the impact of the GM on different colorectal surgery complications and should assess the validity of GM-targeted measures in effectively reducing complications for all colorectal surgery locations.