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Pouchitis is the most common inflammatory complication in ulcerative colitis patients undergoing postoperative construction of an IPAA. Pouchitis refers to a spectrum of diseases, and as such, it lacks a universally accepted definition as well as validated instruments to measure disease activity and treatment response. Assessing pouchitis activity is challenging, and methods for diagnosis and classification of severity of pouchitis are not universally agreed upon.Pouchitis is characterized by a constellation of clinical symptoms, including increased stool frequency, urgency, incontinence, bleeding, and rarely constitutional symptoms such as malaise and low-grade fever. However, these symptoms are subjective, and similar symptoms can be caused by noninflammatory conditions including anal sphincter dysfunction, anastomotic strictures, occult leaks, pouch inlet obstruction, and cuffitis. Objective scores that include endoscopic and histologic criteria have been developed for subjects with an IPAA. However, these instruments are not validated for measuring pouchitis disease activity and are associated with a number of challenges. In addition, the clinical components of the scores correlate poorly with endoscopic and histologic findings.There is a need for prospective studies to facilitate the development and validation of novel instruments that are valid, reliable, and responsive to change that would facilitate the development of therapeutic agents for the treatment of pouchitis.

Pelvic pouch surgery evolved under the late Dr. Victor Fazio's influence.This article aimed to describe construction of J- and S-pouches according to Fazio's teachings.There are several key points to consider for pelvic pouch construction, starting with the decision of performing a 2- or 3-stage procedure and handling of the rectal stump. At time of pouch construction, ileal reach must be assessed early in the operative course, and mesenteric lengthening maneuvers are deployed as warranted. If these maneuvers still do not allow sufficient length, alternatives include an S-pouch, longer rectal stump/anal transitional zone, or returning to the operating room at a later date. The rectum is then mobilized sufficiently to allow a straight stapler firing to avoid outlet obstruction from impinged nearby tissues. The 15- to 20-cm pouch is constructed, ensuring that its staple lines are straight, staple line bleeding is addressed, the tip of the J is closed to be as short as possible, and a leak test is performed. At the time of the anastomosis, it is crucial to keep the mesentery and pouch straight, ensure no bowel is trapped below the mesentery, confirm that anterior structures are not being incorporated into the anastomosis, and perform a leak test, adding transanal sutures as needed to repair any defects. An ileostomy is then created.Pouch construction is challenging. At each stage, consider the patient, who carries the ultimate risk. The end goal is a functional, long-lasting pouch.

Low anterior resection syndrome is common after sphincter-sparing surgery, but it is unclear to what extent anastomotic leakage after anterior resection contributes to this condition.The aim of this study is to assess the long-term effect of anastomotic leakage on the occurrence of major low anterior resection syndrome.This is a retrospective observational cohort study evaluating low anterior resection syndrome 4 to 11 years after index surgery. After propensity score-matching using the covariates sex, age, tumor stage, comorbidity, neoadjuvant treatment, extent of mesorectal excision, and defunctioning stoma at index surgery, the effect of anastomotic leakage on low anterior resection syndrome was investigated using relative risk and 95% CI.This multicenter study included patients from 15 Swedish hospitals between 2007 and 2013.Patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer were included.Outcome measures included patient-reported major low anterior resection syndrome, obtained via a postal questionnaire that included a question on stoma status.Among 1099 patients, 653 (59.4%) responded in at a median of 83.5 (interquartile range 66 to 110) months postoperatively. After excluding patients with residual stoma or incomplete responses, 544 remained; of these, 42 had anastomotic leakage. Patients with anastomotic leakage were more likely to have major low anterior resection syndrome (66.7% [28/42]) than patients without leakage (45.8% [230/502]). After matching, anastomotic leakage was significantly related to major low anterior resection syndrome (relative risk 2.3; 95% CI 1.4-3.9) and the individual symptom of urgency (relative risk 2.1; 95% CI 1.1-4.1).This study was limited by its retrospective observational study design.In long-term follow-up, major low anterior resection syndrome is common after anterior resection for rectal cancer. Anastomotic leakage appears to increase the risk of major low anterior resection syndrome, with urgency as a major contributing symptom. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B868 .ANTECEDENTES:El síndrome de resección anterior baja es común después de una cirugía con preservación de esfínter pero no está claro hasta qué punto contribuye a esta condición la fuga anastomótica después de una resección anterior.OBJETIVO:El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar el efecto a largo plazo de la fuga anastomótica sobre la aparición de un síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor.DISEÑO:Se trata de un estudio de cohorte observacional retrospectivo que evalúa el síndrome de resección anterior baja 4-11 años después de la cirugía índice. Después del apareamiento por puntuación de propensión utilizando las covariables sexo, edad, estadio del tumor, comorbilidad, tratamiento neoadyuvante, extensión de la escisión mesorrectal y estoma de derivación en la cirugía índice, se investigó el efecto de la fuga anastomótica en el síndrome de resección anterior baja utilizando el riesgo relativo y intervalos de confianza de 95%.AJUSTES:Este estudio multicéntrico incluyó pacientes de 15 hospitales suecos entre 2007 y 2013.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes que fueron sometidos a resección anterior por cáncer de recto.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE DESENLACE:Síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor informado por el paciente, obtenido a través de un cuestionario postal que incluye una pregunta sobre el estado de estomas.RESULTADOS:De 1099 pacientes, 653 (59,4%) respondieron una mediana de 83,5 meses después de la operación (rango intercuartílico 66-110).Después de excluir a los pacientes con estoma residual o respuestas incompletas, quedaron 544; de estos, 42 tuvieron fuga anastomótica. Los pacientes con fuga anastomótica tenían síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor en el 66,7% (28/42) en comparación con el 45,8% (230/502) de los pacientes sin fuga. Después del apareamiento, la fuga anastomótica se relacionó significativamente con el síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor (riesgo relativo 2,3; intervalo de confianza del 95%: 1,4-3,9) y con el síntoma individual de urgencia (riesgo relativo 2,1; intervalo de confianza del 95% 1,1-4,1).LIMITACIONES:Este estudio estuvo limitado por su diseño de estudio observacional retrospectivo.CONCLUSIONES:En el seguimiento a largo plazo, el síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor es común después de la resección anterior por cáncer de recto. La fuga anastomótica parece aumentar el riesgo de síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor, siendo la urgencia uno de los principales síntomas contribuyentes. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B868 . (Traducción-Dr. Juan Carlos Reyes ).

Few studies have addressed the functional impact after transanal total mesorectal excision.This study aimed to evaluate function and health-related quality of life among patients with rectal cancer treated with transanal total mesorectal excision.Consecutive patients treated between 2016 and 2018 were selected. Their function and quality of life were studied preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months after surgery.This is a prospective case series.Patients were eligible if they had primary anastomosis, their diverting stoma had been reversed, and they did not have anastomotic leakage. Forty-five patients were finally included. A total of 31 (68.8%) and 32 patients (71.1%) completed the 3- and 12-month surveys.Standard transanal total mesorectal excision was performed.The primary end point was functional and quality-of-life outcomes using validated questionnaires. Secondary end points included values obtained with endoanal ultrasounds, anorectal manometries, and rectal sensation testing.Wexner and Low Anterior Resection Syndrome scores significantly increased 3 months after surgery but returned to baseline values at 12 months. The rate of "major low anterior resection syndrome" at the end of follow-up was 25.0% (+11.7% compared with baseline, p = 0.314). Sexual and urinary functions remained stable throughout the study, although a meaningful clinical improvement was detected in male sexual interest. Among quality-of-life domains, all deteriorations returned to baseline values 12 months after surgery, except worsening of flatulence symptoms, and improvement in insomnia and constipation. At 12 months, an expected decrease in the mean width of the internal sphincter, the anal resting pressure, and the tenesmus threshold volume was found.This study was limited by its small sample size, the absence of a comparative group, and significant missing data in female sexual difficulty and in ultrasounds and manometries at 3 months.Patients undergoing transanal total mesorectal excision report acceptable quality-of-life and functional outcomes 12 months after surgery. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B541.ANTECEDENTES:Pocos estudios han abordado el impacto funcional después de la escisión mesorrectal total transanal.OBJETIVO:Evaluar la función y la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en pacientes con cáncer de recto tratados con escisión mesorrectal total transanal.DISEÑO:Se seleccionaron pacientes consecutivos tratados entre 2016 y 2018. Se estudió su función y calidad de vida, en la etapa preoperatoria, a los tres y doce meses postoperatorios.METODO:Serie de casos prospectivos.PACIENTES:Los pacientes eran incluidos en presencia de anastomosis primaria, cierre del estoma de derivación y en ausencia de fuga anastomótica. Finalmente se incluyeron cuarenta y cinco pacientes. Un total de 31 (68,8%) y 32 pacientes (71,1%) completaron las encuestas de tres y doce meses, respectivamente.INTERVENCIONES:Escisión mesorrectal total transanal estándar.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los criterio de evaluación principal fueron los resultados funcionales y de calidad de vida mediante cuestionarios previamente validados. Los criterios de evaluación secundarios incluyeron los valores obtenidos con ecografía endoanal, manometría anorrectal y prueba de sensibilidad rectal.RESULTADOS:La escala de Wexner y el síndrome de resección anterior baja aumentaron significativamente tres meses después de la cirugía, pero volvieron a los valores iniciales a los doce meses. La tasa de "síndrome de resección anterior inferior grave" al final del seguimiento fue del 25,0% (+ 11,7% en comparación con el valor inicial, p = 0,314). La función sexual y urinaria se mantuvo estable durante todo el estudio, aunque se detectó una mejora clínica significativa en la libido masculina. Entre los criterios que evalúan la calidad de vida, todas las alteraciones en la misma volvieron a los valores iniciales, doce meses después de la cirugía, excepto el aumento de flatulencia, la mejoría del insomnio y el estreñimiento. A los doce meses, se encontró una disminución esperada en el grosor medio del esfínter interno, la presión anal en reposo y el volumen umbral para la presencia de tenesmo.LIMITACIONES:Tamaño de muestra limitado, ausencia de un grupo comparativo, falta significativa de datos para identificar la dificultad para la actividad sexual femenina y el efectuar ecografía y manometría a los tres meses.CONCLUSIONES:Los pacientes sometidos a escisión mesorrectal total transanal refieren una calidad de vida y resultados funcionales aceptables a los doce meses después de la cirugía. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B541.

Background Abdominoperineal resection is the standard curative surgical technique for locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the lower rectum and squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal after chemoradiotherapy. However, it requires a definitive abdominal colostomy that modifies the body appearance. Objective The study aim was to evaluate the combination of abdominoperineal resection with perineal colostomy reconstruction and Malone antegrade continence enema. Design This was a retrospective study. Settings The study was conducted at the Toulouse Hospital Digestive Surgery Department. Patients All of the patients with advanced adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma who underwent abdominoperineal resection with perineal colostomy reconstruction and Malone antegrade continence enema (n = 80) between December 1999 and December 2016 were included. Main outcome measures The main outcome was the 5-year overall survival rate. Results The 5-year overall survival was 74.89% (95% CI, 62.91%-83.50%), and the median recurrence-free survival was 107.6 months (95% CI, 65.1-198.1 mo). The median follow-up was 91.0 months (95% CI, 70.4-116.6 mo). R0 resection was obtained in 64 patients (80.0%). The median Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (to assess the functional outcomes) was 9.0 (interquartile range, 1.0-18.0), and it was lower in patients with advanced adenocarcinoma than with squamous cell carcinoma (7.0 (interquartile range, 2.0-18.0) vs 11.0 (interquartile range, 1.0-17.0); p = 0.01). Eleven patients (13.8%) reported perineal stains during the night, and 19 patients (23.8%) needed drugs to reduce colon motility. The rate of severe complications (Clavien-Dindo >II) was 11.7% (n = 9). Definitive colostomy was performed in 15 patients (18.8%). Limitations This retrospective study included a small number of patients from a single center. Moreover, the functional outcome was tested with self-report questionnaires (risk of response bias). Conclusions This study suggests that abdominoperineal resection associated with perineal reconstruction by perineal colostomy and Malone antegrade continence enema is safe and may improve patient quality of life. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B629. Resultados oncolgicos y funcionales de la reconstruccin plviperineal mediante colostoma perineal y procedimiento de malone despus de la reseccin abdominoperineal ANTECEDENTES:La reseccion abdominoperineal es la tecnica quirurgica curativa estandar para el tratamiento del adenocarcinoma localmente avanzado del recto inferior y el carcinoma a celulas escamosas del canal anal, despues de radio-quimioterapia. Sin embargo, requiere una colostomia abdominal definitiva que modifica la apariencia corporal.OBJETIVO:El proposito del presente estudio fue el evaluar la combinacion de la reseccion abdominoperineal con la confeccion de una colostomia perineal asociada a enemas de continencia anterograda segun Malone.DISENO:Estudio retrospectivo.AJUSTES:Servicio de Cirugia Digestiva del Hospital de Toulouse, Francia.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron todos los pacientes con adenocarcinoma avanzado o carcinoma de celulas escamosas que se sometieron a reseccion abdominoperineal con la confeccion de una colostomia perineal asociada a enemas de continencia anterograda segun Malone (n = 80) entre diciembre de 1999 y diciembre de 2016.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El principal resultado fue la tasa de sobrevida global a 5 anos.RESULTADOS:La sobrevida global a 5 anos fue de 74,89% (IC del 95%, 62,91 a 83,50) y la mediana de supervivencia libre de recurrencia fue de 107,6 meses (IC del 95%, 65,1 a 198,1). La mediana de seguimiento fue de 91,0 meses (IC del 95%, 70,4-116,6). La reseccion R0 se obtuvo en 64 pacientes (80,0%). La mediana de puntuacion de la escala de incontinencia de la Cleveland Clinic (para evaluar los resultados funcionales) fue de 9,0 [1,0; 18,0], y fue menor en pacientes con adenocarcinoma avanzado que con carcinoma de celulas escamosas (7,0 [2,0; 18,0] versus 11,0 [1,0; 17,0]; p = 0,01). Once pacientes (13,8%) refirieron manchado perineal nocurno y 19 pacientes (23,8%) necesitaron farmacos para reducir la motilidad del colon. La tasa de complicaciones graves (Clavien-Dindo > II) fue del 11,7% (n = 9). Se realizo colostomia definitiva en 15 (18,8%) pacientes.LIMITACIONES:Este estudio retrospectivo incluyo un pequeno numero de pacientes y de un solo centro. Ademas, el resultado funcional se probo con cuestionarios de autoinforme (riesgo de sesgo de respuesta).CONCLUSIONES:Este estudio sugiere que la reseccion abdominoperineal asociada con la confeccion de una colostomia perineal asociada a enemas de continencia anterograda segun Malone es segura y puede mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B629.

Fistulotomy with immediate sphincteroplasty is a technique that can heal fistulas and decrease fecal incontinence more effectively than fistulotomy alone, in selected patients.We aimed to perform a long-term evaluation of fecal incontinence after fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty in patients with complex anal fistula.This prospective study included patients undergoing fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty for complex anal fistula from January 2000 to December 2010.The study was conducted by 2 colorectal surgeons in the coloproctology unit of the General Hospital of Elche.We included patients aged ≥18 years with complex anal fistulas of cryptoglandular origin.Main outcomes were recurrence and continence after fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty, according to fistula tract height and preoperative continence status.A total of 107 patients were included; 68.2% were men, with a mean age of 48 years and mean fistula duration of 12.8 months. The range and median follow-up period were 84 to 204 and 96 months. Thirty-seven fistulas were not primary. The overall healing rate was 84.1%. Primary fistulas healed by the end of follow-up in 58 (82.9%) of 70 patients; recurrent fistulas healed in 32 (86.5%) of 37; high tracts healed in 31 (83.8%) of 37, and nonhigh fistulas healed in 59 (84.3%) of 70. Male sex (OR = 0.66 (95% CI, 0.20-2.13); p0.05) and recurrent fistulas (OR = 0.43 (95% CI, 0.11-1.68); p0.05) could have a protective effect against postoperative fecal incontinence; however, more studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm this result, whereas high fistulas showed a 4-fold increased risk of incontinence (range, 1.22-13.06; p0.01). One in 5 high-tracts patients experienced continence deterioration.This was a prospective study, and randomized clinical trials with more patients and longer follow-up are needed to compare fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty with other sphincter-preserving techniques.Fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty are good options for treating complex anal fistulas, especially for recurrent fistulas, men, and patients with nonhigh tracts, with acceptable recurrence and incontinence rates. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B498.ANTECEDENTES:La fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata es una técnica que puede curar las fístulas y disminuir la incontinencia fecal de manera más efectiva que la fistulotomía sola, en pacientes seleccionados.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo fue realizar una evaluación a largo plazo de la incontinencia fecal después de la fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata en pacientes con fístula anal compleja.DISEÑO:Este estudio prospectivo incluyó pacientes sometidos a fistulotomía y esfinteroplastia inmediata por fístula anal compleja, desde enero de 2000 hasta diciembre de 2010.ENTORNO CLINICO:El estudio fue realizado por dos cirujanos colorrectales de la Unidad de Coloproctología del Hospital General de Elche.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes ≥ 18 años con fístulas anales complejas de origen criptoglandular.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACION:Los principales resultados fueron la recurrencia y la continencia después de la fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata, de acuerdo con la altura del trayecto de la fístula y el estado de continencia preoperatoria.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron un total de 107 pacientes; El 68,2% eran varones, con una edad media de 48 años y una duración media de la fístula de 12,8 meses. El rango y la mediana del período de seguimiento fue de 84-204 y 96 meses, respectivamente. Treinta y siete fístulas no fueron primarias. La tasa de curación general fue del 84,1%. Las fístulas primarias cicatrizaron al final del seguimiento en 58/70 (82,9%) pacientes; las fístulas recurrentes cicatrizaron en 32/37 (86,5%); los tractos altos cicatrizaron en 31/37 (83,8%) y las fístulas no altas cicatrizaron en 59/70 (84,3%). El sexo masculino (razón de posibilidades: 0,66 [0,20-2,13], p0,05) y las fístulas recurrentes (razón de posibilidades: 0,43 [0,11-1,68], p0,05) podrían tener un efecto protector contra la incontinencia fecal postoperatoria, sin embargo, más estudios con una muestra más grande son necesarios para confirmar este resultado. Fistulas altas mostraron un riesgo cuatro veces mayor de incontinencia ([1.22-13.06], p0.01). Uno de cada cinco pacientes con tractos altos experimentó un deterioro de la continencia.LIMITACIONES:Este fue un estudio prospectivo y se necesitan ensayos clínicos aleatorios con más pacientes y un seguimiento más prolongado para comparar la fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata con otras técnicas de preservación del esfínter.CONCLUSIÓN:La fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata son buenas opciones para el tratamiento de fístulas anales complejas, especialmente para fístulas recurrentes, varones y pacientes con tractos no altos, con tasas aceptables de recurrencia e incontinencia. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B498.

Neuropathy may cause fecal incontinence and mixed fecal incontinence/constipation, but its prevalence is unclear, partly due to the lack of comprehensive testing of spino-anorectal innervation.This study aimed to develop and determine the clinical usefulness of a novel test, translumbosacral anorectal magnetic stimulation for fecal incontinence.This observational cohort study was conducted from 2012 to 2018.This study was performed at a tertiary referral center.Patients with fecal incontinence, patients with mixed fecal incontinence/constipation, and healthy controls were included.A translumbosacral anorectal magnetic stimulation test was performed by using an anorectal probe with 4 ring electrodes and magnetic coil, and by stimulating bilateral lumbar and sacral plexuses, uses and recording 8 motor-evoked potentials at anal and rectal sites.The prevalence of lumbar and/or sacral neuropathy was examined. Secondary outcomes were correlation of neuropathy with anorectal sensorimotor function(s) and morphological changes.We evaluated 220 patients: 144 with fecal incontinence, 76 with mixed fecal incontinence/constipation, and 31 healthy controls. All 8 lumbar and sacral motor-evoked potential latencies were significantly prolonged (p0.01) in fecal incontinence and mixed fecal incontinence/constipation groups compared with controls. Neuropathy was patchy and involved 4.0 (3.0) (median (interquartile range)) sites. Lumbar neuropathy was seen in 29% to 65% of the patients in the fecal incontinence group and 22% to 61% of the patients in the mixed fecal incontinence/constipation group, and sacral neuropathy was seen in 24% to 64% and 29% to 61% of these patients. Anal neuropathy was significantly more (p0.001) prevalent than rectal neuropathy in both groups. There was no correlation between motor-evoked potential latencies and anal sphincter pressures, rectal sensation, or anal sphincter defects.No comparative analysis with electromyography was performed.Lumbar or sacral plexus neuropathy was detected in 40% to 75% of patients with fecal incontinence with a 2-fold greater prevalence at the anal region than the rectum. Lumbosacral neuropathy appears to be an independent mechanism in the pathogenesis of fecal incontinence, unassociated with other sensorimotor dysfunctions. Translumbosacral anorectal magnetic stimulation has a high yield and is a safe and clinically useful neurophysiological test. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B728.ANTECEDENTES:La neuropatía puede causar incontinencia fecal y una combinación de incontinencia fe-cal/estreñimiento, pero su prevalencia no está clara, en parte debido a la falta de pruebas comple-tas de inervación espino-anorrectal.OBJETIVO:Desarrollar y determinar la utilidad clínica de una nueva prueba, estimulación magnética trans-lumbosacral anorrectal para la incontinencia fecal.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte observacional del 2012 al 2018.ENTORNO CLINICO:Centro de referencia terciario.PACIENTES:Pacientes con incontinencia fecal, combinación de incontinencia fecal/estreñimiento y controles sanos.INTERVENCIONES:Se realizó una prueba de estimulación magnética translumbosacral anorrectal utilizando una sonda anorrectal con 4 electrodos anulares y bobina magnética, y estimulando los plexos lumbares y sacros bilaterales y registrando ocho potenciales evocados motores las regiones anal y rectal.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se examinó la prevalencia de neuropatía lumbar y/o sacra. Los resultados secundarios fueron la correlación de la neuropatía con las funciones sensitivomotoras anorrectales y cambios morfológi-cos.RESULTADOS:Evaluamos 220 pacientes, 144 con incontinencia fecal, 76 con combinación de incontinencia fe-cal/estreñimiento y 31 sujetos sanos. Las ocho latencias de los potenciales evocadas motoras lum-bares y sacras se prolongaron significativamente (p0,01) en la incontinencia fecal y el grupo mixto en comparación con los controles. La neuropatía fue irregular y afectaba 4,0 (3,0) (mediana (rango intercuartílico) sitios. Se observó neuropatía lumbar en 29-65% en la incontinencia fecal y 22-61% en el grupo mixto, y neuropatía sacra en 24-64% y 29-61 % de pacientes respectivamen-te. La neuropatía anal fue significativamente más prevalente (p0,001) que la rectal en ambos grupos. No hubo correlación entre las latencias de los potenciales evocadas motoras y las presio-nes del esfínter anal, la sensación rectal o los defectos del esfínter anal.LIMITACIONES:Sin análisis comparativo con electromiografía.CONCLUSIÓNES:Se detectó neuropatía del plexo lumbar o sacro en el 40-75% de los pacientes con incontinencia fecal con una prevalencia dos veces mayor en la región anal que en el recto. La neuropatía lumbo-sacra parece ser un mecanismo independiente en la patogenia de la incontinencia fecal, no asocia-do con otras disfunciones sensitivomotoras. La estimulación magnética translumbosacral anorrec-tal tiene un alto rendimiento, es una prueba neurofisiológica segura y clínicamente útil. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B728.

BACKGROUND A pilot study conducted at our institution showed that a significant amount of prescribed postoperative opioids is left unused with the potential for diversion and misuse. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the impact of provider- and patient-targeted educational interventions on postoperative opioid prescription and use following anorectal procedures. DESIGN Patients were enrolled on July 2019 through March 2020 after implementing educational interventions (study) and were compared with the pilot study group (control) enrolled on August 2018 through May 2019. A telephone survey was conducted 1 week postoperatively. SETTINGS This study was conducted at a 600-bed, safety-net hospital in southern California. PATIENTS Adult patients undergoing ambulatory anorectal procedures were included. Patients who had undergone an examination under anesthesia, had been incarcerated, and had used opioids preoperatively were excluded. INTERVENTIONS Educational interventions were developed based on the pilot study results. Providers received education on recommended opioid prescription quantities and a multimodal pain regimen. Standardized patient education infographics were distributed to patients pre- and postoperatively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcomes measured were total opioid prescribed, total opioid consumed, pain control satisfaction levels, and the need for additional opioid prescription. RESULTS A total of 104 of 122 (85%) patients enrolled responded to the survey and were compared with the 112 patients included in the control group. Despite similar demographics, the study cohort was prescribed fewer milligram morphine equivalents (78.8 ± 11.3 vs 294.0 ± 33.1, p < 0.001), consumed fewer milligram morphine equivalents (23.0 ± 28.0 vs 57.1 ± 45.8, p < 0.001), and had a higher rate of nonopioid medication use (72% vs 10%, p < 0.001). The 2 groups had similar pain control satisfaction levels (4.1 ± 1.3 vs 3.9 ± 1.1 out of 5, p = 0.12) and an additional opioid prescription requirement (5% vs 4%, p = 1.0). LIMITATIONS This study was limited by its single-center experience with specific patient population characteristics. CONCLUSION Educational interventions emphasizing evidence-based recommended opioid prescription quantities and regimented multimodal pain regimens are effective in decreasing excessive opioid prescribing and use without compromising satisfactory pain control in patients undergoing ambulatory anorectal procedures. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B529. REDUCCIN DE LA SOBREPRESCRIPCIN Y EL USO DE OPIOIDES DESPUS DE UNA INTERVENCIN EDUCATIVA ESTANDARIZADA UNA ENCUESTA DE LAS EXPERIENCIAS EN PACIENTES POSTOPERADOS DE PROCEDIMIENTOS ANORRECTALES ANTECEDENTES:Un estudio piloto realizado en nuestra institucion mostro que una cantidad significativa de opioides posoperatorios recetados no se usa, con potencial de desvio y uso indebido.OBJETIVO:Evaluar el impacto de las intervenciones educativas dirigidas al paciente y al proveedor sobre la prescripcion y el uso de opioides posoperatorios despues de procedimientos anorrectales.DISENO:Los pacientes se incluyeron entre julio de 2019 y marzo de 2020 despues de implementar intervenciones educativas (estudio) y se compararon con el grupo de estudio piloto (control) inscrito entre agosto de 2018 y mayo de 2019. Se realizo una encuesta telefonica una semana despues de la cirugia.ENTORNO CLINICO:Hospital de 600 camas en el sur de California.PACIENTES:Pacientes adultos sometidos a procedimientos anorrectales ambulatorios. Los criterios de exclusion fueron pacientes que recibieron un examen bajo anestesia, pacientes encarcelados y uso preoperatorio de opioides.INTERVENCIONES:Se desarrollaron intervenciones educativas basadas en los resultados del estudio piloto. Los proveedores recibieron educacion sobre las cantidades recomendadas de opioides recetados y un regimen multimodal para el dolor. Se distribuyeron infografias estandarizadas de educacion para el paciente antes y despues de la operacion.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Opioide total prescrito, opioide total consumido, niveles de satisfaccion del control del dolor y necesidad de prescripcion adicional de opioides.RESULTADOS:Un total de 104 de 122 (85%) pacientes inscritos respondieron a la encuesta y se compararon con los 112 pacientes incluidos en el grupo de control. A pesar de una demografia similar, a la cohorte del estudio se le prescribio menos miligramos de equivalente de morfina (MME) (78,8 ± 11,3 frente a 294,0 ± 33,1, p

BACKGROUND Anal lesions in cases of Crohn's disease can give rise to adenocarcinoma of the anal canal; however, the oncologic outcomes in these patients have not yet been thoroughly investigated. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to clarify the influence of Crohn's disease on the oncologic outcomes in patients with adenocarcinoma of the anal canal. DESIGN This was a retrospective observational study from a prospectively collected database. SETTINGS The study was conducted at a single institution. PATIENTS This study included 102 patients with adenocarcinoma of the anal canal, including 34 (33.3%) with Crohn's disease-associated lesions and 68 (66.7%) with non-Crohn's disease-associated lesions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prognostic factors were detected using a Cox regression analysis, and the oncologic outcomes were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Crohn's disease-associated patients were significantly younger (45 vs 62 y; p < 0.001), had a high incidence of external/anal gland-type disease (61.8% vs 5.9%, p < 0.001) and had large tumors (7.1 ± 3.0 vs 4.7 ± 2.3 cm; p = 0.03) in comparison with non-Crohn's disease-associated patients. A Cox regression analysis showed that an advanced clinical T stage (T3 or T4; tumor size ≥5 cm) was an independent risk factor for 5-year local recurrence-free survival (HR = 3.49; p = 0.04), disease-free survival (HR = 2.82; p = 0.008), and overall survival (HR = 2.92; p = 0.006), and Crohn's disease association was an independent prognostic factor for local recurrence-free survival (HR = 2.29; p = 0.04) and overall survival (HR = 2.86; p = 0.04). The oncologic outcomes of patients who had the 2 abovementioned negative factors (cT3,4 Crohn's disease-associated patients) were significantly poorer than those of T3,4 non-Crohn's disease-associated patients (5-year local recurrence-free survival: 32.5% vs 70.4%, p = 0.001; disease-free survival: 15.9% vs 40.7%, p = 0.04; overall survival: 25.8% vs 71.0%, p = 0.007). LIMITATIONS This was a single-arm, retrospective study. CONCLUSIONS Significantly poorer oncologic outcomes were confirmed in Crohn's disease-associated patients with large tumors. Thus, it is important to perform careful surveillance of anal lesions in patients with Crohn's disease while taking these facts into consideration. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B449. RESULTADOS ONCOLGICOS ADVERSOS DEL ADENOCARCINOMA DEL CANAL ANAL EN PACIENTES CON ENFERMEDAD DE CROHN ANTECEDENTES:Las lesiones anales en casos de enfermedad de Crohn pueden dar lugar a un adenocarcinoma del canal anal; sin embargo, los resultados oncologicos en estos pacientes aun no se han investigado a fondo.OBJETIVOS:Este estudio tuvo como objetivo aclarar la influencia de la enfermedad de Crohn en los resultados oncologicos en pacientes con adenocarcinoma del canal anal.DISENO:Estudio observacional retrospectivo de una base de datos recopilada prospectivamente.ENTORNO CLINICO:El estudio se realizo en una sola institucion.PACIENTES:Este estudio incluyo 102 pacientes con adenocarcinoma del canal anal, incluidos 34 (33,3%) con lesiones asociadas a la enfermedad de Crohn y 68 (66,7%) con lesiones no asociadas a la enfermedad de Crohn.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VOLARACION:Los factores pronosticos se detectaron mediante un analisis de regresion de Cox y los resultados oncologicos se calcularon utilizando el metodo de Kaplan-Meier.RESULTADOS:Los pacientes asociados a la enfermedad de Crohn eran significativamente mas jovenes (45 versus a 62 anos, p

Background Acute anorectal abscesses of cryptoglandular origin are commonly managed by incision and drainage, which results in fistula development in up to 73% of cases, requiring subsequent definitive fistula surgery. However, given that fistula tracts may already be present at the initial presentation, primary closure of the tract as secondary prevention of fistula formation, using ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract, may be useful. Objective This study aims to examine the feasibility and outcomes of performing intersphincteric exploration with ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract or attempted closure of internal opening for acute anorectal abscesses. Design This is a retrospective study of patients with acute anorectal cryptoglandular abscesses who underwent surgery between January 2014 and December 2016. Settings The patients were treated at a tertiary referral center in Thailand. Patients Eighty-six patients with acute anorectal abscesses without previous surgery were included. Interventions Intersphincteric dissection was performed. Further surgical intervention was dependent on the intersphincteric findings. Main outcome measure The main outcome measure was the 90-day healed rate. Results Of the 86 patients, 3 had low intersphincteric abscesses, 26 had low transsphincteric abscesses, 25 had anterior high transsphincteric abscesses, 27 had posterior high transsphincteric abscesses, and 5 had high intersphincteric abscesses. Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract was successfully performed in 66 patients with an identifiable intersphincteric tract. Intersphincteric exploration with attempted closure of the internal opening was performed in the remaining 20 patients. The success rates were 86% and 70%. Unidentified internal opening and intersphincteric pathology were risk factors for nonhealing. No patients reported fecal incontinence postoperatively. Limitations The limitation of this study is its retrospective nature and that all operations were performed by a single surgeon; therefore, the results may vary according to the individual surgeon's expertise. Conclusions Fistula tract formation was found in most cases of acute anorectal abscesses. Definitive surgery using this strategy provides promising results. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B451. Exploracin interesfintrica con ligadura del trayecto en la fstula interesfintrica o intento de cierre del orificio interno en abscesos anorrectales agudos ANTECEDENTES:Los abscesos anorrectales agudos de origen criptoglandular, comunmente se manejan mediante incision y drenaje, lo que resulta en el desarrollo de una fistula hasta en un 73% de los casos, requiriendo posteriormente cirugia definitiva de la fistula. Sin embargo, dado que los trayectos de la fistula ya pueden estar inicialmente presentes, puede ser util el cierre primario del trayecto, como prevencion secundaria en la formacion de la fistula, mediante la ligadura del trayecto de la fistula interesfinterica.OBJETIVO:El estudio tiene como objetivo, examinar la viabilidad y los resultados en realizar exploracion interesfinterica, con ligadura del trayecto de fistula interesfinterica o intento de cierre del orificio interno para abscesos anorrectales agudos.DISENO:Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo de pacientes con abscesos criptoglandulares anorrectales agudos, que fueron operados entre enero de 2014 y diciembre de 2016.AJUSTES:Los pacientes fueron tratados en un centro de referencia terciario en Tailandia.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron 86 pacientes con abscesos anorrectales agudos, sin cirugia previa.INTERVENCIONES:Se realizo diseccion interesfinterica. La intervencion quirurgica adicional dependio de los hallazgos interesfintericos.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:La principal medida de resultado, fue la tasa de cicatrizacion a 90 dias.RESULTADOS:De los 86 pacientes, hubo 3 abscesos interesfintericos bajos, 26 abscesos transesfintericos bajos, 25 abscesos transesfintericos anteriores altos, 27 abscesos transesfintericos posteriores altos y 5 abscesos interesfintericos altos. La ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica, con tracto interesfinterico identificable, se realizo con exito en 66 pacientes. Se realizo exploracion interesfinterica, con intento de cierre del orificio interno en los 20 pacientes restantes. Las tasas de exito fueron 86% y 70% respectivamente. Orificio interno no identificado y patologia interesfinterica, fueron factores de riesgo para la falta de cicatrizacion. Ningun paciente reporto incontinencia fecal posoperatoria.LIMITACIONES:La limitacion de este estudio, es su naturaleza retrospectiva y que todas las operaciones fueron realizadas por un solo cirujano, por lo tanto, los resultados pueden variar segun la experiencia de cada cirujano.CONCLUSIONES:En la mayoria de los casos de abscesos anorrectales agudos, se encontro formacion de trayectos fistulosos. La cirugia definitiva con esta estrategia, proporciona resultados prometedores. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B451.

Background Human papillomavirus has been implicated in the carcinogenesis of squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal. p16 expression and the presence of human papillomavirus DNA have been used to define human papillomavirus-positive patients, but neither approach has been validated against the standard of human papillomavirus E6/7 mRNA expression at this disease site. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of p16 immunohistochemistry as a surrogate to E6/7 mRNA expression in identifying human papillomavirus-mediated squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal. Design This was a retrospective analysis of a previously constructed tissue microarray. Settings This study was conducted at a tertiary academic center. Patients Biopsies and resection specimens from patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal at the study institution from 2005 to 2015 were reviewed for sample adequacy. Main outcome measures Concordance between p16 positivity by immunohistochemistry and E6/7 mRNA expression by in situ hybridization was evaluated. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value were assessed. Results Among the 25 patients evaluated, p16 and E6/7 mRNA results were concordant in 24 of 25 specimens (96%). Of the 24 concordant samples, there were 23 true positives (p16+ and E6/7+) and 1 true negative (p16- and E6/7-). One specimen was discordant (p16- and E6/7+) between p16 and E6/7 mRNA (4%). This resulted in a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 100%. Positive predictive value of p16 immunohistochemistry for E6/7 mRNA expression was 100%. Limitations This study was limited by its retrospective nature and small sample size. It only assessed diagnostic parameters rather than prognostic implications. Conclusions In this study, the clinically prevalent method of p16 immunohistochemistry showed excellent concordance with the standard of E6/7 mRNA expression and demonstrated its potential to serve as a surrogate for identifying human papillomavirus-induced squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B448. Evaluando la confiabilidad y el valor predictivo positivo de p, como sustituto de la expresin de arnm de e / , mediada por el virus del papiloma humano, en carcinoma de clulas escamosas del canal anal ANTECEDENTES:El virus del papiloma humano se ha relacionado en la carcinogenesis del carcinoma de celulas escamosas del canal anal. La expresion de p16 y la presencia de ADN del virus del papiloma humano, se han utilizado para definir a los pacientes positivos al virus del papiloma humano. Pero ninguno de estos enfoques, han sido validados frente al estandar de oro de la expresion del ARNm del virus del papiloma humano E6 / 7, en este sitio de la enfermedad.OBJETIVO:El estudio tuvo como objetivo, evaluar la aceptabilidad de la inmunohistoquimica del p16, como sustituto de la expresion de ARNm de E6 / 7, en la identificacion del carcinoma de celulas escamosas del canal anal, mediada por virus del papiloma humano.DISENO:Fue un analisis retrospectivo de un microarreglo de tejido previamente construido.AJUSTE:El estudio se realizo en un centro academico terciario.PACIENTES:Se revisaron biopsias y muestras de reseccion de pacientes diagnosticados con carcinoma de celulas escamosas del canal anal, en la institucion del estudio, entre 2005 y 2015 para determinar la idoneidad de la muestra.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se evaluo la concordancia entre la positividad de p16 por inmunohistoquimica y la expresion de ARNm de E6 / 7 por hibridacion in situ. Se evaluaron la sensibilidad, especificidad y valor predictivo positivo.RESULTADOS:Entre los 25 pacientes evaluados, los resultados del ARNm de p16 y E6 / 7 fueron concordantes en 24/25 muestras (96%). De las 24 muestras concordantes, hubo 23 positivos verdaderos (p16 + y E6 / 7 +) y un negativo verdadero (p16- y E6 / 7-). Una muestra fue discordante (p16- y E6 / 7 +) entre p16 y ARNm de E6 / 7 (4%). Esto resulto en una sensibilidad del 96% y una especificidad del 100%. El valor predictivo positivo de la inmunohistoquimica de p16 para la expresion de ARNm de E6 / 7 fue del 100%.LIMITACIONES:El estudio estuvo limitado por su naturaleza retrospectiva y por el tamano pequeno de la muestra. Solamente evaluo los parametros de diagnostico, en lugar de las implicaciones pronosticas.CONCLUSIONES:En este estudio, el metodo clinico prevalente de inmunohistoquimica p16, mostro una excelente concordancia con el estandar de oro de la expresion de ARNm de E6 / 7 y demostro su potencial para servir, como sustituto para identificar el carcinoma de celulas escamosas del canal anal, inducido por el virus del papiloma humano. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B448.

Background Anorectal stricturing is a particularly morbid manifestation of Crohn's disease resulting in a diminished quality of life related to pain, incontinence, and recurrent operative interventions. Objective To determine the role of medical therapy, endoscopic dilation, and surgical intervention for the treatment of isolated anorectal stricturing. Data sources An organized search of MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Collected Reviews was performed from January 1, 1990 through May 1, 2020. Study selection Full text papers which included management of isolated anorectal strictures in the setting of Crohn's disease. Intervention(s) Medical and surgical management. Main outcome measures Symptomatic relief, need for proctocolectomy. Results Our search identified a total of 553 papers; after exclusion based on title (n = 430) and abstract (n = 47), 76 underwent full text review with 65 relevant to the management of anorectal strictures. A summary of the retrospective reports suggests that medical therapy can help control luminal inflammation, but fibrosis may ultimately set in resulting in a need for endoscopic or surgical intervention. Surgical options are limited in the anal canal due to inflammation and ulceration and concomitant perianal fistulizing disease. While fecal diversion can provide symptomatic relief, successful restoration of intestinal continuity remains uncommon and most patients ultimately undergo a total proctocolectomy with end ileostomy. Limitations Limited literature published, all retrospective in nature. Conclusions Despite significant advances in medical and surgical therapy in Crohn's disease over the last decades, there is clearly an unmet need in the management of anorectal strictures in Crohn's disease.

CASE SUMMARY A 22-year-old man presents to your office with a perianal abscess and occasional mild crampy abdominal pain. You take him to the operating room for an examination under anesthesia (EUA) with incision and drainage of the abscess and note a transphincteric fistula tract through which you place a seton and 2 large skin tags. The anal canal and rectum are without ulceration, but there are mild proctitis and nonprolapsing internal hemorrhoids. Because of a concern for Crohn's disease (CD), he undergoes magnetic resonance enterography and colonoscopy. The magnetic resonance enterography shows inflammation in 20 cm of the distal terminal ileum, and colonoscopy reveals approximately 10 ulcers

Background Transanal excision is the surgical treatment of choice for low-risk rectal pathology such as endoscopically unresectable polyps, very select early rectal cancers, as well as other benign and low-risk tumors. Robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery enhances the surgeon's ability to work in the confined space of the rectum and helps overcome the limitations of other modalities for transanal excision. Large lesions that extend to the dentate line and cannot be excised transanally impart a particular challenge. Herein, we describe a hybrid robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery approach for excising large rectal lesions that extend to the dentate line and cannot be excised by utilizing traditional transanal techniques. Technique With the use of a standard transanal approach, the distal margin of the lesion is marked and lifted off of the internal sphincter muscle. The dissection is continued until above the anorectal ring, and a 5.5-cm transanal platform is introduced transanally. Insufflation with an 8-mm trocar is initiated and the robotic platform is docked transanally. A 1-cm circumferential proximal margin is marked, and the excision is continued robotically until en bloc resection of the lesion is completed. The defect is closed in a transverse fashion using barbed suture. For rare cases of circumferential or nearly circumferential full-thickness defects, interrupted barbed sutures are placed equidistant, the robot is undocked, the transanal platform is removed, and a handsewn coloanal anastomosis is performed allowing complete closure of the defect. Results A hybrid robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery approach to large and low-lying rectal lesions is feasible and safe, and it has advantages over standard transanal excision including enhanced ergonomics, dexterity, and optics, as well as reduced rates of specimen fragmentation. Conclusion A hybrid robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery approach allows for complete resection of very large polyps, which would otherwise be extremely challenging with standard transanal approaches. See Video at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B231.

Complex anal fistula is one of the challenging anorectal conditions. Several treatments have been proposed for complex anal fistula, yet none proved to be ideal.This randomized trial aimed to assess the efficacy of external anal sphincter-sparing seton in comparison with the conventional drainage seton in the treatment of complex anal fistula.This was a prospective, randomized, single-blind controlled study.The study was conducted at the Colorectal Surgery Unit of Mansoura University Hospitals.Adult patients of both sexes with complex anal fistula were recruited and evaluated with MRI before surgery.Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups; group 1 was treated with conventional drainage seton and group 2 was treated with external anal sphincter-sparing seton using a rerouting technique.The duration of healing, incidence of recurrence or persistence, postoperative pain, and complications including fecal incontinence were measured.Sixty patients (56 men) with a mean age of 43 years were included. Mean operation time in group 1 was significantly shorter than group 2 (29.8 ± 4.3 vs 43.8 ± 4.5 min; p0.0001). The mean pain score at 24 hours in group 1 was 8.1 ± 1.6 versus 5.3 ± 1.3 in group 2 (p0.0001). Five patients (17%) in group 1 experienced complications versus 2 (7%) in group 2. All of the patients in group 1 required a second-stage fistulotomy versus 2 patients (7%) in group 2 (p0.0001). Time to complete healing in group 1 was significantly (p0.0001) longer than group 2 (103 ± 47 vs 46 ± 18 d). Four patients (13%) in group 1 and 1 patient (3%) in group 2 experienced persistence or recurrence of anal fistula (p = 0.35).This was a single-center study with relatively small numbers in each group.Patients treated with external anal sphincter-sparing seton after rerouting of the fistula tract achieved quicker healing and less postoperative pain than those with conventional drainage seton. Postoperative complication and recurrence rates were comparable in both groups. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A963.clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03636997 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03636997).

BACKGROUND Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy and vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy seem to reduce postoperative pain compared with classic excisional hemorrhoidectomy, but whether one of them is superior remains unclear. OBJECTIVE We compared transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy and vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy. DESIGN This was a multicenter, randomized controlled trial. SETTING The study was conducted at 6 Spanish centers. PATIENTS Patients aged ≥18 years with grade III to IV hemorrhoids were included. INTERVENTIONS Patients were randomly assigned to transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy (n = 39) or vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy (n = 41). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome was the mean postoperative number of days in which patients needed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Secondary outcomes were postoperative pain, 30-day morbidity, patient satisfaction, Vaizey score, hemorrhoid symptoms score, return to work, and quality of life. RESULTS More patients were still taking analgesia in the vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy group during the second postoperative week compared with the transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy group (87.8% vs 53.8%; p = 0.002). For the transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy group, analgesia consumption continued until day 10.1 (mean; SD = 7.22 d), whereas in the vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy group it continued until day 15.2 (mean; SD = 8.70 d; p = 0.006). The mean daily average pain was similar during the first (p = 0.900) and second postoperative weeks (p = 0.265). Mean operative time was higher for the transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy group versus the vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy group (45 min; range, 40-60 vs 20 min; range, 15-41 min; p < 0.001). Postoperative complications rate, use of laxatives, patient satisfaction, Vaizey score, hemorrhoids symptoms score, return to work, and quality of life at 1 month after surgery were similar between groups. LIMITATIONS The main limitation of this study was that the 2 groups did not contain equal numbers of grade III and IV hemorrhoids. CONCLUSIONS Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy is associated with a shorter need for postoperative analgesia compared with vessel-sealing device hemorrhoidectomy. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A915. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02654249.

With increasing rates of sphincter preservation because of advances in preoperative chemoradiation, restoration of bowel continuity has become a main goal of rectal cancer treatment. However, in many patients, postoperative bowel dysfunction negatively affects the quality of life.This study aimed to analyze predictors of bowel dysfunction after sphincter-preserving surgery in patients with rectal cancer.This was a cross-sectional study.Assessment of bowel dysfunction was conducted between November 2015 and June 2017 at our institution.A total of 316 patients with rectal cancer who underwent sphincter-preserving surgery between February 2009 and April 2017 and agreed with an interview for assessing bowel dysfunction were included.Bowel dysfunction was assessed with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Bowel Function Instrument and Wexner score. All the assessments were conducted face-to-face by the same interviewer.The median time interval between the restoration of bowel continuity and assessment was 10 months (interquartile range, 3-37), and the median total Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Wexner scores were 65 (interquartile range, 58-73) and 6 (interquartile range, 0-11). The time interval was correlated with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center scores (rho, 0.279) and Wexner scores (rho, -0.306). In a multivariate analysis, handsewn anastomosis and short time interval (≤1 year) were independently associated with poor bowel function (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center score ≤65). A short time interval (≤1 year), preoperative chemoradiation, and ileostomy were independently associated with major fecal incontinence (Wexner ≥8).Selection bias may be inherent.Bowel function recovers with time after the restoration of bowel continuity. A short time interval, handsewn anastomosis, preoperative chemoradiation, and ileostomy were significantly associated with poor bowel function or major fecal incontinence. Surgeons should discuss postoperative bowel dysfunction and its predictive factors with the patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A930.

Background The progression rate and predictors of anal dysplastic lesions to squamous cell carcinoma of the anus remain unclear. Characterizing these parameters may help refine anal cancer screening guidelines. Objective This study aimed to determine the rate of progression of high-grade anal dysplasia to invasive carcinoma in HIV-infected persons. Design Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database linked to Medicare claims from 2000 to 2011, we identified HIV-infected subjects with incident anal intraepithelial neoplasia III. To estimate the rate of progression of anal intraepithelial neoplasia III to invasive cancer, we calculated the cumulative incidence of anal cancer in this cohort. We then fitted Poisson models to evaluate the potential risk factors for incident anal cancer. Settings This is a population-based study. Patients Included were 592 HIV-infected subjects with incident anal intraepithelial neoplasia III. Main outcome measures The primary outcome measured was incident squamous cell carcinoma of the anus. Results Study subjects were largely male (95%) with a median age of 45.7 years. Within the median follow-up period of 69 months, 33 subjects progressed to anal cancer. The incidence of anal cancer was 1.2% (95% CI, 0.7%-2.5%) and 5.7% (95% CI, 4.0%-8.1%) at 1 and 5 years, following a diagnosis of anal intraepithelial neoplasia III. Risk of progression did not differ by anal intraepithelial neoplasia III treatment status. On unadjusted analysis, black race (p = 0.02) and a history of anogenital condylomata (p = 0.03) were associated with an increased risk of anal cancer incidence, whereas prior anal cytology screening was associated with a decreased risk (p = 0.04). Limitations The identification of some incident cancer episodes used surrogate measures. Conclusions In our population-based cohort of HIV-infected subjects with long-term follow-up, the risk of progression from anal intraepithelial neoplasia III to anal squamous cell carcinoma was higher than reported in other studies and was not associated with the receipt of anal intraepithelial neoplasia III treatment. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A933.

BACKGROUND Anal acoustic reflectometry investigates the opening and closing function of the anal canal using reflected sound waves to measure a cross-sectional area at different pressures. Anal acoustic reflectometry is reliable and repeatable, distinguishes between continence and incontinence and between subgroups of incontinence, correlates with symptom severity, and does not distort the anal canal during investigation. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to validate anal acoustic reflectometry methodology by asking 2 questions: can anal acoustic reflectometry be used alongside manometry (order study) and can anal acoustic reflectometry be performed faster (filling study). The secondary aim was to assess the response of the anal canal to stretch using anal acoustic reflectometry. DESIGN This research included 2 prospective randomized studies. SETTINGS The study was conducted at a tertiary referral center. PATIENTS Patients undergoing investigation for fecal incontinence were included. INTERVENTION For the order study, patients were prospectively randomized to anal acoustic reflectometry, manometry, 2-minute rest and then manometry, anal acoustic reflectometry, or vice versa. For the filling study, patients were prospectively randomized to fast rate anal acoustic reflectometry (5 cm H2O/1 s), manometry, 2-minute rest and then manometry, normal rate anal acoustic reflectometry (5 cm H2O/3 s), or vice versa. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was no difference in anal acoustic reflectometry or manometry variables. Demographic and clinical data were recorded. RESULTS The order study included 30 patients with a median age of 63 years (range, 30-84 y); 77% were women. No difference was found among all of the variables of anal acoustic reflectometry and manometry regardless of which test was performed first. The filling study included 50 patients with a median age of 62 years (range, 30-78 y); 80% were women. No difference was found between fast and normal rates of anal acoustic reflectometry and manometry in any order. LIMITATIONS This study was limited by its comparison with water-perfused manometry. CONCLUSIONS Anal acoustic reflectometry and manometry can be performed at the normal or fast rate of anal acoustic reflectometry in any order. A fast rate of anal acoustic reflectometry did not augment the response of the anal canal to stretch as measured by anal acoustic reflectometry and manometry. This study validates a faster anal acoustic reflectometry technique and vindicates previous data. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A821.

Management of transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas remains a challenging problem and the optimal surgical approach remains elusive. Mesenchymal stem cells, increasingly being utilized for perianal Crohn's disease, offer a novel therapy to treat cryptoglandular fistulas.This study aimed to determine safety and feasibility of using an autologous mesenchymal stem cell-coated fistula plug in patients with transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas.This study is a phase I clinical trial.This study was conducted at a tertiary academic medical center.Adult (18 years) male and female patients with transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas were selected.The primary outcomes measured were the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a mesenchymal stem cell-coated fistula plug in patients with transsphincteric fistulas.Fifteen patients (8 women, mean age 39.8 years) with a single-tract transsphincteric fistula received a mesenchymal stem cell-loaded fistula plug and were followed for 6 months. Duration of disease at the time of study enrollment was a median of 3.0 years (range, 1-13 years) with a median of 3.5 (range, 1-20) prior surgical interventions. Adverse events included 1 plug extrusion, 1 abdominal wall seroma, 3 perianal abscesses requiring drainage, and 1 patient with perianal cellulitis. There were no serious adverse events. At 6 months, 3 patients had complete clinical healing, 8 had partial healing, and 4 patients showed no clinical improvement. Radiographic improvement was seen in 11 of 15 patients.This study was limited by the small cohort and short follow-up.Autologous mesenchymal stem cell-coated fistula plug treatment of transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas was safe and feasible and resulted in complete or partial healing in a majority of patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A897.

To date only few data have been available relating to the oncologic safety of intersphincteric resection in such advanced tumors.This study aimed to elucidate the oncologic outcomes and clinical factors affecting the long-term survival of patients who underwent preoperative chemoradiotherapy followed by intersphincteric resection for locally advanced rectal cancers.This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected departmental data.The study was conducted at a department of colorectal surgery in a tertiary care teaching hospital between January 2009 and September 2015.A cohort of 147 consecutive patients with low rectal cancer undergoing intersphincteric resection after preoperative chemoradiotherapy was included.Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to evaluate the 3-year disease-free survival and local recurrence rates. Logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the influence of tumor response and other prognostic factors on survival outcomes.Median follow-up was 34 months (range, 8-94 mo). The estimated overall 3-year disease-free survival and local recurrence rates were 64.9% and 11.7%. Circumferential resection margin involvement and pathologic T stage (ypT stage) were significant predictors of cancer relapse. The 3-year disease-free survival was 47.4% for patients with ypT3 tumors compared with 82.0% for those with ypT0-2 tumors (p = 0.001). The 3-year disease-free survival was 36.5% for patients with involved circumferential resection margins compared with 69.7% for those with a noninvolved circumferential resection margin (p = 0.003). On multivariate analysis, ypT stage, ymrT stage, and circumferential resection margin status were associated with worse disease-free survival. Clinical T-stage and pathologic distal margin status were not independent factors affecting oncologic outcomes.This study is limited with respect to its retrospective design.In these patients with locally advanced low rectal cancers, intersphincteric resection after preoperative chemoradiotherapy was associated with acceptable oncologic outcomes. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A941.

There are no adequately validated tools to evaluate symptoms or disease-specific health-related quality of life in hemorrhoidal disease.The purpose of this study was to assess validity, reliability, and responsiveness of a symptom score of patient-reported pain, itching, bleeding, soiling, and prolapse (Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score). In addition, the study set out to assess reliability and responsiveness of an instrument to measure health-related quality of life in patients with hemorrhoids (Short Health ScaleHD), with 1 item in its 4 dimensions: symptom load, functional status, disease-specific worries, and general well-being.This was a cross-sectional (validity and reliability) and longitudinal (responsiveness) study.The study was conducted at a single center.Cohort 1 included 295 patients with hemorrhoids to study validity and 60 patients with test-retest scores to study reliability. Cohort 2 included 128 and 121 patients operated for hemorrhoids to study responsiveness of the Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score and the Short Health ScaleHD.The study evaluated validity, reliability, and responsiveness. Patient-reported symptom load on a 7-point Likert scale was used as comparator, and receiver operating characteristics curve assessed discriminative validity. Interclass correlation assessed reliability. Receiver operating characteristics curve assessed responsiveness, meaning the ability to discriminate between patients with and without improvement after surgery.The Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score demonstrated the ability to discriminate between patients reporting high or low symptom load (area under the curve = 0.786 (95% CI, 0.725-0.848)). The Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score and the Short Health ScaleHD demonstrated adequate reliability and responsiveness, with interclass correlation of 0.822 (95% CI, 0.715-0.891) and 0.763 (95% CI, 0.634-0.851) and area under the curve of 0.843 (95% CI, 0.756-0.929) and 0.840 (95% CI, 0.752-0.929).We had no gold standard comparator to assess validity and responsiveness.The findings suggest that the Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score is valid, reliable, and responsive and that the Short Health ScaleHD is reliable and responsive. Used together, these tools provide a good overview of symptoms and their impact on patient well-being. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A770.

BACKGROUND Both ablation and expectant management of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions have been proposed. Expectant management would be reasonable if 1) the rate of high-grade squamous epithelial lesion progression to anal squamous cell carcinoma were low, and 2) anal squamous cell carcinoma arising under surveillance had a better prognosis than anal squamous cell carcinoma presenting without an identified precursor. OBJECTIVE This study aims to quantify aspects of high-grade squamous epithelial lesion/anal squamous cell carcinoma clinical evolution in a surgical practice. DESIGN This is a retrospective cohort study. SETTINGS This study was performed in 1 colorectal surgeon's practice over a 20-year period. PATIENTS Consecutive patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and anal squamous cell carcinoma were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We looked at the rate and timing of progression to anal squamous cell carcinoma, and the stage, treatment, and outcome of anal squamous cell carcinoma. We reviewed a comparison group of HIV-positive patients presenting de novo with anal squamous cell carcinoma (no prior history of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion). RESULTS With consideration of only HIV-positive patients, 341 patients had a mean 5.6 years follow-up from high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion diagnosis to the most recent documented anal examination. Twenty-four of these surveillance patients developed anal squamous cell carcinoma, yielding a progression rate of 1.3% per patient-year. Mean follow-up was 7.3 years from the initial cancer diagnosis to the most recent contact. Forty-seven patients who presented de novo with anal squamous cell carcinoma developed 74 lesions, with a mean follow-up of 5.7 years after initial diagnosis. This de novo group had higher anal squamous cell carcinoma-specific mortality (3% per patient-year vs 0.05%). Our study did not show a significantly higher rate of high stage (stage III or IV) at anal squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis in the de novo group in comparison with the surveillance group (25.5% vs 8.3% (p = 0.09)). LIMITATIONS This study was retrospective in nature and had a predominately male population. CONCLUSIONS The progression of untreated high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion to anal squamous cell carcinoma approximates 1% per patient-year. Anal squamous cell carcinoma developing under surveillance tends to be of an earlier stage and to require fewer major interventions than anal squamous cell carcinoma presenting de novo. Cancer-specific mortality was lower for malignancies that developed under surveillance. We suggest that expectant management of patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion is a rational strategy for preventing anal cancer morbidity. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A699.

Background Information is lacking regarding anal/perianal precancerous lesions in referral cohorts of pharmacologically immunocompromised patients. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of anal/perianal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions in a referral cohort of patients on immunomodulator/immunosuppressive medications, who were assessed and followed with high-resolution anoscopy. Design This is a retrospective study. Setting This study was conducted in a single anal neoplasia service from January 2012 to June 2017. Patients Patients on chronic immunomodulator/immunosuppressive medications were included. Cases of concomitant immunosuppression due to HIV infection were excluded, and immunosuppression due to chemotherapy was not considered for this analysis. Intervention High-resolution anoscopy was performed. Main outcome The primary outcome measured was the prevalence of anal/perianal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions in a referral cohort of pharmacologically immunocompromised patients. Results Fifty-four patients were included, of whom 40 were women (74%), with a mean age of 48 ± 17 years. A total of 232 high-resolution anoscopy examinations were performed in this cohort. At the first evaluation, 28 patients (52%) were diagnosed with anal and/or perianal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (including 2 cases of perianal squamous cell carcinoma); 11 cases (20%) were new diagnoses. Ten of 46 patients (22%) with follow-up developed a new lesion (high-grade/cancer) during a median follow-up period of 17 (interquartile range, 6-28) months. Overall, 37 patients (69%) in our cohort had anal/perianal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions ever diagnosed (including previous history, first visit, and follow-up); 5 patients had perianal squamous cell carcinoma. At our center, 6% of the new referrals were known to be pharmacologically immunocompromised patients. Limitations The retrospective nature of this study, the heterogeneity of the cohort, and the absence of human papillomavirus testing were limitations of this study. Conclusions The presence of anal and/or perianal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or cancer detected by high-resolution anoscopy in this referral population was high, and the detection of new lesions suggests that long-term follow-up is needed. Patients on immunomodulator/immunosuppressive drugs represented only a small percentage of the new referrals to our center. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A748.

Background External anal sphincter contractility significantly contributes to control the passage of stool. An artificial anal sphincter placed into the intersphincteric space is a safe and effective procedure to treat fecal incontinence, even if its mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate external anal sphincter contractility changes after a self-expandable hyexpan prostheses was implanted into the intersphincteric space of the anal canal and clinical outcomes compared. Design This was a prospective clinical study. Settings The study was conducted at a university teaching hospital. Patients Consecutive patients affected by fecal incontinence for at least 6 months after failure of conservative treatment were included. Interventions All of the patients underwent 10-prostheses implantation and were examined preoperatively and postoperatively by endoanal ultrasound and anorectal manometry. Main outcome measures Fecal incontinence symptoms were assessed by severity scores. The external anal sphincter muscle tension was calculated using a specific equation. Results Thirty-nine patients (34 women; median age = 68 y) were included in the study; no morbidity was registered. After a median follow-up period of 14 months, both the median maximum voluntary squeeze pressure and the median inner radius of the external anal sphincter significantly increased. A statistically significant increase of external anal sphincter muscle tension was detected. A decrease of any fecal incontinence symptom and an improvement in severity scores were observed at the last follow-up examination. The external anal sphincter contractility was significantly higher in patients reducing incontinence episodes to solid stool by >50% and improving their ability to defer defecation for >15 minutes. Limitations This was a single-center experience with a relatively small and heterogeneous sample size, patients with a potentially more severe disease because our institution is a referral center, and an absence of quality-of-life evaluation. Conclusions Artificial anal sphincter implantation improved the external anal sphincter muscle tension; there was a positive correlation between its increase and the clinical outcome. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B468. Implante de esfnter anal artificial autoexpandible en pacientes con incontinencia fecal mejora la contractilidad del esfnter anal externo ANTECEDENTES:La contractilidad del esfinter anal externo contribuye significativamente al control del paso de las heces. Un esfinter anal artificial colocado en el espacio interesfinteriano es un procedimiento seguro y eficaz para tratar la incontinencia fecal, incluso si su mecanismo de accion no se ha definido por completo.OBJETIVO:El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los cambios en la contractilidad del esfinter anal externo despues de la implantacion de una protesis de hyexpan autoexpandible en el espacio interesfinteriano del canal anal y comparar los resultados clinicos.DISENO:Estudio clinico prospectivo.ENTORNO CLINICO:El estudio se realizo en un hospital universitario.PACIENTES:Pacientes consecutivos afectados por incontinencia fecal durante al menos 6 meses, tras fracaso de tratamiento conservador.INTERVENCIONES:Todos los pacientes fueron sometidos a la implantacion de 10 protesis, y fueron examinados pre y postoperatoriamente mediante ecografia endoanal y manometria anorrectal.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACION:Los sintomas de incontinencia fecal se evaluaron mediante puntuaciones de gravedad. La tension del musculo del esfinter anal externo se calculo mediante una formula especifica.RESULTADOS:Treinta y nueve pacientes (34 mujeres; mediana de edad 68 anos) fueron incluidos en el estudio; no se registro morbilidad. Despues de un periodo de seguimiento medio de 14 meses, tanto la presion de compresion voluntaria maxima media como el radio interior medio del esfinter anal externo aumentaron significativamente. Se detecto un aumento estadisticamente significativo de la tension del musculo del esfinter anal externo. En el ultimo examen de seguimiento se observo una disminucion de cualquier sintoma de incontinencia fecal y una mejora en las puntuaciones de gravedad. La contractilidad del esfinter anal externo fue significativamente mayor en los pacientes que redujeron los episodios de incontinencia a heces solidas en mas del 50% y mejoraron la capacidad para diferir la defecacion durante mas de 15 minutos.LIMITACIONES:Experiencia de un solo centro; tamano de muestra relativamente pequeno y heterogeneo; pacientes con una enfermedad potencialmente mas grave porque nuestra institucion es un centro de referencia; ausencia de evaluacion de la calidad de vida.CONCLUSIONES:La implantacion del esfinter anal artificial mejoro la tension muscular del esfinter anal externo; hubo una correlacion positiva entre su aumento y el resultado clinico. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B468.

Intersphincteric resection has been performed for very low rectal cancer in place of abdominoperineal resection to avoid permanent colostomy.This study aimed to evaluate long-term oncologic outcomes of intersphincteric resection compared with abdominoperineal resection.In this retrospective study, propensity score matching and stratification analyses were performed to reduce the effects of confounding factors between groups, including age, sex, BMI, CEA value, tumor height, tumor depth, lymph node enlargement, and circumferential resection margin measured by MRI.A database maintained at our institute was used to identify patients during the period between 2000 and 2014.A total of 285 patients who underwent curative intersphincteric resection (n = 112) or abdominoperineal resection (n = 173) for stage I to III low rectal cancer without preoperative chemoradiotherapy were enrolled in this study.The main outcome was recurrence-free survival.Patients in the abdominoperineal resection group were more likely to have a preoperative diagnosis of advanced cancer before case matching. After case matching, clinical outcomes were similar between intersphincteric resection and abdominoperineal resection groups. Five-year relapse-free survival rates were 69.9% for the intersphincteric resection group and 67.9% for abdominoperineal resection group (p = 0.64), and were similar in the propensity score-matched cohorts (89 matched pairs). Three-year cumulative local recurrence rates were 7.3% for intersphincteric resection and 3.9% for abdominoperineal resection (p = 0.13). In the propensity score-matched model, the hazard ratio for recurrence after intersphincteric resection in comparison with abdominoperineal resection was 0.90. Stratification analysis revealed similar recurrence rates (HR, 0.75-1.68) for intersphincteric resection in comparison with abdominoperineal resection.Eight covariates were incorporated into the model, but other covariates were not included.Our findings suggest similar oncologic outcomes for intersphincteric resection and abdominoperineal resection without preoperative chemoradiotherapy in patients with low rectal cancer adjusted for background variables. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A661.

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) is dedicated to ensuring high-quality patient care by advancing the science, prevention, and management of disorders and diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. This Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee is charged with leading internationa

Anorectal malformations are one of the most common congenital intestinal anomalies affecting newborns. Despite advances in neonatal care and surgical techniques, many patients with a history of anorectal malformations are affected by long-term challenges involving bowel and bladder dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and psychosocial issues. These outcomes or challenges are additionally exacerbated by the lack of a structured transition of care from the pediatric to the adult setting.The purpose of this review is to describe the long-term outcomes affecting patients with a history of anorectal malformations, review the current literature on transition of care, and make recommendations for developing a standardized program for transitioning care for a select group of colorectal surgical patients.An extensive PubMed review of articles in English was performed to evaluate current best practices for chronic illnesses of childhood with residual symptoms or need for medical care into adulthood.Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology group guidelines were followed.The primary outcome for this review was the existence of transitional services for patients with a history of anorectal malformations and evaluations of long-term outcomes affecting patients with a history of anorectal malformations.Systematic review revealed improved results in transition programs as determined by patient follow-up, medication adherence, and patient and family satisfaction through the use of multidisciplinary teams. Standardized tools for assessing all aspects of patient outcomes and quality of life are essential for describing the burden of disease affecting a transitioning population.This is a retrospective review of the current status of a complex and rapidly evolving field of delivery of care. More work is needed to apply uniform approaches and assess the impact, patient outcomes, and quality of life.Patients who undergo childhood procedures for anorectal malformations often experience chronic symptoms related to the bowel, bladder, and reproductive organs, as well as psychosocial disturbances. This population will benefit from appropriate engagement in transitional care plans. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A543.

Background Low rectal tumors are often treated with sphincter-preserving resection followed by coloanal anastomosis. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term complications following straight coloanal anastomosis vs colonic J-pouch anal anastomosis. Design Patients were identified who underwent proctectomy for rectal neoplasia followed by coloanal anastomosis in the 2008 to 2013 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Demographic characteristics and 30-day postoperative complications were compared between groups. Settings A national sample was extracted from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database. Patients Inpatients following proctectomy and coloanal anastomosis for rectal cancer were selected. Main outcome measures Demographic characteristics and 30-day postoperative complications were compared between the 2 groups. Results One thousand three hundred seventy patients were included, 624 in the straight anastomosis group and 746 in the colonic J-pouch group. Preoperative characteristics were similar between groups, with the exception of preoperative radiation therapy (straight anastomosis 35% vs colonic J-pouch 48%, p = 0.0004). Univariate analysis demonstrated that deep surgical site infection (3.7% vs 1.4%, p = 0.01), septic shock (2.25% vs 0.8%, p = 0.04), and return to the operating room (8.8% vs 5.0%, p = 0.0006) were more frequent in the straight anastomosis group vs the colonic J-pouch group. Major complications were also higher (23% vs 14%, p = 0.0001) and length of stay was longer in the straight anastomosis group vs the colonic J-pouch group (8.9 days vs 8.1 days, p = 0.02). After adjusting for covariates, major complications were less following colonic J-pouch vs straight anastomosis (OR, 0.57; CI, 0.38-0.84; p = 0.005). Subgroup analysis of patients who received preoperative radiation therapy demonstrated no difference in major complications between groups. Limitations This study had those limitations inherent to a retrospective study using an inpatient database. Conclusion Postoperative complications were less following colonic J-pouch anastomosis vs straight anastomosis. Patients who received preoperative radiation had similar rates of complications, regardless of the reconstructive technique used following low anterior resection. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A468.

International audience; BACKGROUND:Few publications exist regarding gadolinium-enhanced sequences in rectal MRI. None have evaluated its potential impact on patient management.OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to assess whether gadolinium-enhanced sequences, including dynamic contrast enhancement, change radiologic interpretation and clinical management of rectal cancer.DESIGN:This is a retrospective analysis of 100 rectal MRIs (50 baseline and 50 postneoadjuvant treatment), both without and with gadolinium-enhanced sequences. Treatment plans were rendered based on each radiologic interpretation for each case by a single experienced surgeon. Differences in radiologic interpretation and management were statistically analyzed.SETTINGS:The study was conducted at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.PATIENTS:Patients undergoing rectal MRI between 2011 and 2015 for baseline tumor staging and/or postneoadjuvant restaging were included.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Primary outcome measures were changes in radiologic tumor stage, tumor margins, and surgical planning with the use of gadolinium at baseline and postneoadjuvant time points.RESULTS:At baseline, tumor downstaging occurred in 8 (16%) of 50 and upstaging in 4 (8%) of 50 with gadolinium. Postneoadjuvant treatment, upstaging occurred in 1 (2%) of 50 from T2 to T3a. At baseline, mean distances from tumor to anorectal ring, anal verge, and mesorectal fascia were not statistically different with gadolinium. However, in 7 patients, differences could have resulted in treatment changes, accounted for by changes in relationships to anterior peritoneal reflection (n = 4), anorectal ring (n = 2), or anal verge (n = 1). Postneoadjuvant treatment, distances to anorectal ring and anal verge (in centimeters) were statistically smaller with gadolinium (p = 0.0017 and p = 0.0151) but could not have resulted in clinically significant treatment changes.LIMITATIONS:This study was limited by its retrospective design.CONCLUSIONS:The use of gadolinium at baseline MRI could have altered treatment in 24% of patients because of differences in tumor stage or position. Postneoadjuvant treatment, gadolinium resulted in statistically smaller distances to sphincters, which could influence surgical decision for sphincter-preserving rectal resection. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A444.

There is a paucity of real-world data regarding surgeon utilization of sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence compared with anal sphincteroplasty.This study aims to examine trends in sacral nerve stimulation use compared with sphincteroplasty for fecal incontinence and surgeon-level variation in progression to implantation of the pulse generator.This is a population-based study.Patients with fecal incontinence between 2011 and 2014 in New York who underwent stage 1 of the sacral nerve stimulation procedure were selected. For the comparison with sphincteroplasty, patients with fecal incontinence who underwent anal sphincteroplasty between 2008 and 2014 were included.The main outcomes after sacral nerve stimulation generator placement were unplanned 30-day admission, emergency department visit within 30 days, revision or explant of leads or generator, and 30-day mortality.Six hundred twenty-one patients with fecal incontinence underwent a stage 1 procedure with 79.7% progressing to stage 2. There has been an increase in the number of sacral nerve stimulation cases per year as well as the number of surgeons performing the procedure. The rate of progression to stage 2 among patients treated by colorectal surgeons was 80.2% compared with 77.0% among those treated by noncolorectal surgeons. Among those who completed stage 2, there were 3 (0.5%) unplanned 30-day admissions, 24 (4.4%) emergency department visits within 30 days, and 0 mortalities within 30 days. Thirty-two (6.5%) patients had their leads or pulse generator revised or explanted. There was a significant decrease in annual sphincteroplasty cases and the number of providers performing the procedure starting in 2011.We lacked data regarding patient and physician decision making and the severity of disease.Sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence is increasing in popularity with an increasing number of surgeons utilizing sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence rather than sphincteroplasty. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A450.

BACKGROUND Regenerating muscle at a time remote from injury requires re-expression of cytokines to attract stem cells to start and sustain the process of repair. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the sustainability of muscle regeneration after treatment with a nonviral plasmid expressing stromal cell-derived factor 1. DESIGN This was a randomized study. SETTINGS The study was conducted with animals in a single research facility. INTERVENTIONS Fifty-six female age-/weight-matched Sprague-Dawley rats underwent excision of the ventral half of the anal sphincter complex. Three weeks later, rats were randomly allocated (n = 8) to one of the following groups: no treatment, 100 μg of plasmid encoding stromal cell-derived factor 1 injected locally, local injection of plasmid and 8 × 10 bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and plasmid encoding stromal cell-derived factor 1 injected locally with injection of a gelatin scaffold mixed with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Anal manometry, histology, immunohistochemistrym and morphometry were performed 8 weeks after treatment. Protein expression of cytokines CXCR4 and Myf5 was investigated 1 week after treatment (n = 6 per group). ANOVA was used, with p < 0.0083 indicating significant differences for anal manometry and p < 0.05 for all other statistical analysis. RESULTS Eight weeks after treatment, all of the groups receiving the plasmid had significantly higher anal pressures than controls and more organized muscle architecture in the region of the defect. Animals receiving plasmid alone had significantly greater muscle in the defect (p = 0.03) than either animals with injury alone (p = 0.02) or those receiving the plasmid, cells, and scaffold (p = 0.03). Both smooth and skeletal muscles were regenerated significantly more after plasmid treatment. There were no significant differences in the protein levels of CXCR4 or Myf5. LIMITATIONS The study was limited by its small sample size and because stromal cell-derived factor 1 was not blocked. CONCLUSIONS A plasmid expressing stromal cell-derived factor 1 may be sufficient to repair an injured anal sphincter even long after the injury and in the absence of mesenchymal stem cell or scaffold treatments. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A451.

Defective cell-mediated immunity increases the risk of human papillomavirus-associated anal dysplasia and cancer. There is limited information on anal canal disease in patients with IBD.The purpose of this study was to assess anal/vaginal human papillomavirus and anal dysplasia prevalence in patients with IBD.Patients had an anal examination before routine colonoscopy.The study was conducted at a tertiary IBD referral center.We studied a convenience sample of sexually active male and female patients with IBD who were not on biological therapy.Anal examination, anal and vaginal human papillomavirus testing, anal cytology, and high-resolution anoscopy/biopsy were carried out.Anal and vaginal human papillomavirus types, anal cytology, and biopsy grade were measured.Twenty-five male and 21 female evaluable participants, 31 with Crohn's disease, 14 with ulcerative colitis, and 1 with indeterminate colitis, were predominantly white (91.3%), treatment experienced (76.1%), an average age of 38.1 years (range, 22.0-66.0 y), and had an average length of IBD diagnosis of 9.3 years (range, 1.0-33.0 y). Eighteen (39.1%) had an abnormal perianal examination and 3 (6.5%) had an abnormal digital examination. Forty-one (89.1%) had anal human papillomavirus, 16 with a single type and 25 with multiple types (range, 2-5 types). Human papillomavirus type 16 was most common (65.2%), followed by human papillomavirus types 11 and 45 (37.0% each). Nineteen of 21 (90.5%) women had vaginal human papillomavirus. Overall, 21 (45.7%) had abnormal anal cytology. Thirty three (71.7%) had ≥1 anal biopsy (9 had multiple), with dysplasia diagnosed in 28 (60.9%) and high-grade and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions diagnosed in 4 (8.7%) and 24 (43.5%).No control group was included, and no detailed sexual history was taken.A high prevalence of anal and vaginal human papillomavirus and anal dysplasia was demonstrated in the study population outcomes. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A379.

Transanal total mesorectal excision is a new approach to curative-intent rectal cancer surgery. Training and surgeon experience with this approach has not been assessed previously in America.The purpose of this study was to characterize a structured training program and to determine the experience of delegate surgeons.Data were assimilated from an anonymous, online survey delivered to attendees on course completion. Data on surgeon performance during hands-on cadaveric dissection were collected prospectively.This study was conducted at a single tertiary colorectal surgery referral center, and cadaveric hands-on training was conducted at a specialized surgeon education center.The main outcome measurement was the use of the course and surgeon experience posttraining.During a 12-month period, eight 2-day transanal total mesorectal excision courses were conducted. Eighty-one colorectal surgeons successfully completed the course. During cadaveric dissection, 71% achieved a complete (Quirke 3) specimen; 26% were near complete (Quirke 2), and 3% were incomplete (Quirke 1). A total of 9.1% demonstrated dissection in the incorrect plane, whereas 4.5% created major injury to the rectum or surrounding structures, excluding the prostate. Thirty eight (46.9%) of 81 surgeon delegates responded to an online survey. Of survey respondents, 94.6% believed training should be required before performing transanal total mesorectal excision. Posttraining, 94.3% of surgeon delegates planned to use transanal total mesorectal excision for distal-third rectal cancers, 74.3% for middle-third cancers, and 8.6% for proximal-third cancers. The most significant complication reported was urethral injury; 5 were reported by the subset of survey respondents who had performed this operation postcourse.The study was limited by inherent reporting bias, including observer and recall biases.Although this structured training program for transanal total mesorectal excision was found to be useful by the majority of respondents, the risk of iatrogenic injury after training remains high, suggesting that this training pedagogy alone is insufficient. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A335.

Sphincter-sparing repairs are commonly used to treat anal fistulas with significant muscle involvement.The current study evaluates the trends and efficacy of sphincter-sparing repairs and determines risk factors for fistula recurrence.A retrospective review was performed at 3 university-affiliated teaching hospitals.All 462 patients with cryptoglandular anal fistulas who underwent 573 sphincter-sparing repairs between 2005 and 2015 were included. Patients with Crohn's disease were excluded.The primary outcome was the rate of fistula healing defined as cessation of drainage with closure of the external opening. Risk factors for nonhealing were also analyzed.Five hundred three sphincter-sparing repairs were analyzed, whereas 70 were lost to follow-up. Two hundred twenty sphincter-sparing repairs (44%) resulted in healing, 283 (56%) resulted in nonhealing with a median follow-up of 9 (range, 1-125) months. The median time to fistula recurrence was 3 (range, 0-75) months with 79% and 91% of recurrences noted within 6 and 12 months. Patients treated with a dermal advancement flap, rectal advancement flap, or ligation of the intersphincteric tract procedure were less likely to have a recurrence than patients treated with a fistula plug or fibrin glue (p0.001). Over time, there was a significantly increased use of the ligation of the intersphincteric tract procedure (p0.001) and a significantly decreased use of fistula plugs and fibrin glue (p0.001); healing rates improved accordingly. There were no significant differences in healing rates with respect to patient demographics, comorbidities, or fistula characteristics.This study was limited by its retrospective design.Healing rates following sphincter-sparing repairs of cryptoglandular anal fistulas are modest, but have improved over time with the use of better surgical techniques. In this study, ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract and flaps were superior to fistula plugs and fibrin glue; the former procedures are therefore favored. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A391.

Background Controlled delivery of radiofrequency energy has been suggested as treatment for fecal incontinence. Objective The aim of this study was to determine whether the clinical response to the radiofrequency energy procedure is superior to sham in patients with fecal incontinence. Design This was a randomized sham-controlled clinical trial from 2008 to 2015. Setting This study was conducted in an outpatient clinic. Patients and methods Forty patients with fecal incontinence in whom maximal conservative management had failed were randomly assigned to receiving either radiofrequency energy or sham procedure. Main outcome measures Fecal incontinence was measured using the Vaizey incontinence score (range, 0-24). The impact of fecal incontinence on quality of life was measured by using the fecal incontinence quality-of-life score (range, 1-4). Measurements were performed at baseline and at 6 months. Anorectal function was evaluated using anal manometry and anorectal endosonography at baseline and at 3 months. Results At baseline, Vaizey incontinence score was 16.8 (SD 2.9). At t = 6 months, the radiofrequency energy group improved by 2.5 points on the Vaizey incontinence score compared with the sham group (13.2 (SD 3.1), 15.6 (SD 3.3), p = 0.02). The fecal incontinence quality-of-life score at t = 6 months was not statistically different. Anorectal function did not show any alteration. Limitations Patients with severe fecal incontinence were included in the study, thus making it difficult to generalize the results. Conclusions Both radiofrequency energy and sham procedure improved the fecal incontinence score, the radiofrequency energy procedure more than sham. Although statistically significant, the clinical impact for most of the patients was negligible. Therefore, the radiofrequency energy procedure should not be recommended for patients with fecal incontinence until patient-related factors associated with treatment success are known. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A373.

Fecal incontinence is a common disorder, but its pathophysiology is not completely understood.The aim of this review is to present animal models that have a place in the study of fecal incontinence.A literature review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines performed in August 2016 revealed 50 articles of interest. Search terms included fecal/faecal incontinence and animal model or specific species.Articles not describing an animal model, in vitro studies, veterinary literature, reviews, and non-English articles were excluded.The articles described models in rats (n = 31), dogs (n = 8), rabbits (n = 7), and pigs (n = 4).Different fecal incontinence etiologies were modeled, including anal sphincter lesions (33 articles) ranging from a single anal sphincter cut to destruction of 50% of the anal sphincter by sharp dissection, electrocautery, or diathermy. Neuropathic fecal incontinence (12 articles) was achieved by complete or incomplete pudendal, pelvic, or inferior rectal nerve damage. Mixed fecal incontinence (5 articles) was modeled either by the inflation of pelvic balloons or an array of several lesions including nervous and muscular damage. Anal fistulas (2 articles), anal sphincter resection (3 articles), and diabetic neuropathy (2 articles) were studied to a lesser extent.Bias may have arisen from the authors' own work on fecal incontinence and the absence of blinding to the origins of articles.Validated animal models representing the main etiologies of fecal incontinence exist, but no animal model to date represents the whole pathophysiology of fecal incontinence. Therefore, the individual research questions still dictate the choice of model and species.

Background Men with passive fecal leakage represent a distinct clinical entity in which the pathophysiology remains unclear. Standard anorectal investigations fail to demonstrate consistent abnormalities in this group. Anal acoustic reflectometry is a new test of anal sphincter function with greater sensitivity and discriminatory ability than conventional anal manometry. Objective The aim of this study was to determine whether men with fecal leakage have an abnormality in anal sphincter function that is detectable by anal acoustic reflectometry. Design This was an age-matched study of continent and incontinent men. Settings The study was conducted at a university teaching hospital. Patients Male patients with isolated symptoms of fecal leakage were recruited. Anal acoustic reflectometry, followed by conventional anal manometry, was performed. Results were then compared with those from an age-matched group of men with no symptoms of anal incontinence or anorectal pathology. Main outcome measures Variables measured with anal acoustic reflectometry and anal manometry in the incontinent and continent men were compared. Results Thirty subjects were recruited, of whom 15 were men with fecal leakage and 15 were continent men. There was a significantly higher incidence of previous anorectal surgery in the men with leakage. The anal acoustic reflectometry variables of opening and closing pressure were significantly lower in leakers compared with continent subjects (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001). Hysteresis was significantly greater in the male leaker group (p = 0.026). No difference was seen in anal manometry. Limitations With a larger sample size, the effect of previous anorectal surgery and the presence of an anal sphincter defect could be clarified. Conclusions Anal acoustic reflectometry is a sensitive test of anal sphincter function and, unlike anal manometry, can discriminate male leakers from continent subjects. An identifiable abnormality has been detected using anal acoustic reflectometry, which may further our understanding of the pathogenesis in this group.