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Pulmonary complications (PC) are common after esophagectomy and their impact on long-term survival is not defined yet. The present study aimed to assess the effect of postoperative PCs on long-term survival after esophagectomy for cancer. Systematic review of the literature through February 1, 2023, was performed. The included studies evaluated the effect of PC on long-term survival. Primary outcome was long-term overall survival (OS). Cancer-specific survival (CSS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were secondary outcomes. Restricted mean survival time difference (RMSTD), hazard ratio (HR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as pooled effect size measures. Eleven studies were included (3423 patients). Overall, 674 (19.7%) patients developed PC. The RMSTD analysis shows that at 60-month follow-up, patients not experiencing PC live an average of 8.5 (95% CI 6.2–10.8; p < 0.001) months longer compared with those with PC. Similarly, patients not experiencing postoperative PC seem to have significantly longer CSS (8 months; 95% CI 3.7–12.3; p < 0.001) and DFS (5.4 months; 95% CI 1.6–9.1; p = 0.005). The time-dependent HRs analysis shows a reduced mortality hazard in patients without PC at 12 (HR 0.6, 95% CI 0.51–0.69), 24 (HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.55–0.73), 36 (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55–0.79), and 60 months (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.89). This study suggests a moderate clinical impact of PC on long-term OS, CSS, and DFS after esophagectomy. Patients not experiencing PC seem to have a significantly reduced mortality hazard up to 5 years of follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune and multiorgan disorder. Hallmarks of the disease include inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and dysregulation of fibroblasts leading to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The esophagus is often involved, with up to 80% of patients developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Reflux can be associated with hiatal hernia and several complications such as erosive esophagitis, peptic stricture, Barrett's esophagus, aspiration pneumonia, and chronic microaspiration. Silent aspiration can lead to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in up to 50% of patients with scleroderma and accounts for up to 40% of mortality. Treatment of GERD in patients with SSc is challenging. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) have been shown effective in relieving typical GERD symptoms, but up to 40% of patients are non-responders. Various antireflux surgical procedures have been proposed to treat GERD and to modify the natural course of the disease by preventing lung damage in these patients. However, current algorithms consider only the degree of esophageal dilation as a marker of disease severity/progression, and results of antireflux surgery remain controversial. Methods: We propose a feasibility, observational, multicenter, single-arm trial including adult patients diagnosed with SSc. Criteria for inclusion are individuals with GERD symptoms refractory to PPI, absence of peptic stricture at baseline endoscopy, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan showing no or less than 10% lung fibrosis, forced vital capacity at least 40% of the predicted value, and diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide 30–89% of the predicted value. A laparoscopic partial posterior fundoplication according to the Toupet technique will be performed. Primary study outcome is the efficacy of fundoplication to reduce reflux exposure measured with a pH-impedance study or 4‑day wireless pH recording. Secondary outcomes include endoscopic, HRCT, and respiratory function tests findings as well as quality of life at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: The expected reduction of reflux burden in SSc patients selected for Toupet fundoplication may improve GERD symptoms/complications, pulmonary function, and quality of life, and may be associated with a reduced risk for lung transplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Debate exists concerning the impact of complete mesocolic excision (CME) on long-term oncological outcomes. The aim of this review was to condense the updated literature and assess the effect of CME on long-term survival after right colectomy for cancer. Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched through July 2023. The included studies evaluated the effect of CME on survival. The primary outcome was long-term overall survival. Restricted mean survival time difference (RMSTD), hazard ratio (HR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as pooled effect size measures. GRADE methodology was used to summarize the certainty of evidence. Results: Ten studies (3665 patients) were included. Overall, 1443 (39.4%) underwent CME. The RMSTD analysis shows that at 60-month follow-up, stage I–III CME patients lived 2.5 months (95% CI 1.1–4.1) more on average compared with noCME patients. Similarly, stage III patients that underwent CME lived longer compared to noCME patients at 55-month follow-up (6.1 months; 95% CI 3.4–8.5). The time-dependent HRs analysis for CME vs. noCME (stage I–III disease) shows a higher mortality hazard in patients with noCME at 6 months (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.29–0.71), 12 months (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.43–0.73), and 24 months (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.57–0.92) up to 27 months. Conclusions: This study suggests that CME is associated with unclear OS benefit in stage I–III disease. Caution is recommended to avoid overestimation of the effect of CME in stage III disease since the marginal benefit of a more extended resection may have been influenced by tumor biology/molecular profile and multimodal adjuvant treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anastomotic leak (AL) is a serious complication after esophagectomy. It is associated with prolonged hospital stay, increased costs, and increased risk for 90-day mortality. Controversy exists concerning the impact of AL on survival. This study was designed to investigate the effect of AL on long-term survival after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched through October 30, 2022. The included studies evaluated the effect of AL on long-term survival. Primary outcome was long-term overall survival. Restricted mean survival time difference (RMSTD), hazard ratio (HR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as pooled effect size measures. Results: Thirteen studies (7118 patients) were included. Overall, 727 (10.2%) patients experienced AL. The RMSTD analysis shows that at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months, patients not experiencing AL live an average of 0.7 (95% CI 0.2–1.2; p < 0.001), 1.9 (95% CI 1.1–2.6; p < 0.001), 2.6 (95% CI 1.6–3.7; p < 0.001), 3.4 (95% CI 1.9–4.9; p < 0.001), and 4.2 (95% CI 2.1–6.4; p < 0.001) months longer compared with those with AL, respectively. The time-dependent HRs analysis for AL versus no AL shows a higher mortality hazard in patients with AL at 3 (HR 1.94, 95% CI 1.54–2.34), 6 (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.39–1.75), 12 (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.24–1.54), and 24 months (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.02–1.31). Conclusions: This study seems to suggest a modest clinical impact of AL on long-term OS after esophagectomy. Patients who experience AL seem to have a higher mortality hazard during the first 2 years of follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ischemia at the anastomotic site is thought to be a protagonist in the development of anastomosis-related complications while different strategies to overcome this problem have been reported. Gastric ischemic conditioning (GIC) prior to esophagectomy has been described with this intent. Evaluate the effect of GIC on anastomotic complications after esophagectomy. Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and PubMed were investigated up to March 31st, 2023. We considered articles that appraised short-term outcomes after GIC vs. no GIC in patients undergoing esophagectomy. Anastomotic leak (AL), anastomotic stricture (AS), and gastric conduit necrosis (GCN) were primary outcomes. Risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used as pooled effect size measures, whereas 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were used to calculate related inference. Fourteen studies (1760 patients) were included. Of those, 732 (41.6%) underwent GIC, while 1028 (58.4%) underwent one-step esophagectomy. Compared with no GIC, GIC was related to a reduced RR for AL (R RR = 0.63; 95% CI 0.47–0.86; p < 0.01) and AS (RR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.29–0.91; p = 0.02), whereas no differences were found for GCN (RR = 0.56; 95% CI 0.19–1.61; p = 0.28). Postoperative pneumonia (RR = 1.09; p = 0.99), overall complications (RR = 0.87; p = 0.19), operative time (SMD − 0.58; p = 0.07), hospital stay (SMD 0.66; p = 0.09), and 30-day mortality (RR = 0.69; p = 0.22) were comparable. GIC prior to esophagectomy seems associated with a reduced risk for AL and AS. Further studies are necessary to identify the subset of patients who can benefit from this procedure, the optimal technique, and the timing of GIC prior to esophagectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different techniques have been described for esophagojejunostomy (EJ) during laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) for gastric cancer. Linear stapled techniques include overlap (OL) and functional end-to-end anastomosis (FEEA) while single staple technique (SST), hemi-double staple technique (HDST), and OrVil® are circular stapled approaches. Nowadays, the choice among techniques for EJ depends on operating surgeon personal preference. Purpose: To compare short-term outcomes of different EJ techniques during LTG. Methods: Systematic review and network meta-analysis. OL, FEEA, SST, HDST, and OrVil® were compared. Primary outcomes were anastomotic leak (AL) and stenosis (AS). Risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were used as pooled effect size measures, whereas 95% credible intervals (CrI) were used to measure relative inference. Results: Overall, 3177 patients (20 studies) were included. The technique for EJ was SST (n = 1026; 32.9%), OL (n = 826; 26.5%), FEEA (n = 752; 24.1%), OrVil® (n = 317; 10.1%), and HDST (n = 196; 6.4%). AL was comparable for OL vs. FEEA (RR = 0.82; 95% CrI 0.47–1.49), OL vs. SST (RR = 0.55; 95% CrI 0.27–1.21), OL vs. OrVil® (RR = 0.54; 95% CrI 0.32–1.22), and OL vs. HDST (RR = 0.65; 95% CrI 0.28–1.63). Similarly, AS was similar for OL vs. FEEA (RR = 0.46; 95% CrI 0.18–1.28), OL vs. SST (RR = 0.89; 95% CrI 0.39–2.15), OL vs. OrVil® (RR = 0.36; 95% CrI 0.14–1.02), and OL vs. HDST (RR = 0.61; 95% CrI 0.31–1.21). Anastomotic bleeding, time to soft diet resumption, pulmonary complications, hospital length of stay, and mortality were comparable while operative time was reduced for FEEA. Conclusions: This network meta-analysis shows similar postoperative AL and AS risk when comparing OL, FEEA, SST, HDST, and OrVil® techniques. Similarly, no differences were found for anastomotic bleeding, operative time, soft diet resumption, pulmonary complications, hospital length of stay and 30-day mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anastomotic leak (AL) is a feared complication of esophago-gastric surgery. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to treat postoperative pain. Previous analyses conveyed heterogeneous data for colorectal surgery with a tendency toward high risk for AL after NSAIDs administration. In the setting of upper gastrointestinal (GI) surgery data are even more puzzled. The purpose of the present study was to assess whether an association exists between postoperative NSAIDs administration and AL after esophago-gastric surgery. PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to November 2022. The included studies evaluated outcomes for NSAIDs vs. no NSAIDs administration after esophago-gastric surgery. The primary outcome was anastomotic leak (AL). Risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to assess pooled effect size and relative inference. Six studies (43,784 patients) were included. The patient age ranged from 31 to 84 years, 82.4% were males and preoperative BMI ranged from 15 to 31 kg/m2. Esophagectomy was performed in 95% of patients. NSAIDs were administered in 18,075 (41.3%) patients. The cumulative incidence of AL was similar for NSAIDs vs. no NSAIDs (13.6% vs. 13.4%). The risk for postoperative AL was similar for NSAIDs vs. no NSAIDs administration (RR 1.49; 95% CI 0.81–2.75; p = 0.19). The cumulative incidence of postoperative gastrointestinal bleeding (0.36% vs. 0.39%), acute kidney injury (0.62% vs. 0.71%), and in-hospital mortality (2.39% vs. 2.66%) were comparable. NSAIDs administration for postoperative analgesia seems not associated with an increased risk for AL after esophago-gastric surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different techniques have been described for esophagogastric anastomosis. Over the past decades, surgeons have been improving anastomotic techniques with a gradual shift from hand-sewn to stapled anastomosis. Nowadays, circular-stapled (CS) and linear-stapled (LS) anastomosis are commonly used during esophagectomy. Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to June 2022. The included studies evaluated short-term outcomes for LS vs. CS anastomosis in patients undergoing esophagectomy for cancer. Primary outcomes were anastomotic leak (AL) and stricture (AS). Risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used as pooled effect size measures whereas 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were used to assess relative inference. Results: Eighteen studies (2861 patients) were included. Overall, 1371 (47.9%) underwent CS while 1490 (52.1%) LS. Compared to CS, LS was associated with a significantly reduced RR for AL (RR = 0.70; 95% CI 0.54–0.91; p < 0.01) and AS (RR = 0.32; 95% CI 0.20–0.51; p < 0.0001). Stratified subgroup analysis according to the level of anastomosis (cervical and thoracic) still shows a tendency toward reduced risk for LS. No differences were found for pneumonia (RR 0.78; p = 0.12), reflux esophagitis (RR 0.74; p = 0.36), operative time (SMD −0.25; p = 0.16), hospital length of stay (SMD 0.13; p = 0.51), and 30-day mortality (RR 1.26; p = 0.42). Conclusions: LS anastomosis seems associated with a tendency toward a reduced risk for AL and AS. Although surgeon's own training and experience might direct the choice of esophagogastric anastomosis, our meta-analysis encourages the use of LS anastomosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different methods have been described for laparoscopic hiatoplasty and hiatus hernia (HH) repair. All techniques are not standardized and the choice to reinforce or not the hiatus with a mesh is left to the operating surgeon's preference. Hiatal surface area (HSA) has been described as an attempt at standardization; in case the area is > 4 cm2, a mesh is used to reinforce the repair. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe a new patient-tailored algorithm (PTA), compare its performance in predicting crura mesh buttressing to HSA, and analyze outcomes. Methods: Retrospective, single-center, descriptive study (September 2018–September 2021). Adult patients (≥ 18 years old) who underwent laparoscopic HH repair. Outcomes and quality of life measured with the disease-specific gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) and reflux symptom index (RSI) were analyzed. Results: Fifty patients that underwent laparoscopic hiatoplasty and Toupet fundoplication were included. The median age was 61 years (range 32–83) and the median BMI was 26.7 (range 17–36). According to the PTA, 27 patients (54%) underwent simple suture repair while crural mesh buttressing with Phasix-ST® was used in 23 (46%). According to the HSA, the median hiatus area was 4.7 cm2 while 26 patients had an HSA greater than 4 cm2. The overall concordance rate between PTA and HSA was 94% (47/50). The median hospital stay was 1.9 days (range 1–8) and the 90-day complication rate was 4%. The median follow-up was 18.6 months (range 1–35). Hernia recurrence was diagnosed in 6%. Postoperative dysphagia occurred in one patient (2%). The GERD-HRQL (p < 0.001) and RSI (p = 0.001) were significantly improved. Conclusions: The application of PTA for cruroplasty standardization in the setting of HH repair seems effective. While concordance with HSA is high, the PTA seems easier and promptly available in the operative theater with a potential increase in procedure standardization, reproducibility, and teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Staple line reinforcement (SLR) during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is controversial. The purpose of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the most commonly utilized techniques for SLR. Materials and Methods: Network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare no reinforcement (NR), suture oversewing (SR), glue reinforcement (GR), bioabsorbable staple line reinforcement (Gore® Seamguard®) (GoR), and clips reinforcement (CR). Risk Ratio (RR), weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% credible intervals (CrI) were used as pooled effect size measures. Results: Overall, 3994 patients (17 RCTs) were included. Of those, 1641 (41.1%) underwent NR, 1507 (37.7%) SR, 689 (17.2%) GR, 107 (2.7%) GoR, and 50 (1.3%) CR. SR was associated with a significantly reduced risk of bleeding (RR=0.51; 95% CrI 0.31–0.88), staple line leak (RR=0.56; 95% CrI 0.32–0.99), and overall complications (RR=0.50; 95% CrI 0.30–0.88) compared to NR while no differences were found vs. GR, GoR, and CR. Operative time was significantly longer for SR (WMD=16.2; 95% CrI 10.8–21.7), GR (WMD=15.0; 95% CrI 7.7–22.4), and GoR (WMD=15.5; 95% CrI 5.6–25.4) compared to NR. Among treatments, there were no significant differences for surgical site infection (SSI), sleeve stenosis, reoperation, hospital length of stay, and 30-day mortality. Conclusions: SR seems associated with a reduced risk of bleeding, leak, and overall complications compared to NR while no differences were found vs. GR, GoR, and CR. Data regarding GoR and CR are limited while further trials reporting outcomes for these techniques are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The choice of the best reconstruction technique after distal gastrectomy (DG) remains controversial and still not defined. The purpose was to perform a comprehensive evaluation within the major type of intestinal reconstruction after DG for gastric cancer. Methods: Systematic review and network meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare Billroth I (BI), Billroth II (BII), Billroth II Braun (BII Braun), Roux-en-Y (RY), and Uncut Roux-en-Y (URY). Risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were used as pooled effect size measures while 95% credible intervals (CrI) were used to assess relative inference. Results: Ten RCTs (1456 patients) were included. Of these, 448 (33.7%) underwent BI, 220 (15.1%) BII, 114 BII Braun (7.8%), 533 (36.6%) RY, and 141 URY (9.6%). No significant differences were found among treatments for 30-day mortality, anastomotic leak, anastomotic stricture, and overall complications. At 12-month follow-up, RY was associated with a significantly reduced risk of remnant gastritis compared to BI (RR=0.56; 95% Crl 0.35–0.76) and BII reconstruction (RR=0.47; 95% Crl 0.22–0.97). Similarly, despite the lack of statistical significance, RY seems associated with a trend toward reduced endoscopically proven esophagitis compared to BI (RR=0.58; 95% Crl 0.24–1.51) and bile reflux compared to BI (RR=0.48; 95% Crl 0.17–1.41), BII (RR=0.74; 95% Crl 0.20–2.81), and BII Braun (RR=0.65; 95% Crl 0.30–1.43). Conclusions: This network meta-analysis shows that there are five main options for intestinal anastomosis after DG. All techniques seem equally safe with comparable anastomotic leak, anastomotic stricture, overall morbidity, and short-term outcomes. In the short-term follow-up (12 months), RY seems associated with a reduced risk of remnant gastritis and a trend toward a reduced risk of bile reflux and esophagitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device has become a common option for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Knowledge of MSA-related complications, indications for removal, and techniques are puzzled. With this study, we aimed to evaluate indications, techniques for removal, surgical approach, and outcomes with MSA removal. Methods: This is an observational singe-center study. Patients were followed up regularly with endoscopy, pH monitoring, and assessed for specific gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) and generic short-form 36 (SF-36) quality of life. Results: Five patients underwent MSA explant. Four patients were males and the median age was 47 years (range 44–55). Heartburn, epigastric/chest pain, and dysphagia were commonly reported. The median implant duration was 46 months (range 31–72). A laparoscopic approach was adopted in all patients. Intraoperative findings included normal anatomy (40%), herniation in the mediastinum (40%), and erosion (20%). The most common anti-reflux procedures were Dor (n = 2), Toupet (n = 2), and anterior partial fundoplication (n = 1). The median operative time was 145 min (range 60–185), and the median hospital length of stay was 4 days (range 3–6). The median postoperative follow-up was 41 months (range 12–51). At the last follow-up, 80% of patients were off PPI; the GERD-HRQL and SF-36 questionnaire were improved with DeMeester score and esophageal acid exposure normalization. Conclusion: The MSA device can be safely explanted through a single-stage laparoscopic procedure. Tailoring a fundoplication, according to preoperative patient symptoms and intraoperative findings, seems feasible and safe with a promising trend toward improved symptoms and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allogenic red blood cell transfusions exert a potential detrimental effect on the survival when delivered to cancer patients undergoing surgery with curative intent. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association between perioperative allogenic red blood cell transfusions and risk of death as well as relapse after surgery for localized solid tumors. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched from inception to March 2019 for studies reporting the outcome of patients receiving transfusions during radical surgery for non-metastatic cancer. Risk of death and relapse were pooled to provide an adjusted hazard ratio with a 95% confidence interval [hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval {CI})]. Mortality and relapse associated with perioperative transfusion due to cancer surgery were evaluated among participants (n = 123 studies). Overall, RBC transfusions were associated with an increased risk of death [HR = 1.50 (95% CI 1.42–1.57), p < 0.01] and relapse [HR = 1.36 (95% CI 1.26–1.46), p < 0.01]. The survival was reduced even in cancer at early stages [HR = 1.45 (1.36–1.55), p < 0.01]. In cancer patients undergoing surgery, red blood cell transfusions reduced the survival and increased the risk of relapse. Transfusions based on patients' blood management policy should be performed by applying a more restrictive policy, and the planned preoperative administration of iron, if necessary, should be pursued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the updated evidence on safety, effectiveness, and outcomes of the totally extraperitoneal (TEP) versus the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair and to explore the timely tendency variations favoring one treatment over another. Methods: Systematic review and trial sequential analysis (TSA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were consulted. Risk Ratio (RR), weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as pooled effect size measures. Results: Fifteen RCTs were included (1359 patients). Of these, 702 (51.6%) underwent TAPP and 657 (48.4%) TEP repair. The age of the patients ranged from 18 to 92 years and 87.9% were males. The estimated pooled RR for hernia recurrence (RR = 0.83; 95% CI 0.35–1.96) and chronic pain (RR = 1.51; 95% CI 0.54–4.22) were similar for TEP vs. TAPP. The TSA shows a cumulative z-curve without crossing the monitoring boundaries line (Z = 1.96), thus supporting true negative results while the information size was calculated as adequate for both outcomes. No significant differences were found in term of early postoperative pain, operative time, wound-related complications, hospital length of stay, return to work/daily activities, and costs. Conclusions: TEP and TAPP repair seems comparable in terms of postoperative hernia recurrence and chronic pain. The cumulative evidence and information size are sufficient to provide a conclusive evidence on recurrence and chronic pain. Similar trials or meta-analyses seem unlikely to show diverse results and should be discouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stand-alone utilization of the GERD-Q questionnaire is associated with sub-optimal accuracy due to an imperfect correlation between GERD symptoms and objective evidence of pathologic reflux measured by pH-impedance studies [[11]]. Female sex, preoperative GERD symptoms, and distal contractile integral (DCI) <= 1623 mmHg on high-resolution manometry (HRM) were identified as independent predictors of postoperative GERD at multivariate analysis. However, the majority of patients with postoperative GERD (68%) already had preoperative GERD symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: The anatomy of the esophageal hiatus is altered during esophagogastric surgery with an increased risk of postoperative hiatus hernia (HH). The purpose of this article was to examine the current evidence on the surgical management and outcomes associated with HH after esophagogastric surgery for cancer. Materials and methods: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE data sets were consulted. Results: Twenty-seven studies were included for a total of 404 patients requiring surgical treatment for HH after esophagogastric surgery. The age of the patients ranged from 35 to 85 years, and the majority were males (82.3%). Abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, and dyspnea were the commonly reported symptoms. An emergency repair was required in 51.5%, while a minimally invasive repair was performed in 48.5%. Simple suture cruroplasty and mesh reinforced repair were performed in 65% and 35% of patients, respectively. The duration between the index procedure and HH repair ranged from 3 to 144 months, with the majority (67%) occurring within 24 months. The estimated pooled prevalence rates of pulmonary complications, anastomotic leak, overall morbidity, and mortality were 14.1% (95% CI = 8.0–22.0%), 1.4% (95% CI = 0.8–2.2%), 35% (95% CI = 20.0–54.0%), and 5.0% (95% CI = 3.0–8.0%), respectively. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 1 to 110 months (mean = 24) and the pooled prevalence of HH recurrence was 16% (95% CI = 13.0–21.6%). Conclusions: Current evidence reporting data for HH after esophagogastric surgery is narrow. The overall postoperative pulmonary complications, overall morbidity, and mortality are 14%, 35%, and 5%, respectively. Additional studies are required to define indications and treatment algorithm and evaluate the best technique for crural repair at the index operation in an attempt to minimize the risk of HH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is frequently seen in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Long-standing GERD may cause esophagitis, long-segment strictures, and Barrett's esophagus and may worsen pre-existing pulmonary fibrosis with an increased risk of end-stage lung disease. Surgical treatment of recalcitrant GERD remains controversial. The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the current data on surgical treatment of recalcitrant GERD in SSc patients. Materials and methods: A systematic literature review according to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were consulted. Results: A total of 101 patients were included from 7 studies. The age ranged from 34 to 61 years and the majority were females (73.5%). Commonly reported symptoms were heartburn (92%), regurgitation (77%), and dysphagia (74%). Concurrent pulmonary disease was diagnosed in 58% of patients. Overall, 63 patients (62.4%) underwent open fundoplication, 17 (16.8%) laparoscopic fundoplication, 15 (14.9%) Roux en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and 6 (5.9%) esophagectomy. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 12 to 65 months. Recurrent symptoms were described in up to 70% and 30% of patients undergoing fundoplication and RYGB, respectively. Various symptoms were reported postoperatively depending on the type of surgical procedures, anatomy of the valve, need for esophageal lengthening, and follow-up. Conclusions: The treatment of recalcitrant GERD in SSc patients is challenging. Esophagectomy should be reserved to selected patients. Minimally invasive RYGB appears feasible and safe with promising preliminary short-term results. Current evidence is scarce while a definitive indication about the most appropriate surgical treatment is lacking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of periampullary and pancreatic head neoplasms is evolving. While minimally invasive Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has gained worldwide interest, there has been a debate on its related outcomes. The purpose of this paper was to provide an updated evidence comparing short-term surgical and oncologic outcomes within Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy (OpenPD), Laparoscopic Pancreaticoduodenectomy (LapPD), and Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy (RobPD). MEDLINE, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Central Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were referred for systematic search. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was executed. Forty-one articles (56,440 patients) were included; 48,382 (85.7%) underwent OpenPD, 5570 (9.8%) LapPD, and 2488 (4.5%) RobPD. Compared to OpenPD, LapPD and RobPD had similar postoperative mortality [Risk Ratio (RR) = 1.26; 95%CrI 0.91–1.61 and RR = 0.78; 95%CrI 0.54–1.12)], clinically relevant (grade B/C) postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) (RR = 1.12; 95%CrI 0.82–1.43 and RR = 0.87; 95%CrI 0.64–1.14, respectively), and severe (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3) postoperative complications (RR = 1.03; 95%CrI 0.80–1.46 and RR = 0.93; 95%CrI 0.65–1.14, respectively). Compared to OpenPD, both LapPD and RobPD had significantly reduced hospital length-of-stay, estimated blood loss, infectious, pulmonary, overall complications, postoperative bleeding, and hospital readmission. No differences were found in the number of retrieved lymph nodes and R0. OpenPD, LapPD, and RobPD seem to be comparable across clinically relevant POPF, severe complications, postoperative mortality, retrieved lymphnodes, and R0. LapPD and RobPD appears to be safer in terms of infectious, pulmonary, and overall complications with reduced hospital readmission We advocate surgeons to choose their preferred surgical approach according to their expertise, however, the adoption of minimally invasive techniques may possibly improve patients' outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has rapidly become popular with excellent results. However, LSG may exacerbate or increase the risk of "de novo" gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Adding a fundoplication has been proposed to increase the lower esophageal sphincter competency. The aim of this study was to examine the current evidence and outcomes of sleeve-fundoplication (Sleeve-F). Materials and Methods: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase data sets were consulted. Results: Six studies (485 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The age of the patient population ranged from 17 to 72 years old and 82% were females. All patients underwent sleeve-fundoplication. Rossetti, Collis-Nissen, and Nissen were the most commonly performed fundoplications. The estimated pooled prevalence of postoperative leak, gastric perforation, and overall complications were 1.0% (95% CI = 0.0–2.0%), 2.9% (95% CI = 0.0–8.3%), and 9.8% (95% CI = 6.7–13.4%), respectively. The pooled reoperation rate was 4.1% (95% CI = 1.3–10%). There was no mortality. At 12-month follow-up, the estimated pooled BMI and %EWL were 29.9 kg/m2 (95% CI = 28.5–31.2) and 66.2% (95% CI = 59.3–71.1), respectively, while esophagitis, PPI consumption, and GERD rates were 8.0% (95% CI 3–21%), 7.8% (95% CI 5–13%), and 11% (95% CI 4–26%). Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis shows that current evidence for Sleeve-F is limited with high postoperative gastric perforation and overall complication rates. Weight loss and GERD resolution seem promising in the short term; however, further studies are warranted to explore long-term effects with instrumental investigations. Sleeve-F should be considered cautiously while future well-structured randomized trials are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent staple-line leak is a challenging complication after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The over-the-scope clip (OTSC) (Ovesco®, Tübingen, Germany) and the Mega stent (Taewoong medical, Seoul, South Korea) recently gained encouraging results in the management of early leaks. This is a retrospective series (n = 8) focused on the management of persistent leaks after LSG with the simultaneous OTSC/Mega stent strategy. Seven patients underwent primary LSG. The median time from LSG to OTSC/Mega stent treatment was 48.5 days (range 28–63), and the median defect size was 9.5 mm (range 7–12). The median time to clear liquid diet, hospital length of stay, and overall treatment time were 4 days (range 2–5), 31 days (range 26–57), and 47 days (range 34–107), respectively. Overall success rate was 87.5%. Postoperative morbidity was 25%. The mean follow-up time was 18 months (range 3–24) with no fistula recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Morbid obesity is associated with reduced patients' perception quality of life (QoL). The health benefit of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is well established with long-term weight control and QoL improvement. The laparoscopic functional gastric bypass with fundectomy and gastric remnant exploration (LRYGBfse) has been described with promising results in terms of weight loss and comorbid resolution. The purpose of this study was to investigate its contribution on patients' QoL at 5-year follow-up. Material and Methods: Multicenter prospective study (2009–2018). QoL was assessed at baseline and annually with the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II (M-A-QoLQII), and Short-Form 36 (SF-36). Results: Overall, 752 patients underwent the LRYGBfse. Three-hundred forty-four patients completed the 5-year follow-up. Median postoperative %TBWL at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years were 33.6, 33.9, 33.7, and 31.4%, respectively. Median GIQLI total score before and at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years after LRYGBfse was 82.6, 96.1, 113.1, 112.5, and 108.4. Median M-A-QoLQII total score before and at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years after surgery was 0.6, 1.6, 2.1, 2.0, and 1.6. Compared with baseline, the 5-year follow-up improvement was statistically significant for the GIQLI and M-A-QoLQII (p < 0.001). Similarly, all eight SF-36 items and both the Physical and Mental component scores were significantly improved (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The functional LRYGBfse seems associated with a long-standing weight loss and QoL improvement. This seems driven by better gastrointestinal symptoms and physical and social functions combined with improved emotional aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative leak and intra-abdominal infections are common after bariatric surgery with a significant impact on perioperative outcomes, hospital length of stay, and readmission rates. In the era of enhanced recovery programs, with patients being discharged from the hospital 24–36 h after surgery and potentially before developing any complications, an early indicator of postoperative complications may be decisive. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive role of the C-reactive protein (CRP) in the early diagnosis of complications in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were consulted. A systematic review and a fully Bayesian meta-analysis were conducted. Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria for a total of 1401 patients. Overall, 57.7% underwent LSG while 42.3% underwent LRYGB. The pooled prevalence of postoperative complications was 9.8% (95% CI = 5–16%). The estimated pooled CRP cut-off value on postoperative day 1 (POD1) was 6.1 mg/dl with a significant diagnostic accuracy and a pooled area under the curve of 0.92 (95% credible interval (CrI) 0.73–0.98). The positive and negative likelihood ratios were 13.6 (95% CrI 8.40–15.9) and 0.16 (95% CrI 0.04–0.31), respectively. Conclusion: A CRP value lower than the derived cut-off of 6.1 mg/dl on POD1, combined with reassuring clinical signs, could be useful to rule out early postoperative leak and complications after LSG and LRYGB. In the context of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols, the integration of a CRP-based diagnostic algorithm as an additional complementary instrument may be valuable to reduce cost and improve outcomes and patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Large middle-third esophageal diverticula are rare. Thoracotomy has been proposed as mainstay of treatment; however, minimally invasive resection through lateral or prone position thoracoscopy has been described. Methods: The technical aspects of the novel semi-prone minimally invasive thoracoscopy (spVATS) in the management of large (> 5 cm) infracarinal traction diverticula are described. Operative outcomes, pre- and postoperative symptoms (Eckardt score) and quality of life (Short-Form 36) are analyzed. Results: Four symptomatic patients underwent spVATS for traction midesophageal diverticula. The median age was 59 years and 75% were males. The median diverticulum size was 7.0 cm (range 5.5–8). The median preoperative Eckardt score was 8.4 (range 5–10), and the overall incidence of respiratory symptoms was 50%. Esophageal manometry was performed in three patients with no evidence of underlying motility disorders. The median operative time was 149 min (range 125–175). No intraoperative complications or open conversions occurred. Postoperative morbidity and mortality were 25% and 0%, respectively. The median hospital length of stay was 7.5 days (range 6–10). The median postoperative follow-up was 22 months (range 5–35). At the last follow-up, there was a significant improvement of patients' symptoms (p = 0.024) and quality of life (p < 0.05) with complete resolution of respiratory symptoms. Conclusion: In summary, spVATS seems a valuable approach to treat large midesophageal traction diverticula in centers experienced with minimally invasive esophageal surgery. Further studies are needed to validate the advantages and promising outcomes of the spVATS providing more robust evidence on the treatment of this rare clinical entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most commonly performed procedures for surgical weight loss. It has been shown that overweight may be associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer. However, the risk of remnant gastric cancer after RYGB has not been defined yet and the development of neoplasm in the excluded stomach remains a matter of concern. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were consulted. Articles that described the diagnosis and management of remnant gastric cancer after RYGB were considered. Results: Seventeen patients were included. The age of the patient population ranged from 38 to 71 years. The most commonly reported symptoms were abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, and anemia. Abdominal computed tomography was used for diagnosis in the majority of patients. The neoplasm was located in the antrum/pre-pyloric region in 70% of cases and adenocarcinoma was the most common tumor histology (80%). An advanced tumor stage (III–IV) was diagnosed in almost 70% of patients and 40% were considered unresectable. Gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy was performed in 9 cases (53%). Post-operative morbidity was 12%. The follow-up ranged from 3 to 26 months and the overall disease-related mortality rate was 33.3%. Conclusion: The development of remnant gastric cancer after RYGB is rare. Surgeons should be aware of this potential event and the new onset of epigastric pain, nausea, and anemia should raise clinical suspicion. Further epidemiologic studies are warranted to deeply investigate the post-RYGB-related risk of remnant gastric cancer development in high-risk populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The development of achalasia after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is rare. Heller myotomy (HM) is the gold standard treatment while peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an emerging technique with promising results. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize the current knowledge on the treatment of esophageal achalasia after RYGB. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were consulted. All articles that described the management of achalasia after RYGB were included in this narrative review. Results: Twelve studies for a total of 28 patients were included. The age of the patient population ranged from 44 to 70 years old and 80% were females. Overall, 61.5% underwent laparoscopic RYGB while 38.5% underwent open RYBG. The elapsed time from the RYGB to myotomy ranged from 14 months to 14 years. Dysphagia (64%) and regurgitation (60.7%) were the most commonly reported symptoms; type I achalasia was diagnosed in 50% of patients. Surgical HM was performed in 17 patients (61%) while POEM was performed in 11 patients (39%). Postoperative morbidity was 3.6% with no differences comparing surgical HM and POEM (6% vs. 0%, p = 0.43). The follow-up time ranged from 1 to 43 months. The overall recurrence rate requiring reoperation was 7% with no differences comparing surgical HM and POEM (12% vs. 0%; p = 0.25). Conclusion: Both HM and POEM seem feasible, safe, and effective in the management of achalasia after RYGB. The role of POEM in the management algorithm of these patients should be further evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are a variety of surgical approaches for the management of right-sided colonic neoplasms. To date, no method has been shown superior in terms of surgical and perioperative outcomes. This meta-analysis compared open (ORH), laparoscopic-assisted (LRH), total laparoscopic (TLRH), and robotic right hemicolectomy (RRH) to assess surgical outcomes and perioperative morbidity and mortality.Study Design: We conducted an electronic systematic search using PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science that compared RRH, TLRH, LRH, and ORH. Forty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria: 5 randomized controlled trials, 25 retrospective, and 18 prospective studies totalling 5652 patients were included.Results: The overall complication rate was similar between RRH and TLRH (RR 1.0; Crl 0.66-1.5). The anastomotic leak rate was higher in LRH and ORH compared to RRH (RR 1.9; Crl 0.99-3.6 and RR 1.2; Crl 0.55-2.6, respectively), whereas it was lower in TLRH compared to RRH (RR 0.88 Crl 0.41-1.9). The risk of reoperation was significantly higher in ORH compared to TLRH (RR 3.3; Crl 1.3-8.0). Operative time was similar in RRH compared to LRH (RR - 27.0; Crl - 61.0 to 5.9), and to TLRH (RR - 24.0; Crl - 70.0 to 21.0). The hospital stay was significantly longer in LRH compared to RRH (RR 3.7; Crl 0.7-6.7).Conclusion: The surgical management of right-sided colonic disease is evolving. This network meta-analysis observed that short-term outcomes following RRH and TLRH were superior to standard LRH and ORH. The adoption of more advanced minimally invasive techniques can be costly and have associated learning phases, but will ultimately improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trans-oral endoscopic access to the pancreaticobiliary system is challenging after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Trans-gastric ERCP (TG-ERCP) has emerged as a viable option to manage patients with symptomatic post-RYBG choledocolithiasis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the outcomes of TG-ERCP to better define the risk-benefit ratio of this procedure and to guide clinical decision-making.Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify all reports on ERCP after RYGB. Pubmed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were thoroughly consulted matching the terms “ERCP” AND “gastric bypass.” Pooled prevalence of ERCP success rate, ERCP-related morbidity, post-procedural infectious complications, and overall morbidity were calculated using Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation and DerSimonian-Laird estimator in random effect meta-analysis. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using I2-index and Cochrane Q test. Meta-regression was used to address the effect of potential confounders.Results: Thirteen papers published between 2009 and 2017 matched the inclusion criteria. Eight hundred fifty patients undergoing 931 procedures were included. The most common clinical indications for TG-ERCP were biliary (90%) and pancreatic (10%). The majority of patients underwent an initial laparoscopic approach (90%). Same-day ERCP was successfully achieved in 703 cases (75.5%). Pooled prevalence of ERCP success rate, ERCP-related morbidity, post-procedural infectious complications, and overall morbidity were 99% (95% CI = 98-100%), 3.1% (95% CI = 1.0-5.8%), 3.4% (95% CI = 1.7-5.5%), and 14.2% (95% CI = 8.5-20.8%), respectively.Conclusion: TG-ERCP is a safe and effective therapeutic option in patients with symptomatic post-RYGB choledocolithiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is the gold standard treatment for morbid obesity. After LRYGB, the endoscopic access to the gastric remnant and pancreaticobiliary system is challenging. The laparoscopic gastric bypass with fundectomy and exploration of the gastric remnant (LRYGBfse) was introduced in an attempt to overcome this limitation. The purpose of this study was to analyze the medium-term outcomes and safety of LRYGBfse.Methods: Observational prospective single-arm multicenter cohort study. Patients with BMI > 35 kg/m2 were included. Previous open abdominal surgery was an exclusion criterion. Postoperative 1, 2, 3, and 5-year weight loss, BMI decrease, and percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) were recorded. Wilcoxon signed rank sum test was used for paired data.Results: Among 653 enrolled patients, 229 completed the 5-year follow-up. Preoperative median body weight (kg) and BMI (kg/m2) were 133.4 kg (interquartile range (IQR) = 12.0) and 48.2 kg/m2 (IQR = 10.1), respectively. Median 5-year body weight, BMI, and %EWL were 83.7 (IQR = 17.3), 31.2 (IQR = 7.7), and 74.8 (IQR = 23.4), respectively, all significantly improved compared to baseline (p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and p = 0.012, respectively). Comorbid improvement or resolution was observed in 88% of the patients. No major intraoperative complications were reported. Postoperative overall morbidity and mortality rates were 1 and 0%, respectively. Banding removal was necessary in one patient 62 months after the index operation.Conclusions: The LRYGBfse seems safe and effective with durable results at 5-year follow-up. Endoscopic exploration of the gastric remnant is an additional valuable tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early detection of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality. Prompt suspicion of leak may help to exclude patients from fast-track protocols, thereby avoiding early oral feeding and early hospital discharge which could aggravate the prognosis of a clinically occult leak.Patients and methods: Observational retrospective cohort study. Patients with diagnosis of esophageal cancer who underwent elective minimally invasive esophagectomy were included. The following data were collected: age, gender, BMI, comorbidities, ASA score, tumor histology, TNM staging, use of neo-adjuvant therapy, type of operation, operative time, morbidity, and 90-day mortality. A panel of biomarkers including C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), white blood cells (WBC), and percentage of neutrophils (PN) were measured at baseline and on postoperative days 3, 5, and 7.Results: Two hundred forty-three patients operated between 2012 and 2017 were included in the study. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 29 patients. There was a statistical association over time between anastomotic leakage and CRP (p < 0.001), PCT (p < 0.001), WBC (p = 0.019), and PN (p = 0.007). The cut-off value of CRP on POD 5 was 8.3 mg/dL, AUC = 0.818, negative LR = 0.176.Conclusions: Increased serum CRP, PCT, WBC, and PN after minimally invasive esophagectomy are associated with anastomotic leakage. A CRP value lower than 8.3 mg/dL, combined with reassuring clinical and radiological signs, may be useful to exclude leakage on postoperative day 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pressure ulcers related to nasogastric tubes (NGT) are underestimated in clinical practice and rarely reported in the literature. Improper tube fixation around the nostril quickly induces tissue ischemia, possibly leading to skin ulcers and permanent full-thickness lesions. Epidemiological and clinical studies on this subject are lacking. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study performed in a tertiary-care hospital. Consecutive hospital records of patients undergoing elective surgical procedures under general anesthesia, with an NGT inserted before or during surgery and maintained in place after the operation, were examined. Demographic and clinical data were extracted to investigate factors possibly associated with the occurrence of pressure ulcers of the nostril. Results: Between 2011 and 2015, 2131 patients underwent elective surgical procedures. The overall prevalence of NGT-induced ulcers was 4.8%, with esophagectomy being the most common index operation. Univariate analysis did not show a statistically significant association between the presence of ulcers and the examined variables, with the exception of operative time ( p < 0.012). The prevalence of nostril ulcers statistically differed across operative procedure time ( p < 0.001), with a positive significant linear trend ( p < 0.001), and lesions were significantly more frequent when the operative procedure lasted longer than 4 h (Confidence interval [CI] 9.2-17.1). Twenty-one (20.5%) patients required plastic surgery consultation due full-thickness lesions with severe cosmetic sequelae. Conclusions: Nostril pressure ulcers related to NGT are common in clinical practice and necessitate a high index of suspicion and vigilance during the perioperative period. The only factor significantly associated with NGT-induced pressure ulcers was the length of the operative procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate objective and subjective outcomes of patients undergoing laparoscopic repair of large hiatal hernia, either with or without resorbable mesh augmentation. The primary outcome of the study was anatomical recurrence rate as measured by endoscopy. Secondary outcomes were safety, efficacy, and long-term quality of life.Methods: This was an observational cohort study. Patients who underwent laparoscopic repair of large (≥5 cm) type III hiatal hernia were included. Criteria of exclusion were previously failed hiatus hernia repair and emergency procedures. Patients were stratified into mesh group (mesh-augmented crura repair plus fundoplication) and non-mesh group (standard crura repair plus fundoplication). Preoperative and postoperative symptoms were assessed using the GERD-HRQL questionnaire. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was routinely performed between 6 and 12 months postoperatively and was repeated over the follow-up every 1-2 years or as needed. Anatomical hernia recurrence was defined as the maximum vertical length of stomach being at least 2 cm above the diaphragm.Results: A total of 84 patients, 41 in the mesh group and 43 in the non-mesh group, operated between October 2009 and October 2014, were included in the study. All surgical procedures were completed laparoscopically. The median follow-up was 24 (IQR 29) months. There were 12 endoscopic recurrences, 4 in the mesh group and 8 in the non-mesh group. The five-year recurrence-free probability was similar in the two groups, but an earlier failure rate was noted in the non-mesh group at 12 months (p = 0.299). Three of the 12 patients with anatomical recurrence were symptomatic but did not require a reoperation. Univariate Cox proportional hazard analysis indicated that Toupet fundoplication may reduce the recurrence rate compared to Nissen fundoplication. No mesh-related complications occurred.Conclusions: Laparoscopic repair of large hiatal hernia is effective and durable. Crura reinforcement with a resorbable synthetic mesh is safe and may protect from early anatomical recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With our previous study, we aimed to assess the postoperative day 1 (POD1) C-reactive protein (CRP) predictive role in the early diagnosis of complications in patients after bariatric surgery. This definitely confirms, as Williams et al. stated, that CRP could not be used to diagnose a complication (rule-in) but rather, as we stated, a useful screening tool to exclude a complication (rule-out) if combined with reassuring clinical signs and surgeon expertise. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Traditionally, radical prostatectomy (RP) has been considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. Purpose of this systematic review was to examine the current evidence and outcomes of minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair after RP.Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE data sets were consulted. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP), robotic TAPP (r-TAPP), and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair were included.Overall, 4655 patients (16 studies) undergoing TAPP, r-TAPP, and TEP inguinal hernia repair after RP were included. The age of the patients ranged from 35 to 85 years. Open (49.1%), laparoscopic (7.4%), and robotic (43.5%) RP were described. Primary unilateral hernia repair was detailed in 96.3% of patients while 2.8% of patients were operated for recurrence. The pooled prevalence of intraoperative complication was 0.7% (95% CI 0.2–3.4%). Bladder injury and epigastric vessels bleeding were reported. The pooled prevalence of conversion to open was 0.8% (95% CI 0.3–1.7%). The estimated pooled prevalence of seroma, hematoma, and surgical site infection was 3.2% (95% CI 1.9–5.9%), 1.7% (95% CI 0.9–3.1%), and 0.3% (95% CI = 0.1–0.9%), respectively. The median follow-up was 18 months (range 8–48). The pooled prevalence of hernia recurrence and chronic pain were 1.1% (95% CI 0.1–3.1%) and 1.9% (95% CI 0.9–4.1%), respectively.Minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair seems feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of inguinal hernia after RP. Prostatectomy should not be necessarily considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair.Materials and methods: Traditionally, radical prostatectomy (RP) has been considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. Purpose of this systematic review was to examine the current evidence and outcomes of minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair after RP.Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE data sets were consulted. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP), robotic TAPP (r-TAPP), and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair were included.Overall, 4655 patients (16 studies) undergoing TAPP, r-TAPP, and TEP inguinal hernia repair after RP were included. The age of the patients ranged from 35 to 85 years. Open (49.1%), laparoscopic (7.4%), and robotic (43.5%) RP were described. Primary unilateral hernia repair was detailed in 96.3% of patients while 2.8% of patients were operated for recurrence. The pooled prevalence of intraoperative complication was 0.7% (95% CI 0.2–3.4%). Bladder injury and epigastric vessels bleeding were reported. The pooled prevalence of conversion to open was 0.8% (95% CI 0.3–1.7%). The estimated pooled prevalence of seroma, hematoma, and surgical site infection was 3.2% (95% CI 1.9–5.9%), 1.7% (95% CI 0.9–3.1%), and 0.3% (95% CI = 0.1–0.9%), respectively. The median follow-up was 18 months (range 8–48). The pooled prevalence of hernia recurrence and chronic pain were 1.1% (95% CI 0.1–3.1%) and 1.9% (95% CI 0.9–4.1%), respectively.Minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair seems feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of inguinal hernia after RP. Prostatectomy should not be necessarily considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair.Results: Traditionally, radical prostatectomy (RP) has been considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. Purpose of this systematic review was to examine the current evidence and outcomes of minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair after RP.Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE data sets were consulted. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP), robotic TAPP (r-TAPP), and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair were included.Overall, 4655 patients (16 studies) undergoing TAPP, r-TAPP, and TEP inguinal hernia repair after RP were included. The age of the patients ranged from 35 to 85 years. Open (49.1%), laparoscopic (7.4%), and robotic (43.5%) RP were described. Primary unilateral hernia repair was detailed in 96.3% of patients while 2.8% of patients were operated for recurrence. The pooled prevalence of intraoperative complication was 0.7% (95% CI 0.2–3.4%). Bladder injury and epigastric vessels bleeding were reported. The pooled prevalence of conversion to open was 0.8% (95% CI 0.3–1.7%). The estimated pooled prevalence of seroma, hematoma, and surgical site infection was 3.2% (95% CI 1.9–5.9%), 1.7% (95% CI 0.9–3.1%), and 0.3% (95% CI = 0.1–0.9%), respectively. The median follow-up was 18 months (range 8–48). The pooled prevalence of hernia recurrence and chronic pain were 1.1% (95% CI 0.1–3.1%) and 1.9% (95% CI 0.9–4.1%), respectively.Minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair seems feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of inguinal hernia after RP. Prostatectomy should not be necessarily considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair.Conclusions: Traditionally, radical prostatectomy (RP) has been considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. Purpose of this systematic review was to examine the current evidence and outcomes of minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair after RP.Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE data sets were consulted. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP), robotic TAPP (r-TAPP), and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair were included.Overall, 4655 patients (16 studies) undergoing TAPP, r-TAPP, and TEP inguinal hernia repair after RP were included. The age of the patients ranged from 35 to 85 years. Open (49.1%), laparoscopic (7.4%), and robotic (43.5%) RP were described. Primary unilateral hernia repair was detailed in 96.3% of patients while 2.8% of patients were operated for recurrence. The pooled prevalence of intraoperative complication was 0.7% (95% CI 0.2–3.4%). Bladder injury and epigastric vessels bleeding were reported. The pooled prevalence of conversion to open was 0.8% (95% CI 0.3–1.7%). The estimated pooled prevalence of seroma, hematoma, and surgical site infection was 3.2% (95% CI 1.9–5.9%), 1.7% (95% CI 0.9–3.1%), and 0.3% (95% CI = 0.1–0.9%), respectively. The median follow-up was 18 months (range 8–48). The pooled prevalence of hernia recurrence and chronic pain were 1.1% (95% CI 0.1–3.1%) and 1.9% (95% CI 0.9–4.1%), respectively.Minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair seems feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of inguinal hernia after RP. Prostatectomy should not be necessarily considered a contraindication to minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]