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Kyphosis makes abdominal surgery difficult. Here, we report a case of rectal cancer in a patient with kyphosis on whom laparoscopic surgery was adequately performed owing to preoperative simulation. An 81-year-old woman with rectal cancer was admitted to our department, and laparoscopic surgery was planned. On physical examination, the patient showed severe kyphosis. To adequately perform laparoscopic surgery, a detailed and thorough preoperative simulation was conducted. 1) Simulations of port arrangement and anatomy with 3-D CT, 2) body position simulation, 3) selection of surgical instruments, 4) preoperative discussion with the anesthesiologist were conducted. We planned to insert the first port from the umbilical region for pneumoperitoneum and the camera port from the ventral region under pneumoperitoneum. We planned to insert the ports on the right side of the patient's body from caudal regions, considering the location of the inferior mesenteric artery and the limited degrees and space due to the costal arch and the promontorium. Beach chair position was planned. We used a fan-shaped retractor and a sponge-made retractor to remove the small intestine from the surgical view. We discussed with the anesthesiologist preoperatively, and decided to keep the pneumoperitoneum pressure under 8 mmHg during the operation considering the respiratory function. Lower anterior resection with D2 lymph node dissection was performed without any intraoperative complications, and at 2 years post-surgery, the patient was healthy with no signs of recurrence. Laparoscopic surgery may be a good choice in patients with kyphosis, and we believe that preoperative simulation will result in an uneventful surgery.

IntroductionRadical rectal cancer resection can lead to a long-term bowel function impairment known as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). It remains unclear how to determine which patients are at a higher risk of developing LARS post-surgery. The POLARS tool was designed to predict the onset and severity of LARS in rectal cancer patients after surgery. The study aimed to assess the accuracy of POLARS in predicting the onset of LARS.Material and methodsA total of 66 rectal cancer patients treated laparoscopically between January 2016 and December 2017 were included in this retrospective study. Using POLARS, the predictive value for the occurrence of LARS was documented. During an average 17-month follow-up period, the bowel function of the patients was assessed using the dedicated LARS questionnaire. The predicted and actual scores were then compared.ResultsStudy participants included 36 women (54.5%) and 30 men (45.5%), with a mean age of 62.55 years (standard deviation: 10.2; range: 37–81). The mean predicted score according to POLARS was 24.5 (i.e. category “minor LARS”), and the mean actual score in the follow-up period was 16.42 (“no LARS” category). In only 39% of patients, the predicted LARS category was the same as the actual LARS category assessed by the questionnaire. Worse bowel function than reported at follow-up was predicted in 75% of all mispredictions.ConclusionsPOLARS did not prove to be accurate in predicting the risk and severity of LARS in these patients, although the average numbers appear promising. Further evaluation of the POLARS tool using a larger cohort is needed.

A defunctioning stoma is essential in reducing symptomatic leakage after colorectal surgery, particularly after lower anterior resection. Subsequent stoma closure is associated with morbidity and rarely mortality. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with post-operative complications related to stoma closure. This retrospective cohort included patients who have undergone elective stoma closure between 2015 and 2017. Patient demographics, pre-morbidities, use of systemic therapy, stoma characteristics, and post-operative complications were retrieved from electronic records. Univariate and multivariate analysis was carried out to identify risk factors of stoma closure related morbidity. Ninety patients were included with a median age of 65 years, of which 58 (64.4%) of them were male. Sixty-nine (76.7%) patients had loop colostomy, while the rest had loop ileostomy. Fifty-four (60%) patients received neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy. The median time interval from stoma creation to closure was 15 months. Nineteen (21.1%) patients had post-operative complications. The two most commonly observed post-operative complications were wound complications (16.7%) and intra-abdominal collections (6.7%). Fifteen (16.7%) patients developed an incisional hernia. The median follow-up time was 29 months. There was no 30-day mortality in this cohort. In multivariate analysis, adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with a higher risk of wound complications (p = 0.027). Higher risk of incisional hernia was seen in patients with history of hypertension (p = 0.046), use of adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.042) and stoma-related complications before closure (p = 0.002). Male patients might be associated with a higher risk of incisional hernia. Adjuvant chemotherapy is associated with a higher risk of post-operative complications, particularly with wound complications. Male patients, hypertension, adjuvant chemotherapy, and stoma-related complications are associated with a higher risk of incisional hernia.

Objective Minimizing residual tumors is one of the most important prognostic factors in the management of advanced ovarian cancer [1]. In ovarian cancer patients with cardiophrenic lymph node (LN) metastases, transabdominal cardiophrenic lymph node dissection (CPLND) has been performed along with the surgery on the primary site [2]. However, CPLND for the complicated locations in the thoracic cavity is still technically challenging. This video aims to share our surgical technique for the transabdominal CPLND. Methods A 60-year-old woman who presented with suspicious bilateral ovarian cancer was hospitalized for cytoreductive surgery. Preoperative CT demonstrated peritoneal seeding and multiple LN metastases including right anterior, lateral, posterior, and left anterior cardiophrenic LNs. The gynecology and general surgery team underwent hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, supracolic omentectomy, lower anterior resection, right diaphragmatic and bladder peritonectomy, pelvic and paraaortic LN dissection, and appendectomy. The thoracic surgeon took over the operation because the pelvic cavity was regarded as R0. CPLND was performed by transabdominal, subxiphoid approach. The procedure is narrated in the video. Results Complete clearance of CPLN leaving no gross residual disease was possible without complication. A long, transverse incision of the anterior diaphragm was closed with a 1-0 polypropylene in the way of double layered continuous running suture and 8 times ties for the final knot. Conclusion Transabdominal CPLND can be used safely and effectively without change of patient's position and with minimal diaphragmatic injury. However, this approach may be unfeasible for metastatic internal mammary LN dissection and still needs meticulous surgical skills to avoid complications.

An anastomosis stricture with a total obstruction is rare and treatment options are variable. We describe our experience with a combination of a single port transanal laparoscopic approach and intraoperative colonoscopic balloon dilatation. The patient was a 48-year-old man with rectal cancer. A laparoscopic single port lower anterior resection and diverting ileostomy were performed followed by a colon study and ileostomy takedown. The colon study and sigmoidoscopy revealed total obstruction of the rectum at the anastomosis level. We employed a transanal approach using a single port to correct this. We located the anastomosis stricture site and generated a lumen using a dissector and electocautery method to insert the balloon device. Colonoscopic balloon dilatation was subsequently successful. The patient was discharged with no postoperative complications. A laparoscopic single port transanal approach with an intraoperative colonoscopic balloon dilatation is a viable alternative approach to treating an anastomosis stricture of the rectum.

BACKGROUND Rectal cancer patients who have undergone lower anterior resection with sphincter-saving surgery often experience loss of bowel control. We currently do not have suitable treatment regimens for such patients. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of losing bowel control in patients who have undergone lower anterior resection with sphincter-saving surgery for rectal cancer in Taiwan. METHODS A descriptive phenomenological study design was adopted. Purposive sampling and one-on-one semistructured interviews were conducted for data collection. Narratives were analyzed using Colaizzi's method. RESULTS Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 12 patients (8 men, 4 women) whose average age was 61 years. Three themes and 11 subthemes emerged: physical problems (pain from broken perianal skin, insomnia, decreased physical strength, and body weight loss), adverse psychological reactions (worries, helplessness, and social isolation), and the use of coping strategies (avoidance of inappropriate foods to reduce bowel irritation and peristalsis, reduction of food intake, and use of antidiarrheal drugs and perianal skincare products). CONCLUSION The study supports the importance of having a good understanding of patient experiences by healthcare professionals to provide more effective healthcare. Furthermore, awareness of the cultural issue of social isolation was deemed important for providing individualized healthcare. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Education, counseling, and psychological support can enhance patients' abilities to use coping strategies to overcome the physical and mental challenges of bowel symptoms. For example, appropriate diet-related education programs must be developed to reduce the trial-and-error learning process commonly adopted by patients to identify inappropriate foods.

Background and purpose Chemoradiotherapy is the primary treatment for localized anal cancer (AC). This treatment offers high rates of cure and organ preservation. Radiotherapy can however, result in late persisting anorectal dysfunction, with anal incontinence, urge and clustering. Correlation of radiation doses to pelvic substructures and functional outcome is not well described in AC. We correlated patient reported anorectal function to radiation doses to sphincters and pelvic floor muscles. Materials and methods Patients treated with (chemo)radiotherapy for AC were asked to fill out LARS (lower anterior resection syndrome) questionnaires at follow-up. We compared patients with no LARS (score 0–19) and patients with major LARS (30–42) as well as individual LARS questions to specific radiation doses to sphincters, levators and puborectal muscles. Results Thirty-six patients were included, 18 with no LARS and 18 with major LARS. Gender, age, TNM stage, PTV, chemotherapy, time to LARS score (mean 660 and 749 days) were comparable between the two groups. LARS symptoms, occurring at least once per week, were reported between 25–55.7%, and poorer LARS outcome was associated to worse quality of life. Dose to sphincter complex (Dmean, V50Gy and D90%) differed significantly between patients with no and major LARS (p = 0.048, 0.035 and 0.02 respectively). Further, D90% to the sphincter complex was significantly higher in patients who had accidental leakage of stool, (p = 0.044). Conclusion: Patients treated with (chemo)radiotherapy for AC show high frequency of patient reported anorectal dysfunction. Specific doses to the sphincters could become a useful predictor of anal incontinence and major LARS and incorporated into future radiotherapy planning studies.

Background Retroperitoneal high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) is extremely rare and the origin remains unclear. We present a case of retroperitoneal HGSC and coexisting serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC), which is considered as the main origin of ovarian HGSC. We reviewed the available literature and discussed about the origin of this rare disease. Case presentation A 58-year-old female with a 93 × 65 × 62 mm-solid tumor with a cystic part was located immediately dorsal to the rectum underwent bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, total abdominal hysterectomy, and en bloc resection of the retroperitoneal tumor together with lower anterior resection of the rectum. Histological diagnosis was retroperitoneal HGSC and STIC at the right fallopian tube. Two deleterious somatic mutations in TP53 and BRCA2 genes were shared between retroperitoneal HGSC and STIC. Conclusions In addition to clinical features in the previous reports, our genetic findings suggest the origin of retroperitoneal HGSC might be STIC.

Primary tumors of the seminal vesicles (SVs) are uncommon in the routine practice of urologists. Their diagnosis is complicated by an absence of early signs of the disease. Therefore, usually SVs tumors are detected accidentally during instrumental examinations. Primary tumors of the SVs can be benign. In the Medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases we have found 25 descriptions of clinical cases of cystadenomas of the SVs, while in Russian medical literature no publications on the topic can be found. The main diagnostic methods are contrast-enhanced computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and fine needle biopsy. Surgery scale varies from SV resection and vesiculec¬tomy to vesicle resection with prostatectomy and orthotopic neobladder reconstruction and lower anterior resection of the rectum. Considering that primary SV tumors are a rare pathology, there’s no consensus on the scale of surgical intervention. In view of the rarity of the disease and lack of its descriptions in Russian medical literature, we find it interesting to demonstrate a clinical observation of a patient with cystadenoma of the left SV.

Purpose Transient loop ileostomies in rectal cancer surgery are generally closed after 2 or more months to allow adequate time for anastomotic healing. Maintaining the ileostomy may cause medical, surgical, or psychological complications; it also reduces the quality of life, and increase treatment costs. We performed this study to evaluate the safety and feasibility of early ileostomy closure 2 weeks postoperatively. Methods If a patient who underwent total mesorectal excision had 2 or more risk factors for anastomotic leakage, a loop ileostomy was created. After confirmation of intact anastomosis via sigmoidoscopy and proctography 1 week postoperatively, the patient was enrolled and ileostomy was closed 2 weeks postoperatively. The primary endpoint was the frequency of complication after ileostomy repair. Results Thirty patients were enrolled in the study and 6 were excluded due to anastomotic leakage. Except for 1 case of wound infection (4.2%), no patient experienced any complication including newly developed leakage after the ileostomy closure. The mean duration to repair was 13.1 days (range, 8-16 days) and mean duration to the start of adjuvant treatment after radical surgery was 5.37 weeks (range, 3.0-8.1 weeks). Conclusion Transient loop ileostomy, which is confirmed to be intact endoscopically and radiologically, can be safely closed 2 weeks postoperatively without requiring a significant delay in adjuvant chemotherapy.

Background: With more sphincters preserving surgery being performed for distal rectal cancer, these have been associated with clusters of symptoms experienced by the patient after reversal of diverting ileostomy collectively known as low anterior resection syndrome.Objective: Our objective is to know incidence of Lower Anterior Resection (LAR) syndrome in different phase of time in our context using low anterior resection symptom score translate in Nepali language.Methodology: This is an observational descriptive study conducted at Department of Surgery, Kathmandu Medical College and Department of Clinical Oncology, Bir Hospital, Kathmandu from Jan 2015 till Jan 2017. All patients who had undergone low and ultra low anterior resection for middle and low rectal cancer respectively after a long course of neo adjuvant concurrent chemo radiotherapy, having undergone a reversal of diverting ileostomy after 6 weeks of primary surgery were included. A Nepalese version of low anterior resection score was developed after translation from English and scoring was done on 30th day, at the end of 6 months and 1 year postoperative following reversal of ileostomy.Results: Out of 43 consecutive patient 100 % of patients had features of major low anterior resection syndrome during 30 days of ileostomy reversal. However, 46.5% patient showed major low anterior resection syndrome during 6 months of follow up and that decreased to 34.9% showed major LAR syndrome upon one year of follow up.Conclusions: The Low anterior resection syndrome score converted in Nepali language is feasible to use and helps in comparing the functional results of reconstruction after low or ultralow anterior resection and our study have shown improvement in score with time. Journal of Kathmandu Medical College,Vol. 7, No. 2, Issue 24, Apr.-Jun., 2018, page: 59-63

Background: To develop a risk-adjustment model for unplanned return to theatre (URTT) outcomes following colorectal surgeries in Australia and New Zealand hospitals and apply top-down and bottom-up statistical process control methods for fair comparison of hospitals and surgeons’ URTT rates. Methods: We analysed URTT outcomes from hospitals contributing data to the Bi-National Colorectal Cancer Audit clinical registry between 2007 and 2016. Preoperative and intraoperative covariates were considered for risk adjustment. A risk-adjusted rate funnel plot was prepared for between-hospital comparisons and identification of outlying hospitals with unusually high rates of URTT. Cumulative observed-minus-expected charts with cumulative sum signals were then presented for surgeons within an outlying hospital. Results: The study included 15 134 patients and 166 surgeons across 70 hospitals. The weighted average URTT rate was 5.2%. The risk-adjustment model identified 12 preoperative and intraoperative variables that significantly raise the risk of URTT: male sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, emergency admissions, conversion entry, left hemicolectomy, total colectomy, proctocolectomy, lower anterior resection, ultra-low anterior resection, abdominoperineal resection, organ resection and excess lymph nodes harvested. Right hemicolectomy significantly reduced risk of URTT. URTT rates were not found to significantly vary across seniority of operator; however, comparisons were limited by lack of data on junior operators. The funnel plot identified five hospitals as ‘possible outliers’ and hospital T was identified as a ‘definite outlier’. The cumulative observed-minus-expected charts with cumulative sum signals showed that within hospital T, one surgeon among three had a particularly bad run of URTTs. Conclusion: Feedback from aggregated URTT outcomes using a risk-adjusted rate funnel plot is enhanced when follow-up examination of outlying hospitals is conducted with concurrent application of cumulative observed-minus-expected charts with cumulative sum signals.

BACKGROUND Worldwide, colorectal carcinomas are the third most common carcinomas in men and the second most common carcinomas in women. Pathological examination of rectum specimens requires special attention for correctly evaluating many prognostically important factors. In this study, we present pathological results of 173 lower anterior resection (LAR) and abdominoperineal resection (APR) specimens retrospectively evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS We included 173 LAR and APR specimens in this study. Patients were evaluated in the Istanbul Ekin Private Pathology Laboratory and underwent surgery at Canakkale State Hospital, General Surgery Clinic. RESULTS Of the 173 specimens, 15 (8.7%) were APR and 158 (91.3%) were LAR specimens. Ninety-four patients (54.3%) were males and 79 patients (45.7%) were females. The mean age of the patients was 63.5 years (range 26-90 years). In the histopathological examination, malignant neoplasm was detected in 172 of the cases (99.4%) and benign endometriosis was detected in 1 of the cases (0.6%). There were 151 (87.2%), 8 (4.6%), 5 (2.9%), 1 (0.6%), 1 (0.6%), 1 (0.6%), 1 (0.6%), 1 (0.6%), and 4 (2.3%) patients with adenocarcinoma, mucinous adenocarcinoma, intramucosal adenocarcinoma in the setting of a high-grade tubulovillous adenoma, synchronous colon/prostate adenocarcinoma, malignant melanoma, signet ring cell carcinoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, endometriosis, and adenocarcinoma diagnosed by the examination of colonoscopic biopsy specimens that showed complete regression with neoadjuvant therapy, respectively. CONCLUSIONS When evaluating specimens from patients with colorectal carcinoma, pathological evaluation, which is one of the most fundamental pillars in managing patients with cancer, must be performed carefully and meticulously. Each pathological parameter should be evaluated carefully and clinicians and pathologists should evaluate these cases together.

Aim of investigation. To determine diagnostic value of procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) at anastomotic leakage (AL) following lower anterior resection (LAR) of the rectum. Material and methods. Overall 100 patients underwent surgery for epithelial tumors of rectum in the period 2013-2016 yy in the volume of LAR with the formation of anastomosis and preventive stoma. In patients without clinical symptoms radiopaque study was performed in order to identify asymptomatic AL on day 7 after the surgery. AL rate, difference in PCT and CRP levels in patients with AL and consistent anastomosis were assessed along with sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value of these markers. Results. AL was diagnosed in 20% (20 of 100) of patients: in 11% (11 of 100) - with clinical manifestations, in 9% (9 of 100) - without clinical symptoms (contrast leakage according to X-ray study). In the group of patients with anastomotic leak, the median of C-reactive protein level differed from that in patients with uncompromised integrity of anastomosis at 3rd day after surgery (156 mg/L vs 81 mg/L, respectively - t-test, p=0.0004) and postoperative day 6 (136 mg/L vs. 52 mg/L, respectively - t-test, p

Introduction Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) of multiple colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is challenging but has become more practical recently due to progression in operative technique. We aimed to present laparoscopic detection of multiple CRLM using intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUSG) and LLR for scattered CRLM. Methods A 65-year-old male was admitted with multiple liver metastases during follow-up for mid-rectal cancer. The patient had already undergone laparoscopic lower anterior resection 6 months ago and had completed the sixth adjuvant chemotherapy with capecitabine. Magnetic resonance imaging presented metastatic tumor about 5 cm in size in segment 6 of liver and multiple small metastases in segment 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 of liver. The surgery was performed in supine position and five trocars were inserted. After detection of tumors using IOUSG to mark the site of the tumors, we performed bisegmentectomy about tumors of segment 5 and 6, and 3 tumorectomy of liver about tumors of segment 3, 4, and 7 + 8. Immediately after surgery, all specimens were cut to check whether the tumors were included and whether the resection margin was sufficient. Results The operative time was 350 minutes and estimated blood loss was 80 mL. Pringle maneuver was performed 5 times in 15 minutes. All tumor resection margin were grossly confirmed as negative. There were no immediate postoperative complications. The patient was discharged on the day 7 of postoperative hospital stay. Conclusions LLR is safe and feasible technique even for bilobar multiple CRLM.

To clarify the risk factors for complications after diverting ileostomy closure in patients who have undergone rectal cancer surgery. The study group comprised 240 patients who underwent a diverting ileostomy at the time of lower anterior resection or internal anal sphincter resection, in our department, between 2004 and 2015. Univariate and multivariate analyses of 18 variables were performed to establish which of these are risk factors for postoperative complications. The most common complications were intestinal obstruction and wound infection. Univariate analysis showed that an age of 72 years or older (p = 0.0028), an interval between surgery and closure of 6 months or longer (p = 0.0049), and an operation time of 145 min or longer (p = 0.0293) were significant risk factors for postoperative complications. Multivariate analysis showed that age (odds ratio, 3.4236; p = 0.0025), the interval between surgery and closure (odds ratio, 3.4780; p = 0.0039), and operation time (odds 2.5179; p = 0.0260) were independent risk factors. Age, interval between surgery and closure, and operation time were independent risk factors for postoperative complications after diverting ileostomy closure. Thus, temporary ileostomy closure should be performed within 6 months after surgery for rectal cancer.

Background and Aims: This prospective, randomized, double blind study was undertaken to establish the effect of addition of dexamethasone as an adjunct to epidural ropivacaine in patients of carcinoma rectum undergoing lower anteriorresection. Materials and Methods: Sixty ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) class I and II patients undergoing lower anterior resection were enrolled to receive either 6mg or 8mg or 10mg of dexamethasone along with epidural ropivacaine to a total of 10ml test solution in each group for epidural analgesia. Hemodynamic parameters, postoperative analgesia, total requirement of rescue analgesia and adverse events were monitored. Results: Analgesia in the postoperative period was better in Group receiving 10mg of dexamethasone associated with less postoperative rescue analgesic consumption Conclusion: Hence, addition of dexamethasone 10mg to epidural ropivacaine can be advantageous with respect to better postoperative analgesia.

Objective. Colorectal surgeons report difficulty in positioning surgical devices in males, particularly those with a narrower pelvis. The objectives of this study were to (1) characterize the anatomy of the pelvis and surrounding soft tissue from magnetic resonance and computed tomography scans from 10 average males (175 cm, 78 kg) and (2) develop a model representing the mean configuration to assess variability. Methods. The anatomy was characterized from existing scans using segmentation and registration techniques. Size and shape variation in the pelvis and soft tissue morphology was characterized using the Generalized Procrustes Analysis to compute the mean configuration. Results. There was considerable variability in volume of the psoas, connective tissue, and pelvis and in surface area of the mesorectum, pelvis, and connective tissue. Subject height was positively correlated with mesorectum surface area (P = .028, R2 = 0.47) and pelvis volume ( P = .041, R2 = 0.43). The anterior-posterior distance between the inferior pelvic floor muscle and pubic symphysis was positively correlated with subject height ( P = .043, r = 0.65). The angle between the superior mesorectum and sacral promontory was negatively correlated with subject height ( P = .042, r = −0.65). The pelvic inlet was positively correlated with subject weight ( P = .001, r = 0.89). Conclusions. There was considerable variability in organ volume and surface area among average males with some correlations to subject height and weight. A physical trainer model created from these data helped surgeons trial and assess device prototypes in a controllable environment.

Background The incidence of anastomotic stricture varies due to the different definitions given to the condition. In most cases they are asymptomatic, and if there are symptoms, they are usually those of a partial intestinal obstruction. Case report The case is presented of an 80 year old patient who underwent a lower anterior resection for rectal neoplasm. After ileostomy closure, he presented with subocclusive symptoms caused by stenosis of colorectal anastomosis. This stenosis was managed with endoscopic dilations, and one of these dilations produced an anastomotic perforation with pneumoperitoneum, retropneumoperitoneum, and pneumothorax. Once the patient was clinically and haemodynamically stable, the perforation was treated with conservative measures, resolving the complication satisfactorily. Conclusions The literature describes several management options for colorectal anastomoses strictures, such as surgical resection, rubber dilators, endoscopic dilation, all of which might produce colonic perforation. Its management ranges from conservative measures to surgical intervention.

Aim The aim of this technical note is to describe a three-step technique for expeditious and complete mobilization of the splenic flexure (CMSF) during single docking totally robotic rectal cancer surgery. Method A prospectively maintained database was searched for all patients who underwent single docking totally robotic rectal cancer surgery with CMSF through a stepwise technique. Results We studied 89 patients underwent CMSF during single docking totally robotic lower anterior resection for rectal cancer. Conclusion The technique demonstrates that CMSF can be performed with a standardized approach using the natural embryological planes of surgery. Moreover, this technique does not involve any change in patient's position on the operating table or undocking the robotic system. We have included an intra-operative video recording to demonstrate the technique.

We present the preliminary experiences with and short-term outcomes of 50 consecutive patients with rectal cancer who underwent preoperative concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) followed by robotic surgery by using the high dissection and low ligation technique. Between October 2013 and August 2015, 50 patients with rectal cancer underwent robotic surgery after preoperative CCRT at a single institution. We performed D3 lymph node dissection and low tie ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA); this technique is referred to as the high dissection and low ligation technique. Clinicopathological features, perioperative parameters, and postoperative outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. FOLFOX regimen was used for preoperative CCRT in 26 (52 %) patients. Long-course radiotherapy was concurrently administered. A pathological complete response (pCR) was obtained in 14 (28 %) patients. Of the 50 patients, 23 (46 %) patients received intersphincteric resection (ISR) with coloanal anastomosis, 25 (50 %) patients received lower anterior resection (LAR), and 2 (4 %) patients received abdominoperineal resection (APR). Apical nodes were pathologically harvested in 47 (94 %) patients, and the median number of harvested apical lymph nodes was 2 (range, 0–10). The overall complication rate was 24 % (10 patients with 12 episodes), and most complications were mild. Roboic rectal surgery combined with appropriate preoperative CCRT helps in achieving a favorable pCR, circumferential resection margin, and sphincter preservation. Moreover, high dissection and low ligation of the IMA can be safely performed using the da Vinci® Surgical System safely which yield favorable short-term clinical outcomes.

A 39-year-old man had been treated for rectal cancer 6 years ago by lower anterior resection of the rectum and perioperative radiochemotherapy. Since then follow-up had been unremarkable but now the patient presented with unspecific lower abdominal pain. The cause of the pain was identified as paraneoplastic retroperitoneal fibrosis secondary to metachronous pulmonary metastases of the rectal cancer.

Highlights • Anatomic variations of the origin of IMA and of its relationship with the AA are of paramount clinical importance as regards to diagnosis and surgical treatment. • Such variations might encumber high ligation of the IMA during surgery for rectal cancer, with subsequent implications or may pose a major risk factor of accidental injury and hemorrhage. • Such anatomic variations of the origin of the IMA and its relationship with AA, may be actually more common, than described in the literature., Introduction Identification and ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) is a crucial surgical step when performing lower anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer. Anatomic variations of the relation between the IMA and the bifurcation point of abdominal aorta (AA) encumber surgical maneuvers and are of great clinical importance. Presentation of case An unusual anatomic variation of the relation between IMA and the bifurcation point of AA was unexpectedly detected during LAR to a 69-year-old Caucasian female patient. The operation was uneventful. A meticulous review of the recent literature was conducted as well. Discussion Variations of the mesenteric vascular supply are mainly identified incidentally, during the operation. In particular, variations of IMA are extremely uncommon in the literature. However, such kind of congenital variations, are not as rare as considered and their presence encumbers surgical maneuvers and increases the potentiality of intraoperative injury and hemorrhage. Conclusion Surgeons’ deep knowledge and unceasing awareness concerning probable anatomic variations of the relation between the IMA and AA, combined with detailed exposure of the operative field and of the relationship between these adjacent arteries constitute the cornerstone of a safe operation.

Background: It is unclear whether emergency weekend colon and rectal cancer surgery are associated with worse outcomes (ie, weekend effect) because previous studies mostly used administrative data, which may insufficiently adjust for case-mix. Materials and Methods: Prospectively collected data from the 2012-2015 Dutch ColoRectal Audit (n=5,224) was used to examine differences in 30-day mortality and severe complication and failure-to-rescue rates for emergency weekend (Saturday and Sunday) versus Monday surgery, stratified for colon and rectal cancer. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification score, tumor stage, presence of metastasis, preoperative complication, additional resection for metastasis or locally advanced tumor, location primary colon tumor, type of rectal surgery (lower anterior resection or abdominal perineal resection), and type of neoadjuvant therapy (short-course radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy). Results: A total of 5,052 patients undergoing colon cancer surgery and 172 undergoing rectal cancer surgery were included. Patients undergoing colon or rectal cancer surgery during weekends had significantly more preoperative tumor complications compared with those undergoing surgery on a weekday. Additionally, differences in year of surgery and location of primary tumor were found for colon cancer surgery. Emergency colon cancer surgery during the weekend was associated with increased 30-day mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.66; 95% CI, 1.10-2.50) and severe complications (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.03-1.63) compared with surgery on Monday. Estimates for emergency weekend rectal cancer surgery were similar but not statistically significant, likely explained by small numbers. Conclusions: Weekend emergency colon cancer surgery was associated with higher mortality and severe complication rates. More research is needed to understand which factors explain and contribute to these differences.

Information theory provides a spectrum of nonlinear methods capable of grasping an internal structure of a signal together with an insight into its complex nature. In this work, we discuss the usefulness of the selected entropy techniques for a description of the information carried by the surface electromyography signals during colorectal cancer treatment. The electrical activity of the external anal sphincter can serve as a potential source of knowledge of the actual state of the patient who underwent a common surgery for rectal cancer in the form of anterior or lower anterior resection. The calculation of Sample entropy parameters has been extended to multiple time scales in terms of the Multiscale Sample Entropy. The specific values of the entropy measures and their dependence on the time scales were analyzed with regard to the time elapsed since the operation, the type of surgical treatment and also the different depths of the rectum canal. The Mann Whithney U test and Anova Friedman statistics indicate the statistically significant differences among all of stages of treatment and for all consecutive depths of rectum area for the estimated Sample Entropy. The further analysis at the multiple time scales signify the substantial differences among compared stages of treatment in the group of patients who underwent the lower anterior resection., 13 pages, 7 figures, 3 tables, accepted for Entropy

Despite advances in surgical techniques allowing for the preservation of the sphincter complex in the majority of patients with rectal cancer, en bloc resection of the rectum and anus using a combined abdominal and perineal approach is still required in some circumstances. Abdominoperineal resection (APR) can be performed through an open or laparoscopic approach, though the laparoscopic approach is associated with less blood loss, decreased postoperative pain and narcotic use, and shorter hospital stay. Multiport laparoscopic APR is performed in much the same manner as laparoscopic lower anterior resection for rectal cancer, adhering to the oncologic principles of high ligation on the inferior mesenteric artery and total mesorectal excision (TME). Key differences include the omission of splenic flexure mobilization and the conscious avoidance of distal mesorectal dissection off of the levator ani muscles to preserve the cylindrical nature of the specimen and avoid “wasting” at the proximal anal canal. Performance of the perineal dissection in lithotomy allows for excellent visualization in most circumstances, without the need for prone positioning. Postoperative recovery is managed according to established enhanced recovery pathways.

Objectives To determine hospital resource utilization, associated costs and the risk of complications during hospitalization for four types of surgical resections and to estimate the incremental burden among patients with cancer compared to those without cancer. Methods Patients (≥18 years old) were identified from the Premier Research Database of US hospitals if they had any of the following types of elective surgical resections between 1/2008 and 12/2014: lung lobectomy, lower anterior resection of the rectum (LAR), liver wedge resection, or total hysterectomy. Cancer status was determined based on ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes. Operating room time (ORT), length of stay (LOS), and total hospital costs, as well as frequency of bleeding and infections during hospitalization were evaluated. The impact of cancer status on outcomes (from a hospital perspective) was evaluated using multivariable generalized estimating equation models; analyses were conducted separately for each resection type. Results Among the identified patients who underwent surgical resection, 23 858 (87.9% with cancer) underwent lung lobectomy, 13 522 (63.8% with cancer) underwent LAR, 2916 (30.0% with cancer) underwent liver wedge resection and 225 075 (11.3% with cancer) underwent total hysterectomy. After adjusting for patient, procedural, and hospital characteristics, mean ORT, LOS, and hospital cost were statistically higher by 3.2%, 8.2%, and 9.2%, respectively for patients with cancer vs. no cancer who underwent lung lobectomy; statistically higher by 6.9%, 9.4%, and 9.6%, respectively for patients with cancer vs. no cancer who underwent LAR; statistically higher by 4.9%, 14.8%, and 15.7%, respectively for patients with cancer vs. no cancer who underwent liver wedge resection; and statistically higher by 16.0%, 27.4%, and 31.3%, respectively for patients with cancer vs. no cancer who underwent total hysterectomy. Among patients who underwent each type of resection, risks for bleeding and infection were generally higher among patients with cancer as compared to those without cancer. Conclusions In this analysis, we found that patients who underwent lung lobectomy, lower anterior resection of the rectum (LAR), liver wedge resection or total hysterectomy for a cancer indication have significantly increased hospital resource utilization compared to these same surgeries for benign indications.

Background: The main objective of this study was to find out if the application of adjuvant oxaliplatin (OXA) influences sphincter function in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) treated with preoperative capecitabine/ radiotherapy followed by lower anterior resection (LAR). Methods: Patients with LARC treated at our medical center with LAR and with absence of loco-regional relapse for at least two years were retrospectively analyzed independently of the type of adjuvant treatment that they received. Anal sphincter function was assessed by Wexner´s incontinence score (0 to 20 points, with score points inversely proportional to sphincter function). All questionnaires were completed between January 2010 and December 2012. Sphincter function as assessed by the Wexner test was compared between patients with and without OX treatment, using the non-parametrical Mann-Whitney test. Statistical analyses were conducted with IBM SPSS Statistics package, version 20. Results: 92 patients were included in our study since 2006. The mean time from LAR to fecal function assessment was 58 months (25 to 96 months). Wexner test median values did not differ significantly (p=0.450) between patients with and without adjuvant OXA. The median (IQR) for the group of patients without adjuvant OXA treatment was 6.0 (1.0-11.25), and of 5.0 (1.0-10.0) for the group that received adjuvant OXA. Conclusions: Based on our findings, OXA could be used as adjuvant treatment in LARC according to the absence of deleterious effects over sphincter anal function. Due to the retrospective nature of our study, prospective studies should be warranted in similar scenarios.

Background A diverting stoma is an accepted adjunct to low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer. However, some patients do not undergo a subsequent procedure to have the stoma reversed. We aim to determine incidence and risk factors for nonclosure of the diverting stoma. Methods This is a retrospective study of stage I to III rectal cancer patients at a single institution having LAR with curative intent and a diverting stoma. Results We studied 162 patients. Prevalence of nonclosure of the temporary stoma was 14.5% within 13 months of the index surgery. On a multivariate linear regression model, nonclosure was associated with anastomotic leak (odds ratio 9.89, 2.31 to 43.93, P P Conclusions Prevalence of nonclosure of a diverting stoma after LAR for rectal cancer is substantial (14.5%). Patients should be counselled regarding this risk with particular attention to potential risk factors.

Proctocolectomy and ileorectal anastomosis are surgical procedures indicated for familial adenomatous polyposis, as proposed by Lockhart-Mummery, which take into account the quality of life. In recent years, this method has represented a step forward, and subtotal proctocolectomy (total colectomy and lower anterior resection of the rectum) has been performed using laparoscopic surgery procedures. Lymph node dissection for combined colorectal cancer is also possible with laparoscopic surgery. Subtotal and total proctocolectomy can be performed by understanding the fascial composition of the large intestine and integration of the surgical procedure for each site in the large intestine. The area of the entire colon and most of the rectum is considered the resection range. For comorbid cancers, laparoscopic subtotal proctocolectomy and subtotal proctocolectomy with laparotomy are similar in terms of resection range and degree of lymph node dissection, with respect to other interventional approaches in the abdominal cavity. Lymph node dissection of the transverse colon is performed through a supra-umbilical incision. In addition, using the procedure of intersphincteric resection of the rectum, it is possible to resolve almost any issue encountered in colorectal surgery, such as ileal pouch-anal anastomosis.

Anastomotic leaks following abdominoperineal resection with rectal anastomosis become clinically significant in 2.9%-22% of cases. Local recurrence of cancer and local inflammation are the most common causes of these leaks . Colonic perforation presenting with suppurative involvement of the lower extremities has been previously reported. We describe herein the case of a colorectal anastomotic leak secondary to pathology-proved acute appendicitis presenting with suppurative necessitation causing right hip septic arthritis five years following lower anterior resection (LAR) for stage unspecified colorectal cancer. No similar case has been demonstrated in the surveyed literature.

The incidence of anastomotic recurrence after curative resection of colorectal cancer is relatively low compared to that of other types of recurrence, such as hepatic, lung and local recurrence. However, almost all cases of anastomotic recurrence of colorectal cancer occur within 3 years after surgery. We experienced a rare case of anastomotic recurrence in whom colonoscopy revealed no signs of recurrence 3 years after surgery; however, anastomotic recurrence was detected over 5 years after surgery. A 60-year-old female with a history of surgery for cancer of the cecum in her forties underwent sigmoidectomy and right colectomy with D3 lymph node dissection for both stage IIA sigmoid colon cancer and stage IIA transverse colon cancer. Computed tomography and colonoscopy revealed no signs of recurrence 3 years after surgery; however, 5 years and 4 months after surgery, colonoscopy demonstrated surrounding flaring and swelling in the anastomotic area of the sigmoid colon, and a biopsy revealed an adenocarcinoma. Under the diagnosis of anastomotic recurrence over 5 years after surgery, lower anterior resection was performed. The patient has exhibited no other signs of recurrence in the 2 years since the last operation.

Introduction Rectal cancer is the most common malignant neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life in patients undergoing surgical treatment for the rectal cancer, either lower anterior or abdominoperineal resection. Materials and methods 100 patients suffering from rectal cancer were selected for a prospective study (50-APR, 50-LAR). The quality of life was assessed two times: at the admission to the Department and 6 months following surgery. For assessment of the quality of life, two standard questionnaires were used, EORT QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-C29. Results The studied groups were not different with respect to demographic factors. The patients who underwent LAR spent less time in hospital (p = 0.00001). The patients undergoing APR scored less with respect to physical ability (p = 0.0434), cognitive (p = 0.0363) and emotional state (p = 0.0463) and on symptom scale (nausea and vomiting – p: 0.0199, diarrhea – p: 0.0000, constipation (p = 0.0018)); however, the patients who were treated with LAR scored less on pain scale (p = 0.0189). The QLQ-C29 questionnaire revealed impaired functioning of patients 6 months following APR in terms of life chances (p = 0.0000) and problems with body weight (p = 0.0212). In both groups, the quality of life improved 6 months after surgery. Conclusions LAR is a chance for better quality of life for many patients. Six months after surgery, the quality of life of patients improves regardless of the operating method (APR, LAR).

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of transanal excision (TAE) combined with radiotherapy for rectal adenocarcinoma, assess the ability of pretreatment endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to predict failures, and determine the prognostic value of downstaging and complete pathological response. DESIGN Retrospective outcomes study. SETTING Radiation oncology clinic. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-eight patients with rectal adenocarcinoma. METHODS The medical records of patients treated with radiotherapy from 1998 to 2008 and followed for a median of 5.9 years were reviewed. RESULTS Kaplan-Meier estimates of freedom from selected endpoints at 5 years after treatment were: overall survival, 79%; cause-specific survival, 91%; local control, 90%; and freedom from distant metastasis, 76%. Seven patients (21%) had eventual abdominoperineal resection or lower anterior resection, four patients had local recurrence, and three patients had incomplete treatment or poor margins. T3 lesions clinically staged by EUS were a predictor of local failure (P=0.0110), but not distant metastasis (P=0.35). Patients with either a pathological or clinical T3 lesion did not have a significantly greater rate of metastasis (P=0.096). Patients who were downstaged did not have a significantly different rate of local recurrence or metastasis. Patients who experienced a complete pathological response did not have a significantly different rate of local control or distant metastasis. CONCLUSION Patients with early-stage rectal lesions who undergo preoperative or postoperative radiation and TAE have similar outcomes to those who undergo abdominoperineal resection; local recurrence was higher for patients with T3 lesions when both were compared. Abdominal surgery should be considered for these patients. TAE is reasonable when patients are unwilling or unable to tolerate the morbidity of traditional transabdominal surgery.

Anastomotic leakage is a serious complication with significant morbidity and mortality. The popularity of endoscopic treatment (Endo-SPONGE) is increasing for distally located colorectal pouch-anal anastomotic leakages. This was a retrospective study of 15 cases involving the application of the Endo-SPONGE for anastomotic leakage following proctectomy between May 2009 and May 2014. Of the 15 cases, lower anterior resection occurred in 12 cases (80%), and pouch-anal anastomosis in 3 cases (18%). In 8 patients (55%), the endosponge was applied during the early term, and in 7 patients (45%) during the late term. The average number of applications was 2.2 (range, 1 to 5). Treatment was discontinued due to the progression of pelvic sepsis in 2 patients and due to bleeding in 1 patient. Lumen integrity was achieved in 12 cases. Lumen integrity after anastomotic leakages can be preserved by endoluminal vacuum therapy, which permits the closure of the stoma without requiring reconstructive surgery.

Chemoradiation is increasingly being recognised as an important factor for downstaging rectal cancer before surgery. A proportion of these patients would develop a complete clinical response following neo-adjuvant chemoradiation (1). This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Rationale The perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) is rare in young man and rarely occurs in the large intestine. Patient concerns The clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and managements in a 28-year-old boy who presented with sudden onset of cramping and abdominal pain and intermittent melena with a blood pressure of 74/39 mm Hg was retrospectively reviewed. CT scan of the abdomen revealed a 8.9 × 7.2 cm mass in the pelvic floor. Diagnoses Given the difficulty of obtaining a diagnostic specimen, surgical resection was performed. The pathology report of lower anterior resection was malignant PEComa of the rectum in 2006. Interventions Treatment consisted of surgical resection only without additional adjuvant therapy. Over the next 49 months (until 2010) after surgery, abdominal CT showed a 0.6-cm hypodense mass over the liver with suspected liver metastasis. He refused any further evaluation and treatment. After 4 years (2014), abdominal CT showed that the original mass had increased from 0.6 to 1.5 cm and the number of tumors had increased from 1 to 3. In August 2014, he underwent a metastatic hepatectomy without additional chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Outcomes We noted that the metastatic progression was slow in the 4 years after the first operation. At 28 months after metastatic hepatectomy, the patient was doing well. There was also no recurrence of the PEComa of the rectum at the 120-month follow-up in 2016. Lessons To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a PEComa of the rectum with liver metastases treated with only surgical resection. At approximately 8.8 cm, this is the largest PEComa of the rectum reported in the recent literature.

Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) is characterised by an absence of ganglion cells in the distal bowel, beginning at the internal sphincter and extending proximally to varying distances. It is usually diagnosed in the newborn period, with usual presentation of delayed passage of meconium and abdominal distension, with or without bilious vomiting. HD in adults is rare and is thus often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to review the presentation, treatment and clinical outcome of HD presenting after childhood. A systematic review and meta-analysis of all cases of HD presenting after childhood in the English literature was performed from 1950 to 2009. Detailed information regarding demographics, clinical presentation and methods of diagnosis, surgical procedure, complications and the outcome at time of follow up was recorded. There were 490 cases of HD presenting after childhood in the English literature, 341 (69.5%) males, 129 (26.4%) females and 20 (4.1%) cases where gender was not specified. As much as 390 (79.6%) were confined to the rectum, 60 (12.3%) had recto-sigmoid disease, 4 (0.8%) had disease extending to the descending colon and there were 2 (0.4%) cases that extended to the transverse colon and 2 (0.4%) cases of total colonic disease. The extent of disease was not specified in the remaining 32 (6.5%) cases. A total of 49 (10%) patients had the Swenson procedure, 231 (47.2%) patients had the Duhamel procedure, 40 (8.2%) patients had the Soave procedure, 45 (9.2%) patients had a myectomy only, 3 (0.6%) patients had a myectomy combined with colectomy, 14 (2.9%) patients had a myectomy combined with anterior resection. As much as 26 (5.3%) patients had a lower anterior resection (LAR), 28 (5.7%) patients had LAR combined with colectomy, 10 (2%) patients had a colectomy, 1 (0.2%) patient had an anopexy and 4 (0.9%) patients had a colostomy only. A total of 13 (2.7%) patients refused surgery and managed with conservative treatment, and in 25 (5.1%) patients, the specific procedure was not identified. There were 2 (0.4%) deaths reported; 1 patient died prior to surgery due to colonic perforation and sepsis and the 2nd patient died post-operatively due to appendix stump dehiscence, peritonitis and sepsis. The time of follow up ranged from 1 to 25 years and all, but 6 (1.3%) had a very good clinical outcome. Hirschsprung’s disease should be considered in patients who have had chronic constipation since birth. This review suggests that the vast majority of patients in whom HD is diagnosed after childhood have normal bowel function after pull-through surgery.