Evaluation of the response rate to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma: a retrospective long-term study in two terciary reference centers

Objectives: To evaluate the complete response (CR) rate and surgeries performed in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent neoadjuvant therapy (NT) at Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo and at Hospital São Paulo, in Ribeirão Preto, from January 2007 to December 2017. Methods: We evaluated 166 medical records of patients with locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma (T3, T4 or N+) who underwent NT. The regimen consisted of performing conventional (2D) or conformational (three-dimensional-3D/ radiotherapy with modulated intensity - IMRT) at a dose of 45-50.4Gy associated with capecitabine 1650mg/m2 or 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and leucovorin (LV). The following variables were analyzed: gender, age, pretreatment stage, radiotherapy, CR index, local and distant recurrence rates. Surgical treatment and complications were also evaluated. Results: The CR index was 28.3%. Patients treated with 3D/IMRT radiotherapy had a higher rate of CR (36.3% x 4.8%; p < 0.001), higher rates of clinical follow-up (21% x 0%; p < 0.001), lower surgery rates (79% x 100%; p < 0.001), higher rates of transanal resection (37.1% x 9.5%; p = 0.001), lower rates of abdominal rectosigmoidectomy (25.8% x 50%; p = 0.007) and lower rates of abdominoperineal resection of the rectum (16.1% x 40.5%; p = 0.002), when compared to patients treated with 2D radiotherapy. Conclusion Modern radiotherapy techniques such as 3D conformal and IMRT, by offering greater adequacy and precision of treatment, could result in better local control and less toxicity in organs at risk, enabling organ preservation strategies and less invasive approaches in selected cases. (AU)

Retrospective analysis of surgical and oncological results of laparoscopic surgeries performed by residents of coloproctology / Análise retrospectiva dos resultados cirúrgicos e oncológicos em cirurgias videolaparoscópicas realizadas por residentes de coloproctologia

ABSTRACT Introduction: with the improvement and wide acceptance of laparoscopy in colorectal operations, there was a need for specific training of surgeons in training. There are few studies evaluating the postoperative results of laparoscopic colectomies performed by resident physicians and their impact on patient safety. Purpose: to analyze the surgical and oncological results of laparoscopic colectomies performed by coloproctology residents and compare them with data in the literature. Methods: this is a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery performed by resident physicians at the Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto, between 2014 and 2018. The clinical characteristics of the patients were studied, as well as the main surgical and oncological aspects in a period of one year. Results: we analyzed 191 operations, whose main surgical indication was adenocarcinoma, most of them stage III. The mean duration of surgeries was 210±58 minutes. There was a need for a stoma in 21.5% of the patients, mainly loop colostomy. The conversion rate was 23%, with 79.5% due to technical difficulties, and the main predictors of conversion were obesity and intraoperative accidents. The median length of stay was 6 days. Preoperative anemia was associated with a higher rate of complications (11.5%) and reoperations (12%). Surgical resection margins were compromised in 8.6% of cases. The one-year recurrence rate was 3.2% and the mortality rate was 6.3%. Conclusions: videolaparoscopic colorectal surgery performed by residents showed efficacy and safety similar to data found in the literature.

RESUMO Introdução: com o aperfeiçoamento e a ampla aceitação da laparoscopia nas operações colorretais, houve necessidade de treinamento específico dos cirurgiões em formação. Existem poucos estudos avaliando os resultados pós operatórios das colectomias videolaparoscópicas realizadas por médicos residentes e seu impacto na segurança do paciente. Objetivo: analisar os resultados cirúrgicos e oncológicos das colectomias videolaparoscópicas realizadas por residentes de coloproctologia e comparar com dados da literatura. Métodos: trata-se de uma análise retrospectiva de pacientes submetidos a cirurgias colorretais laparoscópicas, realizadas por médicos residentes do Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto, entre 2014 e 2018. Foram estudadas as características clínicas dos pacientes bem como os principais aspectos cirúrgicos e oncológicos em um período de um ano. Resultados: analisou-se 191 operações, cuja principal indicação cirúrgica foi adenocarcinoma, a maioria estadio III. A duração média das cirurgias foi 210±58 minutos. Houve necessidade de estoma em 21,5% dos pacientes, principalmente colostomia em alça. A taxa de conversão foi 23%, sendo 79,5% por dificuldades técnicas, e os principais fatores preditores de conversão foram obesidade e acidentes intra-operatórios. A mediana do tempo de internação foi 6 dias. Anemia pré operatória associou-se a uma maior taxa de complicações (11,5%) e reoperações (12%). Houve comprometimento das margens de ressecção cirúrgica em 8,6% dos casos. A taxa de recidiva em um ano foi de 3,2%, e a taxa de mortalidade, 6,3%. Conclusões: a cirurgia colorretal videolaparoscópica realizada por residentes apresentou eficácia e segurança semelhante aos dados encontrados na literatura.

Postoperative Complications and Stoma Rates After Laparoscopic Resection of Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis with Bowel Involvement / Complicações pós-operatórias e taxas de estomia após ressecção laparoscópica de endometriose infiltrativa profunda com envolvimento intestinal

Abstract Objective The purpose was to assess the rates of postoperative complications and the need of temporary stoma of laparoscopic surgical treatment for bowel endometriosis in a referral center. Methods The surgical indication, type of operation, operative time, length of hospital stay, need for a temporary stoma, rate of conversion to open surgery, postoperative complications were evaluated. Results One-hundred and fifty patients were included. The average duration of surgery was significantly longer for segmental resection (151 minutes) than for disc excision (111.5 minutes, p < 0.001) and shaving (96.8 minutes, p < 0.001). Patients with segmental resection had longer postoperative lengths of hospital stay (1.87 days) compared with patients with disc excision (1.43 days, p < 0.001) and shaving (1.03 days, p < 0.001). A temporary stoma was performed in 2.7% of patients. Grade II and III postoperative complications occurred in 6.7% and 4.7% patients, respectively. Conclusion Laparoscopic intestinal resection has an acceptable postoperative complication rate and a low need for a temporary stoma.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo foi avaliar as taxas de complicações pós-operatórias e a necessidade de estomia temporária do tratamento cirúrgico laparoscópico para endometriose intestinal em um centro de referência. Métodos Foram avaliados a indicação cirúrgica, tipo de operação, tempo operatório, tempo de internação, necessidade de estomia temporária, taxa de conversão para cirurgia aberta, complicações pós-operatórias. Resultados Cento e cinquenta pacientes foram incluídos. A duração média da cirurgia foi significativamente maior para a ressecção segmentar (151 minutos) do que para a excisão do disco (111,5 minutos, p < 0,001) e shaving (96,8 minutos, p < 0,001). Pacientes com ressecção segmentar tiveram maior tempo de internação pós-operatória (1,87 dias) em comparação com pacientes com excisão de disco (1,43 dias, p < 0,001) e shaving (1,03 dias, p < 0,001). Um estoma temporário foi realizado em 2,7% dos pacientes. Complicações pós-operatórias de grau II e III ocorreram em 6,7% e 4,7% dos pacientes, respectivamente. Conclusão A ressecção intestinal laparoscópica apresenta taxa aceitável de complicações pós-operatórias e baixa necessidade de estomia temporária.

Prevalêncıa e fatores predıtıvos assocıados à posıtıvıdade dos marcadores serológıcos do SARS-COV-2 em pacıentes com doença ınflamatórıa ıntestınal em um centro de referêncıa em DII / Prevalence and predictive factors associated with positivity of sars-cov-2 serological markers in patients with inflammatory bowel disease at an ibd referral center

ABSTRACT Background: Data related to SARS-CoV-2 exposure rates in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are scarce. Objective - Our aim was to determine the prevalence of serological markers of SARS-Cov-2 and the predictive factors for positivity in patients with IBD. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, observational study carried out from May to September 2020. SARS-CoV-2 serological markers were determined using chemiluminescence immunoassay in 233 IBD patients without evidence of COVID-19 symptoms. Patient age was 36.6±11.1 years, 118 patients were male (50.6%), and 63.1% had Crohn's disease. Patient clinical data were extracted from individual electronic medical records and complemented by a structured interview. Results: Twenty-six out of the 233 patients with IBD had positive serum markers for SARS-CoV-2 (11.2%). Female sex (P<0.003), extra-intestinal manifestations (P=0.004), use of corticosteroids (P=0.049), and previous contact with individuals with flu-like symptoms (P<0.001) or confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 (P<0.001), were associated with a significant increased rate of positive SARS-Cov-2 serological markers. No significant difference was observed regarding to adherence to protection measures and positivity of SARS-Cov-2 serological markers (P>0.05). Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 previous infection in IBD patients was not that uncommon, and its prevalence was 11.2% in our series. Positivity to SARS-CoV-2 serological markers was associated with female sex, extra-intestinal manifestations, use of corticosteroids, and contact with individuals with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these findings.

RESUMO Contexto: Dados relacionados às taxas de exposição ao SARS-CoV-2 em pacientes com doenças inflamatórias intestinais (DII) são escassos. Objetivo Nosso objetivo foi determinar a prevalência de marcadores sorológicos do SARS-Cov-2 e os fatores preditivos de positividade em pacientes com DII. Métodos: Este foi um estudo transversal observacional realizado no período de maio a setembro de 2020. Os marcadores sorológicos SARS-CoV-2 foram determinados por imunoensaio de quimioluminescência em 233 pacientes com DII sem evidência de sintomas de COVID-19. A idade dos pacientes foi 36,6±11,1 anos, 118 pacientes eram do sexo masculino (50,6%) e 63,1% tinham doença de Crohn. Os dados clínicos dos pacientes foram extraídos de prontuários médicos eletrônicos individuais e complementados por meio de uma entrevista estruturada. Resultados: Vinte e seis dos 233 pacientes com DII apresentaram marcadores sorológicos positivos para SARS-CoV-2 (11,2%). Sexo feminino (P<0,003), manifestações extra-intestinais (P=0,004), uso de corticosteroides (P=0,049) e contato prévio com indivíduos com sintomas gripais (P<0,001) ou diagnóstico confirmado de COVID -19 (P<0,001), foram associados a um aumento significativo da taxa de positividade para marcadores sorológicos do SARS-Cov-2. Não foi observada diferença significativa em relação à adesão às medidas de proteção e positividade dos marcadores sorológicos para o SARS-Cov-2 (P>0,05). Conclusão: A infecção prévia pelo SARS-CoV-2 não é tão incomum em pacientes com DII e sua prevalência em nossa série foi de 11,2%. A positividade aos marcadores sorológicos SARS-CoV-2 foi associada ao sexo feminino, manifestações extra-intestinais, uso de corticosteroides e contato com indivíduos com suspeita ou diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19. Estudos com períodos de acompanhamento mais longos são necessários para confirmar esses achados.

Ensino das habilidades básicas de colonoscopia: os padrões de qualidade e segurança podem ser atendidos em um centro universitário / Teaching basic colonoscopy skills: quality and safety standards can be fulfilled in an outpatient university center

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Recent studies have shown that endoscopy fellows can perform colonoscopy effectively and safely. However, little is known about the performance of surgical residents without prior knowledge of endoscopic techniques. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether quality indicators were met at an outpatient endoscopy center and whether surgical residents, without prior upper or lower endoscopy skills, could perform colonoscopy adequately. METHODS: A prospective non-randomized cohort study was undertaken. All exams were performed either by assistant physicians or by residents. Quality measures were compared between those groups. RESULTS: A total of 2720 colonoscopies were analyzed. In the resident group, we observed older patients (57.7±12.7 years vs 51.5±14.5 years, P<0.001), a higher prevalence of screening colonoscopies (52% vs 39.4%, P<0.001) and a higher prevalence of colorectal cancer (6.4% vs 1.8%, P<0.001). The cecal intubation rate was higher in the attending group (99.9% vs 89.3%; P<0.001). The polyp detection rate was 40.8%, and no differences were observed between the studied groups. The residents had a higher rate of perforation in all exams (0.4% vs 0%; P=0.02). Postpolypectomy bleeding and 7-day readmission rates were the same (0.2%). All readmissions in 7 days occurred due to low digestive bleeding, and none required intervention. CONCLUSION: Quality indicators were met at a university outpatient endoscopy center; however, medical residents achieved lower rates of cecal intubation and higher rates of perforation than the attending physicians.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Estudos recentes mostraram que médicos em treinamento podem realizar a colonoscopia de maneira eficaz e segura. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre a performance dos médicos residentes de cirurgia sem o conhecimento prévio das técnicas endoscópicas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar se os indicadores de qualidade foram atendidos em um centro de endoscopia ambulatorial e se os residentes de cirurgia, sem habilidades anteriores em endoscopia alta ou baixa, realizaram a colonoscopia de forma adequada. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo de coorte prospectivo não randomizado. Todos os exames foram realizados por médicos assistentes ou residentes. Os indicadores de qualidade foram comparados entre esses grupos. RESULTADOS: Um total de 2.720 colonoscopias foram analisadas. No grupo de médicos residentes, observamos pacientes mais velhos (57,7±12,7 anos vs 51,5±14,5 anos, P<0,001), maior prevalência de colonoscopias de rastreamento (52% vs 39,4%, P<0,001) e maior prevalência de câncer colorretal (6,4% vs 1,8%, P<0,001). A taxa de intubação cecal foi maior no grupo de médicos assistentes (99,9% vs 89,3%; P<0,001). A taxa de detecção de pólipos foi de 40,8% e não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos estudados. Os médicos residentes tiveram maior índice de perfuração (0,4% vs 0%; P=0,02). O sangramento pós-polipectomia e as taxas de readmissão em 7 dias foram iguais (0,2%). Todas as readmissões em 7 dias ocorreram devido a hemorragia digestiva baixa e nenhuma intervenção foi necessária. CONCLUSÃO: Os indicadores de qualidade foram alcançados em um centro de endoscopia universitário; no entanto, os médicos residentes alcançaram taxas mais baixas de intubação cecal e taxas mais altas de perfuração do que os médicos assistentes.

Anemia e deficiência de ferro em pacientes com doença inflamatória intestinal em um centro de referência no Brasil: prevalência e fatores de risco / Anemia and iron deficiency in inflammatory bowel disease patients in a referral center in brazil: prevalence and risk factors

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Data regarding the prevalence of anemia in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are scarce in Brazil. Anemia and iron deficiency anemia have been known to cause significant functional impairment, lower quality of life, and higher morbidity and mortality and may be correlated with an impact on the cost of treatment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors for anemia and iron deficiency anemia in patients with IBD in a tertiary IBD unit in Southeast Brazil. METHODS: We conducted an Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective analysis of an adult IBD cohort (IBD Unit, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil) consisting of 579 patients between January 2014 and July 2018. Clinicoepidemiological data, hemoglobin measurements and serum ferritin were extracted from electronic medical records. Anemia prevalence was calculated among ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) phenotypes. Risk factors for anemia were also calculated. RESULTS: A total of 529 (91%) patients had complete blood counts available in their medical records. Only 35.5% of IBD patients were fully screened for anemia. The prevalence of anemia in IBD patients was 24.6% (29.1% in CD and 19.1% in UC, P=0.008). The anemia was moderate to severe in 16.9% (19.8% in CD and 11.4% in UC, P=0.34). The prevalence of iron deficiency was 52.3% (53.6% in CD and 51.2% in UC, P=0.95). Anemia of chronic disease was present in 14.1% of IBD patients. A total of 53.8% of patients with anemia were in clinical remission. CD was associated with an increased prevalence of anemia (P=0.008; OR=1.76; CI 95% =1.16-2.66) compared to UC. The penetrant disease phenotype in CD was associated with a lower risk of anemia (P<0.0001; OR=0.25; CI 95% =0.14-0.43). Active disease compared to the disease in clinical remission was associated with an increased risk of anemia (P=0.0003; OR=2.61; CI 95% =1.56-4.36) in CD. The presence of anemia was less frequent in patients with CD who underwent surgical bowel resection compared to those who did not undergo surgery (P<0.0001; OR=0.24; CI 95% =0.14-0.40). No differences in anemia prevalence were observed regarding CD localization, age at diagnosis, UC extension or biological therapy (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Despite the low levels of full screening, anemia and iron deficiency anemia were common manifestations of IBD. CD was associated with an increased risk of anemia, especially with active disease. In addition, patients with CD who underwent surgical bowel resection and penetrant disease phenotype in CD were associated with lower risk of anemia.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Dados referentes à prevalência de anemia em pacientes com doença inflamatória intestinal (DII) são escassos no Brasil. Sabe-se que anemia e a anemia ferropriva causam comprometimento funcional significativo, menor qualidade de vida e maior morbimortalidade e podem estar correlacionadas com um impacto no custo do tratamento. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência e os fatores de risco de anemia e de anemia ferropriva em pacientes com DII em um centro de referência de DII no Sudeste do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Realizamos uma análise retrospectiva dos pacientes com DII adultos, aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética Institucional do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil, constituída por 579 pacientes no período de janeiro de 2014 a julho de 2018. Dados clínico-epidemiológicos, níveis de hemoglobina e de ferritina sérica foram obtidos dos prontuários eletrônicos. A prevalência de anemia foi calculada entre os fenótipos de retocolite ulcerativa (RCU) e doença de Crohn (DC). Fatores de risco para anemia também foram calculados. RESULTADOS: Um total de 529 (91%) pacientes tinha disponível o exame de hemograma completo em seus prontuários médicos. Apenas 35,5% dos pacientes com DII tinha o rastreamento completo para anemia. A prevalência de anemia nos pacientes com DII foi de 24,6% (29,1% na DC e 19,1% na RCU, P=0,008). A anemia foi moderada a grave em 16,9% (19,8% na DC e 11,4% na RCU, P=0,34). A prevalência de deficiência de ferro foi de 52,3% (53,6% na DC e 51,2% na RCU, P=0,95). Anemia de doença crônica estava presente em 14,1% dos pacientes com DII. Um total de 53,8% dos pacientes com anemia estavam em remissão clínica. A DC esteve associada a um aumento da prevalência de anemia (P=0,008; OR=1,76; IC 95% =1,16-2,66) em comparação à RCU. O fenótipo da doença penetrante na DC foi associado a um menor risco de anemia (P<0,0001; OR=0,25; IC 95% =0,14-0,43). A doença ativa comparada à doença em remissão clínica foi associada a um risco aumentado de anemia (P=0,0003; OR=2,61; IC 95% =1,56-4,36) na DC. A presença de anemia foi menos frequente nos pacientes com DC submetidos à ressecção intestinal em comparação aos que não foram submetidos à cirurgia (P<0,0001; OR=0,24; IC 95% =0,14-0,40). Não foram observadas diferenças na prevalência de anemia em relação à localização da DC, idade ao diagnóstico, extensão da RCU ou terapia biológica (P>0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Apesar do baixo rastreamento completo, tanto a anemia como a anemia ferropriva foram manifestações comuns da DII. A DC foi associada a um risco aumentado de anemia, especialmente com doença ativa. Além disto, pacientes com DC submetidos a ressecção intestinal e/ou com fenótipo penetrante tiveram menor risco de anemia.

Analysis of gene expression EGFR and KRAS, microRNA-21 and microRNA-203 in patients with colon and rectal cancer and correlation with clinical outcome and prognostic factors

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the expression of EGFR, KRAS genes, microRNAs-21 and 203 in colon and rectal cancer samples, correlated with their age at diagnosis, histological subtype, value of pretreatment CEA, TNM staging and clinical outcome. Methods: Expression of genes and microRNAs by real time PCR in tumor and non-tumor samples obtained from surgical treatment of 50 patients. Results: An increased expression of microRNAs-21 and 203 in tumor samples in relation to non-tumor samples was found. There was no statistically significant difference between the expression of these genes and microRNAs when compared to age at diagnosis and histological subtype. The EGFR gene showed higher expression in relation to the value of CEA diagnosis. The expression of microRNA-203 was progressively lower in relation to the TNM staging and was higher in the patient group in clinical remission. Conclusions: The therapy of colon and rectum tumors based on microRNAs remains under investigation reserving huge potential for future applications and clinical interventions in conjunction with existing therapies. We expect, based on the exposed data, to stimulate the development of new therapeutic possibilities, making the treatment of these tumors more effective.

Jejunal diverticulitis as a cause of acute abdomen / Abdome agudo por diverticulite de jejuno

Jejunoileal diverticulosis is an uncommon and underdiagnosed condition. Most patients are asymptomatic and require no specific treatment. A few patients, however, present life-threatening complications that may require surgical intervention. The purpose of this report is to illustrate a case of jejunoileal diverticulosis manifested as an acute abdomen.

A doença diverticular do intestino delgado é uma entidade incomum e pouco diagnosticada. A maioria dos casos não apresenta sintomas e não necessita de tratamento específico. Alguns pacientes, no entanto, podem evoluir com complicações da doença e necessitar de tratamento cirúrgico. O objetivo deste relato é ilustrar um caso de diverticulose jejunal que evoluiu para um quadro de abdome agudo.

A review of experimental models in colorectal carcinogenesis / Modelos experimentais de carcinogênese colorretal

Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract. A better understanding of the molecular and cellular changes that lead to the disease is necessary to develop early diagnosis and optimal treatment modalities. Rodent models are rapid, reproducible and exhibit an adenoma-carcinoma sequence similar to that found in humans. The objective of this manuscript is to review the most common chemical carcinogens used to induce experimental tumors and the usual methods of evaluation.

O câncer colorretal é a principal neoplasia maligna do trato gastrointestinal. Um melhor entendimento dos processos moleculares e celulares é necessário para o desenvolvimento de estratégias que permitam um diagnóstico precoce e um tratamento mais eficaz. Modelos que utilizam roedores são rápidos, reprodutíveis e permitem o estudo da sequencia adenoma-carcinoma de forma similar a encontrada em humanos. O objetivo desse manuscrito é revisar os principais modelos de carcinogênese química e os métodos mais usuais para avaliação dos resultados.

Comparative evaluation of oncologic outcomes in colon cancer

PURPOSE: In this paper we report clinical variables on colon cancer series. Oncological outcomes were compared to low-income and high-income countries. METHODS: We analysed a prospective database of 51 colon cancer patients submitted to primary tumor resection between 2010 and 2011, showing clinical variables and oncologic outcomes. RESULTS: R0 resection obtained in 80.4%, 21.6% of patients was TNM stage IV, and only 13.7% showed TNM stage I. Disease-free survival was 32 months, overall survival was 46 months, and the tumoral recurrence rate was 9.8%. Univariate analysis showed association of serum CEA levels ≥ 5 ng/dl (p= 0.004), presence of metastasis at diagnosis (p= 0.012), compromised surgical margins (p < 0.001) and poorer tumor differentiation (p= 0.041) to death. Multivariate analysis identified compromised surgical margins as an independent risk factor for death due to colon cancer (P=0.003; odds ratio=0.36; 95% confidence interval=0.004-0.33). Nowadays, 62.7% of patients are alive. CONCLUSION: Recurrence rate, disease-free survival and overall survival was similar to those observed in more developed countries. Serum CEA levels ≥ 5 ng/dl, the presence of metastasis at diagnosis, compromised surgical margins and poorer tumor differentiation were associated with death. A compromised surgical margin was the only independent risk factor for death.

Serological under expression of microRNA-21, microRNA-34a and microRNA-126 in colorectal cancer

PURPOSE: This paper describes the ability of miRNA value predict oncological outcomes in CRC patients and correlates to clinical and pathologic variables. METHODS: We prospectively analyzed the serological expression of microRNA-21, microRNA-34a, and microRNA-126 in 37 stage II - IV CRC patients and correlate to seven fit counterparts. Serological microRNAs were extracted using the miRNeasy Mini Kit(r) (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany). Quantification of microRNAs was performed using TaqMan Master Mix(r) reagent (Applied Biosystems, USA). RESULTS: We obtained serological underexpression microRNA-21, microRNA-34a, and microRNA-126 in CRC group. However, miRNAs serological values do not impact prognosis. Furthermore, miRNAs was not influenced by CEA values, TNM staging, and histological subtype. CONCLUSION: Despite lower expression of miR-21, miR-34a and miR-126 in the CRC group, no association with poor prognosis was found.

Transanal endoscopic operation for rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy

PURPOSE: In this paper we report the oncological outcomes from clinical series of patients with rectal cancer submitted to local excision after neoadjuvant therapy and discuss the indications for local excision in partial clinical responders. METHODS: We analysed a prospective database of 39 patients submitted to a transanal endoscopic operation for rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiation between 2006 and 2015, comparing clinical and pathological variables, perioperative complications, recurrence rate and overall survival. RESULTS: We obtained 15.4% ypT0, 17.9% ypT1, 35.9% ypT2 and 28.2% ypT3. After a median follow-up of 24 months, tumoral recurrence was observed in 4 patients, one of them with isolated pulmonary metastasis. R0 resection was achieved in 79.5%, and postoperative complications were observed in 30.2% patients and no perioperative mortality occur. Compromise surgical margins do not affect recurrence rate, and 94.9% of patients are alive nowadays. CONCLUSION: Local excision could be associated with low recurrence rate and good overall survival. Short hospitalization time and low level of serious complications observed could be an interesting option for patients who would not tolerate a radical procedure or for those who declined a total mesorectal excision. A strict long-term follow-up must be warranted to detect early tumoral recurrence.

A novel subcutaneous T-shaped bridge device for loop colostomies

PURPOSE: To describe a novel securing device for loop colostomies, developed in our institution and report our 10-year experience. METHODS: The T-shaped support device was used in all patients who required loop colostomy and who were at an increased risk of stoma withdrawal. The device was removed on the fifth postoperative day in all patients. An analysis from a prospective database regarding early postoperative complication, from 209 patients, was conducted between 2003 and 2013. RESULTS: Bleeding, peristomal skin problems, surgical site infection, stomal ischemia/necrosis, stenosis, obstruction, retraction and early withdrawal of the stoma were not noted in all cases. Thirteen patients (6%) reported mild discomfort on the site of the skin suture. Removal of the instrument was fast and easy, with the advantage of keeping the colostomy bag. CONCLUSION: The T-shaped bridge device successfully prevented stoma withdrawal in all subjects. The device was safe and well accepted, with minor complications.

Adjunctive Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy promotes successful healing in patients with refractory Crohn's disease

PURPOSE: To investigate de adjunctive effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in a group of patients with refractory Crohn's disease. METHODS: A total of 29 subjects with refractory Crohn's disease were submitted to daily sessions of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, in a 2800 Sechrist Monoplace Hyperbaric Chamber (Sechrist, USA) pressurized to 2.4 ATA. Each session lasted 2 hours. The endpoint was closure of enterocutaneous fistulas and complete healing of Pyoderma Gangrenosum and perineal Crohn's disease. RESULTS: A total of 829 HBOT sessions were performed and no complications were noted. Overall success rate was 76% (22 cases). Pyoderma Gangrenosum and enterocutaneous fistulas had the highest successful healing rates (100% and 91%, respectively). Perineal Crohn's disease healing rate was 65%. CONCLUSION: Adjunctive Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy promoted satisfactory healing in a group of patients with refractory Crohn's disease.

Copper-Zinc ratio and nutritional status in colorectal cancer patients during the perioperative period

PURPOSE : This study aimed to determine Cu/Zn ratio, nutritional and inflammatory status in patients during the perioperative period for colorectal cancer. METHODS: The study included patients with histological diagnosis of colorectal adenocarcinoma (Cancer Group, n=46) and healthy volunteers (Control Group, n=28). We determined habitual food intake, body composition, laboratory data of nutritional status, serum calprotectin and plasma Cu and Zn concentrations. Mann-Whitney U-test was performed between-group comparisons and Spearman correlation test for correlations between the variables. RESULTS: Individuals in the Cancer Group presented significantly lower BMI, fat mass, plasma hemoglobin, total protein and albumin as compared with the Control Group. Serum calprotectin[70.1 ng/mL (CI95% 55.8-84.5) vs.53.3 ng/mL (40.3-66.4), p=0.05], plasma Cu concentrations [120 µg/dL(CI95% 114-126) vs. 106 µg/dL(CI95% 98-114), p<0.01] and the Cu/Zn ratio [1.59 (CI95% 1.48-1.71)vs. 1.35 (CI95% 1.23-1.46), p=0.01]were higher in patients with colorectal cancer than in controls. Additionally, the Cancer Group showed negative correlations between the Cu/Zn ratio and Zn intake, hemoglobin, serum albumin, and positive correlation between the Cu/Zn ratio and serum calprotectin. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that an increased plasma Cu/Zn ratio and serum calprotectin, and decreased protein values may be a result of the systemic inflammatory response to the tumor process.

Management of acute colorectal diseases in febrile neutropenic patients / Tratamento das doenças colorretais agudas no paciente neutropênico febril

Patients with hematologic malignancies are susceptible to serious complications due to immunosuppression. Neutropenic-related infection is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in this group of diseases. Febrile neutropenia is a common complication of the hematologic neoplasm itself or chemotherapy, and has worse prognosis if prolonged (lasting more than 7 days) or severe (neutrophil count below 500 cells per µL). Among the usual sites of infection, we highlight the neutropenic enterocolitis and perianal infection as gastrointestinal complications of greater interest to the colorectal surgeon. Although most cases respond to conservative treatment, a portion of patients will need surgery for complete recovery. (AU)

Os pacientes com neoplasias hematológicas estão sujeitos a uma séria de complicações devido à imunossupressão. Infecção é umas das principais causas de morbidade e mortalidade nesse grupo de doenças. A neutropenia febril é uma complicação frequente da própria doença onco-hematológica ou da quimioterapia, e apresenta pior prognóstico se prolongada (duração acima de 7 dias) ou severa (contagem de neutrófilos inferior a 500 células por microlitro). Dentre os focos de infecção mais comuns destacamos a enterocolite neutropênica e a infecção perianal como complicações de maior interesse para o cirurgião colorretal. Apesar de grande parte dos casos apresentar boa resposta ao tratamento conservador, uma parcela de pacientes necessitará de cirurgia para completa recuperação.

Preoperative embolization of a cavernous hemangioma of the rectum / Embolização pré-operatória do hemangioma cavernoso do reto

Colorectal cavernous hemangioma is a rare benign vascular neoplasia that may be found in any segment of the colon and cause recurrent and painless rectal bleeding. Standard treatment of rectal hemangioma consists of resection of the affected segment followed by coloanal anastomosis. Massive bleeding during the operation is the most feared complication, especially during extensive resection or reoperation. The authors describe a preoperative embolization of a rectal hemangioma with Onyx-18(R) and microspheres, in a 49-year-old patient with successful prevention of uncontrolled hemorrhage during surgery. (AU)

O hemangioma colorretal cavernoso é uma neoplasia vascular benigna rara, que pode comprometer qualquer segmento do colón e causar sangramento retal indolor recorrente. O tratamento habitual da doença retal inclui ressecção do segmento afetado seguido de anastomose coloanal. Sangramento retal no intra-operatório é uma complicação temível especialmente durante ressecções extensas ou reoperações. Os autores descrevem a embolização pré-operatória com microesferas e Onyx-18(R) de um hemangioma retal em um paciente de 49 anos, com controle satisfatório de hemorragia maciça durante o ato cirúrgico. (AU)

Effect of hyperbaric hepatic hyperoxia on the liver of rats submitted to intermittent ischemia/reperfusion injury

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of hyperbaric hyperoxia as hepatic preconditioning on hepatocellular integrity in rats submitted to intermittent hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury. METHODS: Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (SHAM, I/R, HBO-I/R and CONTROL). The surgical technique consisted of total clamping of the hepatic pedicle for 15 min, followed by reperfusion for 5 min, performed twice. The application of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) was carried out in a collective chamber (simultaneous exposure of 4 rats) pressurized directly with oxygen at 2 ATA for 60 min. Tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined and blood samples were collected for the determination of serum AST and ALT levels. Data were analyzed statistically by the Mann-Whitney test, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference in MDA (p< 0.05) was observed between control and HBO-I/R, but not between control and I/R. Regarding AST, there was a difference between control and I/R and HBO-I/R. Analysis of ALT revealed a significant difference between control and I/R (p<0.05) and between I/R and HBO-I/R, with no difference between control and HBO-IR. CONCLUSION: Hyperoxic preconditioning proved to be favorable regarding alanine transaminase, but not aspartate aminotranserase or malondialdehyde levels. .

Hyperoxic preconditioning in partial liver ischemia

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of the hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment as a pre-conditioning for I/R effects in the liver ischemia. METHODS: Fifty-seven male Wistar rats (260-300g) were submitted to the following procedures: SHAM; I/R, rats submitted to I/R, consisting of partial ischemia of 70% of the liver for 90 minutes followed by 15 minutes of reperfusion; HBO I/R 1 ATA, 30 minutes of HBO treatment at the pressure of 1 absolute atmosphere (ATA) during the ischemia time. HBO I/R 2 ATA, 30 minutes of HBO (2 ATA) during the ischemia time. Pre HBO I/R 30', rats submitted to 30 minutes of HBO (2 ATA) immediately before the I/R time. Pre HBO I/R 90', rats submitted to 90 minutes of HBO (2 ATA) immediately before the I/R time. RESULTS: There was a significant worsening of all the parameters of mitochondrial energy production (state 3, 4, RCR and Swelling) in the I/R group, when compared to the Sham group (I/R <Sham, p<0.05). There was also a significant worsening in state 4, RCR and mitochondrial edema in the Pre HBO I/R 90' group compared to the I/R group. Hepatic enzyme concentrations were significantly higher in the I/R group. CONCLUSION: The use of hyperbaric oxygen before and during I/R did not improve the production of hepatocellular energy reduced by I/R, nor did it prevent the installation of mitochondrial edema induced by Iischemia/reperfusion. .