Influencing factors of refractory anastomotic stenosis after laparoscopic intersphincteric resec-tion for rectal cancer and construction of nomogram prediction model / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the influencing factors of refractory anastomotic stenosis after laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (Ls-ISR) for rectal cancer and construction of nomogram prediction model.Methods:The retrospective case-control study was conducted. The clinicopatho-logical data of 495 patients who underwent Ls-ISR for rectal cancer in two medical centers, including 448 patients in Peking University First Hospital and 47 patients in Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, from June 2012 to December 2021 were collected. There were 311 males and 184 females, aged 61 (range, 20-84)years. Observation indicators: (1) incidence of anastomotic stenosis; (2) influencing factors of refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR; (3) construction and evaluation of nomogram prediction model for refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR. Follow-up was conducted using outpatient examination and telephone interview to detect the incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage and anastomotic stenosis up to August 2022. Measurement data with normal distribution were represented as Mean± SD, and comparison between groups was conducted using the t test. Measurement data with skewed distribution were represented as M(range). Count data were described as absolute numbers, and comparison between groups was conducted using the chi-square test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted using the Logistic regression model. Factors with P<0.10 in univariate analysis were included in multivariate analysis. The R software (3.6.3 version) was used to construct nomogram prediction model. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn and the area under curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the efficacy of nomogram prediction model. Results:(1) Incidence of anastomotic stenosis. All 495 patients underwent Ls-ISR successfully, without conversion to laparotomy, and all patients were followed up for 47(range, 8-116)months. During the follow-up period, there were 458 patients without anas-tomotic stenosis, and 37 patients with anastomotic stenosis. Of the 37 patients, there were 15 cases with grade A anastomotic stenosis, 3 cases with grade B anastomotic stenosis and 19 cases with grade C anastomotic stenosis, including 22 cases being identified as the refractory anastomotic stenosis. Fifteen patients with grade A anastomotic stenosis were relieved after anal dilation treat-ment. Three patients with grade B anastomotic stenosis were improved after balloon dilation and endoscopic treatment. Nineteen patients with grade C anastomotic stenosis underwent permanent stoma. During the follow-up period, there were 42 cases with anastomotic leakage including 17 cases combined with refractory anastomotic stenosis, and 453 cases without anastomotic leakage including 5 cases with refractory anastomotic stenosis. There was a significant difference in the refractory anastomotic stenosis between patients with and without anastomotic leakage ( χ2=131.181, P<0.05). (2) Influencing factors of refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR. Results of multivariate analysis showed that neoadjuvant therapy, distance from tumor to anal margin ≤4 cm, clinic N+ stage were independent risk factors of refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR ( hazard ratio=7.297, 3.898, 2.672, 95% confidence interval as 2.870-18.550, 1.050-14.465, 1.064-6.712, P<0.05). (3) Construction and evaluation of nomogram prediction model for refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR. Based on the results of multivariate analysis, neoadjuvant therapy, distance from tumor to anal margin and clinic N staging were included to constructed the nomogram prediction model for refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR. Results of ROC curve showed the AUC of nomogram prediction model for refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR was 0.739 (95% confidence interval as 0.646-0.833). Conclusions:Neoadjuvant therapy, distance from tumor to anal margin ≤4 cm, clinic N+ stage are independent risk factors of refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR. Nomogram prediction model based on these factors can predict the incidence of refractory anastomotic stenosis after Ls-ISR.

Safety and efficacy of laparoscopic distal rectal transection by transanterior obturator nerve gateway / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of distal rectal transection by using transanterior obturator nerve gateway (TANG) in laparoscopic radical resection for lower rectal cancers. Methods: A descriptive case series study was performed. Inclusion criteria: (1) patients with primary rectal adenocarcinoma, with the distance of 3-5 cm from tumor to anal verge, with normal anal function before surgery and a desire to preserve anus; (2) laparoscopic radical resection of rectal cancer was performed and the distal rectum was transected using TANG approach. Exclusion criteria: (1) patients with distant metastasis or receiving palliative surgery; (2) the distal rectum was transected using non-TANG approach; (3) patients receiving combined multiple organs resection; (4) patients complicated with other tumors requiring additional treatment during the study. Clinicopathological data of 50 patients with low rectal cancer undergoing laparoscopic resection using TANG approach between January 2019 and December 2020 in Peking University First Hospital were retrospectively collected. Perioperative conditions, length of specific pelvic lines, additional angle and postoperative short-term outcomes were observed and described. Additional angle was defined as the angle between the simulated stapling line with the traditional approach and the real stapling line with the TANG approach. Data following normal distribution were presented as Mean±SD, or M [quartile range (Q(R))] otherwise. Results: All the patients successfully completed laparoscopic surgery without transferring to open or transanal surgery. The median operative time was 193 (80) min and blood loss was 50 (58) ml. All tumors received R0 resection with the distance from the tumor to distal resection margin of 1.7 (0.4) cm and the anastomotic height of 2.0 (0.1) cm. Rectal transection was completed by one cartridge in 52.0% of the cases (26/50) and two cartridges in 48.0% (24/50). Length of the stapling line was 6.6 (1.5) cm. The time to construct the gateway was 8.0 (6.0) min. The vessel damage occurred in 4.0% of the cases (2/50) and none of the cases encountered obturator nerve damage. Inlets of the pelvis in TANG and traditional approach were (9.9±1.3) cm vs. (7.2±1.1) cm (t=24.781, P<0.001). Additional angle of TANG was (15±2) °. The transecting positions on the midline and right edge of the rectum specimen by TANG were 0.6 (0.2) cm and 1.0 (0.2) cm lower than those by the traditional approach. One case (2.0%) died of pulmonary infection on the 17th day after surgery, 2 cases (4.0%) received re-operation and 14 cases (28.0%) had postoperative complications, including anastomotic leakage (7/50, 14.0%), urinary retention (6/50, 12.0%), pelvic infection (2/50, 4.0%) and ileus (2/50, 4.0%). The median postoperative hospital stay was 12 (6) days. Conclusions: Laparoscopic distal rectal transection by using TANG approach is safe and effective in the treatment of low rectal cancer. As an alternative rectal transecting method, TANG has advantages especially for the obese and those with a contracted pelvis and ultralow rectal cancers.

Clinical efficacy of laparoscopic-assisted intersphincteric resection with different surgical approaches for low rectal cancer / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic-assisted inters-phincteric resection (ISR) with different surgical approaches for low rectal cancer.Methods:The retrospective cohort study was conducted. The clinicopathological data of 90 patients with low rectal cancer who were admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from January 2016 to December 2020 were collected. There were 58 males and 32 females, aged (60±9)years. Of 90 patients, 60 cases underwent laparoscopic assisted ISR with transpelvic approach, 30 cases underwent laparoscopic assisted ISR with transabdominal and transanal mixed approach. Observation indicators: (1) clinicopathological characteristics of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach; (2) intraoperative and postoperative conditions of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach; (3) postoperative complications of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach; (4) follow-up. Follow-up was conducted by telephone interview and outpatient examination once every 3 months within postoperative 3 years, once every six months in the postoperative 3 to 5 years and once a year after postoperative 5 years to detect tumor recurrence and metastasis, and survival of patients.Follow-up was up to March 2021 or patient death. Measurement data with normal distribution were represented as Mean± SD, and the t test was used for comparison between groups. Measurement data with skewed distribution were expressed as M(range), and comparison between groups was conducted using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. Count data were expressed as absolute numbers or percentages, and comparison between groups was performed using the chi-square test or Fisher exact probability. Comparison of ordinal data was analyzed by the non-parametric rank sum test. Kaplan-Meier method was used to draw survival curves and calculate survival rates, and survival analysis was performed by the Log-Rank test. Results:(1) Clinicopathological characteristics of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach. The sex (males, females), distance from the distal margin of tumor to anal margin were 34, 26, (4.5±0.5)cm for patients with transpelvic approach, versus 24, 6, (3.5±0.5)cm for patients with mixed approach, respectively, showing significant differences between them ( χ2=4.75, t=8.35, P<0.05). (2) Intraoperative and postoperative conditions of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach. The operation time, volume of intraoperative blood loss, distance from the postoperative anastomosis to anal margin were (187±9)minutes, 50(range, 20?200)mL, (3.4±0.7)cm for patients with transpelvic approach, versus (256±12)minuets, 100(range, 20?200)mL, (2.6±0.7)cm for patients with mixed approach, showing significant differences between them ( t=?26.99, Z=?2.48, t=4.67, P<0.05). None of the 90 patients had a positive distal margin. The stoma reversal rates of patients with transpelvic and mixed approach were 93.3%(56/60) and 90.0%(27/30), respectively. Of the 60 patients with transpelvic approach, 3 cases had no stoma reversal due to anastomotic complications, and 1 case was not yet to the reversal time. Of the 30 patients with mixed approach, 2 cases had no stoma reversal due to anastomotic complications, and 1 case was not yet to the reversal time. The 1-, 3-month Wexner scores after stoma reversal were 15(range, 12?17), 12(range, 10?14) for patients with transpelvic approach, versus 16(range, 14?18), 14(range, 12?16) for patients with mixed approach, showing significant differences between them ( Z=?4.97, ?5.49, P<0.05). The 6-month Wexner score after stoma reversal was 10(range, 9?12) for patients with transpelvic approach, versus 11(range, 8?12) for patients with mixed approach, showing no significant difference between them ( Z=?1.59, P>0.05). (3) Postoperative complications of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach. The complications occurred to 16 patients with transpelvic approach and 9 patients with mixed approach, respectively, showing no significant difference between them ( χ2=0.11, P>0.05). Cases with postoperative anastomotic fistula, cases with anastomotic bleeding, cases with anastomotic stenosis, cases with intestinal obstruction, cases with incision infection, cases with urinary retention, cases with pelvic infection, cases with pulmonary infection, cases with incisional hernia, cases with chylous fistula, cases with abdominal and pelvic abscess were 5, 2, 1, 7, 0, 1, 5, 3, 1, 1, 1 for patients with transpelvic approach, versus 6, 3, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, 3, 1, 1, 1 for patients with mixed approach, showing no significant difference between them ( P>0.05). The same patient could have multiple postoperative complications. (4) Follow-up. All the 90 patients were followed up for 27(range, 6?62)months. The follow-up time of 60 patients with transpelvic approach was 27(range, 8?62)months. The follow-up time of 30 patients with mixed approach was 28(range, 6?53)months. Of the 60 patients with transpelvic approach, 3 cases had local recurrence, 4 cases had liver metastasis, 3 cases had lung metastasis, and all of them survived with tumor. Of the 30 patients with mixed approach, 1 case had local recurrence, 2 cases had liver metastasis, 1 case had lung metastasis, and all of them survived with tumor. There was no death. The 3-year disease-free survival rates of patients with transpelvic approach and mixed approach were 84.7% and 87.9%, respectively, showing no significant difference between them ( χ2=0.39, P>0.05). Conclusions:Lapa-roscopic assisted ISR via transpelvic approach or mixed approach for low rectal cancer are safe and feasible. Compared with transanal mixed approach, the transpelvic approach of laparoscopic-assisted ISR has shorter operation time, less volume of intraoperative blood loss and longer distance from the postoperative anastomosis to anal margin.

Reassessment of intersphincteric resection in the sphincter-preserving operation for ultra-low rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Intersphincteric resection (ISR), as an ultra-low sphincter-preserving operation, is widely used in clinical practice at present. ISR can allow some patients with very low rectal cancer to avoid the pain of anal resection while ensuring oncological efficacy. However, the procedure of ISR requires wider intersphincteric dissection which may cause nerve damage, and the removal of partial or total internal anal sphincter as an "inherent defect" of ISR can result in poor anal function postoperatively. Based on the in-depth understanding of regional anatomy and physiological function, the author proposed a new functional sphincter preservation operation for very low rectal cancer-conformal sphincter preservation operation (CSPO) which has achieved good outcome in clinical practice. This article will revisit the brief history of rectal cancer surgery and discuss the main mechanisms underlining the poor anal function after ISR. Based on the anatomical study of the pelvic floor and anal canal, CSPO can improve the postoperative anal function of very low rectal cancer patients by reducing the damage of the autonomic nerves, receptor corpuscles and muscle fibers in the intersphincteric space, retaining more dentate line and internal sphincter with the design of resection line of tumor lower border under direct vision, and elevating the anastomosis height. At the same time, the future treatment prospect of low rectal cancer is envisioned.

Application value of transanal endoscopic partial intersphincteric resection for ultra-low rectal cancer / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the application value of transanal endoscopic partial intersphincteric resection for ultra-low rectal cancer.Methods:The retrospective and descriptive study was conducted. The clinicopathological data of 9 ultra-low rectal cancer patients undergoing transanal endoscopic partial intersphincteric resection at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University from December 2017 to August 2020 were collected. There were 8 males and 1 female, aged from 39 to 62 years, with a median age of 58 years. Observation indicators: (1) surgical and postoperative situations; (2) postoperative pathological examination; (3) follow-up. Follow-up was conducted using outpatient examination and telephone interview to detect postoperative tumor local recurrence and distant metastasis, survival of patients, ileostomy closure, anus function at 3 months after ileostomy closure, male urinary and sexual function and female sexual function at 6 months after rectal surgery. The follow-up was up to February 2021. Measurement data with normal distribution were represented as Mean± SD, and measurement data with skewed distribution were represented as M(range). Count data were described as absolute numbers. Results:(1)Surgical and postoperative situations: all 9 patients underwent surgery successfully, without conversion to open surgery. Seven of the 9 patients underwent transanal endoscopic partial intersphincteric resection and the rest of 2 patients with tumor close to the dentate line underwent transanal endoscopic modified partial intersphincteric resection. The operation time and volume of intraoperative blood loss of 9 patients were (267±48)minutes and 50 mL(range, 30?60 mL), respectively. Five of the 9 patients underwent transanal specimen extraction, and 4 patients underwent specimen extraction by an abdominal incision. All 9 patients underwent transanal hand-sewn coloanal anastomosis and protective ileostomy, and two pelvic drainage tubes were indwelled. Transanal drainage tube was placed after anastomosis in 3 of 9 patients. Three cases had intraoperative adverse events and there were no intraoperative adverse event reported in the remaining 6 cases. The time to postoperative initial stoma exhausting and time to postoperative first semi-liquid food intake of 9 patients were 3 days(range, 2?4 days) and 5 days(range, 4?7 days), respectively. One case had Clavien-Dindo grade Ⅰ complication and 2 cases had Clavien-Dindo grade Ⅱ complication during postoperative 30 days and the rest of 6 cases had no postoperative complication. No anastomotic stricture, hemorrhage or urinary retention occurred in 9 patients. The duration of postoperative hospital stay and cost of hospitalization of 9 patients were 11 days(range, 9?23 days) and (6.8±1.3)×10 4 yuan, respectively. (2) Postoperative pathological examination: the diameter of tumor, the distance of distal resection margin, the number of lymph node dissected and the number of positive lymph node of 9 patients were (3.2±1.4)cm, 0.6 cm(range, 0.5?1.5 cm), 17±7 and 0(range, 0?7), respectively. The tumor histopathological type was adenocarcinoma with negative tumor nodule and nerve infiltration in all 9 patients. Only 1 case of 9 patients was found vascular tumor thrombus. The surgical specimens of all 9 patients showed negative for distal and circumferential margins and complete mesorectum. Results of postoperative pathological TNM staging showed that of 6 cases with preoperative T1-T2 staging tumors, 3 cases were classified as pT2N0M0 stage, and 3 cases were classified as pT2N1M0 stage, pT2N2M0 stage or pT3N1M0 stage, respectively. Three cases with preoperative T3 staging tumors were classified as ypT0N0M0 stage, ypT2N0M0 stage or ypT3N0M0 stage, respectively. (3) Follow-up: all 9 patients were followed up for 6 to 13 months, with a median follow-up time of 9 months. No local recurrence, distant metastasis or tumor-related death was found during follow-up. Of the 9 patients, only 1 case did not receive stoma closure and undergo anus function assessment, and the rest of 8 cases underwent stoma closure. Results of postoperative anus function assessment showed 5 cases of accessibility, 2 cases of mild impairment and 1 case of severe impairment. Results of urogenital function assessment showed 6 cases of the 8 male patients of mild impairment, 1 case of moderate impairment and 1 case of severe impairment in micturition function, respectively, and 3 cases of accessibility, 2 cases of mild impairment and 3 cases of moderate impairment in sexual function, respectively. The female patient underwent accessibility of sexual function and the six-item version of the female sexual function index was 25. Conclusion:Transanal endoscopic partial intersphincteric resection can be used for the treatment of ultra-low rectal cancer.

Recognition of surgical anatomy for intersphincteric resection / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Intersphincteric resection (ISR) involves the anatomy of hiatal ligament, internal and external sphincter and conjoined longitudinal muscle. The hiatal ligament is actually a branch of the longitudinal muscle of rectum, shown as an uneven ring attached to the levator ani muscle. The internal sphincter is the end of the circular muscle of rectum which begins at the level of hiatal ligament formation. The distance from the upper boundary of internal sphincter to dentate line is significantly different among individuals. Although there is adipose tissue in the space between the internal and external sphincters, no evidence of mesentery structure in the anal canal is found as in the rectum. The conjoined longitudinal muscle is the remaining branch of the longitudinal muscle, whose return passes through the external sphincter and ends at the anococcygeal ligament/coccyx after reaching the anal margin. The synergistic action of conjoined longitudinal muscle and the hiatal ligament participates in the defecation process. The individualized difference of ISR-related anatomy affects the operation, especially the anastomosis.

Analysis on the technical characteristics and clinical efficacy of robotic-assisted intersphincteric resection for patients with low rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective@#To explore the technical characteristics and short-term clinical efficacy of robotic-assisted intersphincteric resection (ISR) for patients with low rectal cancer.@*Methods@#A retrospective cohort study was used. Inclusion criteria: (1) rigid colonoscopy showed lower margin of the tumor ≤5 cm from the anal verge; (2) preoperative rectal MRI or endorectal ultrasound revealed staging T1-2, or T3 patients receiving concurrent chemoradiotherapy; (3) patients less than 70 years old with good function of anal sphincter before surgery; (4) no synchronous multiple primary carcinoma, and no distant metastasis; (5) the method of operation was agreed by the patient. Exclusion criteria: (1) T4 stage tumors; (2) sphincter dysfunction before operation; (3) recurrent tumors; (4) lower edge of tumors beyond the dentate line; (5) death due to non-rectal cancer during follow-up and unsatisfactory follow-up data. The clinical data of 21 patients with low rectal cancer meeting inclusion criteria undergoing robotic-assisted ISR at our department from January 2015 to June 2018 were collected. Parameters during and after operation were observed. Anorectal manometry was performed at 3, 6, and 12 months after the operation, and anal function was evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months after the closure of the stoma by Kirwan classification and Wexner fecal incontinence score. The key steps of the operation are as follows: according to the principle of total mesorectal excision, the robot continued to enter into the levator ani hiatusdistally, and dissectin the sphincter space; according to the scope of sphincter resection, ISRwas divided into partial ISR, subtotal ISR, and total ISR; subtotal and total ISR usually needed to be combined with transanal pathway. The reconstruction of digestive tract was performed by double stapler anastomosis under laparoscope orhand-sewnanastomosis under direct vision, and preventive ileostomy was completed in the right lower abdomen.@*Results@#Of 21 patients, 13 were male and 8 were female with mean age of (57.5±16.3) years. All the patients successfully completed the operation without conversion to laparotomy. Fourteen cases (66.7%) adopted partial ISR through complete transabdominal approach, 6 cases (28.6%) adopted the subtotal ISR through combined transabdominal and transanal approachs, and 1 case (4.8%) adopted the total ISR through the combined transabdominal and transanal approachs. The total operation time was (213.1±56.3) minutes, including (27.3±5.4) minutes for mechanical arm installation and (175.7±51.6) minutes for robotic operation. The amount of intraoperative hemorrhage was (62.8±23.2) ml, and no blood transfusion was performed in any patient. All patients underwent prophylactic ileostomy, and the stoma was closed 3-6 months after the operation. Except one case of anastomotic leakage, all other stomas were closed successfully. The postoperative hospitalization time was (7.6±2.2) days, and time to fluid intake was (3.3±0.9) days. One case of anastomotic leakage, one case of anastomotic stenosis, one case of inflammatory external hemorrhoids and one case of urinary retention occurred after surgery,and all of them were cured by conservative treatment. The mean diameter of tumors was (2.9±1.2) cm, and the number of harvested lymph node was 12.8 ± 3.3. In the whole group, the circumcision margin was negative, the proximal margin was (12.2 ± 2.1) cm, the distal margin was (1.1 ± 0.4) with all negative, and the R0 resection rate was 100%. The results of anorectal manometry showed that the preoperative rest pressure, rectal maximum squeeze pressure, initial sensory volume and maximum tolerated volume were (45.19±8.46) mmHg, (128.18±18.80) mmHg, (44.33±10.11) ml and (119.00±19.28) ml, respectively;these parameters reduced significantly 3 months after operation and they were (23.44±5.54) mmHg, (93.72±12.15) mmHg, (17.72±5.32) ml and (70.44±10.9) ml, respectively. The differences were statistically significant (all P<0.001). The resting pressure and the rectal maximum squeeze pressure returned to preoperative levels 12 months after operation, which were (39.33±6.64) mmHg and (120.58±16.47) mmHg, respectively (both P>0.05), while the initial sensory volume and the maximum tolerated volume failed to reach the preoperative state, which were (30.67±7.45) ml and (92.25±10.32) ml, respectively (both P<0.05). The patients were followed up for (22.1±10.6) months without local recurrence and distant metastasis. Eighteen patients were evaluated for anal function: Kirwan classification was grade I for 6 cases, grade II for 7 cases, grade III for 4 cases, and grade IV for 1 case; Wexner incontinence score was 8.6±0.8; 14 cases had good defecation control.@*Conclusion@#The clinical efficacy of ISR with Da Vinci robot in the treatment of low rectal cancer is satisfactory.

Selection of anal preservation surgery of low rectal cancer / 中国实用外科杂志

With the promotion of neoadjuvant therapy,the development of minimally invasive techniques and new surgical techniques,the anal preservation rate of low rectalcancer is increasing year by year. To improve postoperative quality of life is an important goal in the treatment of low rectal cancer. At present,the main important low anal preservation surgery is as follows: Intersphincteric resection(ISR),including complete ISR,subtotal ISR,partial ISR and modified partial ISR; Transanal local resection,including transanal endoscopic microsurgery(TEM) and transanal minimally invasive surgery(TAMIS); Anterior perineal planefor ultra-low anterior resection of the rectum(APPEAR),which is performed through a separate perineal incision,israrely used at present; Transanal total mesorectal excision(TaTME) proposed in recent years. Preliminary studies have proven safe and effective for low advanced rectal cancer.TaTME require a learning curve. It is now making expertcon sensus and operation specification,operation training and conducting multi-center prospective study. TaTME isexpected to become the important operation for low rectalcancer.

Pathologic and functional anatomy basis of intersphincteric resection / 中华胃肠外科杂志

The anorectum is a complex region, whose anatomic structure is the basis and premise of intersphincteric resection (ISR) for low rectal cancer. With the development of pelvic surgery and minimally invasive surgery, the anatomic approaches, surgical planes, extent of excision and reconstruction strategies of ISR have been better understood. Surgeons can furthest preserve anal function as well as adhere to the principles of radical resection. However, the anatomy of the anorectum has not been fully understood. We hope further exploration of the anal canal anatomy, including the perirectal fascia, rectourethral muscle, anococcygeal ligament, hiatal ligament, levator ani muscle, internal and externals phincter, intersphincteric nerves, conjointed longitudinal muscle, intersphincteric spaces and the surgical approaches, by reviewing relevant literatures combined with the experiences of our clinical practice and applied anatomy, will help to improve the accuracy of the surgeries and increase the oncologic and functional outcomes of ISR.

Clinical observation of laparoscopic abdominoperineal intersphincteric resection com-bined with ileostomy for treatment of ultra-low rectal cancer / 中国肿瘤临床

Objective: To observe and evaluate the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic abdominoperineal intersphincteric resection com-bined with ileostomy for the treatment of ultra-low rectal cancer. Methods: Clinicopathologic data of 74 patients undergoing laparo-scopic radical resection for ultra-low rectal cancer at Coloproctology Hospital of Chengdu from January 2015 to June 2017 were retro-spectively analyzed. In total, 43 patients underwent laparoscopic abdominoperineal intersphincteric resection combined with ileosto-my (ISR group), and 31 patients underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection combined with ileostomy (LAR group). The periopera-tive condition, radical resection of tumor, and postoperative anal function were compared between the two groups. Results: There were no significant differences in blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and postoperative complications between the groups (all P>0.05). The mean operative time was (306.6 ± 25.1) minutes in the ISR group and (239.7 ± 26.4) minutes in the LAR group (P=0.010). There were no significant differences in pT and pN between the groups (all P values>0.05). The coincidence rate of T stage diagnosis was 93.0% in the ISR group and 93.5% in the LAR group. The positive rate of circumferential resection margin in the two groups was 0. The mean distance of the distal margin was (2.3±0.1) cm in the ISR group and (1.4±0.3) cm in the LAR group (P<0.001). All patients were followed up for 12-42 (mean 23.4) months. The local recurrence rate was 0 in the ISR group and 12.9% (4/31) in the LAR group (P=0.027); no distant metastasis was observed in any of the groups. There was no significant difference in the results of the anorectal manometry test between the groups (P>0.05). The proportion of patients with good continence of anal function after closure of ileos- tomy was 83.7% in the ISR group and 87.1% in the LAR group (P>0.05). Conclusions: Laparoscopic abdominoperineal intersphincteric resection combined with ileostomy is safe and feasible for the treatment of ultra-low rectal cancer, and it leads to satisfactory anal function and a short-term curative effect.

Clinical features and risk factors of surgical complications after intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy / 中华外科杂志

Objective@#To explore clinical features and prognosis factors of surgical complications after intersphincteric resection (ISR) for low rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.@*Methods@#The clinical data of 132 patients with low rectal cancer who underwent ISR following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy from September 2010 to June 2017 at Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University were retrospectively reviewed. There were 100 males and 32 females, with the age of (52.9±11.4) years and distance to anal verge of 3.9 cm. Records of perioperative complication (POC) within 30 days after surgery, anastomotic leakage (AL), and anastomotic stenosis (AS) were analyzed. POC was recorded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. AL was graded by ISREC system and classified into the early AL within 30 days after surgery and delayed AL beyond 30 days. AS was defined as narrowing of the bowel lumen at the anastomosis that prevented passage through a colonoscope with a 12 mm diameter. According to the shape of narrowing, AS was recorded as the stenosis in situ or stenosis with long-segment bowel above. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to identify risk factors of anastomotic complications.@*Results@#Among the 132 patients, full-dose radiotherapy and diverting stoma were performed in 128 (97.0%) patients, respectively. In entire cohort, AL was found in 41 (31.1%) patients, including 32 patients with clinical leakage (24.2%). The median time for diagnosis of AL was 37 days (2 to 214 days) after surgery. There were 25 patients (18.9%) who were diagnosed with delayed AL beyond 30 days. Chronic presacral sinus formation was detected in 22 of 129 (17.1%) patients at 12 months from surgery. Among the 128 eligible patients, 36 (28.1%) were diagnosed as AS, including 24 (18.8%) patients with stenosis in situ and 12 (9.4%) patients with bowel stenosis above. After a median follow-up of 26 months, 7(5.3%) patients received permanent colostomy and the other 20(15.2%) patients retained a persistent ileostomy, owing to anastomotic complications. Results of multivariate analysis showed that radiation colitis was an independent prognosis factor of AL after ISR (OR=5.04, 95% CI: 2.05 to 12.43, P=0.000); male gender (OR=5.19, 95% CI: 1.24 to 21.75, P=0.024) and AL (OR=8.49, 95% CI: 3.32 to 21.70, P=0.000) were independent prognosis factors of AS after ISR.@*Conclusions@#Surgical complications are common after ISR for low rectal cancer patients with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. A high rate of AL is observed after long-term follow-up, which is associated with AS. Increasing awareness of anastomotic complications after ISR should be raised, especially for male patients with radiation colitis.

Intersphincteric Resection for Patients With Low-Lying Rectal Cancer: Oncological and Functional Outcomes

The aim of this review is to evaluate the outcomes after an intersphincteric resection (ISR) for patients with low-lying rectal cancer. Reports published in the literature regarding surgical, oncological, and functional outcomes of an ISR were reviewed. The morbidity after an ISR was 7.7%–32%, and anastomotic leakage was the most common adverse event. Local recurrence rates ranged from 0% to 12%, 5-year overall survival rates ranged from 62% to 92%, and rates of major incontinence ranged from 0% to 25.8% after an ISR. An ISR is a safe procedure for sphincter-saving rectal surgery in patients with very low rectal cancer; it does not compromise the oncological outcomes of the resection and is a valuable alternative to an abdominoperineal resection. While the functional outcomes after an ISR were found to be acceptable, the long-term functional outcome and quality of life still require careful investigation. ISRs have been performed with surgical and oncologic safety on patients with low-lying rectal cancer. However, patients must be selected very carefully for an ISR, considering the associated functional derangement and the limited extent of the resection.

Short-term effects of LTME combined with intersphincteric resection and open abdominal ISR in treatment of low rectal cancer / 中国现代普通外科进展

Objective:To observe short-term effects of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LTME)combined with intersphincteric resection (ISR) and open abdominal ISR in treatment of low rectal cancer.Methods:74 patients with low rectal cancer from July 2012-December 2014 were analyzed retrospectively.Among them,38 cases underwent laparoscopic TME combined with ISR and another 36 patients underwent open ISR.Short-term prognosis of two groups were analyzed.Results:Operation time of (LTME+ISR) group was longer than that of open ISR group(P＜0.05);Intraoperative blood loss of (LTME+ISR) group was lower than that of open ISR group(P＜0.05);Difference of retrieved lymph nodes number and prophylactic colostomy number of two groups were not statistically significant(P＞0.05).Postoperative anus start exhaust time,start eating time and hospitalization time of (LTME+ISR) group were shorter than that of open ISR group (P＜0.05).Postoperative complication rate of (LTME+ISR) group was 13.16％,lower than that of open ISR group 33.33％(P＜0.05).Local recurrence rate and distant metastasis rate of (LTME+ISR) group were lower than that of open ISR group,2 year survival rate was higher than that of open ISR group,but the difference was not statistically significant (P＞0.05).Conlusion:LTME combined with ISR compared with open ISR,the operation time is longer.However,the amount of intraoperative bleeding is less,postoperative recovery is faster and less complications.The prognosis of the two surgical methods was similar in the 2 years.

Anatomy-based staging of the American Joint Committee on Cancer for scientific surgical planning of low rectal cancer / 中华消化外科杂志

Compared with patients with high-middle rectal cancer,local recurrent rate of low rectal cancer in patients is worse.The poor outcome of low rectal cancer is due to the unique anatomical features of the low rectum and the lack of clearly defined anatomical excision planes.Therefore,how to use the appropriate imaging methods,evaluate accurately preoperative cancer staging,plan feasible surgical plane and select the appropriate surgical approach,these will be very important for radical resection of rectal cancer.Therefore,the quality of life and long-term survival of the patients will be improved.

Laparoscopic intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective To investigate the surgical techniques and clinical efficacy of laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (ISR) in the treatment of low rectal cancer.Methods A retrospective descriptive study was performed.The clinical data of 12 patients who underwent laparoscopic low rectal anterior resection combined with ISR at the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from May 2014 to October 2014 were collected.The patients underwent abdominal operation including total mesorectal excision (TME) + sphincter mobilization,then transanal intersphincteric resection,finally colinic anal-anal anastomosis.The operation time,volume of intraoperative blood loss,number of lymph node dissected,postoperative complications,time to anal exsufflation,duration of hospital stay,duration of postoperative hospital stay,pathological stage and follow-up were observed.The patients were followed up by outpatient examination and telephone interview at month 1,3 and 6 after operation up to April 18,2015.The follow-up included the prognosis of patients and the recovery of anal function.The function of defecation was evaluated by Wexner scoring system and Kirwan grading.Measurement data with normal distribution were presented as (x) ± s.Results All the 12 patients were completed laparoscopic surgery without conversion to open surgery.Eight patients underwent partial internal anal sphincter resection,and 4 underwent subtotal resection.Four patients in T3 stage underwent lateral lymph node dissection preserving the left colonic artery,hypogastric nerve and pelvic nerve.The operation time was (290 ± 35) minutes.The volume of intraoperative blood loss was (124 ± 80) mL.The number of lymph nodes dissected was 17 ± 8,and the number of positive lymph nodes was 0-4.The distance of the distal margin was (2.0 ± 0.5) crm,and the margin was negative.All the 12 patients were not complicated with infection,bleeding,anastomotic leakage,anastomotic stenosis and other complications.The time to postoperative anal exsufflation was (3 ± 1)days,duration of hospital stay was (20 ± 3) days,and duration of postoperative hospital stay was (12 ± 3) days.The results of TNM stage showed 3 cases of pT1 stage,5 cases of pT2 stage,4 cases of pT3 stage,10 cases of pN0 stage,1 case of pN1 stage,1 case of pN2 stage,8 cases of Ⅰ stage,2 cases of Ⅱ stage and 2 cases of Ⅲ stage.All the 12 patients were followed up for 6-11 months.The defection frequency and the Wexner score at month 1,3 and 6 after operation were 12 ±7,15 ±3,9 ±5 and 13 ±4,5 ±3,10 ±3,respectively.Of the 12 patients,the number of patients with satisfactory Kirwan score,flatus incontinence and loose stool was 1,3,8 at month 1 after operation,3,3,6 at month 3 after operation,10,2,0 at month 6 alter operation,respectively.Conclusion Laparoscopic ISR is effective in the treatment of low rectal cancer.

Laparoscopy-guided intersphincteric resection for low rectal stro-mal tumor / 中国肿瘤临床

Objective:To investigate the clinical security and feasibility of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with imatinib following lap-aroscopy-guided intersphincteric resection for patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor of the low rectum (GSTLR). Methods:Clini-cal data of nine patients with GSTLR who were admitted to the Shengjing Hospital between January 2007 and January 2011 were re-viewed. These patients were treated with neoadjuvant imatinib chemotherapy after laparoscopic intersphincteric resection. Results:Pri-or to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the tumor diameter ranged between from 5 cm to 9 cm (median=7.0 cm). After imatinib chemothera-py, the tumor diameter decreased to 2-4.5 cm (median=3.5 cm, P<0.001). Laparoscopic surgery through intersphincteric resection was performed after imatinib treatment for 3-24 months (median=7 months). All patients received a protective stoma, which was closed 3 months after the surgery. The Wexner scale scores ranged from 1 and 4 (median=2) prior to neoadjuvant imatinib chemotherapy and changed to 1-5 (median=2) after the chemotherapy (P=0.397). After stomal closure operation, the scores significantly increased to 4-9 (median=7, P<0.001) but were not statistically significantly different from those before the therapy. One year after laparoscopic surgery, the Wexner scale scores ranged from 1 to 5 (median=2, P=0.842). Six patients were treated with imatinib for 24 and 30 months after lap-aroscopic surgery. Recurrence in pelvis occurred in only one patient, who ceased imatinib administration at the 30th month after the sur-gery. Conclusions: Laparoscopic surgery through intersphincteric resection was secure and feasible and thus could be used for treat-ment of GSTLR.

Robotic versus Laparoscopic Intersphincteric Resection for Low Rectal Cancer: A Comparative Study of Short-term Outcomes

PURPOSE: Intersphincteric resection (ISR) is a surgical option to preserve the anal sphincter for treatment of low rectal cancer. Laparoscopic ISR has been reported to be technically challenging. The Aim of this study was to assess the short-term outcomes of robotic ISR compared with a laparoscopic approach. METHODS: Ninety four consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic (n=60) or robotic (n=34) ISR with hand-sewn coloanal anastomosis for low rectal cancer from January 2011 to December 2014 were included. Patient demographics, operative data, and histopathologic and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: There were no differences in demographic data including tumor location, which was 2.5+/-0.7cm from the anal verge in the laparoscopic group and 2.7+/-0.9 cm in the robotic group. Mean operation time was significantly longer in the robotic group compared with the laparoscopic group (278+/-65.3 minutes versus 225+/-66.9, p<0.001). With respect to histopathologic outcomes, patients with circumferential resection margin (CRM) less than 2 mm were observed more frequently in the laparoscopic group than in the robotic group (18.3% versus 5.9%, p=0.050). The rate of postoperative morbidity was lower in the robotic group than in the laparoscopic group (14.7% versus 35.0%, p=0.035). Patients in the robotic group showed a low Clavien-Dindo score more frequently than those in the laparoscopic group (p=0.049). CONCLUSION: Robotic ISR is a safe and feasible procedure associated with a lower rate of narrow CRM and postoperative morbidity in spite of a longer operation time, compared with the laparoscopic approach. Prospective clinical trials with larger numbers of cases evaluating long-term oncologic and functional outcomes are required.

Four-arm single docking full robotic surgery for low rectal cancer: techniques and post-operative outcomes / Cirurgia totalmente robótica para o tratamento do câncer do reto distal: técnicas e resultados do pós-operatório imediato

BACKGROUND: laparoscopic rectal surgery has not yet achieved a high penetration rate because of its steep learning curve and its relatively high conversion rate. Robotic rectal resection represents the main indication of the use of the robotic platform in colorectal surgery. The aim of this study was to present an early experience with robotic surgery to treat mid and low rectal cancer focusing on the technique and early postoperative outcomes. METHODS: from December 2012 to October 2013, a total of 16 patients with colorectal diseases were operated on using a four-arm single docking full robotic procedure (daVinci Si Surgical System). The treatment of six consecutive patients who underwent robotic rectal cancer surgery for mid or low rectal adenocarcinoma was prospectively analyzed regarding technique standardization, pathological findings and postoperative outcomes. RESULTS: there were no conversions and one intraoperative complication. The mean operative time was 245 min (180-360 min). The mean console time was 170 min (110-240 min). All patients underwent a standardized totally robotic rectal dissection. There were no mortality or urinary dysfunction and one complication (postoperative ileo-16%). The median length of hospital stay was 6 (4-11 days). The median number of lymph nodes harvested was 22 (7-38), and distal and circumferential resection margins were negative in all specimen. R0 resection was achieved in all cases and complete total mesorectal excision in five specimen and nearly complete in one. CONCLUSION: standardized robotic rectal surgery is a promising alternative to treat patients with mid or low rectal cancer and is expected to overcome the low penetration rate of laparoscopic surgery in this field. This technique was successfully performed in six patients with excellent immediate postoperative and pathological results. Additional studies in a large series of patients are necessary to confirm those advantages. (AU)

INTRODUÇÃO: a utilização da cirurgia videolaparoscópica para o tratamento do câncer do reto ainda não apresentou uma alta penetração devido a longa curva de aprendizado e a uma taxa de conversão relativamente alta. A ressecção retal robótica é a principal indicação para o uso da plataforma robótica na cirurgia colorretal. O objetivo desse estudo é apresentar as técnicas e os resultados pós-operatórios imediatos com o uso da cirurgia robótica para o tratamento do câncer do reto distal. PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: no período de dezembro de 2012 a outubro de 2013 foram operados 16 pacientes com patologias colorretais utilizando o robô daVinci SI Surgical System. O tratamento de 6 consecutivos pacientes portadores de câncer do reto do terço médio e do terço inferior foram prospectivamente avaliados quanto a sistematização técnica, achados patológicos e evolução pós-operatória. RESULTADOS: não houve conversão e ocorreu uma complicação intraoperatória. A duração média das operações foi de 245 minutos (180-360 minutos) e o tempo médio do uso do console foi de 170 minutos (110-240 minutos). Ocorreu uma complicação pós-operatória (Íleo) e não houveram nenhuma disfunção urinária ou mortalidade. A duração média da internação hospitalar foi de 6 dias (4-11 dias). O número médio de linfonodos examinados foi de 22 (7-38) e todas as peças tinham margens distal e circunferencial negativas. Ressecção RO foi observada em todos os casos e o grau de excisão total do mesorreto foi completo em 5 peças e quase completo em uma. CONCLUSÃO: cirurgia robótica sistematizada esta tendo uma crescente aceitação e é uma ótima alternativa para o tratamento dos pacientes com câncer do reto distal. Esta tecnologia foi utilizada em 6 pacientes com excelentes resultados não só na recuperação pós-operatória imediata como também nos achados da avaliação patológica. Grandes series randomizadas são importantes para confirmar as possíveis vantagens dessa nova tecnologia. (AU)

Long-term results of intersphincteric resection for ultra-low rectal cancer / 国际外科学杂志

Objective To evaluate the long-term therapeutic results of intersphincteric resection (ISR) in the treatment of ultra-low rectal cancer.Methods Sixty cases of ultra-low rectal cancer with the inferior border of the tumor within 5 cm to the edge of anus underwent intersphincteric resection (ISR),and the clinical data were analyzed retrospectively.There were 39 males,21 females and their average age was 55 years old (range from 30 to 77 years old).The inferior border of the tumor were from 28 to 50 mm to the edge of anus,averaging 42 mm.Results Sixty patients underwent intersphincteric resection successfully with 3 cases developing anastomotic leakage and 2 cases anastomotic stenosis postoperatively.After a median follow-up period of 49 months (range from 18 to 90 months),local and distant recurrence were observed in 6 and 4 patients respectively.Five-year overall survival rate and disease-free survival rate were 88.3％ and 83.3％ respectively.The mean stool frequency were (3.8 ± 1.3) times in each day based on data from 53 patients,and the stool control function of 73.6％ of all patients was preserved satisfactorily according to Kirwan classification.Conclusions This study indicated that intersphincteric resection might be a candidate technique in the treatment of early stage ultra-low rectal cancer restricted within rectal wall and could achieve satisfactory long-term results in both oncologic and functional respects.

Effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy on anal sphincter function for intersphincteric resection with low rectal cancer / 中国肿瘤临床

Objective:To evaluate the effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy on anal function after intersphincteric resection (ISR) with low rectal cancer. Methods:A total of 103 patients were classified into the chemoradiotherapy (CRT) group and control group according to whether they received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Anal function was assessed using vectorial manometry, Saito function questionnaires, and Wexner incontinence scores. Results:The resting vector volume and squeezing vector volume of the CRT group were significantly lower than those of the control group prior to the operation. Both groups showed decreasing manometric re-sults after ISR. However, all indices of the CRT group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). At 6 and 12 months after operation, the Saito questionnaire results reveal poor function for the CRT group compared with the control group, except for dyschesia. After 24 months, the stool frequency, ability to distinguish between feces and flatus, fragmentation, and alimentary re-striction remained poor for the CRT group (P<0.05). Although both groups showed decreasing Wexner scores with time, the score of the CRT group remained significantly higher than that of the control up to 24 months after operation. Conclusion:Neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy significantly affects the anal sphincter function for intersphincteric resection with low rectal cancer. This effect continues for at least 2 years after operation.