[Current Situation of Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Obesity and Metabolic Surgery - Data Analysis from the Study for Quality Assurance in Operative Treatment of Obesity in Germany]. / Aktueller Stand der Antibiotikaprophylaxe in der Adipositas- und metabolischen Chirurgie - Datenanalyse aus der Studie zur Qualitätskontrolle der operativen Therapie der Adipositas in Deutschland.

BACKGROUND: Since January 2005, the situation of metabolic and obesity surgery in Germany has been constantly evaluated by the German Bariatric Surgery Registry (GBSR). Data registration is performed using an internet online database with prospective data collection. All registered data were analysed in cooperation with the Institute of Quality Assurance at the Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg. METHODS: Data collection includes primary and revision/redo-procedures. A main focus of the current study is the analysis of data regarding the perioperative management, in particular, administration of antibiotics. RESULTS: Since 2005 a significant increase of primary bariatric procedures has been reported. For evaluation of the antibiotic regimen 12 296 primary operations including 684 balloons (BIB), 2950 gastric bandings (GB), 5115 Roux-en-Y-gastric bypasses (RYGBP), 120 Scopinaro's biliopancreatic diversions (BPD), 164 duodenal switches (DS), 3125 sleeve gastrectomies (SG) and 138 other procedures were analysed. In total 77.3 % of the patients with primary procedures received perioperative antibiotics. Patients without concomitant comorbidities received antibiotics significantly less often compared to those with comorbidities. Wound infection rates were comparable for patients who underwent either gastric banding or sleeve gastrectomy. CONCLUSION: Surgery has been accepted step by step as a treatment for morbid obesity and its comorbidities in Germany during the last few years. There is only little experience in the literature regarding antibiotic therapy as well as prophylaxis in bariatric surgery. Based on the results of the current study we recommend rather the selective than the routine use of antibiotics depending on different parameters, e.g., operative time, preoperative BMI and concomitant comorbidities.

[Management of perioperative complications following tumor resection in the upper gastrointestinal tract]. / Management perioperativer Komplikationen nach Tumorresektionen im oberen Gastrointestinaltrakt.

BACKGROUND: Surgical resection of tumors of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract represent complex procedures and are still associated with a relevant morbidity and mortality. A targeted preoperative risk analysis and patient selection with consideration of the nutritional status and comorbidities are important in order to reduce the perioperative complication rate. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Anastomotic leaks still remain the most feared surgical complication and in addition to early recognition, immediate initiation of an appropriate therapy are essential. Conservative treatment can be considered for small and adequately drained fistulas as well as in cervical leakages. Indications for surgical reintervention are leaks that occur in the early postoperative course, fulminant defects with diffuse mediastinitis and conduit necrosis. The majority of anastomotic leaks can be successfully managed with minimally invasive endoscopic techniques, e.g. stent placement and endoluminal vacuum therapy. Delayed gastric emptying is frequently observed following esophageal resection and usually shows a satisfactory response to medicinal treatment and endoscopic interventions. The benefits of pyloroplasty in the primary intervention is still a matter of debate. Chylothorax is a rare but serious complication which should initially be managed with conservative measures. CONCLUSIONS: For the successful management of postoperative complications following surgical resection of tumors of the upper GI tract both an interdisciplinary approach and the availability of an appropriate infrastructure with defined algorithms are of paramount importance. Therefore, a concentration of these procedures in specialized centers would be highly desirable.

[Arterial and portal venous complications after HPB surgical procedures: Interdisciplinary management]. / Arterielle und portalvenöse Gefäßkomplikationen nach HBP-Eingriffen : Interdisziplinäres Management.

The surgical treatment of hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) diseases requires complex operative procedures. Within the last decades the morbidity (36-50 %) and mortality (<5 %) of these procedures could be reduced; nonetheless, postoperative complications still occur in 41.2 % of cases. Compared with hepatobiliary procedures, pancreatic surgery shows an increased rate of complications. Postoperative bleeding has a major effect on the outcome and the incidence is 6.7 % after pancreatic surgery and 3.2 % after hepatobiliary surgery. The major causes of early postoperative hemorrhage are related to technical difficulties in surgery whereas late onset postoperative hemorrhage is linked to anastomosis insufficiency, formation of fistulae or abscesses due to vascular arrosion or formation of pseudoaneurysms. In many cases, delayed hemorrhage is preceded by a self-limiting sentinel bleeding. The treatment is dependent on the point in time, location and severity of the hemorrhage. The majority of early postoperative hemorrhages require surgical treatment. Late onset hemorrhage in hemodynamically stable patients is preferably treated by radiological interventions. After interventional hemostatic therapy 8.2 % of patients require secondary procedures. In the case of hemodynamic instability or development of sepsis, a relaparotomy is necessary. The treatment concept includes surgical or interventional remediation of the underlying cause of the hemorrhage. Other causes of postoperative morbidity and mortality are arterial and portal venous stenosis and thrombosis. Following liver resection, thrombosis of the portal vein occurs in 8.5-9.1 % and in 11.6 % following pancreatic resection with vascular involvement. Interventional surgical procedures or conservative treatment are suitable therapeutic options depending on the time of diagnosis and clinical symptoms. The risk of morbidity and mortality after HPB surgery can be reduced only in close interdisciplinary cooperation, which is particularly true for vascular complications.

[Nutrient Deficiencies after Bariatric Surgery - Systematic Literature Review and Suggestions for Diagnostics and Treatment]. / Nutritive Defizite nach bariatrischer Chirurgie - systematische Literaturanalyse und Empfehlungen für Diagnostik und Substitution.

The increasing prevalence of morbid obesity in Germany is associated with an increasing number of metabolic surgical interventions. Short-term surgical and long-term metabolic complications such as nutrient deficiencies can be considered the main risks of metabolic surgery and its restrictive and malabsorbant surgical procedures. The aim of this compact short overview based on a selective literature search and our own clinical experience is to characterise the long-term metabolic complications, which are specific for the various bariatric procedures, and to refine the published guidelines for supplementation. Restrictive bariatric procedures can be associated with well-known surgical problems such as pouch dilatation or band migration, e.g., after gastric banding. After sleeve gastrectomy, emerging reflux disease can become a substantial problem. The most frequent deficiencies after restrictive procedures are related to B-vitamins whereas iron, folate, vitamin B1 and B12 and vitamin D deficiencies are associated with the malabsorptive procedure such as biliopancreatic diversion, duodenal switch and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Due to possible metabolic and surgical complications after bariatric surgery, patients need to undergo life-long medical follow-up investigations. The currently available guidelines of German Society of Treatment of Obesity (CAADIP) of DGAV for supplementation should be known and followed, in particular, by the physicians who i) are exceptionally involved in medical care of obese people and ii) do it in full awareness of the obligatory postoperative clinical observation.

[Evidence base for minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer]. / Evidenzlage zur minimalinvasiven Chirurgie beim Ösophaguskarzinom.

Surgery remains the mainstay of potentially curative treatment of esophageal cancer; however, esophageal resection is still associated with a relevant morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, patients frequently suffer from concomitant comorbidities and present in a reduced nutritional status. The rationale of minimally invasive surgery is the reduction of surgical trauma with subsequent minimization of (pulmonary) complications and mortality without compromising oncological quality. Minimally invasive esophageal resection was established nearly two decades ago and since then some centers worldwide have adopted this approach as the preferred option for surgical treatment of esophageal cancer. Minimally invasive esophageal resection can be safely performed and provides excellent results in experienced hands. Currently, there is only one randomized trial available comparing open and minimally invasive resection. It was demonstrated that the latter significantly reduced pulmonary complications with comparable mortality and oncological outcome. However, in the majority of studies these convincing results could not be confirmed. Reduced blood loss and a shortened hospital stay were shown to be the main advantages of the minimally invasive approach. Due to technical modifications, patient selection and a remarkable heterogeneity of current studies, a final conclusion on the value of minimally invasive esophagectomy is difficult to be drawn. Based on the current evidence, a noncritical use of minimally invasive resection for esophageal cancer cannot be recommended; however, in selected patients and with appropriate expertise this approach is at least comparable to open esophagectomy.

[Is there a role for surgery in the treatment of type 2 diabetes?]. / Welche Rolle spielt die Chirurgie bei der Therapie des Diabetes mellitus Typ 2?

Typ 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can be regarded as a chronic and progressive disease which is rapidly increasing worldwide. There is a significant coincidence of T2DM and obesity, the latter playing a major role in the development of insulin resistance. Medical treatment comprises lifestyle counseling, weight management and an increased physical activity, frequently in combination with pharmacotherapy. However, especially in obese patients, metabolic aims are frequently not achieved which can be attributed to the lack of significant weight reduction. Currently, pancreas transplantation plays only a minor role in the treatment of patients with T2DM. Bariatric surgery has been proven to be a safe and effective therapeutic option in obese patients that leads to a significant weight loss. Moreover, in the majority of obese diabetics, a complete or partial remission of T2DM is observed. The significant weight loss is associated with improved insulin sensitivity. There is some evidence that alterations of gut hormones play an additional role in the amelioration of T2DM. However, little is known about the long-term effect of bariatric surgery on diabetes remission. Bariatric procedures should be considered in obese patients with T2DM (BMI > 35 kg/m²) and poorly controlled metabolic status. Despite the encouraging results in normal weight or overweight patients with T2DM, surgery can not yet be recommended in these patients. Intensive research about the impact of bariatric surgery on diabetes remission offers a unique opportunity to understand pathophysiology of T2DM. Furthermore, it may help to develop less invasive interventions and to identify new therapeutic targets for the treatment of T2DM.

Is a one-step sleeve gastrectomy indicated as a revision procedure after gastric banding? Data analysis from a quality assurance study of the surgical treatment of obesity in Germany.

BACKGROUND: Since 1 January 2005, the outcomes of bariatric surgeries have been examined in Germany. All data are registered prospectively in cooperation with the Institute of Quality Assurance in Surgery at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg. METHODS: Data are collected in an online data bank. Data collection began in 2005 for the results of gastric banding (GB) and in 2006 for sleeve gastrectomies (SGs). In addition to primary bariatric operations, data regarding the complications of revision procedures and redo operations have been analyzed. Participation in the quality assurance study is required for all certified centers in Germany. RESULTS: SGs are a popular redo operation after failed gastric banding. Using the German Bariatric Surgery Registry, we analyzed data from 137 SGs that were used in a one-step approach after GB and 37 SGs that were used in a two-step approach. Leakage rates for primary SGs dropped to 1.9 %. The incidence of leakage after a one-step SG after GB is significantly higher (4.4 %) than for a two-step approach (0 %). CONCLUSION: SGs are popular procedures after failed GB in Germany, but the complication rates for one-step band removal are higher than for a two-step approach. After examining the data, we suggest performing band removal and SG as a two-step procedure. Further analysis is necessary to evaluate the optimal time period between band removal and SG. Follow-up investigations must be performed to determine if SG is an effective and safe option after GB.

[Influence of mucinous and signet-ring cell differentiation on epidemiological, histological, molecular biological features, and outcome in patients with colorectal carcinoma]. / Einfluss des muzinösen und siegelringzelligen Subtyps auf epidemiologische, histologische und molekularbiologische Eigenschaften sowie auf die Prognose des kolorektalen Karzinoms.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in the Western world. Histopathologically, adenocarcinomas are mostly diagnosed. Mucinous and signet-ring cell subtypes occur with a very low incidence. However, these subtypes differ remarkably in terms of clinical, histological and molecular biological characteristics. The aim of this review is to present a detailed analysis of current knowledge regarding differences between classical adenocarcinoma and mucinous, and signet-ring cell CRC along with potential consequences for daily practice. METHODS: For this report all articles with relevant information on differences between classical adenocarcinoma and mucinous, and signet-ring cell CRC found via Pubmed searches were analysed. Furthermore, findings of our previous study were included. RESULTS: Mucinous CRC occur with a reported incidence of 10 - 20 % in Western countries and are predominantly found in younger patients and females. They are more often diagnosed in the proximal colon and present with a higher stage at diagnosis. Furthermore, there is a higher rate of lymph node-positive tumours and peritoneal carcinomatosis. Results of molecular biological studies confirm that they may represent a different tumour entity. The response to well established chemotherapy regimens is poorer which may be attributed to the higher rate of microsatellite-instable tumours and an increased mucin secretion. The poorer outcome is likely related to the higher stage at the time of diagnosis. Signet-ring cell type CRC are rare with an incidence ranging between 0,9 % to 4 %. They are also more common in the right colon and are associated with a poorer outcome compared to adenocarcinoma and mucinous CRC. CONCLUSIONS: However, it should be noted that most of the results come from studies with a very low number of patients which can be attributed to the low incidence of mucinous and signet-ring cell CRC. Based on the findings of the present analysis, a more radical surgical approach should be considered providing that the exact preoperative histology is available. Furthermore, the histological subtype should be taken into account in future chemotherapy trials to avoid unnecessary therapy. A closer follow-up, especially for patients with signet-ring cell CRC should be discussed. In the near future, a more tailored therapy in patients with colorectal cancer would be highly desirable.

Actual situation of thromboembolic prophylaxis in obesity surgery: data of quality assurance in bariatric surgery in Germany.

Background. Evidence-based data on optimal approach for prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis (VTE) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in bariatric operations is discussed. Using antithrombotic prophylaxis weight adjusted the risk of VTE and its complications have to be balanced with the increased bleeding risk. Methods. Since 2005 the current situation for bariatric surgery has been examined by quality assurance study in Germany. As a prospective multicenter observational study, data on the type, regimen, and time course of VTE prophylaxis were documented. The incidences of clinically diagnosed VTE or PE were derived during the in-hospital course and follow up. Results. Overall, 11,835 bariatric procedures were performed between January 2005 and December 2010. Most performed procedures were 2730 gastric banding (GB); 4901 Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass (RYGBP) procedures, and 3026 sleeve gastrectomies (SG). Study collective includes 72.5% (mean BMI 48.1 kg/m(2)) female and 27.5% (mean BMI 50.5 kg/m(2)) male patients. Incidence of VTE was 0.06% and of PE 0.08%. Conclusion. VTE prophylaxis regimen depends on BMI and the type of procedure. Despite the low incidence of VTE and PE there is a lack of evidence. Therefore, prospective randomized studies are necessary to determine the optimal VTE prophylaxis for bariatric surgical patients.

[Management of postoperative complications following esophagectomy]. / Postoperatives Komplikationsmanagement nach Ösophaguschirurgie.

Complications following esophagectomy significantly affect the outcome, including perioperative mortality, costs and survival. Pulmonary complications and anastomotic leaks still remain the most serious complications and early recognition and appropriate initial treatment are essential. Mortality associated with esophageal leaks is decreasing due in part to the increased use of computed tomography (CT) scanning and endoscopy for diagnosis and subsequent appropriate multidisciplinary therapy. In this respect, it is critically important to differentiate between leaks and conduit necrosis, and endoscopic examination is the best method for making this assessment. Endoscopic and interventional radiology techniques are being applied increasingly for detection of intrathoracic leaks but appropriate patient selection is important. Adequate external drainage of the leak and prevention of further contamination are the primary therapeutic goals. The spectrum of therapeutic options ranges from simple conservative treatment for smaller, well drained leaks, interventional placement of drains, to endoscopic intervention with closure of the fistula or placement of stents and reoperation or discontinuity resection for conduit necrosis.

[Gastric stump carcinoma--a surgical and oncological challenge]. / Magenstumpfkarzinom--Herausforderung der Onkochirurgie.

Gastric stump carcinoma after gastric surgery for benign disease is now widely recognized as a distinct clinical entity. An electronic literature search was performed in the MEDLINE database to identify relevant studies concerning epidemiology, prognosis, treatment, aetiology and pathology of gastric stump carcinoma. The references reported in these studies were used to complete the literature search. It can be assumed that approximately 10 % of patients who had undergone a distal gastric resection for benign disease will develop a carcinoma in the gastric remnant about 15 to 20 years after the primary procedure. The incidence is reported to be higher in males and following Billroth II resection. The site of tumour growth is predominantly in the anastomotic area, but may occur anywhere in the stump. Enterogastric reflux, achlorhydria, bacterial overgrowth, and genetic factors appear to be the major factors involved in the aetiopathogenesis of the gastric stump cancer. Unfortunately, a significant proportion of patients presents with synchronous metastases. Clinical symptoms are mainly attributed to locally advanced tumour growth. Surgical therapy comprises total removal of the gastric remnant and the jejunal segment including modified lymphadenectomy (D2 lymphadenectomy and jejunal mesentery). Surveillance of patients with endoscopy and multiple biopsies should be initiated from the tenth postoperative year and may provide the means to diagnose tumours at an early stage.

Colon carcinoma--classification into right and left sided cancer or according to colonic subsite?--Analysis of 29,568 patients.

BACKGROUND: It is common to distinguish between right and left colon cancer (RCC and LCC). But, little is known about the influence of its exact location on the tumor stage and characteristics when considering the colonic subsite within the right or left colon. METHODS: During a five-year period, 29,568 consecutive patients were evaluated by data from the German multi-centered observational study "Colon/Rectal Carcinoma". Patients were split into 7 groups, each group representing a colonic subsite. They were compared regarding demographic factors, tumor stage, metastatic spread and histopathological characteristics. RESULTS: Analysis of tumor differentiation and histological subtype revealed a linear correlation to the ileocecal valve, supporting the right and left side classification model. However, cancers arising from the RCC's cecum (52.3%) and LCC's splenic flexure (51.0%) showed the highest proportion of UICC stage III/IV tumors and lymphatic invasion, whereas the RCC's ascending colon (46.5%) and LCC's descending (44.7%) showed the lowest, which supports a more complex classification system, breaking down the right and left sides into colonic subsites. CONCLUSIONS: Age, tumor grade and histological subtype support the right and left side classification model. However, gender, UICC stage, metastatic spread, T and N status, and lymphatic invasion correlated with a specific colonic subsite, irrespective of the side. The classification of RCC or LCC provides a general understanding of the tumor, but identification of the colonic subsite provides additional prognostic information. This study shows that the standard right and left side classification model may be insufficient.

[Right- and left-sided colonic cancer - different tumour entities]. / Karzinome des rechten und linken Kolons - verschiedene Tumorentitäten?

PURPOSE: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies in the Western world. In the past two decades, a growing amount of data has been reported suggesting that carcinomas of the right and left colon should be considered as different tumour entities. The aim of this review is to present a detailed analysis of the current knowledge regarding differences between right- and left-sided colon cancer and potential consequences for daily practice. METHODS: For this report all articles with relevant information on differences between right- and left-sided colon carcinoma found via Pubmed searches were analysed. Furthermore, findings of a previous study performed by our group were included. RESULTS: Patients with right-sided colon cancer are significantly older, predominantly women, with a higher rate of comorbidities. Most of the large epidemiological studies reported a continued rightward shift of colorectal cancer. Histopathologically, carcinoma of the right colon show a higher percentage of poorly differentiated, locally advanced tumours with a higher rate of mucinous carcinoma and different pattern of metastatic spread. Survival is significantly worse in patients with right-sided carcinomas. There are numerous genetic differences which account for the distinct carcinogenesis and biological behaviour. CONCLUSIONS: The numerous findings regarding differences between right- and left-sided colon cancers should have an impact on colon cancer screening and therapy. Firstly, there are defined risk groups which should receive complete colonoscopy, particularly if they present with symptoms suspicious for colon carcinoma. Furthermore, location of the colon cancer should be considered before group stratification into genetic, clinical and especially chemotherapy trials. A more tailored approach to colon cancer treatment would be highly desirable if future trials further support the hypothesis of two distinct tumour entities.

Primary appendiceal carcinoma--epidemiology, surgery and survival: results of a German multi-center study.

BACKGROUND: While carcinoma of the colon is a common malignancy, primary carcinoma of the appendix is rare. Many retrospective reviews outlined experience from different centers on appendiceal neoplasms. However, the study population is often small because it is so rare. The aim of this study was to analyze the type of surgery and survival of patients with appendiceal malignancies using data from a German multi-center observational study (31 341 patients). METHODS: During a five-year period, 196 consecutive patients with malignant appendiceal tumors were distributed into four groups: appendiceal carcinoids, adenocarcinoma, mucinous adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous carcinoma. The following parameters were analyzed: demographics, clinical presentation, comorbidities, type and appropriateness of surgery, final pathology and survival. RESULTS: Adenocarcinoma had the highest incidence (50.5%). The most common presentation was that of acute appendicitis. Mean age at presentation was youngest for carcinoid tumors. Carcinoid tumors had lowest tumor size and localized disease was present in 72.9%. Metastatic spread at presentation was highest for adenosquamous and mucinous adenocarcinoma and each had a distinct pattern. Right hemicolectomy was performed in 71.4%, limited resection in 11.7%. Overall 5-year survival was 83.1% for carcinoid vs. 49.2% for non-carcinoid tumors. Histological subtype and tumor stage significantly affected survival. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term outcome of carcinoid tumors is superior to non-carcinoid neoplasms. Among all appendiceal neoplasms, adenosquamous carcinoma is the rarest histological subtype which is most commonly associated with advanced tumor stage and worst prognosis. Appropriate oncologic resection is being performed in a significant percentage of cases in Germany. However, the high rate of right hemicolectomy in patients with small carcinoid tumors needs to be critically discussed.