Systemic causes are important risk factors for failure after unscheduled colorectal revision surgery.

BACKGROUND: The rates of unscheduled revision surgery (URS) after colorectal surgery and failure to rescue-surgical (FTR-s) are 2.4% and 11-17% respectively. The aim of this study was to evaluate the causes of URS lethality to reduce this rate after colorectal surgery. METHODS: From 2011 to 2021, 337 surgeons collected 547 URS. Type of procedure, time course, diagnostic and detection means, time to decision, time to complication(s), causes of URS, delay of URS, and death were recorded and allowed for multivariate systemic analysis of risk factors for death (FTR-s) after URS. Systemic causes of delay were analyzed as assessment of urgency, communication, skills, organization of the operative program, and transport. RESULTS: The two main causes of URS were infectious (66% of which 50% by fistula or anastomotic release) and vascular (18%). The rate of FTRs was 10%. The systemic causes rate of FTR-s were 35%. The FTRs were related to the patient (ASA score 3-4: RR: 6 [1-40]; age: RR: 1.05 [1-1.1]), to the surgical procedure (laparotomy: RR: 4.5 [1.6-12]) and to the systemic causes responsible for the delay in the realization of URS (RR: 4.1 [1.4-12]). CONCLUSION: By avoiding systemic causes, more than one third of the deaths from FTR-s after colorectal surgery could be avoided.

Unplanned surgery after colorectal resection: laparoscopy at the index surgery is a protective factor against mortality.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess risk factors of mortality after unplanned surgery following colorectal resection. METHODS: All the consecutive patients who underwent colorectal resection between 2011 and 2020 in a French national cohort were retrospectively included. Perioperative data of the index colorectal resection (indication, surgical approach, pathological analysis, postoperative morbidity), and characteristics of unplanned surgery (indication, time to complication, time to surgical redo) were assessed in order to identify predictive factors of mortality. RESULTS: Among 547 included patients, 54 patients died (10%; 32 men; mean age = 68 ± 18 years, range 34-94 years). Patients who died were significantly older (75 ± 11 vs 66 ± 12 years, p = 0.002), frailer (ASA score 3-4 = 65 vs 25%, p = 0.0001), initially operated through open approach (78 vs 41%, p = 0.0001), and without any anastomosis (17 vs 5%, p = 0.003) than those alive. The presence of colorectal cancer, the time to postoperative complication and the time to unplanned surgery were not significantly associated to the postoperative mortality. After multivariate analysis, 5 independent predictive factors of mortality were identified: old age (OR 1.038; IC 95% 1.006-1.072; p = 0.02), ASA score = 3 (OR 5.9, CI95% 1.2-28.5, p = 0.03), ASA score = 4 (OR 9.6; IC95% 1.5-63; p = 0.02), open approach for the index surgery (OR 2.7; IC95% 1.3-5.7; p = 0.01), and delayed management (OR 2.6; IC95% 1.3-5.3; p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: After unplanned surgery following colorectal surgery, one out of 10 patients dies. The laparoscopic approach during the index surgery is associated with a good prognosis in the case of unplanned surgery.

Upfront Laparoscopic Management of Common Bile Duct Stones: What Are the Risk Factors of Failure?

BACKGROUND: Treatment of common bile duct stones (CBDS) includes laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with either laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) or perioperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The main objective of this study was to identify predictive factors for the failure of upfront and exclusive surgical treatment by LCBDE. METHODS: This is a single-center, retrospective study on patients with CBDS and operated for LC between 2007 and 2019. The use of intra- or postoperative endoscopy for CBD clearance within 6 months after surgery was considered as failure of LCBDE. Predictors for the failure of LCBDE were investigated and outcomes were compared. RESULTS: Among 222 operated patients, LCBDE was successfully performed in 173 patients (78%) and 49 (22%) required ERCP with sphincterotomy (intraoperative (n=29) or postoperative (n=20)). Independent risk factors for surgical failure were male sex (OR: 2.525 (1.111-5.738); p=0.027), anesthesia induction time ≥ 4 p.m. (OR: 4.858 (1.731-13.631); p=0.003), pediculitis (OR: 4.147 (1.177-14.606); p=0.027), and thin CDB < 4mm (OR: 11.951 (3.562-40.097), p< 0.0001). Age, ASA score, cystic anatomy, presence of cholecystitis, and the surgeon's experience were not identified as predictors for surgical failure. A general anesthesia number >1 (6% vs. 33%; p < 0.0001), length of initial stay (6 [1-42] vs. 8 [2-27], p=0.012), total length of hospitalization (6 [1-45] vs. 9 [2-27]; p=0.010), and the rate of emergency readmissions (3.5% vs. 12.2%; p=0.027) were significantly higher in the LCBDE failure group. CONCLUSIONS: Upfront LCBDE for CBDS was associated with improved outcomes compared to intra-/postoperative ERCP recourse. Male sex, pediculitis, thin CBD, and surgery later than 4 p.m were associated with LCBDE failure and the need for endoscopic treatment. REGISTRATION NUMBER AND AGENCY: The present retrospective study was approved by our local ethics committee and was declared on ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04467710).

Results of the FUSE Evaluation Project in France.

BACKGROUND: The Federation of Visceral and Digestive Surgery (FCVD) is in charge in France of the continuing medical education of digestive surgeons. Since 2016 and in collaboration with SAGES, it has offered the Fundamental Use of Surgical Energy (FUSE) program as part of the continuing education for surgeons including eLearning and hands-on workshops. METHODS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the FUSE program on the participants by participating in a knowledge test and completing a survey. RESULTS: 485 participants fully completed the knowledge test of 18 questions. Post-test assessment showed an increase in the mean score with respect to pre-test assessment, and the surgeons who have participated to the hands-on workshops had a better score. 304 participants filled the survey of 6 questions. The majority were satisfied by the FUSE program and felt that the objectives were achieved. CONCLUSIONS: The FUSE program developed by SAGES and adopted by the FCVD in France was very much appreciated by the participants and achieved its educational objectives. Our goal is to spread it as widely as possible to all members of the operating room team.

Long-term adverse events after sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass: a 7-year nationwide, observational, population-based, cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Concerns are rising about the late adverse events following gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. We aimed to assess, over a 7-year period, the late adverse events after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy compared with matched control groups. METHODS: In this nationwide, observational, population-based, cohort study, we used data extracted from the French National Health Insurance (Système National des Données de Santé) database. All patients undergoing gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy in France in 2009, except those who had undergone bariatric surgery in the previous 4 years before inclusion, were matched with control patients with obesity in terms of age, sex, BMI category, baseline antidiabetic therapy, and baseline insulin therapy. Exclusion criteria for the control group included cancer, pregnancy, chronic infectious disease, serious acute or chronic disease in 2008-09, or previous (2005-09) or forthcoming (2010-11) bariatric surgery. The incidence rate was calculated for each type of adverse event leading to inpatient hospital admission over a 7-year period; incidence rate ratios (with 95% CIs) were computed to compare the rate of complications among the bariatric surgery and control groups. Risks of complications during follow-up were compared using Cox proportional-hazards regression analyses. Data were analysed according to the intention-to-treat methodology. FINDINGS: From Jan 1, 2009, to Dec 31, 2009, 8966 patients who underwent bariatric surgery (7359 [82%] women; mean age 40·4 years [SD 11·3]) and 8966 matched controls (7359 [82%] women; mean age 40·9 years [11·4]) were included in analyses 4955 (55%) off 8966 patients in the bariatric surgery group had a primary gastric bypass and 4011 (45%) patients had sleeve gastrectomy. With a mean follow-up of 6·8 years (SD 0·2), mortality was lower in the gastric bypass group than in its control group (hazard ratio 0·64 [95% CI 0·52-0·78]; p<0·0001) and in the sleeve gastrectomy group than in its control group (0·38 [0·29-0·50]; p<0·0001). The gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy groups had higher risk than did their control groups for invasive gastrointestinal surgery or endoscopy (incidence rate ratio 2·4 [95% CI 2·1-2·7], p<0·0001, for gastric bypass vs control and 1·5 [1·3-1·7], p<0·0001, for sleeve gastrectomy vs control); for gastrointestinal disorders not leading to invasive procedures (1·9 [1·7-2·1]), p<0·0001, for gastric bypass vs control and 1·2 [1·1-1·4], p<0·0001, for sleeve gastrectomy vs control); and for nutritional disorders (4·9 [3·8-6·4], p<0·0001, for gastric bypass vs control and 1·8 [1·3-2·5], p<0·0001, for sleeve gastrectomy vs control). For psychiatric disorders, there was no significant association (1·1 [0·9-1·4], p=0·190, for gastric bypass vs control and 1·1 [0·8-1·3], p=0·645, for sleeve gastrectomy vs control), except for gastric bypass and alcohol dependence (1·8 [1·1-2·8], p=0·0124). INTERPRETATION: Despite lower 7-year mortality, patients undergoing gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy had higher risk of hospital admission at least once for late adverse events, except for psychiatric disorders, than did control patients, with a higher risk observed after gastric bypass than with sleeve gastrectomy. FUNDING: None.

Postoperative Rehabilitation May Reduce the Risk of Readmission After Groin Hernia Repair.

Thirty-day readmission after surgery has been proposed as a quality-of-care indicator. We explored the effect of postoperative rehabilitation on readmission risk after groin hernia repair. We used the French National Discharge Database to identify all index hospitalizations for groin hernia repair in 2011. Readmissions within 30 days of discharge were clinically classified in terms of their relationship to the index stay. We used logistic regression to adjust the risk of readmission for patient, procedure and hospital factors. Among 122,952 index hospitalizations for inguinal hernia repair, 3,357 (2.7%) related 30-day readmissions were recorded. Reiterated analyses indicated that readmission risk was consistently associated with patient complexity: age (per year after 60 years, OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.02-1.03, P < 0.001), hospitalization within the previous year (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.44-1.69, P < 0.001), and increasing severity and combination of co-morbidities. Postoperative rehabilitation was identified as a protective factor (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.46-0.69, P < 0.001). Older patients and those with greater comorbidity are at elevated risk of readmission after inguinal hernia repair. Postoperative rehabilitation may reduce this risk. Further studies are warranted to confirm the protective effect of postoperative rehabilitation.

Association Between Bariatric Surgery and Rates of Continuation, Discontinuation, or Initiation of Antidiabetes Treatment 6 Years Later.

Importance: Few large-scale long-term prospective cohort studies have assessed changes in antidiabetes treatment after bariatric surgery. Objective: To describe the association between bariatric surgery and rates of continuation, discontinuation, or initiation of antidiabetes treatment 6 years after bariatric surgery compared with a matched control obese group. Design, Setting, and Participants: This nationwide observational population-based cohort study extracted health care reimbursement data from the French national health insurance database from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2015. All patients undergoing primary bariatric surgery in France between January 1 and December 31, 2009, were matched on age, sex, body mass index category, and antidiabetes treatment with control patients hospitalized for obesity in 2009 with no bariatric surgery between 2005 and 2015. Exposures: Bariatric surgery, including adjustable gastric banding (AGB), gastric bypass (GBP), and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Main Outcome and Measure: Reimbursement for antidiabetes drugs. Mixed-effects logistic regression models estimated factors of discontinuation or initiation of antidiabetes treatment over a period of 6 years. Results: In 2009, a total of 15 650 patients (mean [SD] age, 38.9 [11.2] years; 84.6% female; 1633 receiving antidiabetes treatment) underwent primary bariatric surgery, with 48.5% undergoing AGB, 27.7% undergoing GBP, and 22.0% undergoing SG. Among patients receiving antidiabetes treatment at baseline, the antidiabetes treatment discontinuation rate was higher 6 years after bariatric surgery than in controls (-49.9% vs -9.0%, P < .001). In multivariable analysis, the main predictive factors for discontinuation were the following: GBP (odds ratio [OR], 16.7; 95% CI, 13.0-21.4), SG (OR, 7.30; 95% CI, 5.50-9.50), and AGB (OR, 4.30; 95% CI, 3.30-5.60) compared with no bariatric surgery, as well as insulin use (OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.13-0.22), dual therapy without insulin (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.32-0.45) vs monotherapy, lipid-lowering treatment (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.63-0.91), antidepressant treatment (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.55-0.81), and age (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.95-0.97) per year. For patients without antidiabetes treatment at baseline, the 6-year antidiabetes treatment initiation rate was much lower after bariatric surgery than in controls (1.4% vs 12.0%, P < .001). In multivariable analysis, protective factors were GBP (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.04-0.09), SG (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.06-0.11), and AGB (OR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.14-0.20) vs controls, and risk factors were as follows: body mass index category (OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.68-2.47 for ≥50.0 vs 30.0-39.9 and OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.49-1.90 for 40.0-49.9 vs 30.0-39.9), antihypertensive treatment (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.33-1.67), low income (OR, 1.43; 95 % CI, 1.26-1.62), and age (OR, 1.04; 95 % CI, 1.03-1.05) per year. Conclusions and Relevance: Bariatric surgery was associated with a significantly higher 6-year postoperative antidiabetes treatment discontinuation rate compared with baseline and with an obese control group without bariatric surgery.

To What Extent Does Posthospital Discharge Chemoprophylaxis Prevent Venous Thromboembolism After Bariatric Surgery?: Results From a Nationwide Cohort of More Than 110,000 Patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence, risk factors, and the impact of posthospital discharge (PHD) chemoprophylaxis on venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing bariatric surgery (BS). BACKGROUND: VTE is a major concern after BS, especially during the PHD period. No large-scale study has previously focused on the clinical value of PHD chemoprophylaxis. METHODS: In this nationwide observational population-based cohort study, all data from patients undergoing BS were extracted from the French National Health Insurance database (SNIIRAM) from 1st January 2012 to 31st September 2014. Logistic regression models were used to compute odds ratios for potential risk factors for VTE occurring within 90 postoperative days (PODs). The association between use of PHD chemoprophylaxis (heparin) and VTE was also assessed. RESULTS: The majority (56%) of the 110,824 patients had sleeve gastrectomy. VTE rates during the first 30 and 90 PODs were 0.34% and 0.51%, respectively. On multivariate analyses, the major risk factors for VTE during the first 90 PODs were history of VTE [odds ratio = 6.33 95% confidence interval (4.44-9.00)], postoperative complications [9.23 (7.30-11.70)], heart failure [2.45 (1.48-4.06)], and open surgery [2.38 (1.59-3.45)]. PHD chemoprophylaxis was delivered to 75% of patients. No use of PHD chemoprophylaxis [1.27 (1.01-1.61)] was an independent predictive factor of VTE during the first 90 PODs [in the gastric bypass group: 1.51 (1.01-2.29)). CONCLUSIONS: In the modern era of BS, this nationwide study shows a non-negligible rate of VTE especially after sleeve gastrectomy, depending on the individual risk level. Use of PHD chemoprophylaxis may decrease the risk of PHD VTE.

What is the care pathway of patients who undergo thyroid surgery in France and its potential pitfalls? A national cohort.

CONTEXT: The rate of thyroid cancer is increasing in France, as well as concerns about overdiagnosis and treatment. OBJECTIVES: To examine the care pathway of patients who undergo thyroid surgery in France and detect potential pitfalls. DESIGN: A large observational study based on medical reimbursements, 2009-2011. SETTING: Data from the Sniiram (National Health Insurance Information System). PATIENTS: Patients with thyroid surgery in 2010, classified into 4 groups: thyroid cancer, benign nodule, goitre or multiple nodules, other (hyperthyroidism, head-neck cancer). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Medical investigations during, prior and after thyroidectomy. RESULTS: A total of 35 367 patients underwent surgery (mean age 51 years, 80% women): 17% had a reported diagnosis of thyroid cancer, 20% benign nodule, 38% goitre or multiple nodules and 25% another diagnosis. The ratio of thyroidectomies with cancer over thyroidectomies with benign nodule was 0.8 and varied across regions. In the year preceding surgery, 82% of patients had an investigation by thyroid ultrasonography, 21% thyroid scintigraphy, 34% fine-needle aspiration cytology, 40% serum calcitonin assay and 54% serum calcium assay. In the following year, all patients with total thyroidectomy and 44% of patients with partial thyroidectomy and a diagnosis of benign nodule were taking thyroid hormone therapy. 100 patients had been reoperated for a compressive haematoma and 63 died during the first month, half of whom had been operated for cancer. Mean rates of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and hypocalcaemia (requiring blood tests plus treatments within 4-12 months) were estimated at 1.5% and 3.4%, respectively, and were higher in the cancer group (2.3% and 5.7%). CONCLUSIONS: This almost nationwide study demonstrates the suboptimal management of patients prior to thyroidectomy in France. It suggests overdiagnosis and potential harms to patients, and calls for a review of the relevance of thyroidectomy, particularly with regard to microcancers.

Do sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass influence treatment with proton pump inhibitors 4 years after surgery? A nationwide cohort.

BACKGROUND: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common obesity-related co-morbidity that routinely is treated by continuous proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. A number of concerns have been raised regarding the risk of de novo GERD or exacerbation of preexisting GERD after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). OBJECTIVE: To assess PPI use at 4 years after bariatric surgery. SETTING: French National Health Insurance. METHODS: Data were extracted from the French National Health Insurance database. All adult obese patients who had undergone gastric bypass (GBP) (n = 8250) or SG (n = 11,923) in 2011 in France were included. Patients were considered to be on continuous PPI therapy when PPIs were dispensed≥6 times per year. Logistic regression models were used to compute odds ratios for potential risk factors for PPI reimbursement 4 years after surgery. RESULTS: Overall, continuous use of PPIs increased from baseline to 4 years after SG and GBP, from 10.9% to 26.5% (P<.001) and from 11.4% to 21.9% (P<.001), respectively. Among patients who underwent PPI therapy before surgery, those who had undergone SG were more likely to continue PPI therapy 4 years after surgery compared with those who underwent GBP (72.7% versus 59.2%; P<.001). In multivariate analyses, the major risk factors for persistent continuous PPI treatment 4 years after surgery were the following: SG (odds ratio [OR] = 1.87; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.55-2.25), higher body mass index (OR 1.85; 95% CI 1.35-2.5), and preoperative antidepressant treatment (OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.56-2.29). CONCLUSION: At a nationwide scale, continuous PPI treatment is used by 1 of 10 obese patients before bariatric surgery, but by 1 of 4 patients 4 years after surgery. SG compared with GBP, higher body mass index, and other coexisting conditions are the 3 major risk factors for medium-term continuous PPI therapy.

Current challenges in providing bariatric surgery in France: A nationwide study.

Bariatric surgery is a well-accepted procedure for severe and massive obesity management. We aimed to determine trends, geographical variations, and factors influencing bariatric surgery and the choice of procedure in France in a large observational study.The Health Insurance Fund for Salaried Workers (Caisse National Assurance Maladie Travailleurs Salariés) covers about 86% of the French population. The Système National d'Information Inter-régimes de l'Assurance Maladie database contains individualized and anonymized patient data on all reimbursements for healthcare expenditure. All types of primary bariatric procedures (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass [RYGB] or omega loop, adjustable gastric banding [AGB], or longitudinal sleeve gastrectomy [LSG]) performed during 2011 to 2013 were systematically recorded. Surgical techniques performed by region of residence and age-range relative risks with 95% confidence intervals of undergoing LSG or RYGB versus AGB were computed.In 2013, LSG was performed more frequently than RYGB and AGB (57% vs 31% and 13%, respectively). A total of 41,648 patients underwent a bariatric procedure; they were predominantly female (82%) with a mean (±standard deviation) age of 40 (±12) years and a body mass index ≥40 kg/m for 68% of them. A total of 114 procedures were performed in patients younger than 18 years and 2381 procedures were performed in patients aged 60 years and older. Beneficiaries of the French universal health insurance coverage for low-income patients were more likely to undergo surgery than the general population. Large nationwide variations were observed in the type choice of bariatric surgical procedures. Significant positive predictors for undergoing RYGB compared to those for undergoing AGB were as follows: referral to a center performing a large number of surgeries or to a public hospital, older age, female gender, body mass index ≥50 kg/m, and treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, diabetes, or depression. Universal health insurance coverage for low-income patients was inversely correlated with the probability of RYGB.Differences in access to surgery have been observed in terms of the patient's profile, geographical variations, and predictors of types of procedures. Several challenges must be met when organizing the medical care of this growing number of patients, when delivering surgery through qualified centers while assuring the quality of long-term follow-up for all patients.

A retrospective comparison of older and younger adults undergoing early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for mild to moderate calculous cholecystitis.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the demographic characteristics and intra- and postoperative outcomes in elderly adults (≥75) with those of younger adults undergoing early (<5 days after onset of complaints) cholecystectomy. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis from May 2010 to August 2012. SETTING: Randomized, multicenter, clinical trial (ABCAL Study, NCT01015417). PARTICIPANTS: Individuals with mild or moderate acute calculous cholecystitis (ACC) according to the Tokyo Guidelines (N=414; n=78 aged 75-94, median 82; n=336 aged 18-74, median 49). MEASUREMENTS: Demographic characteristics and pre-, intra-, and postoperative data. RESULTS: The elderly group was more likely to have an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 3 or greater (62% vs 23%, P<.001), higher serum creatinine (103 vs 74 µmol/L, P<.001), and more-severe ACC (moderate ACC (62% vs 50%, P=.05), gangrenous cholecystitis (38% vs 15%, P=.001)) on preoperative imaging and confirmed intraoperatively. Ulcerated mucosa (76% vs 61%, P=.001) was significantly more frequent in the elderly group. Operative time, postoperative mortality, and postoperative infectious (18% vs 14%, P=.35) and noninfectious (9% vs 3%, P=.80) complications were similar between the two groups. Median length of stay (7.0 vs 5.0 days, P=.54) and readmission rate (15% vs 4%, P=.07) were not significantly higher in the elderly group. No significant difference was observed for the subgroup of participants aged 80 and older. CONCLUSION: In this randomized trial that included a selected sample of older adults, there was no difference in major outcomes between elderly adults and their younger counterparts after early cholecystectomy. The findings are limited because important geriatric outcomes such as delirium and functional decline were not examined.

Effect of postoperative antibiotic administration on postoperative infection following cholecystectomy for acute calculous cholecystitis: a randomized clinical trial.

IMPORTANCE: Ninety percent of cases of acute calculous cholecystitis are of mild (grade I) or moderate (grade II) severity. Although the preoperative and intraoperative antibiotic management of acute calculous cholecystitis has been standardized, few data exist on the utility of postoperative antibiotic treatment. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of postoperative amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid on infection rates after cholecystectomy. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS: A total of 414 patients treated at 17 medical centers for grade I or II acute calculous cholecystitis and who received 2 g of amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid 3 times a day while in the hospital before and once at the time of surgery were randomized after surgery to an open-label, noninferiority, randomized clinical trial between May 2010 and August 2012. INTERVENTIONS: After surgery, no antibiotics or continue with the preoperative antibiotic regimen 3 times daily for 5 days. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The proportion of postoperative surgical site or distant infections recorded before or at the 4-week follow-up visit. RESULTS: An imputed intention-to-treat analysis of 414 patients showed that the postoperative infection rates were 17% (35 of 207) in the nontreatment group and 15% (31 of 207) in the antibiotic group (absolute difference, 1.93%; 95% CI, -8.98% to 5.12%). In the per-protocol analysis, which involved 338 patients, the corresponding rates were both 13% (absolute difference, 0.3%; 95% CI, -5.0% to 6.3%). Based on a noninferiority margin of 11%, the lack of postoperative antibiotic treatment was not associated with worse outcomes than antibiotic treatment. Bile cultures showed that 60.9% were pathogen free. Both groups had similar Clavien complication severity outcomes: 195 patients (94.2%) in the nontreatment group had a score of 0 to I and 2 patients (0.97%) had a score of III to V, and 182 patients (87.8%) in the antibiotic group had a score of 0 to I and 4 patients (1.93%) had a score of III to V. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Among patients with mild or moderate calculous cholecystitis who received preoperative and intraoperative antibiotics, lack of postoperative treatment with amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid did not result in a greater incidence of postoperative infections. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01015417.

Prostate cancer outcomes in France: treatments, adverse effects and two-year mortality.

BACKGROUND: This very large population-based study investigated outcomes after a diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) in terms of mortality rates, treatments and adverse effects. METHODS: Among the 11 million men aged 40 years and over covered by the general national health insurance scheme, those with newly managed PCa in 2009 were followed for two years based on data from the national health insurance information system (SNIIRAM). Patients were identified using hospitalisation diagnoses and specific refunds related to PCa and PCa treatments. Adverse effects of PCa treatments were identified by using hospital diagnoses, specific procedures and drug refunds. RESULTS: The age-standardised two-year all-cause mortality rate among the 43,460 men included in the study was 8.4%, twice that of all men aged 40 years and over. Among the 36,734 two-year survivors, 38% had undergone prostatectomy, 36% had been treated by hormone therapy, 29% by radiotherapy, 3% by brachytherapy and 20% were not treated. The frequency of treatment-related adverse effects varied according to age and type of treatment. Among men between 50 and 69 years of age treated by prostatectomy alone, 61% were treated for erectile dysfunction and 24% were treated for urinary disorders. The frequency of treatment for these disorders decreased during the second year compared to the first year (erectile dysfunction: 41% vs 53%, urinary disorders: 9% vs 20%). The frequencies of these treatments among men treated by external beam radiotherapy alone were 7% and 14%, respectively. Among men between 50 and 69 years with treated PCa, 46% received treatments for erectile dysfunction and 22% for urinary disorders. For controls without PCa but treated surgically for benign prostatic hyperplasia, these frequencies were 1.5% and 6.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: We report high survival rates two years after a diagnosis of PCa, but a high frequency of PCa treatment-related adverse effects. These frequencies remain underestimated, as they are based on treatments for erectile dysfunction and urinary disorders and do not reflect all functional outcomes. These results should help urologists and general practitioners to inform their patients about outcomes at the time of screening and diagnosis, and especially about potential treatment-related adverse effects.

Long-term quality of life in gastroesophageal reflux disease after NISSEN fundoplication: does it depend on preoperative responsiveness to proton pump inhibitors?

PURPOSE: In patients presenting with uncomplicated gastroesophageal reflux disease, nonresponders to medical treatment are not viewed as good candidates for surgical treatment. Considering preoperative response to medical treatment and quality of life, this study aimed to predict outcome following laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In an academic center, 35 consecutive patients presenting with a gastroesophageal reflux disease requiring a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication were prospectively included; 16 patients were nonresponders. Using Gastro-Intestinal Quality-of-Life Index score, quality of life was measured preoperatively and postoperatively at each visit (3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 mo) and was compared between responders and nonresponders. RESULTS: No postoperative complication was recorded. Preoperative score was significantly lower in nonresponders (P<0.02) and digestive symptoms and dietary modifications were more important in nonresponders. The score increased in nonresponders after 48 and 72 months, but this improvement was nonsignificantly lower than in responders (P=0.4). In nonresponders, 6 years after the procedure, all symptoms improved. In responders, dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms significantly improved. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication seems to improve the quality of life in nonresponders without equaling to responders results, especially because of digestive symptoms. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication may be considered as a therapeutic option in selected and informed nonresponder patients.

The best surgical approach for left colectomy: a comparative study between transverse laparotomy, midline laparotomy and laparoscopy.

AIM: To compare the early and late complications after left colectomy (LC) by left transverse laparotomy (LTL), midline laparotomy (ML) and laparoscopy (La). METHODS: From 1998 to 2003, 328 patients underwent an LC by LTL, ML or La. After matching patients for age, ASA score and indication, 159 patients were divided into three groups of 53 patients each according to the surgical approach performed. The median follow-up was 8 years. Early and late complications were compared by univariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: Early morbidity rates after LTL, ML and La were 52%, 45% and 21%, respectively (p = 0.002). Extra digestive complication rates after LTL, ML and La were 36%, 34% and 13.2%, respectively (p = 0.02). Respiratory complication rates were 15%, 21% and 2% (p = 0.01). The rate of wound infection was higher after LTL (15% vs. 6% and 6%, p = 0.06). Length of stay was significantly shorter after La (median: LTL, 10 days; ML, 9 days; La, 6 days; p < 0.0001). At a median follow-up of 8 years, the obstruction rate was 6.3%, regardless of the surgical approach. The rates of incisional hernia after LTL, ML and La were 8%, 23% and 3% (p = 0.004), respectively, with odds ratio (OR) = 4.47 (1.2 to 16). CONCLUSION: Our study shows that although La has a significant lower rate of complications, LTL, with fewer respiratory complications and hernia than ML, should be considered as the reference incision in case of conversion or contra-indication for laparoscopy.

Does the surgeon's experience influence the outcome of laparoscopic treatment of common bile duct stones?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess laparoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis with respect to the surgeon's experience. METHODS: From January 1994 to December 2006, 130 patients underwent laparoscopic treatment for common bile duct stones found with intraoperative cholangiography. Two types of surgeons were defined: junior surgeons with fewer than ten laparoscopic common bile duct explorations performed and experienced surgeons with more than ten. The two patient populations (n = 65 in each group) were similar in regard to demographic data, clinical presentations (complicated or not), and ASA score. RESULTS: Results show that junior surgeons had significantly more patients with a common bile duct (CBD) diameter <7 mm compared to experienced surgeons (66% vs. 38%; p = 0.002). Primary closure of choledochotomy was performed by senior rather than junior surgeons significantly more often (87.5% vs. 69%; p = 0.05). Mean operating time was found to be longer for junior operators than for experienced surgeons (220 ± 71 min vs. 169 ± 71 min; p = 0.0006). There was no difference between group 1 (juniors) and group 2 (experienced surgeons) in regard to laparotomy conversion rate (9% vs. 1.5%; p = 0.1), complete common bile duct clearance (98% vs. 100%, p = ns), postoperative complications (two bile leaks in group 1 and one in group 2), and hospital stay (9 days vs. 7.5 days). In multivariate analysis, the transcystic approach was not influenced by the surgeon's experience. Experienced surgeons performed choledochotomy with primary closure more easily [RR = 3 (range = 1.1-8); p = 0.04]. Complicated presentations [RR = 2 (0.7-3); p = 0.08] and CBD diameter [RR = 2.5 (0.96-7); p = 0.06] influenced the choice of type of closure of choledochotomy without any significant value. CONCLUSION: Surgeon's experience influenced operating time and type of choledochotomy closure performed but had no influence on postoperative results of the laparoscopic treatment of common bile duct stones.

[Prostate-specific antigen use among men without prostate cancer in France (2008-2010)]. / Consommation du dosage de l'antigène spécifique de la prostate (PSA) en France chez les hommes sans cancer de la prostate déclaré (2008-2010).

This study evaluated the rate of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) dosage in men age 40 or older, affiliated to the general social security system in France between 2008 and 2010: 10.9 million men, excluding those with known prostate cancer. In 2010, 30.7% of this male population had at least one dosage of PSA, i.e. 12.3% of those between 40 and 54, 47.7% of those between 55 and 74, and 47.6% of those 75 years old or older. Percentages of men who had at least one dosage in the three-year period were 26.2%, 77.3% and 75.6% for the same age brackets, respectively. Overall, 13% of men age 40 or older, and in particular 21% of men 75 years old or older had more than three PSA dosages during the three-year time period. Eighty-eight percent of PSA dosages performed in 2010 were prescribed by a general practitioner and 3.2% by an urologist. Conflicting with French and internationally published recommendations regarding PSA dosage, the present results demonstrate a shift toward chaotic mass screening of prostate cancer particularly in men aged 75 or older.

[Education and teaching laparoscopic surgery in Europe: present constraints and role of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery.]

As we move on to the second decade of the 21st century, many changes in education and, particularly, in training future surgeons, have come to pass. Several of these changes are the result of a natural evolution in teaching methods, but others have been dictated by global modifications in the educational and social systems reigning throughout the Western culture. The recent evolution to less aggressive therapy and, in particular, surgical techniques, attests to the desire to decrease patient harm. Laparoscopic surgery, based on less invasive parietal violation and insult, responding to the above-mentioned concerns, has rekindled the debate on patient safety but also has opened the debate on how to best teach the technique. This paper endeavors to describe the problems created by the social and economic changes in the last few decades, to assess the consequences on teaching and learning laparoscopic surgery for the surgeon and to review possible solutions.

Emergency preoperative stenting versus surgery for acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction: a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Surgical management of left colonic cancer presenting as an acute obstruction remains controversial and still is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. Recently, self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) have been used as a bridge to surgery in an attempt to decompress the colon and then allow elective one-stage surgical resection without stoma placement. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of emergency surgery alone with emergency placement of colonic SEMS as a bridge to surgery in terms of efficiency and reduction of the stoma placement rate. METHODS: A multicenter prospective, randomized, controlled trial was conducted according to the consolidated standards of reporting trials (CONSORT) Statement criteria. Patients eligible for the study were randomized to either emergency surgery or emergency SEMS as a bridge to surgery. The primary outcome was the need for a stoma (temporary or permanent) for any reason. The secondary end points were mortality, morbidity, and length of hospital stay. RESULTS: Nine centers participated in the trial. Among the 70 patients eligible for the study, 60 were randomized and included for the final analysis, 30 patients in each group. Seven patients were randomized but did not fulfill the entry requirements, whereas three further eligible patients were not randomized for various reasons. Concerning the primary outcome, 17 patients in the surgery group sustained a stoma placement versus 13 patients in the SEMS group (p=0.30). No statistically significant difference was noted concerning the secondary outcomes. A total of 16 attempts at SEMS placement (53.3%) were technical failures. Two colonic perforations directly related to the stent placement procedure occurred among the 30 randomized patients and 1 perforation occurred among the nonrandomized patients, leading to premature closure of inclusions in the study before the expected number of 80 patients was reached. CONCLUSION: This randomized trial failed to demonstrate that emergency preoperative SEMS for patients presenting with acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction could significantly decrease the need for stoma placement.