Temporary abdominal closure in oncological patients: Surgical characteristics and implications.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In critically ill patients, temporary abdominal closure (TAC) is utilized for conditions like abdominal compartment syndrome risk, gross abdominal contamination, and intestinal loop viability doubts. TAC techniques aim to safeguard abdominal contents, drain intraperitoneal fluids, and minimize fascia and skin damage. Our goal is to outline clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes in oncological patients undergoing peritoneostomy. METHODS: Patients undergoing TAC with vacuum therapy at a tertiary oncological center were studied, with data sourced from an institutional database. RESULTS: Forty-seven patients (54.3% female), with an average age of 63.1 ± 12.3 years, were included in the study. The primary tumor site was predominantly gastrointestinal (78.2%). Patients presented systemic signs of chronic disease, reflected by a mean body mass index of 18.2 ± 7.6 kg/m², hemoglobin level of 9.2 ± 1.8 g/dL, and albumin level of 2.3 ± 0.6 g/dL. Additionally, most patients had a low-performance status (53% Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 1/2, 44.8% Karnofsky score ≤80, and 61.2% Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥6). Emergency surgical complications were the main reasons for initial surgery (68%), with the majority attributed to fecal peritonitis (65.9%). Only 14.8% of patients achieved complete abdominal closure with an average of 24.8 days until closure. The in-hospital mortality rate was 85.2%. CONCLUSION: TAC is an alternative for oncological patients with surgical complications, but it carries a high mortality rate due to the compromised conditions of the patients.

LAPAROSCOPIC RIGHT AND LEFT COLECTOMY: WHICH PROVIDES BETTER POSTOPERATIVE RESULTS FOR ONCOLOGY PATIENTS?

BACKGROUND: The laparoscopic approach considerably reduced the morbidity of colorectal surgery when compared to the open approach. Among its benefits, we can highlight less intraoperative bleeding, early oral intake, lower rates of surgical site infection, incisional hernia, and postoperative pain, and earlier hospital discharge. AIMS: To compare the perioperative morbidity of right versus left colectomy for cancer and the quality of laparoscopic oncologic resection. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of patients submitted to laparoscopic right and left colctomy between 2006 and 2016. Postoperative complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo scale, 30 days after surgery. RESULTS: A total of 293 patients were analyzed, 97 right colectomies (33.1%) and 196 left colectomies (66.9%). The averageage was 62.8 years. The groups were comparable in terms of age, comorbidities, body mass index, and the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification. Preoperative transfusion was higher in the right colectomy group (5.1% versus 0.4%, p=0.004, p<0.05). Overall, 233 patients (79.5%) had no complications. Complications found were grade I and II in 62 patients (21.1%) and grade III to V in 37 (12.6%). Twenty-three patients (7.8%) underwent reoperation. The comparison between left and right colectomy was not statistically different for operative time, conversion, reoperation, severe postoperative complications, and length of stay. The anastomotic leak rate was comparable in both groups(5.6% versus 2.1%, p=0.232, p>0.05). The oncological results were similar in both surgeries. In multiple logistic regression, ASA statistically influenced the worst results (≥ III; p=0.029, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The surgical and oncological results of laparoscopic right and left colectomies are similar, making this the preferred approach for both procedures.

Comparing three-dimensional endorectal ultrasound and magnification chromoendoscopy for early rectal neoplasia invasion depth assessment.

INTRODUCTION: Accurate assessment of invasion depth of early rectal neoplasms is essential for optimal therapy. We aimed to compare three-dimensional endorectal ultrasound (3D-ERUS) with magnification chromoendoscopy (MCE) regarding their accuracy in assessing parietal invasion depth (T). METHODS: Patients with middle and distal rectum neoplasms were prospectively included. Two providers blinded to each other's assessment performed 3D-ERUS and MCE, respectively. The T stage assessed through ERUS was compared to the MCE evaluation. The results were compared to the surgical specimen anatomopathological report. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive (PPV), and negative (NPV) predictive values were calculated for the T stage and for the final therapy (local excision or radical surgery). RESULTS: In 8 years, 70 patients were enrolled, and all underwent both exams. MCE and ERUS showed an accuracy of 94.3% and 85.7%, sensitivity of 83.7 and 93.3%, specificity of 96.4 and 83.6%, PPV of 86.7 and 60.9%, and NPV of 96.4 and 97.9%, respectively. Kappa for T stage assessed through ERUS was 0.64 and 0.83 for MCE. CONCLUSION: MCE and 3D-ERUS had good diagnostic performance, but the endoscopic method had higher accuracy. Both methods reliably assessed lesion extension, circumferential involvement, and distance from the anal verge.

Retrospective Study of Patients Submitted to Appendectomy in a Tertiary Hospital: Is There a Difference between the Public and Supplementary Health System?

Abstract Introduction Appendicitis is the surgical disease with the highest prevalence in emergency rooms. Its clinical and/or surgical complications are associated with the time course of symptoms, age, comorbidities, and stages of the disease. Objectives To analyze the demographic and clinical data of patients who underwent appendectomy for acute appendicitis in a tertiary referral hospital in the city of São Paulo and compare these data between services provided by the Public and Supplementary Health System. Methodology Retrospective analysis of data from electronic medical records of patients over 14 years old who underwent appendectomy for acute appendicitis at Hospital Santa Marcelina, both in the Public and Supplementary Health Systems from January 2015 to December 2017. Results A total of 536 patients were analyzed, 354 (66%) of whom were male with a general mean age of 29.85 years (14-81 years). The mean time from symptoms to seeking medical care was 53.84 hours. Regarding the phases of acute appendicitis, a greater number of cases of complicated disease was observed in patients operated on in the Public Health System (p < 0.0001), as well as the time course of symptoms (p = 0.0005) and Conclusion There was a predominance of male patients undergoing appendectomy for acute appendicitis, with longer time course of symptoms in those operated on in the Public Health System and a predominance of appendicitis in advanced stages (3 and 4) in this group. However, in this group there was no significant increase in the rate of postoperative infection, and the length of stay was shorter than that of patients operated on in the Supplementary Health System.

Laparoscopic right and left colectomy: which provides better postoperative results for oncology patients? / Colectomia laparoscópica, direita ou esquerda: qual apresenta melhores resultados pós-operatórios para pacientes oncológicos?

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The laparoscopic approach considerably reduced the morbidity of colorectal surgery when compared to the open approach. Among its benefits, we can highlight less intraoperative bleeding, early oral intake, lower rates of surgical site infection, incisional hernia, and postoperative pain, and earlier hospital discharge. AIMS: To compare the perioperative morbidity of right versus left colectomy for cancer and the quality of laparoscopic oncologic resection. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of patients submitted to laparoscopic right and left colctomy between 2006 and 2016. Postoperative complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo scale, 30 days after surgery. RESULTS: A total of 293 patients were analyzed, 97 right colectomies (33.1%) and 196 left colectomies (66.9%). The averageage was 62.8 years. The groups were comparable in terms of age, comorbidities, body mass index, and the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification. Preoperative transfusion was higher in the right colectomy group (5.1% versus 0.4%, p=0.004, p<0.05). Overall, 233 patients (79.5%) had no complications. Complications found were grade I and II in 62 patients (21.1%) and grade III to V in 37 (12.6%). Twenty-three patients (7.8%) underwent reoperation. The comparison between left and right colectomy was not statistically different for operative time, conversion, reoperation, severe postoperative complications, and length of stay. The anastomotic leak rate was comparable in both groups(5.6% versus 2.1%, p=0.232, p>0.05). The oncological results were similar in both surgeries. In multiple logistic regression, ASA statistically influenced the worst results (≥ III; p=0.029, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The surgical and oncological results of laparoscopic right and left colectomies are similar, making this the preferred approach for both procedures.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A abordagem laparoscópica reduziu consideravelmente a morbidade da cirurgia colorretal quando comparada à abordagem aberta. Entre seus benefícios podemos destacar o menor sangramento intraoperatório, ingestão oral precoce, menor índice de infecção de incisão cirúrgica e hérnia incisional, menor índice de dor pós-operatória e alta hospitalar mais precoce. OBJETIVOS: Comparar a morbidade perioperatória da colectomia direita versus esquerda para câncer e a qualidade da ressecção oncológica laparoscópica. MÉTODOS: Análise retrospectiva de pacientes submetidos à olectomia laparoscópica direit e esquerda entre 2006 e 2016. As complicações pós-operatórias foram classificadas pela escala Clavien-Dindo, 30 dias após a cirurgia. RESULTADOS: Um total de 293 pacientes foram analisados, 97 casos de colectomia direita (33.1%) e 196 de esquerda (66.9%). A idade média foi de 62,8 anos. Os grupos foram comparáveis em termos de idade, comorbidades, índice de massa corporal e classificação da Sociedade Americana de Anestesiologia (ASA). A transfusão pré-operatória foi maior no grupo da colectomia direita (5,1% versus 0,4%, p=0,004, p<0,05). No geral, 233 pacientes (79.5%) não apresentaram complicações. As complicações encontradas foram graus I e II em 62 pacientes (21,1%), egraus III a V em 37 (12,6%). Vinte e três pacientes (7,8%) foram reoperados. A comparação entre a colectomia laparoscópica esquerda e direita não foi estatisticamente diferente para tempo operatório, conversão, reoperação, complicações pós-operatórias graves e tempo de internação. A taxa de fístula anastomótica foi comparável em ambos os grupos (5,6% versus 2,1%, p=0,232, p>0,05). Os resultados oncológicos foram semelhantes nas duas cirurgias. Na regressão logística múltipla, a ASA influenciou estatisticamente os piores resultados (≥ III; p=0,029, p<0,05). CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados cirúrgicos e oncológicos das colectomias laparoscópicas direita e esquerda são semelhantes, tornando esta a abordagem preferida para ambos os procedimentos.

Incidence of intestinal constipation during the COVID-19 pandemic period in medical students from a private institution in São Paulo, SP

Introduction: Chronic intestinal constipation (CIC) presents an incidence of 2.6 to 30.7% in the overall population and due to the social reality imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, some behavior changes in the Brazilian population occurred that might or not be associated with alterations of CIC prevalence. Objective: To assess CIC incidence in medical students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil in a private higher educational institution in the city of São Paulo, state of São Paulo. Methods: Clinic data were collected through Google Forms software from the same students seeking to analyze the variables before (year of 2019) and during the coronavirus pandemic. The data were: age, sex, body mass index, constipation referred in a subjective way and confirmed through the ROME III criteria, feces consistency and anxiety and/or depression during the pandemic. Results: A total of 126 medical students from a private higher education institution from São Paulo, SP were included. The average age was 22.9 years old, 70.6% were female and the average BMI was 23.3 kg/m2. Regarding the ROME III criteria, 32.5% presented >2 in 2019 and 42.1% during the pandemic. Concerning the feces consistency, 31.75 and 35.71% presented dry Bristol 1 feces or in both periods, respectively. Conclusion: It was observed an increase in the prevalence of chronic intestinal constipation in medical students from a private higher education institution from São Paulo, state of São Paulo, during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as dryness in the feces. (AU)

ANORECTAL MANOMETRY STANDARD OF A BRAZILIAN POPULATION AT PRODUCTIVE AGE WITHOUT PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS: A PROSPECTIVE VOLUNTEERED STUDY.

BACKGROUND: Due to the lack of normal standards of anorectal manometry in Brazil, data used are subject to normality patterns described at different nationalities. AIM: To determine the values and range of the parameters evaluated at anorectal manometry in people, at productive age, without pelvic floor disorders comparing the parameters obtained between male and female. METHODS: Prospective analysis of clinical data, such as gender, age, race, body mass index (BMI) and anorectal manometry, of volunteers from a Brazilian university reference in pelvic floor disorders. RESULTS: Forty patients were included, with a mean age of 45.5 years in males and 37.2 females (p=0.43). According to male and female, respectively in mmHg, resting pressures were similar (78.28 vs. 63.51, p=0.40); squeeze pressures (153.89 vs. 79.78, p=0.007) and total squeeze pressures (231.27 vs. 145.63, p=0.002). Men presented significantly higher values of anorectal squeeze pressures, as well as the average length of the functional anal canal (2.85 cm in male vs. 2.45 cm in female, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Normal sphincter pressure levels in Brazilians differ from those used until now as normal literature standards. Male gender has higher external anal sphincter tonus as compared to female, in addition a greater extension of the functional anal canal.

Anorectal manometry standard of a brazilian population at productive age without pelvic floor disorders: a prospective volunteered study / Valores manométricos anorretais para a população brasileira eutrófica em idade produtiva e sem distúrbios do assoalho pélvico: estudo prospectivo com voluntários

ABSTRACT Background: Due to the lack of normal standards of anorectal manometry in Brazil, data used are subject to normality patterns described at different nationalities. Aim: To determine the values and range of the parameters evaluated at anorectal manometry in people, at productive age, without pelvic floor disorders comparing the parameters obtained between male and female. Methods: Prospective analysis of clinical data, such as gender, age, race, body mass index (BMI) and anorectal manometry, of volunteers from a Brazilian university reference in pelvic floor disorders. Results: Forty patients were included, with a mean age of 45.5 years in males and 37.2 females (p=0.43). According to male and female, respectively in mmHg, resting pressures were similar (78.28 vs. 63.51, p=0.40); squeeze pressures (153.89 vs. 79.78, p=0.007) and total squeeze pressures (231.27 vs. 145.63, p=0.002). Men presented significantly higher values of anorectal squeeze pressures, as well as the average length of the functional anal canal (2.85 cm in male vs. 2.45 cm in female, p=0.003). Conclusions: Normal sphincter pressure levels in Brazilians differ from those used until now as normal literature standards. Male gender has higher external anal sphincter tonus as compared to female, in addition a greater extension of the functional anal canal

RESUMO Racional: Devido à falta de padrões normais de manometria anorretal no Brasil, os dados utilizados estão sujeitos a padrões de normalidade descritos em diferentes nacionalidades . Objetivo: Determinar os valores e a faixa da manometria anorretal de pessoas em idade produtiva, sem distúrbios do assoalho pélvico, comparando os parâmetros obtidos entre homens e mulheres. Métodos: Análise prospectiva de dados clínicos, como gênero, idade, raça, índice de massa corporal (IMC) e manometria anorretal, de voluntários de uma referência universitária brasileira em distúrbios do assoalho pélvico. Resultados: Quarenta pessoas foram incluídas, com idade média de 45,5 anos nos homens e 37,2 nas mulheres (p=0,43). De acordo com homens e mulheres, respectivamente em mmHg, as pressões de repouso foram semelhantes (78,28 vs. 63,51, p=0,40); pressões de contração (153,89 vs. 79,78, p=0,007) e pressão total de compressão (231,27 vs. 145,63, p=0,002). Os homens apresentaram valores significativamente maiores de contração esfincteriana, assim como o comprimento médio do canal anal funcional (2,85 cm nos homens vs. 2,45 cm nas mulheres, p=0,003). Conclusões: Os níveis normais de pressão esfincteriana no Brasil diferem dos utilizados até o momento como padrão normal da literatura. O gênero masculino apresenta maior tônus ​​do esfíncter anal externo em relação ao feminino, além de maior extensão do canal anal funcional

IS LAPAROSCOPIC REOPERATION FEASIBLE TO TREAT EARLY COMPLICATIONS AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC COLORECTAL RESECTIONS?

BACKGROUND: Recently, with the performance of minimally invasive procedures for the management of colorectal disorders, it was allowed to extend the indication of laparoscopy in handling various early and late postoperative complications. AIM: To present the experience with laparoscopic reoperations for early complications after laparoscopic colorectal resections. METHODS: Patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resections with postoperative surgical complications were included and re-treated laparoscopically. Selection for laparoscopic approach were those cases with early diagnosis of complications, hemodynamic stability without significant abdominal distention and without clinical comorbidities that would preclude the procedure. RESULTS: In four years, nine of 290 (3.1%) patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resections were re-approached laparoscopically. There were five men. The mean age was 40.67 years. Diagnoses of primary disease included adenocarcinoma (n=3), familial adenomatous polyposis (n=3), ulcerative colitis (n=1), colonic inertia (n=1) and chagasic megacolon (n=1). Initial procedures included four total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis; three anterior resections; one completion of total colectomy; and one right hemicolectomy. Anastomotic dehiscence was the most common complication that resulted in reoperations (n=6). There was only one case of an unfavorable outcome, with death on the 40th day of the first approach, after consecutive complications. The remaining cases had favorable outcome. CONCLUSION: In selected cases, laparoscopic access may be a safe and minimally invasive approach for complications of colorectal resection. However, laparoscopic reoperation must be cautiously selected, considering the type of complication, patient's clinical condition and experience of the surgical team.

Is laparoscopic reoperation feasible to treat early complications after laparoscopic colorectal resections? / é possível reoperar por laparoscopia as complicações precoces das ressecções colorretais laparoscópicas?

ABSTRACT Background: Recently, with the performance of minimally invasive procedures for the management of colorectal disorders, it was allowed to extend the indication of laparoscopy in handling various early and late postoperative complications. Aim: To present the experience with laparoscopic reoperations for early complications after laparoscopic colorectal resections. Methods: Patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resections with postoperative surgical complications were included and re-treated laparoscopically. Selection for laparoscopic approach were those cases with early diagnosis of complications, hemodynamic stability without significant abdominal distention and without clinical comorbidities that would preclude the procedure. Results: In four years, nine of 290 (3.1%) patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resections were re-approached laparoscopically. There were five men. The mean age was 40.67 years. Diagnoses of primary disease included adenocarcinoma (n=3), familial adenomatous polyposis (n=3), ulcerative colitis (n=1), colonic inertia (n=1) and chagasic megacolon (n=1). Initial procedures included four total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis; three anterior resections; one completion of total colectomy; and one right hemicolectomy. Anastomotic dehiscence was the most common complication that resulted in reoperations (n=6). There was only one case of an unfavorable outcome, with death on the 40th day of the first approach, after consecutive complications. The remaining cases had favorable outcome. Conclusion: In selected cases, laparoscopic access may be a safe and minimally invasive approach for complications of colorectal resection. However, laparoscopic reoperation must be cautiously selected, considering the type of complication, patient's clinical condition and experience of the surgical team.

RESUMO Racional: A realização de procedimentos minimamente invasivos para o manejo de distúrbios colorretais, possibilitou ampliar a indicação de laparoscopia para o manuseio de diversas complicações pós-operatórias precoces e tardias. Objetivo: Apresentar a experiência com reoperações laparoscópicas para complicações precoces após ressecções colorretais laparoscópicas. Métodos: Foram incluídos pacientes submetidos a ressecções colorretais laparoscópicas que apresentaram complicações cirúrgicas no pós-operatório abordadas por via laparoscópica. Os pacientes selecionados foram aqueles com diagnóstico precoce de complicações, estabilidade hemodinâmica sem distensão abdominal significativa e sem comorbidades clínicas que impedissem o procedimento. Resultados: Em quatro anos, nove de 290 (3,1%) pacientes submetidos a ressecções colorretais laparoscópicas foram reabordados pela mesma via de acesso. Havia cinco pacientes do sexo masculino e idade média foi de 40,67 anos. Os diagnósticos de doença primária incluíram adenocarcinoma (n=3), polipose adenomatosa familiar (n=3), colite ulcerativa (n=1), inércia colônica (n=1) e megacólon chagásico (n=1). Os procedimentos iniciais incluíram quatro proctocolectomias totais com anastomose íleo-anal em bolsa ileal; três ressecções anteriores; uma totalização de colectomia total; e uma hemicolectomia direita. A deiscência da anastomose foi a complicação mais comum que resultou em reoperação (n=6). Houve apenas um caso de desfecho desfavorável, com óbito no 40º dia da primeira abordagem após complicações consecutivas. Os demais casos tiveram desfecho favorável . Conclusão: Em casos selecionados, o acesso laparoscópico pode representar alternativa de abordagem segura e minimamente invasiva para complicações da ressecção colorretal. No entanto, a reoperação laparoscópica deve ser cuidadosamente selecionada, considerando o tipo de complicação, a condição clínica do paciente e a experiência da equipe cirúrgica.

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RIGHT- VERSUS LEFT-SIDED COLON CANCERS? DOES SIDE MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE IN LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP?

BACKGROUND: Since 1990 it was proposed that distal and proximal location of colon cancer might follow different biological, epidemiology, pathology and prognosis, probably due to embryologic different development of the two segments of the colon, which may represent two separate disease entities. These differences might have consequences for the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer. AIM: To compare the characteristics between patients with right and left colon cancer, with severity and tumor characteristic that influence in the survival of these patients. METHOD: Were evaluated the outcomes of surgical treatment of patients with colon cancer with data collected retrospectively from prospectively collected database. RESULTS: The tumor's side did not influence survival time of patients with colon cancer (p=0.112) in the regression model. Only the diseases stage leads to influence on survival time; patients with right colon cancer have more advanced staging (III or IV) and present a risk of death greater in 3.23 times. CONCLUSION: This analysis provides evidence that the prognosis of localized left-sided colon cancer is better compared to right-sided colon cancer. Also, the patients with right colon cancer have more advanced stage, mucinous tumor and are older.

IS THE PHYSICIAN EXPERTISE IN DIGITAL RECTAL EXAMINATION OF VALUE IN DETECTING ANAL TONE IN COMPARISON TO ANORECTAL MANOMETRY?

BACKGROUND: Digital rectal examination (DRE) is part of the physical examination, is also essential for the colorectal surgeon evaluation. A good DRE offers precious information related to the patient's complaints, which will help in decision making. It is simple, quick and minimally invasive. In many centers around the world, the DRE is still the only method to evaluate the anal sphincter prior to patient's management. On the other hand, anorectal manometry (ARM) is the main method for objective functional evaluation of anal sphincter pressures. The discrepancy of DRE depending on the examiner to determine sphincter tonus in comparison to ARM motivated this study. OBJECTIVE: To compare the DRE performed by proficient and non-experienced examiners to sphincter pressure parameters obtained at ARM, depending on examiners expertise. METHODS: Thirty-six consecutive patients with complaints of fecal incontinence or chronic constipation, from the anorectal physiology clinic of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine, were prospectively included. Each patient underwent ARM and DRE performed by two senior colorectal surgeons and one junior colorectal surgeon prior to the ARM. Patient's history was blinded for the examiner's knowledge, also the impressions of each examiner were blinded from the others. For the DRE rest and squeeze pressures were classified by an objective scale (DRE scoring system) that was compared to the parameters of the ARM for the analysis. The results obtained at the ARM were compared to the DRE performed by the seniors and the junior colorectal surgeons. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Descriptive analysis was performed for all parameters. For the rest and squeeze pressures the Gamma index was used for the comparison between the DRE and ARM, which varied from 0 to 1. The closer to 1 the better was the agreement. RESULTS: The mean age was 48 years old and 55.5% of patients were female. The agreement of rest anal pressures between the ARM and the DRE performed by the senior proficient examiners was 0.7 (CI 95%; 0.32-1.0), while for the junior non-experienced examiner was 0.52 (CI 95%; 0.09-0.96). The agreement of squeeze pressures was 0.96 (CI 95%; 0.87-1.0) for the seniors and 0.52 (CI 95%; 0.16-0.89) for the junior examiner. CONCLUSION: More experienced colorectal surgeons used to DRE had a more significant agreement with the ARM, thereafter would have more appropriate therapeutic management to patients with sphincter functional problems. ARM, therefore, persists as an important exam to objectively evaluate the sphincter complex, justifying its utility in the clinical practice.

A experiência do médico examinador tem influência na avaliação do tônus anal em comparação à manometria anorretal? / Is the physician expertise in digital rectal examination of value in detecting anal tone in comparison to anorectal manometry?

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Digital rectal examination (DRE) is part of the physical examination, is also essential for the colorectal surgeon evaluation. A good DRE offers precious information related to the patient's complaints, which will help in decision making. It is simple, quick and minimally invasive. In many centers around the world, the DRE is still the only method to evaluate the anal sphincter prior to patient's management. On the other hand, anorectal manometry (ARM) is the main method for objective functional evaluation of anal sphincter pressures. The discrepancy of DRE depending on the examiner to determine sphincter tonus in comparison to ARM motivated this study. OBJECTIVE: To compare the DRE performed by proficient and non-experienced examiners to sphincter pressure parameters obtained at ARM, depending on examiners expertise. METHODS: Thirty-six consecutive patients with complaints of fecal incontinence or chronic constipation, from the anorectal physiology clinic of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine, were prospectively included. Each patient underwent ARM and DRE performed by two senior colorectal surgeons and one junior colorectal surgeon prior to the ARM. Patient's history was blinded for the examiner's knowledge, also the impressions of each examiner were blinded from the others. For the DRE rest and squeeze pressures were classified by an objective scale (DRE scoring system) that was compared to the parameters of the ARM for the analysis. The results obtained at the ARM were compared to the DRE performed by the seniors and the junior colorectal surgeons. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Descriptive analysis was performed for all parameters. For the rest and squeeze pressures the Gamma index was used for the comparison between the DRE and ARM, which varied from 0 to 1. The closer to 1 the better was the agreement. RESULTS: The mean age was 48 years old and 55.5% of patients were female. The agreement of rest anal pressures between the ARM and the DRE performed by the senior proficient examiners was 0.7 (CI 95%; 0.32-1.0), while for the junior non-experienced examiner was 0.52 (CI 95%; 0.09-0.96). The agreement of squeeze pressures was 0.96 (CI 95%; 0.87-1.0) for the seniors and 0.52 (CI 95%; 0.16-0.89) for the junior examiner. CONCLUSION: More experienced colorectal surgeons used to DRE had a more significant agreement with the ARM, thereafter would have more appropriate therapeutic management to patients with sphincter functional problems. ARM, therefore, persists as an important exam to objectively evaluate the sphincter complex, justifying its utility in the clinical practice.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Exame anorretal digital (EAD) faz parte do exame físico, também é essencial para a avaliação do cirurgião colorretal. Um bom EAD oferece informações preciosas relacionadas às queixas do paciente, que auxiliam na tomada de decisões. Sua realização é simples, rápida e minimamente invasiva. Em diversos centros ao redor do mundo, o toque retal ainda é o único método para avaliar o esfíncter anal antes do tratamento. Por outro lado, a manometria anorretal (MAR) é o principal método para avaliação funcional objetiva das pressões esfincterianas. A discrepância entre o EAD, dependendo do examinador para determinar o tônus esfincteriano em comparação à MAR motivou este estudo. OBJETIVO: Comparar o EAD com os parâmetros de pressão esfincteriana obtidos na MAR, dependendo da experiência dos examinadores. MÉTODOS: Trinta e seis pacientes consecutivos com queixas de incontinência fecal ou constipação crônica, do ambulatório de Fisiologia Anorretal da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, foram prospectivamente incluídos. Cada paciente foi submetido a MAR e EAD realizados por dois cirurgiões colorretais seniores e um júnior antes da MAR. A história dos pacientes propositalmente omitida dos examinadores, e os resultados de cada examinador foram cegos dos demais. Para o EAD, as pressões de repouso e contração foram classificadas por uma escala objetiva (EAD Scoring System), realizada pelos examinadores seniores e pelo júnior em todos os pacientes, que foi comparada com os parâmetros da MAR para a análise. ANÁLISE ESTATÍSTICA: A análise descritiva foi feita para todos os parâmetros. Para as pressões de repouso e contração, o índice Gamma foi utilizado para a comparação entre o EAD e a MAR, que variou de 0 a 1. Quanto mais próximo de 1 melhor a concordância entre os dois métodos de avaliação. RESULTADOS: A idade média foi de 48 anos e 55,5% dos pacientes eram do sexo feminino. A concordância das pressões anais de repouso entre a MAR e o EAD realizadas pelos examinadores seniores, proficientes, foi de 0,7 (IC 95%; 0,32-1,0), enquanto para o examinador júnior, menos experiente, foi de 0,52 (IC95%; 0,09-0,96). A concordância das pressões de contração foi de 0,96 (IC 95%; 0,87-1,0) para os examinadores seniores e de 0,52 (IC 95%; 0,16-0,89) para o júnior. CONCLUSÃO: Cirurgiões colorretais mais experientes, o EAD teve concordância mais significativa com a MAR, o que poderia levar a um manejo terapêutico mais adequado aos pacientes portadores de doença anorretais funcionais. A manometria anorretal permanece, portanto, como método de avaliação objetiva da função esfincteriana.

Validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the pelvic floor bother questionnaire.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire (PFBQ) was designed to identify the presence and degree of bother associated with common pelvic floor symptoms. The PFBQ can be used in clinical practice and for research purposes, but it is not available in Brazilian Portuguese. We aimed to validate a cross-culturally adapted Brazilian Portuguese version of the PFBQ. METHODS: A pilot-tested version of the PFBQ translated from English was evaluated with Brazilian patients suffering from pelvic floor disorders. Internal reliability, test-retest reliability, validity, and responsiveness to change were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 147 patients (mean age, 60.49 years) were enrolled in the study. The Brazilian Portuguese version of the PFBQ demonstrated good reliability (α = 0.625; ICC = 0.981). There was strong agreement beyond chance for each item (κ = 0.895-1.00). The PFBQ correlated with stage of prolapse (p < 0.01), number of urinary (ρ = 0.791, p < 0.001) and fecal (ρ = 0.78, p < 0.001) incontinence episodes, and obstructed defecation (ρ = 0.875, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the PFBQ is a reliable, valid, and user-friendly instrument that can be used for assessing the presence and severity of pelvic floor symptoms in clinical and research settings in Brazil.

Is there a difference between right- versus left-sided colon cancers? does side make any difference in long-term follow-up? / Existe diferença entre o câncer do cólon direito versus o esquerdo? a localização faz alguma diferença no seguimento em longo prazo?

ABSTRACT Background: Since 1990 it was proposed that distal and proximal location of colon cancer might follow different biological, epidemiology, pathology and prognosis, probably due to embryologic different development of the two segments of the colon, which may represent two separate disease entities. These differences might have consequences for the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer. Aim: To compare the characteristics between patients with right and left colon cancer, with severity and tumor characteristic that influence in the survival of these patients. Method: Were evaluated the outcomes of surgical treatment of patients with colon cancer with data collected retrospectively from prospectively collected database. Results: The tumor's side did not influence survival time of patients with colon cancer (p=0.112) in the regression model. Only the diseases stage leads to influence on survival time; patients with right colon cancer have more advanced staging (III or IV) and present a risk of death greater in 3.23 times. Conclusion: This analysis provides evidence that the prognosis of localized left-sided colon cancer is better compared to right-sided colon cancer. Also, the patients with right colon cancer have more advanced stage, mucinous tumor and are older.

RESUMO Racional: Desde 1990, foi proposto que a localização distal e proximal do câncer de cólon pode seguir diferentes aspectos biológicos, epidemiológicos, patológicos e prognósticos. Essas diferenças podem ter consequências para o tratamento de pacientes com câncer colorretal. Objetivo: Comparar as características entre pacientes com câncer de cólon direito e esquerdo, com gravidade e características tumorais que influenciam na sobrevida desses pacientes. Método: Avaliação dos resultados do tratamento cirúrgico dos pacientes com câncer de cólon em longo prazo com dados coletados retrospectivamente. Resultados: O lado do tumor não influenciou o tempo de sobrevida (p=0,112) no modelo de regressão. Apenas o estágio da doença influencia no tempo de sobrevida. Os pacientes com câncer de cólon direito apresentam estadiamento mais avançado (III ou IV) e apresentam risco de morte 3,23 vezes maior. Conclusão: O prognóstico do câncer de cólon localizado no lado esquerdo é melhor comparado ao direito. Os pacientes com câncer de cólon direito têm estágio e idade mais avançados e tumor mucinoso.

Análise funcional e anatômica anorretal de pacientes femininas portadoras de esclerodermia em um centro universitário de referência em desordens do assoalho pélvico / Functional and anatomical analysis of the anorectum of female scleroderma patients at a center for pelvic floor disorders

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Scleroderma or progressive systemic sclerosis is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process with proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and excessive deposition of collagen and extracellular matrix in the skin, smooth muscle, and viscera. The smooth muscle most involved in scleroderma is that of the esophagus, and dysphagia is the most commonly reported symptom. However, the internal anal sphincter may also be impaired by degeneration and fibrosis, leading to concomitant anal incontinence in scleroderma patients. These patients may neglect to complain about it, except when actively questioned. OBJECTIVE: To assess anorectal function and anatomy of female scleroderma patients with symptoms of anal incontinence through Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS), anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound at the outpatient clinic of colorectal and anal physiology, Clinics Hospital, University of São Paulo Medical School (HC-FMUSP). METHODS: Female scleroderma patients were prospectively assessed and questioned as to symptoms of anal incontinence. The anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound results were correlated with clinical data and symptoms. RESULTS: In total, 13 women were evaluated. Their mean age was 55.77 years (±16.14; 27-72 years) and their mean disease duration was 10.23 years (±6.23; 2-23 years). All had symptoms of fecal incontinence ranging from 1 to 15. Seven (53.8%) patients had fecal incontinence score no higher than 7; three (23.1%) between 8 and 13; and three (23.1%) 14 or higher, corresponding to mild, moderate, and severe incontinence, respectively. Ten (76.92%) patients had hypotonia of the internal anal sphincter. Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound showed tapering associated with muscle atrophy of the internal sphincter in six cases and previous muscle defects in three cases. CONCLUSION: A functional and anatomical impairment of the sphincter is an important factor to assess in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and it should not be underestimated.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Esclerodermia ou esclerose sistêmica progressiva caracteriza-se por um processo inflamatório crônico com proliferação e fibrose do tecido conjuntivo e uma deposição excessiva de colágeno e matriz extracelular na pele, musculatura lisa e vísceras. A musculatura lisa mais envolvida é a esofágica e a disfagia é o sintoma mais comumente relatado. Entretanto, o esfíncter anal interno também pode ser acometido por essa degeneração e fibrose ocasionando incontinência anal nos pacientes portadores de esclerodermia. Isso pode ser omitido pelo paciente, exceto quando questionado de forma direta. OBJETIVO: Analisar a função e anatomia anorretal através do escore de incontinência anal de Cleveland Clinic Florida, manometria anorretal e ultrassom endoanal em pacientes do sexo feminino portadoras de esclerodermia e sintomas de incontinência anal atendidas no ambulatório de Fisiologia Colorretoanal no Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP). RESULTADOS: Treze pacientes do sexo feminino foram avaliadas com média de idade de 55,77 anos (±16,14; 27-72 anos) e duração média da doença de 10,23 anos (±6,23; 2-23 anos). O índice de incontinência anal teve variação de 1-15, sendo que sete (53,8%) pacientes apresentavam índice inferior a 7; três (23,1%) entre 8 e 13; e três (23,1%) superior a 14, correspondendo à incontinência anal leve, moderada e grave, respectivamente. Dez (76,92%) pacientes apresentavam hipotonia do esfíncter anal interno. O estudo da ultrassonografia endoanal de três dimensões demonstrou afilamento com atrofia do esfíncter anal interno em seis casos e defeito muscular em três pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: O prejuízo funcional e anatômico do complexo esfincteriano anorretal é um importante fator a ser analisado em pacientes portadores de esclerose sistêmica progressiva e isso não pode ser subestimado.

FUNCTIONAL AND ANATOMICAL ANALYSIS OF THE ANORECTUM OF FEMALE SCLERODERMA PATIENTS AT A CENTER FOR PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS.

BACKGROUND: Scleroderma or progressive systemic sclerosis is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process with proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and excessive deposition of collagen and extracellular matrix in the skin, smooth muscle, and viscera. The smooth muscle most involved in scleroderma is that of the esophagus, and dysphagia is the most commonly reported symptom. However, the internal anal sphincter may also be impaired by degeneration and fibrosis, leading to concomitant anal incontinence in scleroderma patients. These patients may neglect to complain about it, except when actively questioned. OBJECTIVE: To assess anorectal function and anatomy of female scleroderma patients with symptoms of anal incontinence through Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS), anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound at the outpatient clinic of colorectal and anal physiology, Clinics Hospital, University of São Paulo Medical School (HC-FMUSP). METHODS: Female scleroderma patients were prospectively assessed and questioned as to symptoms of anal incontinence. The anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound results were correlated with clinical data and symptoms. RESULTS: In total, 13 women were evaluated. Their mean age was 55.77 years (±16.14; 27-72 years) and their mean disease duration was 10.23 years (±6.23; 2-23 years). All had symptoms of fecal incontinence ranging from 1 to 15. Seven (53.8%) patients had fecal incontinence score no higher than 7; three (23.1%) between 8 and 13; and three (23.1%) 14 or higher, corresponding to mild, moderate, and severe incontinence, respectively. Ten (76.92%) patients had hypotonia of the internal anal sphincter. Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound showed tapering associated with muscle atrophy of the internal sphincter in six cases and previous muscle defects in three cases. CONCLUSION: A functional and anatomical impairment of the sphincter is an important factor to assess in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and it should not be underestimated.