Comparative study of short-and long-term results in patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma undergoing surgical resection: does the extent and side of resection really affect outcome?

BACKGROUND: The surgical management of perihilar carcinoma (pCCA) is still subject of ongoing debate. To provide more clarity, this study was conducted to evaluate outcomes related to the side and extent of heatectomy in patients with pCAA. METHODS: A total of 32 patients with curative resection for pCCA were identified from our prospective database. Short-and long-term clinical outcome data and histopathological results were compared between right-sided (R-H) and left-sided (L-H) hepatectomy. RESULTS: Nine patients (28.13%) underwent left-sided hepatectomy while a right-sided hepatectomy was accomplished in 23 patients (71.87%). In the R-H group hepatic conditioning of the future liver remnant (FLR) prior to extended resection was necessary in 13 cases (56.52%), and simultaneous pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed in 5 patients (21.74%). The arterial and portal venous reconstruction rates were 17.39% and 11.11% (P=1.00), and 60.87% and 33.33% (P=0.243) in the R-H and L-H groups, respectively. No statistically significant differences in short-term morbidity and mortality between both groups were observed. The rate of R0 resections was comparable (R-H: 78.26% versus L-H: 66.67%; P=0.654) resulting in similar long-term overall and disease-free survival rates after right-and left hepatectomy. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with pCCA, both right- and left-sided resections appear to be safe and feasible options with similar postoperative morbidity and oncologic outcomes. Consecutively, the ideal surgical approach should be patient-tailored based on anatomical considerations and the functional future liver capacity.

Clinical relevance of the 3-cm threshold in sigmoid diverticulitis with abscess: consensus or quandary?

PURPOSE: Diverticular abscess is a common manifestation of acute complicated diverticulitis. We aimed to analyze the clinical course of patients with diverticular abscess initially treated conservatively. METHODS: All patients with diverticular abscess undergoing elective or urgent/emergency surgery from October 2004 to October 2022 were identified from our institutional database. Depending on the abscess size, patients were divided into group A (≤ 3 cm) and group B (> 3 cm). Conservative treatment failure was defined as clinical deterioration, persistent or recurrent abscess, or urgent/emergency surgery. Baseline characteristics and short-term perioperative outcomes were recorded and compared between both groups. Uni- and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify determinants of conservative treatment failure and overall ostomy formation. RESULTS: A total of 105 patients were enrolled into group A (n = 73) and group B (n = 32). Uni- and multivariate analyses revealed abscess size as the only significant factor of conservative therapy failure [OR 9.904; p < 0.0001], while overall ostomy formation was significantly affected by an increased body mass index (BMI) [OR 1.366; p = 0.026]. There were no significant differences in perioperative outcome with the exception of a longer total hospital stay in patients managed with abscess drainage compared to antibiotics alone prior surgery in group B (p = 0.045). CONCLUSION: Abscess diameter > 3 cm is not just an arbitrary chosen cut-off value for drainage placement but has a prognostic impact on medical treatment failure in patients with complicated acute diverticulitis. In this subgroup, the choice between primary drainage and antibiotics does not appear to influence outcome at the cost of prolonged hospital stay after drainage insertion.

Caffeine intake enhances bowel recovery after colorectal surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized studies.

Postoperative ileus (POI) after colorectal surgery is a major problem that affects both patient recovery and hospital costs highlighting the importance of preventive strategies. Therefore, we aimed to perform a systematic analysis of the effects of postoperative caffeine consumption on bowel recovery and surgical morbidity after colorectal surgery. A comprehensive literature search was conducted through September 2023 for randomized and non-randomized trials comparing the effect of caffeinated versus non-caffeinated drinks on POI by evaluating bowel movement resumption, time to first flatus and solid food intake, and length of hospital stay (LOS). Secondary outcome analysis included postoperative morbidity in both groups. After data extraction and inclusion in a meta-analysis, odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous variables and standardized mean differences (SMDs) for continuous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Subgroup analyses were performed in cases of substantial heterogeneity. Six randomized and two non-randomized trials with a total of 610 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Caffeine intake significantly reduced time to first bowel movement [SMD -0.39, (95% CI -0.66 to -0.12), p = 0.005] and time to first solid food intake [SMD -0.41, (95% CI -0.79 to -0.04), p = 0.03] in elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery, while time to first flatus, LOS, and the secondary outcomes did not differ significantly. Postoperative caffeine consumption may be a reasonable strategy to prevent POI after elective colorectal surgery. However, larger randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with homogeneous study protocols, especially regarding the dosage form of caffeine and coffee, are needed.

Predictive factors of 90-day mortality after curative hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: a western single-center observational study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify predictive risk factors associated with 90-day mortality after hepatic resection (HR) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS: All patients undergoing elective resection for HCC from a single- institutional and prospectively maintained database were included. Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to identify pre- and intraoperative as well as histopathological predictive factors of 90-day mortality after elective HR. RESULTS: Between August 2004 and October 2021, 196 patients were enrolled (148 male /48 female). The median age of the study cohort was 68.5 years (range19-84 years). The rate of major hepatectomy (≥ 3 segments) was 43.88%. Multivariate analysis revealed patient age ≥ 70 years [HR 2.798; (95% CI 1.263-6.198); p = 0.011], preoperative chronic renal insufficiency [HR 3.673; (95% CI 1.598-8.443); p = 0.002], Child-Pugh Score [HR 2.240; (95% CI 1.188-4.224); p = 0.013], V-Stage [HR 2.420; (95% CI 1.187-4.936); p = 0.015], and resected segments ≥ 3 [HR 4.700; (95% 1.926-11.467); p = 0.001] as the major significant determinants of the 90-day mortality. CONCLUSION: Advanced patient age, pre-existing chronic renal insufficiency, Child-Pugh Score, extended hepatic resection, and vascular tumor involvement were identified as significant predictive factors of 90-day mortality. Proper patient selection and adjustment of treatment strategies could potentially reduce short-term mortality.

Which factors predict tumor recurrence and survival after curative hepatectomy in hepatocellular carcinoma? Results from a European institution.

BACKGROUND: High tumor recurrence and dismal survival rates after curative intended resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still concerning. The primary goal was to assess predictive factors associated with disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in a subset of patients with HCC undergoing hepatic resection (HR). METHODS: Between 08/2004-7/2021, HR for HCC was performed in 188 patients at our institution. Data allocation was conducted from a prospectively maintained database. The prognostic impact of clinico-pathological factors on DFS and OS was assessed by using uni- and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Survival curves were generated with the Kaplan Meier method. RESULTS: The postoperative 1-, 3- and 5- year overall DFS and OS rates were 77.9%, 49.7%, 41% and 72.7%, 54.7%, 38.8%, respectively. Tumor diameter ≥ 45 mm [HR 1.725; (95% CI 1.091-2.727); p = 0.020], intra-abdominal abscess [HR 3.812; (95% CI 1.859-7.815); p < 0.0001], and preoperative chronic alcohol abuse [HR 1.831; (95% CI 1.102-3.042); p = 0.020] were independently predictive for DFS while diabetes mellitus [HR 1.714; (95% CI 1.147-2.561); p = 0.009), M-Stage [HR 2.656; (95% CI 1.034-6.826); p = 0.042], V-Stage [HR 1.946; (95% CI 1.299-2.915); p = 0.001, Sepsis [HR 10.999; (95% CI 5.167-23.412); p < 0.0001], and ISGLS B/C [HR 2.008; (95% CI 1.273-3.168); p = 0.003] were significant determinants of OS. CONCLUSIONS: Despite high postoperative recurrence rates, an acceptable long-term survival in patients after curative HR could be achieved. The Identification of parameters related to OS and DFS improves patient-centered treatment and surveillance strategies.

Routine closed-suction drainage reduces seromas following totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The value of prophylactic closed-suction drainage in totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TEP) is still a matter of controversy. We conducted a meta-analysis of studies examining postoperative seroma rates in patients with or without routine placement of closed-suction drainage tubes. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted for trials comparing the outcome of TEP with or without routine drainage placement. Data regarding postoperative outcomes were extracted and compared by meta-analysis. The odds ratio and standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. RESULTS: Four studies were identified, involving a total of 1626 cases (Drain: n = 1251, no Drain: n = 375). There was a statistically significant difference noted between the 2 groups regarding postoperative seroma formation favoring the Drain group (odds ratio = 0.12; 95% confidence intervals [0.05, 0.29]; P < .001; 4 studies; I2 = 72%). For the remaining secondary endpoints postoperative urinary retention, recurrence, mesh infection and in-hospital length of stay no statistically significant difference was noted between the 2 study groups. CONCLUSION: Current evidence suggests that patients who underwent TEP with routine closed-suction drain placement developed significantly fewer seromas without any additional morbidity or prolongation of in-hospital stay.

Risk factors for post-operative ileus in patients with anterior resection for rectal cancer. A single center cohort.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative ileus (POI) is a major cause of morbidity in patients undergoing colorectal surgery. The aim of our study was to evaluate potential risk factors for POI in cases with anterior resection for rectal cancer. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed on 136 patients who underwent open anterior resection for rectal cancer between 2004 and 2018 at a single tertiary referral center. POI was defined as reinsertion of nasogastric tube or nil per os by postoperative day 4 and/or administration of neostigmine postoperatively. Uni- and multivariate analysis was performed to identify potential risk factors for POI. RESULTS: POI was observed in 18 patients (13.2%). Epidural anesthesia, type of ostomy, and history of abdominal surgery were not found to be related with POI. Advanced age was a statistically significant risk factor both in the uni- and in the multivariate analyses. An increase in age by 1 year was found to increase the odds of POI by 5% [95%CI: 0.4%-9.7%; p = 0.032]. CONCLUSION: Increased age was identified as a non-modifiable, patient-related risk factor for POI after anterior resection for rectal cancer. This finding is of particular importance as it turns the focus on the elderly patient and underlines the need for close clinical observation of this subgroup and liberal use of preventive and/or therapeutic measures postoperatively.

Intracorporeal Versus Extracorporeal Colo-colic Anastomosis in Minimally-invasive Left Colectomy: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The primary aim was to investigate the operative outcomes of intracorporeal (IA) and extracorporeal (EA) anastomosis in left-sided minimally-invasive colectomy. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted for studies comparing operative outcomes and follow-up data of IA versus EA in minimally-invasive left colectomy. Studies that investigated recto-sigmoid resections using transanal circular staplers were excluded. Data from eligible studies were extracted, qualitatively assessed, and included in a meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences with 95 per cent confidence intervals were calculated. RESULTS: Eight studies with a total of 750 patients were included (IA n = 335 versus EA n = 415). IA was associated with significantly lower overall morbidity (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.26-0.61, p < 0.0001) and less frequent surgical site infection (SSI) (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.12-0.61, p = 0.002) as primary outcomes compared to EA. Of the secondary outcomes, length of incision (SMD -2.51, 95% CI -4.21 to -0.81, p = 0.004), time to first oral diet intake (SMD -0.49, 95% CI -0.76 to -0.22, p = 0. 0004) and time to first bowel movement (SMD -0.40, 95% CI -0.71 to -0.09, p = 0.01) were significantly in favor of IA, while operative time was significantly shorter in the EA group (SMD 0.36, 95% CI 0.14-0.59, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: IA proves to be a safe and feasible option as it demonstrates benefits in terms of lower overall morbidity, fewer rates of SSI, smaller incision length, and faster postoperative gastrointestinal recovery despite a longer operative time compared to EA.

The Role of Alternative Lymph Node Classification Systems in Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (GEP-NEN): Superiority of a LODDS Scheme Over N Category in Pancreatic NEN (pNEN).

Lymph node (LN) involvement in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NEN) has been reported to have prognostic and therapeutic implications. Numerous novel LN classifications exist; however, no comparison of their prognostic performance for GEP-NEN has been done yet. Using a nationwide cohort from the German Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) Registry, the prognostic and discriminatory power of different LN ratio (LNR) and log odds of metastatic LN (LODDS) classifications were investigated using multivariate Cox regression and C-statistics in 671 patients with resected GEP-NEN. An increase in positive LN (pLN), LNR, and LODDS was associated with advanced tumor stages, distant metastases, and hormonal functionality. However, none of the alternative LN classifications studied showed discriminatory superiority in predicting prognosis over the currently used N category. Interestingly, in a subgroup analysis, one LODDS classification was identified that might be most appropriate for patients with pancreatic NEN (pNEN). On this basis, a nomogram was constructed to estimate the prognosis of pNEN patients after surgery. In conclusion, a more accurate classification of LN status may allow a more precise prediction of overall survival and provide the basis for individualized strategies for postoperative treatment and surveillance especially for patients with pNEN.

A New Nomogram-Based Prediction Model for Postoperative Outcome after Sigmoid Resection for Diverticular Disease.

Background and Objectives: Sigmoid resection still bears a considerable risk of complications. The primary aim was to evaluate and incorporate influencing factors of adverse perioperative outcomes following sigmoid resection into a nomogram-based prediction model. Materials and Methods: Patients from a prospectively maintained database (2004-2022) who underwent either elective or emergency sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease were enrolled. A multivariate logistic regression model was constructed to identify patient-specific, disease-related, or surgical factors and preoperative laboratory results that may predict postoperative outcome. Results: Overall morbidity and mortality rates were 41.3% and 3.55%, respectively, in 282 included patients. Logistic regression analysis revealed preoperative hemoglobin levels (p = 0.042), ASA classification (p = 0.040), type of surgical access (p = 0.014), and operative time (p = 0.049) as significant predictors of an eventful postoperative course and enabled the establishment of a dynamic nomogram. Postoperative length of hospital stay was influenced by low preoperative hemoglobin (p = 0.018), ASA class 4 (p = 0.002), immunosuppression (p = 0.010), emergency intervention (p = 0.024), and operative time (p = 0.010). Conclusions: A nomogram-based scoring tool will help stratify risk and reduce preventable complications.

The Postoperative Effect of Sugammadex versus Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors in Colorectal Surgery: An Updated Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: the aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the postoperative effects of neuromuscular blockade reversal with sugammadex compared with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in colorectal surgery. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed for studies comparing the postoperative course of patients receiving neuromuscular blockade reversal with either sugammadex or acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (control) after colorectal surgery. Data from eligible studies were extracted, qualitatively assessed, and included in a meta-analysis. Odds ratios and standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. RESULTS: Five studies with a total of 1969 patients were included (sugammadex n = 1137, control n = 832). Sugammadex reversal resulted in a significantly faster return of defecation or flatus after surgery compared to acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (SMD 13.01, 95% CI 6.55-19.46, p = < 0.0001). There were no significant differences between the two groups in other clinical outcomes such as surgical morbidity and length of hospital stay. CONCLUSION: The present data support the beneficial impact of sugammadex on gastrointestinal motility after colorectal surgery. However, the effect of sugammadex on the prevention of surgical complications and a prolonged hospital stay is diminishing. Larger randomized controlled trials with standardized study protocols are needed to validate the results presented here.

A single center comparative retrospective study of in situ split plus portal vein ligation versus conventional two-stage hepatectomy for cholangiocellular carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION: Cholangiocellular carcinoma (CCA) has a poor prognosis and the goldstandard even in locally advanced cases remains radical surgical resection. This approach however is limited by the future liver remnant volume (FLRV) after extensive parenchymal dissection leading to post-operative liver failure and high mortality rates. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of in situ liver transection with portal vein ligation (ISLT) procedure and conventional two-stage hepatectomy with portal vein embolization (PVE/TSH) in patients with CCA. METHODS: All patients with CCA and insufficient FLR considered for either ISLT or PVE/TSH were analyzed for outcomes including post-operative morbidity, mortality, and overall survival rates (OS). RESULTS: Sixteen patients received ISLT and eight patients underwent PVE/TSH. The completion rate of the second stage in the PVE/TSH group was 62% and 100% in the ISLT group (p = 0.027). The overall 90-day morbidity rates including severe complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥3b) were comparable (PVE/TSH 40% vs. ISLT 69%, p = 0.262). The median OS (PVE/TSH 7 months vs. ISLT 3 months) and the 90-day mortality rates (PVE/TSH 0% vs. ISLT 50%) did not significantly differ between the two groups (p > 0.05). In multivariate analysis, biliary resection and reconstruction was the only risk factor independently associated with 90-day post-operative morbidity [HR = 20.0; 95%CI (1.68-238.63); p = 0.018]. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate comparable outcomes in both groups in a rather prognostically unfavorable disease. The completion rate in the ISLT group was significantly higher than in the PVE/TSH cohort. This work encourages specialized hepato-biliary-pancreatic centers in applying the ISLT procedure in selected cases with CCA.

Single-port versus multi-port totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: The value of single-port totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (STEP) when compared to the conventional multi-port approach (TEP) is still a matter of controversy. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the feasibility and safety of the above-mentioned techniques. METHODS: A systematic literature search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the outcome STEP and TEP in patients with inguinal hernia was conducted. Data regarding postoperative outcomes were extracted and compared by meta-analysis. The Odds Ratio and Standardized Mean Differences with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were calculated. RESULTS: Six RCTs were identified, involving a total of 636 cases (STEP: n = 328, TEP: n = 308). There was a statistically significant difference noted between the 2 groups regarding return to everyday activities favoring the STEP group (SMD = -0.23; 95% CI [-0.41, -0.06]; P = .01; 4 studies; I2 = 9). For the remaining primary and secondary endpoints, intra- and postoperative morbidity, conversion rate, peritoneal tears, major intraoperative bleeding, postoperative haematoseroma, operative time, postoperative pain, chronic pain, cosmetic satisfaction, hernia recurrence and in-hospital length of stay no statistically significant difference was noted between the 2 study groups. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence suggests that patients who underwent STEP had similar outcomes to the traditional TEP technique with the exception of time to return to everyday activities, which was reported to be shorter in the STEP group.

The optimal timing of elective surgery in sigmoid diverticular disease: a meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the optimal time point of elective sigmoidectomy regarding the intraoperative and postoperative course in diverticular disease. METHODS: A comprehensive literature research was conducted for studies comparing the operative outcome of early elective (EE) versus delayed elective (DE) minimally invasive sigmoidectomy in patients with acute or recurrent diverticular disease. Subsequently, data from eligible studies were extracted, qualitatively assessed, and entered into a meta-analysis. By using random effect models, the pooled hazard ratio of outcomes of interest was calculated. RESULTS: Eleven observational studies with a total of 2096 patients were included (EE group n = 828, DE group n = 1268). Early elective sigmoidectomy was associated with a significantly higher conversion rate as the primary outcome in comparison to the delayed elective group (OR 2.48, 95% CI 1.5427-4.0019, p = 0.0002). Of the secondary outcomes analyzed only operative time (SMD 0.14, 95% CI 0.0020-0.2701, p = 0.0466) and time of first postoperative bowel movement (SMD 0.57, 95% CI 0.1202-1.0233, p = 0.0131) were significant in favor of the delayed elective approach. CONCLUSIONS: Delayed elective sigmoid resection demonstrates benefit in terms of reduced conversion rates and shortened operative time as opposed to an early approach. Conversely, operative morbidities seem to be unaffected by the timing of surgery. However, a final and robust conclusion based on the included observational cohort studies must be cautiously made. We therefore highly advocate larger randomized controlled trials with homogenous study protocols.

Surgical management in immunosuppressed patients with sigmoid diverticulitis, still a challenge: a single-center observational study.

PURPOSE: The question of whether immunosuppressed (IS) patients should be offered elective sigmoidectomy following a single episode of diverticulitis is controversial. We intended to examine the perioperative outcome of IS and immunocompetent (IC) patients after sigmoid resection. METHODS: A single institutional cohort study was conducted, including all surgically treated patients with sigmoid diverticulitis between 2004 and 2021. IS and IC patients were further subdivided into emergency and elective cases. Morbidity and mortality in both groups and factors influencing surgical outcome were examined using uni- and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS: A total of 281 patients were included in the final analysis. Emergency surgery was performed on 98 patients while 183 patients underwent elective sigmoid resection. Emergency sigmoidectomy demonstrates significantly higher morbidity and mortality rates in IS patients as compared to IC patients (81.81% vs. 42.1%; p = 0.001, respectively 27.27% vs. 3.94%; p = 0.004), while major morbidity and mortality was similar in both groups in the elective setting (IS: 23.52% vs. IC: 13.85%; p = 0.488, respectively IS: 5.88% vs. IC: 0%; p = 1). On multivariate regression analysis for major postoperative morbidity, ASA score [OR 1.837; (95% CI 1.166-2.894); p = 0.009] and emergency surgery under immunosuppression [OR 3.065; (95% CI 1.128-8.326); p = 0.028] were significant. In-hospital mortality was significantly related to age [OR 1.139; (95% CI 1.012-1.282); p = 0.031], preoperative CRP count [OR 1.137; (95% CI 1.028-1.259); p = 0.013], and immunosuppression [OR 35.246; (95% CI 1.923-646.176), p = 0.016] on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Elective surgery for sigmoid diverticulitis in immunocompromised patients demonstrates higher efficacy and safety when compared to sigmoid resection in the emergency setting.

N, LNR or LODDS: Which Is the Most Appropriate Lymph Node Classification Scheme for Patients with Radically Resected Pancreatic Cancer?

BACKGROUND: Even though numerous novel lymph node (LN) classification schemes exist, an extensive comparison of their performance in patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has not yet been performed. METHOD: We investigated the prognostic performance and discriminative ability of 25 different LN ratio (LNR) and 27 log odds of metastatic LN (LODDS) classifications by means of Cox regression and C-statistic in 319 patients with resected PDAC. Regression models were adjusted for age, sex, T category, grading, localization, presence of metastatic disease, positivity of resection margins, and neoadjuvant therapy. RESULTS: Both LNR or LODDS as continuous variables were associated with advanced tumor stage, distant metastasis, positive resection margins, and PDAC of the head or corpus. Two distinct LN classifications, one LODDS and one LNR, were found to be superior to the N category in the complete patient collective. However, only the LODDS classification exhibited statistically significant, gradually increasing HRs of their subcategories and at the same time significantly higher discriminative potential in the subgroups of patients with PDAC of the head or corpus and in patients with tumor free resection margins or M0 status, respectively. On this basis, we built a clinically helpful nomogram to estimate the prognosis of patients after radically resected PDAC. CONCLUSION: One LNR and one LODDS classification scheme were found to out-perform the N category in terms of both prognostic performance and discriminative ability, in distinct patient subgroups, with reference to OS in patients with resected PDAC.

Early elective versus elective sigmoid resection in diverticular disease: not only timing matters-a single institutional retrospective review of 133 patients.

PURPOSE: The optimal timing of elective surgery in patients with the colonic diverticular disease remains controversial. We aimed to analyze the timing of sigmoidectomy in patients with diverticular disease and its influence on postoperative course with respect to the classification of diverticular disease (CDD). METHODS: Patients who underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy were retrospectively enrolled and subdivided into two groups based on the time interval between the last attack and surgery: group A, early elective (≤ 6 weeks), and group B, elective (> 6 weeks). Multivariate regression models were used to identify factors which predict conversion to laparotomy, postoperative course, and length of hospital stay. RESULTS: A total of 133 patients (group A (n = 88), group B (n = 45)) were included. Basic demographic data did not differ between groups except for a higher rate of diabetes in group B (p = 0.009). The conversion rate was significantly higher in group A in comparison to group B (group A vs. group B: n = 23 (26.1%) vs. n = 3 (6.7%), p = 0.007). Logistic regression analysis revealed the timing of surgery and CDD stage as significant predictors for intraoperative conversion. Moreover, the postoperative course was influenced by high age as well as intraoperative conversion and length of hospital stay by conversion, preoperative CRP levels, and elective surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Both, timing of surgery and the disease stage, influence the conversion rates in laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease. Accordingly, patients with complicated acute or chronic sigmoid diverticulitis should be operated in the inflammation-free interval.

Prognostic Performance of Alternative Lymph Node Classification Systems for Patients with Medullary Thyroid Cancer: A Single Center Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Lymph node ratio (LNR) and the log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS) have been proposed as alternative lymph node (LN) classification schemes. Various cut-off values have been defined for each system, with the question of the most appropriate for patients with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) still remaining open. We aimed to retrospectively compare the predictive impact of different LN classification systems and to define the most appropriate set of cut-off values regarding accurate evaluation of overall survival (OS) in patients with MTC. METHODS: 182 patients with MTC who were operated on between 1985 and 2018 were extracted from our medical database. Cox proportional hazards regression models and C-statistics were performed to assess the discriminative power of 28 LNR and 28 LODDS classifications and compare them with the N category according to the 8th edition of the AJCC/UICC TNM classification in terms of discriminative power. Regression models were adjusted for age, sex, T category, focality, and genetic predisposition. RESULTS: High LNR and LODDS are associated with advanced T categories, distant metastasis, sporadic disease, and male gender. In addition, among 56 alternative LN classifications, only one LNR and one LODDS classification were independently associated with OS, regardless of the presence of metastatic disease. The C-statistic demonstrated comparable results for all classification systems showing no clear superiority over the N category. CONCLUSION: Two distinct alternative LN classification systems demonstrated a better prognostic performance in MTC patients than the N category. However, larger scale studies are needed to further verify our findings.

Prognostic Discrimination of Alternative Lymph Node Classification Systems for Patients with Radically Resected Non-Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Cohort Study from a Single Tertiary Referral Center.

BACKGROUND: Lymph node ratio (LNR) and the Log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS) have been proposed as a new prognostic indicator in surgical oncology. Various studies have shown a superior discriminating power of LODDS over LNR and lymph node category (N) in diverse cancer entities, when examined as a continuous variable. However, for each of the classification systems various cut-off values have been defined, with the question of the most appropriate for patients with CRC still remaining open. The present study aimed to compare the predictive impact of different lymph node classification systems and to define the best cut-off values regarding accurate evaluation of overall survival in patients with resectable, non-metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS: CRC patients who underwent surgical resection from 1996 to 2018 were extracted from our medical data base. Cox proportional hazards regression models and C-statistics were performed to assess the discriminative power of 25 LNR and 26 LODDS classifications. Regression models were adjusted for age, sex, extent of the tumor, differentiation, tumor size and localization. RESULTS: Our study group consisted of 654 consecutive patients with non-metastatic CRC. C-statistic revealed 2 LNR and 5 LODDS classifications that demonstrated superior prognostic performance in patients with UICC III CRC, compared to the N category. No clear advantage of one classification over another could be demonstrated in any other patient subgroup. CONCLUSIONS: Distinct LNR and LODDS classifications demonstrate a prognostic superiority over the N category only in patients with Stage III radically resected CRC.

Loop ileostomy versus loop colostomy as temporary deviation after anterior resection for rectal cancer.

PURPOSE: Construction of a temporary stoma is a common adjunct to low anterior resection for rectal cancer and can be accomplished either with loop ileostomy (LI) or loop colostomy (LC) with the question of the most appropriate one still remaining controversial. The aim of this study is to compare stoma-related morbidity between the two groups. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted including 148 consecutive patients (LI: 55/LC: 93) who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer between January 2004 and December 2018 in our department. Time interval between low anterior resection and stoma reversal was similar for both groups. Comparison between the two groups was made regarding stoma-related morbidity after stoma construction and after stoma reversal, respectively. RESULTS: A total number of 17 patients suffered from complications after the construction of a protective LI compared with 25 patients after the construction of a LC (LI vs LC: 17/55 (30.1%) vs 25/93 (26.9%); p = 0.59). The most common morbidity noted in both groups before stoma closure was parastomal hernia, with the difference being statistically not significant (LI vs LC: 11/55 (20%) vs 21/93 (22.6%); p = 0.84). However, patients with LI suffered from significantly more peristomal skin irritations compared with the patients with LC (LI vs LC: 5/55 (9.1%) vs 1/93 (1.1%); p = 0.027). Overall morbidity rate after stoma closure was found to be comparable in both groups (LI vs LC: 7/37 (18.9%) vs 6/64 (9.4%); p = 0.16). The most common complication after stoma reversal was wound infection (LI vs LC: 5/37 (13.5%) vs 5/64 (7.8%); p = 0.49). CONCLUSION: With the exception of a higher rate of skin irritation after LI construction, all other postoperative outcomes were found to be comparable in both study groups. Further randomized clinical trials are required to verify these findings. The study was registered in the German Registry for Clinical Trials (DRKS00020766, date of registration: 11.02.2020).