Feasibility and safety of minimally invasive multivisceral resection for T4b rectal cancer:A 9-year review

BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second highest cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide.About 5%-10%of patients are diagnosed with locally advanced rectal cancer(LARC)on presentation.For LARC invading into other structures(i.e.T4b),multivisceral resection(MVR)and/or pelvic ex-enteration(PE)remains the only potential curative surgical treatment.MVR and/or PE is a major and complex surgery with high post-operative morbidity.Minimally invasive surgery(MIS)has been shown to improve short-term post-operative outcomes in other gastrointestinal malignancies,but there is little evi-dence on its use in MVR,especially so for robotic MVR.This is a single-center retrospective cohort study from 1st January 2015 to 31st March 2023.Inclusion criteria were patients diagnosed with cT4b rectal cancer and underwent MVR,or stage 4 disease with resectable systemic metastases.Pa-tients who underwent curative MVR for locally recurrent rectal cancer,or me-tachronous rectal cancer were also included.Exclusion criteria were patients with systemic metastases with non-resectable disease.All patients planned for elective surgery were enrolled into the standard enhanced recovery after surgery pathway with standard peri-operative management for colorectal surgery.Complex sur-gery was defined based on technical difficulty of surgery(i.e.total PE,bladder-sparing prostatectomy,pelvic lymph node dissection or need for flap creation).Our primary outcomes were the margin status,and complication rates.Cate-gorical values were described as percentages and analysed by the chi-square test.Continuous variables were expressed as median(range)and analysed by Mann-Whitney U test.Cumulative overall survival(OS)and recurrence-free survival(RFS)were analysed using Kaplan-Meier estimates with life table analysis.Log-rank test was performed to determine statistical significance between cumulative estimates.Statistical significance was defined as P<0.05.Meier estimates with life table analysis.Log-rank test was performed to determine statistical significance between cumulative estimates.Statistical significance was defined as P<0.05.RESULTS A total of 46 patients were included in this study[open MVR(oMVR):12(26.1%),miMVR:36(73.9%)].Patients’American Society of Anesthesiologists score,body mass index and co-morbidities were comparable between oMVR and miMVR.There is an increasing trend towards robotic MVR from 2015 to 2023.MiMVR was associated with lower estimated blood loss(EBL)(median 450 vs 1200 mL,P=0.008),major morbidity(14.7%vs 50.0%,P=0.014),post-operative intra-abdominal collections(11.8%vs 50.0%,P=0.006),post-operative ileus(32.4%vs 66.7%,P=0.04)and surgical site infection(11.8%vs 50.0%,P=0.006)compared with oMVR.Length of stay was also shorter for miMVR compared with oMVR(median 10 vs 30 d,P=0.001).Oncological outcomes-R0 resection,recurrence,OS and RFS were comparable between miMVR and oMVR.There was no 30-d mortality.More patients underwent robotic compared with laparoscopic MVR for complex cases(robotic 57.1%vs laparoscopic 7.7%,P=0.004).The operating time was longer for robotic compared with laparoscopic MVR[robotic:602(400-900)min,laparoscopic:Median 455(275-675)min,P<0.001].Incidence of R0 resection was similar(laparoscopic:84.6%vs robotic:76.2%,P=0.555).Overall complication rates,major morbidity rates and 30-d readmission rates were similar between la-paroscopic and robotic MVR.Interestingly,3-year OS(robotic 83.1%vs 58.6%,P=0.008)and RFS(robotic 72.9%vs 34.3%,P=0.002)was superior for robotic compared with laparoscopic MVR.CONCLUSION MiMVR had lower post-operative complications compared to oMVR.Robotic MVR was also safe,with acceptable post-operative complication rates.Prospective studies should be conducted to compare short-term and long-term outcomes between robotic vs laparoscopic MVR.

Liver transplantation and multivisceral transplantation in the management of patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumours

Orthotopic liver transplantation(OLT) represents a generally accepted albeit somewhat controversially discussed therapeutic strategy in highly selected patients with non-resectable hepatic metastases from neuroendocrine tumours(NET). Whilst there are some exclusion criteria, these are not universally followed, and the optimal set of inclusion parameters for deeming patients eligible has not yet been elucidated. This is due to heterogeneity in the study populations, as well differing approaches employed and also divergences in selection criteria between centres. Recent data have suggested that OLT may represent the most efficacious approach in terms of overall and disease-free survival to the management of NET metastatic to the liver when conducted in accordance with the modified Milan criteria. Therefore, a consensus set of selection criteria requires definition to facilitate stringent and fair allocation of deceased-donor organs, as well as consideration for living-donor organs. In the context of classically non-resectable metastatic tumour bulk, multivisceral transplantation with or without the liver may also be indicated, yet experience is very limited. In this review, we discuss the diagnostic work-up of patients in whom the aforementioned transplantation approaches are being considered, critically analyse the published experience and also anticipate future developments in this field, including a discussion of immediate and longer-term research priorities.

The current status of multivisceral transplantation

BACKGROUND: Multivisceral transplantation (MVTx) is concurrent transplantation of the stomach, spleen, pancreaticoduodenal complex, and intestine, with (MVTx) or without (modified MVTx) the liver. MVTx has been performed more frequently worldwide, and the survival of patients approximates that of patients who have undergone transplantation of other solid organs. This review introduces the recent development in MVTx. DATA SOURCES: Two English-language medical databases, MEDLINE and SPRINGERLINK, were searched for articles on 'multivisceral transplantation', graft procurement', 'immunosuppression,' and related topics. RESULT: MVTx has been the optimal therapy for the intestine with liver failure and/or failure of several other organs, despite many difficulties in preventing rejection and infection. CONCLUSION: Further study is needed to improve the long-term survival of recipients and reduce the complications.

Significance of multivisceral resections in oncologic surgery: A systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND Multivisceral resections (MVR) are often necessary to reach clear resections margins but are associated with relevant morbidity and mortality. Factors associated with favorable oncologic outcomes and elevated morbidity rates are not clearly defined. AIM To systematically review the literature on oncologic long-term outcomes and morbidity and mortality in cancer surgery a systematic review of the literature was performed. METHODS PubMed was searched for relevant articles (published from 2000 to 2018). Retrieved abstracts were independently screened for relevance and data were extracted from selected studies by two researchers. RESULTS Included were 37 studies with 3112 patients receiving MVR for colorectal cancer (1095 for colon cancer, 1357 for rectal cancer, and in 660 patients origin was not specified). The most common resected organs were the small intestine, bladder and reproductive organs. Median postoperative morbidity rate was 37.9%(range: 7% to 76.6%) and median postoperative mortality rate was 1.3%(range: 0% to 10%). The median conversion rate for laparoscopic MVR was 7.9%(range: 4.5% to 33%). The median blood loss was lower after laparoscopic MVR compared to the open approach (60 mL vs 638 mL). Lymph-node harvest after laparoscopic MVR was comparable. Report on survival rates was heterogeneous, but the 5-year overall-survival rate ranged from 36.7% to 90%, being worst in recurrent rectalcancer patients with a median 5-year overall survival of 23%. R0 -resection, primary disease setting and no lymph-node or lymphovascular involvement were the strongest predictors for long-term survival. The presence of true malignant adhesions was not exclusively associated with poorer prognosis. Included were 16 studies with 1.600 patients receiving MVR for gastric cancer. The rate of morbidity ranged from 11.8% to 59.8%, and the main postoperative complications were pancreatic fistulas and pancreatitis, anastomotic leakage, cardiopulmonary events and post-operative bleedings. Total mortality was between 0% and 13.6% with an R0 -resection achieved in 38.4% to 100% of patients. Patients after R0 resection had 5-year overall survival rates of 24.1% to 37.8%. CONCLUSION MVR provides, in a selected subset of patients, the possibility for good long-term results with acceptable morbidity rates. Unlikelihood of achieving R0 -status, lymphovascular- and lymph -node involvement, recurrent disease setting and the presence of metastatic disease should be regarded as relative contraindications for MVR.

Minimally invasive multivisceral resection in rectal cancer:Preparation or Precipitation?

Rectal cancer is a malignant neoplasm that constitutes a significant public health challenge due to its high incidence and associated mortality.In this editorial,we comment on the article by Chan et al.In recent years,there has been progress in the development of new treatments for initial and metastatic rectal cancer due to introduction of techniques of innovative and minimally-invasive surgery(MIS)such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery.However,only a few studies have ana-lyzed the feasibility,safety,and results of MIS in relation to open surgery,thereby highlighting the promising and superior results of MIS in functional and oncolo-gical terms.The findings were corroborated by the comparative study of Chan et al which evaluated the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive multivisceral resection(miMVR).A comparison of postoperative outcomes between open MVR and miMVR showed that miMVR presented less blood loss,fewer postoperative complications,and less morbidity.This editorial article is focused specifically on analysis of the characteristics of new minimally-invasive surgical techniques in rectal cancer,particularly in advanced stages.The importance of future research is emphasized by progress in knowledge,training,and clinical practice in the appli-cation of these surgical procedures for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer.

Current status of intestinal and multivisceral transplantation

Clinical-nutritional autonomy is the ultimate goal of patients with intestinal failure(IF).Traditionally,patients with IF have been relegated to lifelong parenteral nutrition(PN)once surgical and medical rehabilitation attempts at intestinal adaptation have failed.Over the past two decades,however,outcome improvements in intestinal transplantation have added another dimension to the therapeutic armamentarium in the field of gut rehabilitation.This has become possible through relentless efforts in the standardization of surgical techniques,advancements in immunosuppressive therapies and induction protocols and improvement in postoperative patient care.Four types of intestinal transplants include isolated small bowel transplant,liver-small bowel transplant,multivisceral transplant and modified multivisceral transplant.Current guidelines restrict intestinal transplantation to patients who have had significant complications from PN including liver failure and repeated infections.From an experimental stage to the currently established therapeutic modality for patients with advanced IF,outcome improvements have also been possible due to the introduction of tacrolimus in the early 1990s.Studies have shown that intestinal transplant is cost-effective within 1–3 years of graft survival compared with PN.Improved survival and quality of life as well as resumption of an oral diet should enable intestinal transplantation to be an important option for patients with IF in addition to continued rehabilitation.Future research should focus on detecting biomarkers of early rejection,enhanced immunosuppression protocols,improved postoperative care and early referral to transplant centers.

Beyond total mesorectal excision: The emerging role of minimally invasive surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer

Multivisceral resection and/or pelvic exenteration represents the only potential curative treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer(LARC);however,it poses significant technical challenges,which account for the high risk of morbidity and mortality associated with the procedure.As complete histopathologic resection is the most important determinant of patient outcomes,LARC often requires an extended resection beyond the total mesorectal excision plane to obtain clear re-section margins.In an era when laparoscopic surgery and robot-assisted surgery are becoming commonplace,the optimal approach to extensive pelvic inter-ventions remains controversial.However,acceptance of the suitability of mini-mally invasive surgery is slowly gaining traction.Nonetheless,there is still a lack of evidence in the literature about minimally invasive approaches in multiple and extensive surgical resections,highlighting the need for research studies to explore,validate,and develop this issue.This editorial aims to provide a critical overview of the currently available applications and challenges of minimally invasive abdo-minopelvic surgery for LARC.Furthermore,we discuss recent developments in the field of robotic surgery for LARC,with a specific focus on new innovations and emerging frontiers.

Minimally invasive pelvic exenteration for primary or recurrent locally advanced rectal cancer:A glimpse into the future

Surgeons have grappled with the treatment of recurrent and T4b locally advanced rectal cancer(LARC)for many years.Their main objectives are to increase the overall survival and quality of life of the patients and to mitigate postoperative complications.Currently,pelvic exenteration(PE)with or without neoadjuvant treatment is a curative treatment when negative resection margins are achieved.The traditional open approach has been favored by many surgeons.However,the technological advancements in minimally invasive surgery have radically changed the surgical options.Recent studies have demonstrated promising results in postoperative complications and oncological outcomes after robotic or laparoscopic PE.A recent retrospective study entitled“Feasibility and safety of minimally invasive multivisceral resection for T4b rectal cancer:A 9-year review”was published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.As we read this article with great interest,we decided to delve into the latest data regarding the benefits and risks of minimally invasive PE for LARC.Currently,the small number of suitable patients,limited surgeon experience,and steep learning curve are hindering the establishment of minimally invasive PE.

Successful en bloc resection of primary hepatocellular carcinoma directly invading the stomach and pancreas

Multivisceral surgical resection for cure was successfully performed in a 70-year-old man suffering from a primary hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)associated with direct invasion to the stomach and pancreas.The patient presented with gastric outlet obstruction,upper abdominal pain and a history of chronic liver disease due to hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection.Upper gastro-intestinal(GI)endoscopy revealed an infiltrating tumor protruding through the gastric wall and obliterating the lumen.Computer tomograghy(CT)and magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)scan demonstrated a 15-cm tumor in the left lateral segment of the liver with invasion to the stomach and pancreas.Alpha-foetoprotein (AFP)levels and liver function tests were normal.The patient underwent an en bloc left hepatectomy,total gastrectomy,distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy and radical lymphadenectomy.Pathology revealed a poorly differentiated,giant cell HCC involving the stom-ach and pancreas.Disease-free margins of resection were achieved.The patient's postoperative course was uneventful.Sixteen months after surgery,he has norecurrence or distal metastasis.Direct invasion of HCC into the GI tract is rarely encountered.Complete surgical resection should be considered in selected patients with an appropriate hepatic functional reserve.

Abdominal cluster transplantation and management of perioperative hemodynamic changes

BACKGROUND: Multivisceral transplantation (MTX, or cluster transplantation) is defined as the transplantation of three or more abdominal organs en bloc, namely the liver together with the pancreatoduodenal complex, the stomach as well as the small bowel with/without the right hemicolon. Up to May 1999, only 72 cases were reported to the Intestinal Transplant Registry. Organ cluster transplantation may carry with complex hemodynamic alterations. Based on our experience in two cases of abdominal cluster transplantation, we describe the technical details of multivisceral transplantation and the management of hemodynamic changes. METHODS: A Swan-Ganz catheter was placed to assist in monitoring the patients' hemodynamic status. After the transplantation, the 2 patients were closely observed in the intensive care unit in terms of vital signs; disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) including activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT), fibrinogen (Fg) and D-dimer, and arterial blood gas; and quantity and characteristics of drainage. Additionally, intra-abdominal hemorrhage was supervised by bedside B-ultrasonography or enhanced computed tomography (CT) examination. Whole blood viscosity was monitored 2 weeks after transplantation. The blood flow of the hepatic artery and portal vein and arterial resistant index were assessed routinely by Doppler ultrasonography. RESULTS: Hemodynamic changes were observed during perioperation. Liver and renal function recovered within one week after transplantation. Enteral feedings and oral intake were gradually increased with a reciprocal decrease in parenteral nutrition. Despite systemic antibiotics were given according to the results of frequent cultures, patient 1 died from cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection 4 months after transplantation and patient 2 died of a systemic sepsis 2 months after the operation. CONCLUSIONS: Many factors contribute to the success of multivisceral transplantation. In order to maintain hemodynamics stable during perioperation, preoperative coagulatory function should be corrected, and stable circulation, serum electrocyte balance, and normal body temperature should be kept during the operation in addition to the treatment of intra-abdominal hemorrhage and making up for the loss of body fluid. However, complicatiom, infection and rejection are barriers for the improvement of graft survival.

Transplantation of an eight-organ multivisceraI graft in a patient with frozen abdomen after complicated Crohn's disease

To report an extended multivisceral transplantation （MVTx） including right kidney and ascending colon in a patient with complicated Crohn＇s disease （CD）. A 36-year old female suffering from short bowel syndrome and frozen abdomen due to fistulizing CD after multiple abdominal operations underwent MVTx of eight organs including stomach, pancreatoduodenal complex, liver, intestine, ascending colon, right kidney, right adrenal gland, and greater omentum in November 2003. Immunosuppression consisted of alemtuzumab, tacrolimus and steroids. The patient was off parenteral nutrition by postoperative wk 3. She experienced one episode of pneumonia. The patient recovered completely and discharged 2.5 mo and was doing well 30 mo after MVTx. This is one of the very rare cases in which a complete mulitivisceral graft of eight abdominal organs was transplanted orthotopically.

Robotic surgery for multi-visceral resection in locally advanced colorectal cancer:Techniques,benefits and future directions

Colorectal cancer accounts for 10%of diagnosed cancers globally and often presents as advanced disease,necessitating aggressive treatment.With both younger and healthier elderly patients being diagnosed,as well as potentially the need for salvage therapy post total neoadjuvant treatment,surgical options for cure include pelvic exenteration.Whilst typically performed via an open approach,there has been an increased utilisation of minimally invasive techniques including robotic surgery.Offering smaller in-cisions,reduced postoperative pain,and quicker recovery time than open surgery,robotic techniques have demonstrated lower blood loss,shorter hospital stays,and reduced morbidity.Moreover,the er-gonomic design of robotic systems provides surgeons with comfort during long procedures and increased precision.It also offers an increased opportunity for organ preservation and reconstruction whilst maintaining adequate oncological outcomes.As robotic technology continues to evolve and combines with artificial intelligence,it is poised to play an even more significant role in the management of complex colorectal cancer cases,improving survival and long-term outcomes.

Advances in beyond total mesorectal excision surgery: Behind the scenes

The management of locally advanced rectal cancer involving adjacent organs and extending beyond the surgical planes of total mesorectal excision has evolved over the past few decades both in terms of the effectiveness of preoperative treatments and surgical innovation.The use of a robotic platform is increasing,even in complex surgery such as pelvic exenteration together with the advantages of minimally invasive procedures.However,satisfactory surgical,oncological,and functional outcomes are achieved not only minimizing the impact of a demolitive surgery but also when a multidisciplinary specialized team focuses on experienced surgeons,mandatory rules of surgical oncology,appropriate medical treatments,accurate preoperative planning,and an acceptable quality of life.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy for gastric cancer

Pancreaticoduodenectomy(PD)is performed to achieve an R0 resection for gastric cancer with pancreatic and/or duodenal invasion.Several retrospective case series have been published,but the sample cohorts in each study were heterogeneous and small.Moreover,the absence of prospective studies results in a lack of solid evidence that will help determine who can benefit from this procedure.Although the morbidity and mortality of PD have been reported by most studies to be acceptable and that the procedure is feasible,these remained to be much higher than those of standard gastrectomy.Therefore,careful selection of patients should be considered.Based on a review of previous case series and our own experience,PD appears to be beneficial to patients with gastric cancer with pancreatic invasion when R0 resection is possible.In addition,multidisciplinary treatment such as neoadjuvant chemotherapy,is anticipated to improve survival.Nevertheless,considering that prospective randomized studies are difficult to perform,a large-scale multicenter retrospective cohort study is required to evaluate this highly invasive procedure.