Magnetic resonance imaging-based deep learning model to predict multiple firings in double-stapled colorectal anastomosis

BACKGROUND Multiple linear stapler firings during double stapling technique(DST)after laparoscopic low anterior resection(LAR)are associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage(AL).However,it is difficult to predict preoperatively the need for multiple linear stapler cartridges during DST anastomosis.AIM To develop a deep learning model to predict multiple firings during DST anastomosis based on pelvic magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).METHODS We collected 9476 MR images from 328 mid-low rectal cancer patients undergoing LAR with DST anastomosis,which were randomly divided into a training set(n=260)and testing set(n=68).Binary logistic regression was adopted to create a clinical model using six factors.The sequence of fast spin-echo T2-weighted MRI of the entire pelvis was segmented and analyzed.Pure-image and clinical-image integrated deep learning models were constructed using the mask region-based convolutional neural network segmentation tool and three-dimensional convolutional networks.Sensitivity,specificity,accuracy,positive predictive value(PPV),and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)was calculated for each model.RESULTS The prevalence of≥3 linear stapler cartridges was 17.7%(58/328).The prevalence of AL was statistically significantly higher in patients with≥3 cartridges compared to those with≤2 cartridges(25.0%vs 11.8%,P=0.018).Preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen level>5 ng/mL(OR=2.11,95%CI 1.08-4.12,P=0.028)and tumor size≥5 cm(OR=3.57,95%CI 1.61-7.89,P=0.002)were recognized as independent risk factors for use of≥3 linear stapler cartridges.Diagnostic performance was better with the integrated model(accuracy=94.1%,PPV=87.5%,and AUC=0.88)compared with the clinical model(accuracy=86.7%,PPV=38.9%,and AUC=0.72)and the image model(accuracy=91.2%,PPV=83.3%,and AUC=0.81).CONCLUSION MRI-based deep learning model can predict the use of≥3 linear stapler cartridges during DST anastomosis in laparoscopic LAR surgery.This model might help determine the best anastomosis strategy by avoiding DST when there is a high probability of the need for≥3 linear stapler cartridges.

Safety and feasibility of laparoscopic surgery for colorectal and gastric cancer under the Chinese multi-site practice policy:admittance standards of competence are needed

Background:The multi-site practice(MSP)policy has been practiced in China over 10 years.This study aimed to investigate the safety and feasibility of performing laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer(LSCRC)and gastric cancer(LSGC)under the Chinese MSP policy.Methods:We collected and analysed the data from 1,081 patients who underwent LSCRC or LSGC performed by one gastrointestinal surgeon in his original hospital(n=573)and his MSP institutions(n=508)between January 2017 and December 2020.Baseline demographics,intraoperative outcomes,post-operative recovery,and pathological results were compared between the original hospital and MSP institutions,as well as between MSP institutions with and without specific competence(surgical skill,operative instrument,perioperative multi-discipline team).Results:In our study,690 patients underwent LSCRC and 391 patients underwent LSGC.The prevalence of post-operative complications was comparable for LSCRC(11.5%vs 11.1%,P=0.89)or LSGC(15.2%vs 12.6%,P=0.46)between the original hospital and MSP institutions.However,patients in MSP institutions without qualified surgical assistant(s)and adequate instruments experienced longer operative time and greater intraoperative blood loss.The proportion of patients with inadequate lymph-node yield was significantly higher in MSP institutions than in the original hospital for both LSCRC(11.5%vs 21.2%,P<0.01)and LSGC(9.8%vs 20.5%,P<0.01).Conclusion:For an experienced gastrointestinal surgeon,performing LSCRC and LSGC outside his original hospital under the MSP policy is safe and feasible,but relies on the precondition that the MSP institutions are equipped with qualified surgical skills,adequate operative instruments,and complete perioperative management.