Colorectal resections for malignancy: A pilot study comparing conventional vs freehand robot-assisted laparoscopic colectomy

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic colectomy is widely accepted as a safe operation for colorectal cancer,but we have experienced resistance to the introduction of the FreeHandffrobotic camera holder to augment laparoscopic colorectal surgery.AIM To compare the initial results between conventional and FreeHandffrobot-assisted laparoscopic colectomy in Trinidad and Tobago.METHODS This was a prospective study of outcomes from all laparoscopic colectomies per-formed for colorectal carcinoma from November 29,2021 to May 30,2022.The following data were recorded:Operating time,conversions,estimated blood loss,hospitalization,morbidity,surgical resection margins and number of nodes har-vested.All data were entered into an excel database and the data were analyzed using SPSS ver 20.0.RESULTS There were 23 patients undergoing colectomies for malignant disease:8(35%)FreeHandff-assisted and 15(65%)conventional laparoscopic colectomies.There were no conversions.Operating time was significantly lower in patients under-going robot-assisted laparoscopic colectomy(95.13±9.22 vs 105.67±11.48 min;P=0.045).Otherwise,there was no difference in estimated blood loss,nodal harvest,hospitalization,morbidity or mortality.CONCLUSION The FreeHandffrobot for colectomies is safe,provides some advantages over conventional laparoscopy and does not compromise oncologic standards in the resource-poor Caribbean setting.

Older adults with acute severe ulcerative colitis have similar steroid non-response and colectomy rates as younger adults

BACKGROUND There is paucity of data on outcomes of acute severe ulcerative colitis(ASUC)in older adults(≥60 years of age).AIM To assess steroid non-response rates during the index admission for ASUC in older adults.Secondary outcomes were response to medical rescue therapy and colectomy rates;at index admission,3 and 12 mo.METHODS This retrospective multicentre cohort study included ASUC admissions who received intravenous steroids between January 2013 and July 2020 at two tertiary hospitals.Electronic medical records were reviewed to collect clinical,biochemical,and endoscopic data.A modified Poisson regression model was used for analysis.RESULTS Of 226 ASUC episodes,45(19.9%)occurred in patients≥60 years of age.Steroid non-response rates were comparable in older adults and patients<60 years of age[19(42.2%)vs 85(47%),P=0.618],crude risk ratio(RR)=0.89[95%confidence interval(CI):0.61-1.30],adjusted RR=0.99(0.44-2.21).Rates of response to medical rescue therapy in older adults was comparable to the younger cohort[76.5%vs 85.7%,P=0.46,crude RR=0.89(0.67-1.17)].Index admission colectomy[13.3%vs 10.5%,P=0.598,crude RR=1.27(0.53-2.99),adjusted RR=1.43(0.34-6.06)],colectomy at 3 mo[20%vs 16.6%,P=0.66,crude RR=1.18(0.61-2.3),adjusted RR=1.31(0.32-0.53)]and colectomy at 12 mo[20%vs 23.2%,P=0.682,crude RR=0.85(0.45-1.57),adjusted RR=1.21(0.29-4.97)],were similar between the two groups.CONCLUSION In older adults with ASUC,the steroid non-response rate,response to medical rescue therapy,and colectomy rate at index admission,3 and 12 mo is similar to patients less than 60 years of age.

The First Cases of Laparoscopic Colectomy for Cancer in Ziguinchor Peace Hospital

Laparoscopic colectomy is a standardized technique for the curative treatment of colon cancer, based on the principles of carcinological surgery. It is rarely performed in our region but common practice in developed countries. We conducted a retrospective study of the first 4 cases of laparoscopic colectomy for cancer. The patients were 3 men and 1 woman, with a mean age of 54.2 years. Of the 4 cancers, 3 were localized to the sigmoid and one to the cecum. The main symptom was rectal bleeding. Total colonoscopy with biopsy was performed in 3 patients and the histological type was a lieberkühnian, infiltrative, moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. Thoraco-abdomino-pelvic computed tomography (TAP CT) was performed in all the cases. Three patients were presented to the multidisciplinary team (MDT) prior to surgery. The operations were one right hemicolectomy and three left hemicolectomies. The mean operative time was 182.25 min [152 - 210]. Average blood loss was estimated at 200 cc. The average hospital stay was 4.71 days. Cancer staging was classified as stage I in 1 case (p T1N0M0) and stage III in 3 cases (pT3N1Mx, pT3N2Mx). Resection margins were healthy. The number of lymph nodes removed was 12, 14, 17 and 13 respectively. Conclusion: This is a safe and reproducible technique, but requires a much higher cost than laparotomy.

Short-term outcomes of overlapped delta-shaped anastomosis, an innovative intracorporeal anastomosis technique, in totally laparoscopic colectomy for colon cancer

AIM To introduce an innovative intracorporeal anastomosis technique named overlapped delta-shaped anastomosis(ODA)for colon cancer cases undergoing totally laparoscopic colectomy(TLC)and to assess its feasibility and safety. METHODS From January 2016 to March 2017,a total of 20consecutive patients with colon cancer accepted TLC and the ODA technique at our medical center.Patient demographics,operative outcomes,perioperative complications,and pathological results were collected and analyzed. RESULTS We successfully completed TLC and the ODA procedure in all 20 cases,including 6(30%)males and 14(70%)females.In total,11(55%),2(10%),and 7(35%)cases accepted right hemicolectomy,transverse hemicolectomy,and left hemicolectomy,respectively.None of the surgeries were converted to an open operation.Mean operative time was 178.5 min,and mean estimated blood loss was 58.5 m L.Mean time to first flatus was 2.5 d,and mean postoperative hospitalization duration was 6.8 d.No severe complications occurred,such as anastomotic leakage,snastomotic stenosis,anastomotic bleeding,and wound infection,except for one case who suffered from an abdominal infection and another case who suffered from gastric paralysis syndrome.Tumor recurrence was not observed in any patient during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION The ODA technique for colon cancer cases undergoing TLC appears to be safe and feasible,although our current results need to be verified in further studies.

Comparative analysis of open and laparoscopic colectomy for malignancy in a developing country

AIM: To compare the short-term, including oncologic, outcomes of open vs laparoscopic colectomy for cancer in a developing country. METHODS: The records of patients who underwent elective open and laparoscopic colectomies for cancer at the University Hospital of the West Indies between January 2005 and December 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic(age, gender, Charlson comorbidity index score), peri-operative, post-operative and oncologic data were collected for each patient. Specific oncologic variables included lymph node yield, pathologic stage, grade, proximal, distal and circumferential margin involvement. Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney, and binary logistic regression tests were used for analysis. Significance level was set atP < 0.05. RESULTS: There were 87 cases for open colectomy(OC) and 17 cases for laparoscopic colectomy(LC). Demographics did not significantly differ between OC and LC groups. Intra-operative blood loss and postoperative analgesic requirements did not significantly differ between groups. There was a trend towards longer operating times in OC group and shorter hospital stay in the LC group. Lymph node yield(14 vs 14, P = 0.619), proximal(10 cm vs 7 cm, P = 0.353) and distal(8 cm vs 8 cm, P = 0.57) resection margin distance and circumferential margin involvement(9 vs 0, P = 0.348) did not significantly differ between groups. Thirty-day morbidity was equivalent between groups(22 vs 6, P = 0.774). There were 6 deaths within 30 d of initial procedure, all in the OC group(6.9%). CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic colectomy in a developing country is oncologically safe and represents a option for colonic malignancies in these regions. Such data encourage the continued laparoscopic development.

Defecation function and quality of life in patients with slow-transit constipation after colectomy

BACKGROUND Although total or subtotal colectomy for slow-transit constipation(STC)has been proven to be a definite treatment,the associated defecation function and quality of life(QOL)are rarely studied.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of surgery for STC regarding defecation function and QOL.METHODS From March 2013 to September 2017,30 patients undergoing surgery for STC in our department were analyzed.Preoperative,intra-operative,and postoperative 3-mo,6-mo,1-year,and 2-year follow-up details were recorded.Defecation function was assessed by bowel movements,abdominal pain,bloating,straining,laxative,enema use,diarrhea,and the Wexner constipation and incontinence scales.QOL was evaluated using the gastrointestinal QOL index and the 36-item short form survey.RESULTS The majority of patients(93.1%,27/29)stated that they benefited from the operation at the 2-year follow-up.At each time point of the follow-up,the number of bowel movements per week significantly increased compared with that of the preoperative conditions(P<0.05).Similarly,compared with the preoperative values,a marked decline was observed in bloating,straining,laxative,and enema use at each time point of the follow-up(P<0.05).Postoperative diarrhea could be controlled effectively and notably improved at the 2-year follow-up.The Wexner incontinence scores at 6-mo,1-year,and 2-year were notably lower than those at the 3-mo follow-up(P<0.05).Compared with those of the preoperative findings,the Wexner constipation scores significantly decreased following surgery(P<0.05).Thus,it was reasonable to find that the gastrointestinal QOL index scores clearly increase(P<0.05)and that the 36-item short form survey results displayed considerable improvements in six spheres(role physical,role emotional,physical pain,vitality,mental health,and general health)following surgery.CONCLUSION Total or subtotal colectomy for STC is not only effective in alleviating constipation-related symptoms but also in enhancing patients’QOL.

Combined right hemicolectomy and pancre-aticoduodenectomy for locally advanced right hemicolon cancer

ABSTRACT： Extracolonic invasion of the duodenum and/or pancreatic head rarely occurs in patients with right hemico- Ion cancer. However, when necessary, combined radical op- eration is a challenge to the surgeon. We reported 7 patients with locally advanced right hemicolon cancer who underwent combined right hemicolectomy （RH） and pancreaticoduo- denectomy （PD） due to direct involvement of the duodenum or pancreatic head.

Laparoscopic vs open partial colectomy in elderly patients:Insights from the American College of Surgeons- National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database

AIM: To compare the outcomes between the laparoscopic and open approaches for partial colectomy in elderly patients aged 65 years and over using the American College of Surgeons- National Surgical Quality Improvement Program(ACS NSQIP) database. METHODS: The ACS NSQIP database for the years 2005-2011 was queried for all patients 65 years and above who underwent partial colectomy. 1:1 propensity score matching using the nearest- neighbor method was performed to ensure both groups had similar preoperative comorbidities. Outcomes including postoperative complications, length of stay and mortality were compared between the laparoscopic and open groups. χ2 and Fisher's exact test were used for discrete variables and Student's t-test for continuous variables. P < 0.05 was considered significant and odds ratios with 95%CI were reported when applicable. RESULTS: The total number of patients in the ACS NSQIP database of the years 2005-2011 was 1777035. We identified 27604 elderly patients who underwent partial colectomy with complete data sets. 12009(43%) of the cases were done laparoscopically and15595(57%) were done with open. After propensity score matching, there were 11008 patients each in the laparoscopic(LC) and open colectomy(OC) cohorts. The laparoscopic approach had lower post-operative complications(LC 15.2%, OC 23.8%, P < 0.001), shorter length of stay(LC 6.61 d, OC 9.62 d, P < 0.001) and lower mortality(LC 1.6%, OC 2.9%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Even after propensity score matching, elderly patients in the ACS NSQIP database having a laparoscopic partial colectomy had better outcomes than those having open colectomies. In the absence of specific contraindications, elderly patients requiring a partial colectomy should be offered the laparoscopic approach.

Bowel function and quality of life after minimally invasive colectomy with D3 lymphadenectomy for right-sided colon adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND Changes in bowel function after right-sided colectomy are not well understood compared to those associated with left-sided colectomy or rectal resection.In particular,there are concerns about bowel function after right-sided colectomy with complete mesocolic excision,which has become popular in the West.AIM To evaluate the functional outcomes of patients who underwent right-sided colectomy with D3 lymphadenectomy for colon cancer.METHODS Functional data from patients who underwent minimally invasive right-sided colectomy for colon cancer from October 2017 to September 2018 were prospectively collected.Functional outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and at 3,6,12,and 18 mo postoperatively.RESULTS Prior to surgery,57 patients answered the questionnaire,and 47 responded at three months,52 at 6 mo,52 at 12 mo,and 25 at 18 mo postoperatively.Most scales of quality of life and bowel function improved significantly over time.Urgency persisted to a high degree throughout the period without a significant change over time.The use of medications for defecation was about 10%over the entire period.Gas(P=0.023)and fecal frequency(P<0.001)increased,and bowel dysfunction group(P=0.028)was more common among patients taking medication.At six months,resected bowel and colon lengths were significantly different as a risk factor between the dysfunction group and the no dysfunction group[odd ratio(OR):1.095,P=0.026;OR:1.147,P=0.031,respectively]in univariate analysis,but not in multivariate analysis.CONCLUSION Despite D3 lymphadenectomy,most bowel symptoms improved over time after right-sided colectomy using a minimally invasive approach,and continuous medication was needed in only approximately 10%of patients.

Short and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic colectomy in obese patients

AIM:To investigate the impact of laparoscopic colectomy on short and long-term outcomes in obese patients with colorectal diseases.METHODS:A total of 98 obese(body mass index>30kg/m2)patients who underwent laparoscopic(LPS)right or left colectomy over a 10 year period were identified from a prospective institutionally approved database and manually matched to obese patients who underwent open colectomy.Controls were selected to match for body mass index,site of primary disease,American Society of Anesthesiologists score,and year of surgery(±3 year).The parameters analyzed included age,gender,comorbid conditions,American Society of Anaesthesiologists class,diagnosis,procedure,and duration of operation,operative blood loss,and amount of homologous blood transfused.Conversion rate,intra and postoperative complications as were as reoperation rate,30 d and long-term morbidity rate were also analyzed.For continuous variables,the Student’s t test was used for normally distributed data the Mann-Whitney U test for nonnormally distributed data.The Pearson’sχ2tests,or the Fisher exact test as appropriate,were used for proportions.RESULTS:Conversion to open surgery was necessary in 13 of 98 patients(13.3%).In the LPS group,operative time was 29 min longer and blood loss was 78 mL lower when compared to open colectomy(P=0.03,P=0.0001,respectively).Overall morbidity,anastomotic leak and readmission rate did not significantly differ between the two groups.A trend toward a reduction of wound complications was observed in the LPS when compared to open group(P=0.09).In the LPS group,an earlier recovery of bowel function(P=0.001)and a shorter length of stay(P=0.03)were observed.After a median follow-up of 62(range 12-132)mo 23patients in the LPS group and 38 in the open group experienced long-term complications(LPS vs open,P=0.03).Incisional hernia resulted to be the most frequent long-term complication with a significantly higher occurrence in the open group when compared to the laparoscopic one(P=0.03).CONCLUSION:Laparoscopic colectomy in obese patients is safe,does not jeopardize postoperative complications and resulted in lower incidence of long-term complications when compared with open cases.

Role of colectomy in preventing recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis in liver transplant recipients

AIM To study the published evidence on the impact of colectomy in preventing recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis(r PSC). METHODS An unrestricted systematic literature search in Pub Med, EMBASE, Medline Ovid SP, ISI Web of Science, Lista(EBSCO) and the Cochrane library was performed on clinical studies investigating colectomy in liver transplantation(LT) recipients with and without r PSC in the liver allograft. Study quality was evaluated according to a modification of the methodological index for non-randomized studies(MINORS) criteria. Primary endpoints were the impact of presence, timing and type of colectomy on r PSC. Overall presence of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), time of IBD diagnosis, posttransplant IBD and immunosuppressive regimen were investigated as secondary outcome.RESULTS The literature search yielded a total of 180 publications. No randomized controlled trial was identified. Six retrospective studies met the inclusion criteria of which 5 studies were graded as high quality articles. Reporting of IBD was heterogenous but in four publications, either inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis or in particular active colitis post-LT significantly increased the risk of r PSC. The presence of an intact(i.e., retained) colon at LT was identified as risk factor for r PSC in two of the high quality studies while four studies found no effect. Type of colectomy was not associated with r PSC but this endpoint was underreported(only in 33% of included studies).Neither tacrolimus nor cyclosporine A yielded a significant benefit in disease recurrence of primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC).CONCLUSION The data favours a protective role of pre-/peri-LT colectomy in r PSC but the current evidence is not strong enough to recommend routine colectomy for r PSC prevention.

Enhanced aquaporin 8 expression after subtotal colectomy in rat

Background: Aquaporins (AQPs), the family of water-selective channels, are localized in various organs and tissues, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. However, the roles of AQPs in the GI tract remain unclear. Materials and Methods: Male SD rats were subjected to subtotal colectomy (Group C, n = 22) or a sham operation (Group S, n = 16) and were sacri-ficed on postoperative days 7, 14, and 28. Total RNAs from the distal ileum and rectum were extracted. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed to measure AQP8 mRNA expression. For light-microscopy or immunohistochemistry, paraffin-embedded sections of 4 μm were prepared with H-E staining or anti-AQP8 antibody reaction. Mann-Whitney U-test was performed to compare the AQP8 distributions between the two groups, and the statistical significance was defined as

Laparoscopic total colectomy: Does the indication influence the outcome?

AIM: To assess and compare outcomes of laparoscopic total colectomy performed for a variety of indications. METHODS: Sixty six patients underwent laparoscopic total colectomy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (13) and other diseases (53). Data on demographics, pre and post-operative outcomes were collected prospectively.RESULTS: Mean operative time was 4.5 h. Conversion rate was 13.6%. Total colectomy performed for IBD was associated with a signifi cantly higher anastomotic leak rate (23.1% vs 1.9%, P < 0.05). On univariate analysis, hand sewn anastomosis and treatment with more than 20 mg of prednisolone for at least 3 mo was associated with a higher anastomotic leak rate (P < 0.05). No signifi cant difference was found in return of gut function and overall morbidity between disease groups. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic total colectomy is feasible and outcomes are equivalent whatever the indica- tion, except for anastomotic leak rate which is higher for patients with IBD.

Symptomatic pneumatosis intestinalis(including portal venous gas) after laparoscopic total colectomy

The development of intramural intestinal gas may indi-cate a serious postoperative complication and thereforeany radiological indication of such "pneumatosis intes-tinalis"(PI) in an unwell patient after surgery shouldput the clinical team on high-alert. However immedi-ate recourse to relook laparotomy may not be alwaysnecessary and, further, in some cases may possiblyaccelerate the deterioration especially if it proves to benon-therapeutic. Careful and close clinical monitoring,as is described in this clinical report, may allow discrimi-native identification of those in whom this finding is infact transient and therefore benign and who thereforecan be successfully treated without operative re-inter-vention. We describe the presenting features and back-ground scenario of PI early after laparoscopic total col-ectomy for medically refractory, severe ulcerative colitisand detail the critical postoperative decision pivots.

Single access laparoscopic total colectomy for severe refractory ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND Single port laparoscopic surgery allows total colectomy and end ileostomy for medically uncontrolled ulcerative colitis solely via the stoma site incision.While intuitively appealing,there is sparse evidence for its use beyond feasibility.AIM To examine the usefulness of single access laparoscopy(SAL)in a general series experience of patients sick with ulcerative colitis.METHODS All patients presenting electively,urgently or emergently over a three-year period under a colorectal specialist team were studied.SAL was performed via the stoma site on a near-consecutive basis by one surgical team using a“surgical glove port”allowing group-comparative and case-control analysis with a contemporary cohort undergoing conventional multiport surgery.Standard,straight rigid laparoscopic instrumentation were used without additional resource.RESULTS Of 46 consecutive patients requiring surgery,39(85%)had their procedure begun laparoscopically.27(69%)of these were commenced by single port access with an 89%completion rate thereafter(three were concluded by multi-trocar laparoscopy).SAL proved effective in comparison to multiport access regardless of disease severity providing significantly reduced operative access costs(>100€case)and postoperative hospital stay(median 5 d vs 7.5 d,P=0.045)without increasing operative time.It proved especially efficient in those with preoperative albumin>30 g/dL(n=20).Its comparative advantages were further confirmed in ten pairs case-matched for gender,body mass index and preoperative albumin.SAL outcomes proved durable in the intermediate term(median follow-up=20 mo).CONCLUSION Single port total colectomy proved useful in planned and acute settings for patients with medically refractory colitis.Assumptions regarding duration and cost should not be barriers to its implementation.

Abdominal ventral rectopexy with colectomy for obstructed defecation syndrome:An alternative option for selected patients

BACKGROUND Abdominal ventral rectopexy(AVR)with colectomy is controversial in the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome(ODS).Literature data on this technique for ODS are very limited.AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of AVR with colectomy for selected patients with ODS.METHODS Consecutive patients who underwent AVR with colectomy for ODS were identified prospectively from 2016 to 2017 in our department.Patient demographics,perioperative surgical results,and postoperative follow-up outcomes were collected and analyzed.Long-term follow-up was evaluated with standardized questionnaires.The severity of symptoms was assessed by the objective Wexner Constipation Score(WCS)and ODS Score.The quality of life was assessed by the Patients Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life score.Functional outcome was compared pre-and post-operatively for each patient.The primary outcomes were determined by the improvement in symptoms and quality of life.Secondary outcome measures were operating time,postoperative length of stay,morbidity and mortality,improvement of pelvic floor structure,and patient satisfaction.RESULTS Four patients underwent robotic-assisted surgery,and two patients underwent a laparoscopic-assisted procedure.The mean operating time for the robotic approach was 243 min(range 160–300 min),and the mean operating time for the laparoscopic approach was 230 min(range 220-240 min).The mean postoperative length of stay was 8.2 d(range 6-12 d).There was no conversion to open procedure and no postoperative mortality.No urinary retention,wound infection,prolonged ileus,pelvic infection and anastomosis leakage occurred.Six patients were followed up for 36 mo.The WCS,ODS,and Patients Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life score improved significantly postoperatively(P<0.05).The WCS and ODS scores showed the best remission and stabilization at 6 to 12 mo after surgery.There was no recurrence or novel constipation after surgery.None of the patients used laxative medication.CONCLUSION Robotic and laparoscopic-assisted ventral rectopexy with colectomy is a safe and effective procedure for selected patients with ODS.However,comprehensive preoperative evaluation and careful patient selection are essential.

Colonic diverticulitis with comorbid diseases may require elective colectomy

AIM:To investigate the comorbid disease could be the predictors for the elective colectomy in colonic diverticulitis.METHODS:A retrospective chart review of 246 patients with colonic diverticulitis admitted between 2000and 2008 was conducted,and 19 patients received emergent operation were identified and analyzed.Data were collected with regard to age,sex,albumin level on admission,left or right inflammation site,the history of recurrent diverticulitis,preoperative comorbidity,smoking habits,medication,treatment policy,morbidity,and mortality.Preoperative comorbid diseases included cardiovascular disease,diabetes,pulmonary disease,peptic ulcer disease,gouty arthritis,and uremia.Medications in use included non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,acetylsalicylic acid(Aspirin),and corticosteroids.Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the relevant risk factors correlating to colectomy.RESULTS:The mean age of the 246 patients was 69.5years(range,24-94 years).Most diverticulitis could be managed with conservative treatment(n=227,92.3%),and urgent colectomy was performed in 19patients(7.7%).There were three deaths in the surgical group and four deaths in the nonsurgical group.The overall mortality rate in the study was 1.7%among patients with conservative treatment and 15.7%among patients undergoing urgent colectomy.Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that comorbidities were risk factors for urgent colectomy for diverticulitis.CONCLUSION:To avoid high mortality and morbidity related to urgent colectomy,we suggest that patients with colonic diverticulitis and comorbid diseases may require elective colectomy.

Rethinking elective colectomy for diverticulitis: A strategic approach to population health

Diverticulitis is one of the leading indications for elective colon resection. Surgeons are trained to offer elective operations after a few episodes of diverticulitis in order to prevent future recurrences and potential emergency. However, most emergency surgery happens during the initial presentation. After recovery from an episode, much of the subsequent management of diverticulitis occurs in the outpatient setting, rendering inpatient "episode counting" a poor measure of the severity or burden of disease. Evidence also suggests that the risk of recurrence of diverticulitis is small and similar with or without an operation. Accordingly, contemporary evaluations of the epidemiologic patterns of treatments for diverticulitis have failed to demonstrate that the substantial rise in elective surgery over the last few decades has been successful at preventing emergency surgery at a population level. Multiple professional societies are calling to "individualize" decisions for elective colectomy and there is an international focus on "appropriate" indications for surgery. The rethinking of elective colectomy should come from a patient-centered approach that considers the risks of recurrence, quality of life, patient wishes and experiences about surgical and medical treatment options as well as operative morbidity and risks.

Preservation of the superior rectal artery in laparoscopic colectomy for slow transit constipation: Is it really associated with better outcomes?

Few patients with slow-transit constipation refractory to conservative treatment can benefit with a subtotal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis with the preservation of the superior rectal artery.In this letter to the editor some important issues were discussed.First,the study did not include a comparison group.Second,they did not present the functional results in the short or long term related to the bowel function of these patients after surgery.Finally,the authors showed that this surgical procedure was safe,and no cases of leakage were found.

Outcome of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis and ulcerative colitis undergoing colectomy

AIM:To study the outcomes of primary sclerosing cholangitis(PSC) patients with ulcerative colitis(UC) undergoing colectomy.METHODS:We identified 193 patients with PSC and UC undergoing colectomy at the Mayo Clinic(Rochester,MN,United States),between January 1,1995 and December 31,2008 using a computerized record system.Eighty-nine patients were excluded due to unclear diagnosis,liver transplantation prior to colectomy,age less than 18 years,inadequate follow-up data or known cases of cholangiocarcinoma.We retrospectively reviewed data from patient medical records.Clinical information,date of colectomy,preoperative and follow-up liver tests and pathological findings of the colon were reviewed.The Mayo risk score at baseline was calculated to obtain survival estimates for up to 4 years of follow-up.The primary endpoint was defined by the presence of all-cause mortality and/or liver decompensation requiring liver transplantation.All patients who did not have a clinical note on December 31,2008 were considered as patients with an incomplete follow-up unless they reached a study endpoint(death or underwent liver transplantation) prior to that date.The study was approved by the Institutional Review Boards of the Mayo Clinic.RESULTS:Of the 2441 patients with PSC observed in this period,104 patients(4.3%) had UC and underwent colectomy and were included.The median age was 43.2 years,and 67% were male.The leading indications for colectomy were severe colonic inflammation(49%),the presence of colonic dysplasia during routine surveillance(42%) and bowel perforation(3%).Twenty-six patients were lost to follow-up after a median duration of 3.9 years.The remaining 78 patients included 52 patients(66.7%) who were followed for a median duration of 5.5 years and 26 patients(33.3%) who developed primary endpoints including death(n = 13) or underwent liver transplantation(n = 13) with a median follow up of 2.6 years.For the secondary endpoint,the liver complications within 1 mo following the colectomy were found in 9 patients(8.6%) and included worsening liver tests(n = 3),liver failure requiring liver transplantation(n = 2),acute cholangitis(n = 3) and right hepatic vein thrombosis with hepatic infarct(n = 1).A multivariate logistic analysis demonstrated that only lower platelet count and lower albumin level preoperatively were significantly associated with more primary endpoints(OR = 0.99 and 0.05 respectively).CONCLUSION:One third of patients with PSC and UCundergoing colectomy died or underwent liver transplantation within 2.6 years.PSC patients with lower platelet counts and lower albumin levels were significantly more likely to have a poorer outcome.