Robotic-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer shows similar clinical efficacy to laparoscopic surgery: A propensity score matched study

BACKGROUND Rectal cancer ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide,necessitating surgical resection as the sole treatment option.Over the years,there has been a growing adoption of minimally invasive surgical techni-ques such as robotic and laparoscopic approaches.Robotic surgery represents an innovative modality that effectively addresses the limitations associated with traditional laparoscopic techniques.While previous studies have reported favo-rable perioperative outcomes for robot-assisted radical resection in rectal cancer patients,further evidence regarding its oncological safety is still warranted.AIM To conduct a comparative analysis of perioperative and oncological outcomes between robot-assisted and laparoscopic-assisted low anterior resection(LALAR)procedures.METHODS The clinical data of 125 patients who underwent robot-assisted low anterior resection(RALAR)and 279 patients who underwent LALAR resection at Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from December 2019 to November 2022 were retrospectively analyzed.After performing a 1:1 propensity score matching,the patients were divided into two groups:The RALAR group and the LALAR group(111 cases in each group).Subsequently,a comparison was made between the short-term outcomes within 30 d after surgery and the 3-year survival outcomes of these two groups.RESULTS Compared to the LALAR group,the RALAR group exhibited a significantly earlier time to first flatus[2(2-2)d vs 3(3-3)d,P=0.000],as well as a shorter time to first fluid diet[4(3-4)d vs 5(4-6)d,P=0.001].Additionally,the RALAR group demonstrated reduced postoperative indwelling catheter time[2(1-3)d vs 4(3-5)d,P=0.000]and decreased length of hospital stay after surgery[5(5-7)d vs 7(6-8)d,P=0.009].Moreover,there was an observed increase in total cost of hospitalization for the RALAR group compared to the LALAR group[10777(10780-11850)dollars vs 10550(8766-11715)dollars,P=0.012].No significant differences were found in terms of conversion rate to laparotomy or incidence of postoperative complications between both groups.Furthermore,no significant disparities were noted regarding the 3-year overall survival rate and 3-year disease-free survival rate between both groups.CONCLUSION Robotic surgery offers potential advantages in terms of accelerated recovery of gastrointestinal and urologic function compared to LALAR resection,while maintaining similar perioperative and 3-year oncological outcomes.

Laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal carcinoma:Complications and management in 132 consecutive patients

AIM:To analyze the clinical manifestations and risk fac-tors of complications in laparoscopic low anterior resection(LAR)for rectal cancer patients.METHODS:A series of 132 consecutive patients who received laparoscopic LAR for rectal cancer in our center were included.The etiology,diagnosis,treatment and prevention of rectal cancer were studied among the patients with surgery-related complications using both univariate and multivariate regression analysis.RESULTS:No conversion to open surgery was observed and 5 cases converted to hand-assisted laparoscopic operation.The overall morbidity rate was 20.5%.Complications occurred during the operation in 7 patients(5.3%),within 30 postoperative days in 24 patients(18.2%),and within 3 mo in 2 patients(1.5%).The most significant complications were anastomotic leak-age(9.1%)and anastomotic hemorrhage(5.3%).Sizeand location of tumor,pathological staging and preoperative nutrition were significant factors associated with LAR complications,while gender,age and pathological type showed no relevance.Binary logistics regression showed that the size and location of tumor,and pathological staging were independent factors of laparoscopic LAR.All the complications were treated during their onset of clinical manifestations by interventional or conservative therapy.CONCLUSION:Anastomotic leakage is a major com-plication in laparoscopic LAR.The complications may be associated with tumor size and site,and pathological stage.Interventional therapies are of value in the management of laparoscopic LAR complications.

Colonic J-pouch anal anastomosis after ultralow anterior resection with upper sphincter excision for low-lying rectal cancer

AIM:There is some evidence of functional superiority of colonic J-pouch over straight coloanal anastomosis (CM) in ultralow anterior resection (ULAR) or intersphincteric resection. On the assumption that colonic J-pouch anal anastomosis is superior to straight CM in ULAR with upper sphincter excision (USE: excision of the upper part of the internal sphincter) for low-lying rectal cancer, we compare functional outcome of colonic J-pouch vsthe straight CM. METHODS: Fifty patients of one hundred and thirty-three rectal cancer patients in whom lower margin of the tumors were located between 3 and 5 cm from the anal verge received ULAR including USE from September 1998 to January 2002. Patients were randomized for reconstruction using either a straight (n = 26) or a colonic J-pouch anastomosis (n = 24) with a temporary diverting-loop ileostomy. All patients were followed-up prospectively by a standardized questionnaire [Fecal Inco-ntinence Severity Index (FISI) scores and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FIQL) scales]. RESULTS: We found that, compared to straight anastomosis patients, the frequency of defecation was significantly lower in J-pouch anastomosis patients for 10 mo after ileostomy takedown. The FISI scores and FIQL scales were significantly better in J-pouch patients than in straight patients at both 3 and 12 mo after ileostomy takedown. Furthermore, we found that FISI scores highly correlated with FIQL scales. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that colonic J-pouch anal anastomosis decreases the severity of fecal incontinence and improves the quality of life for 10 mo after ileostomy takedown in patients undergoing ULAR with USE for low-lying rectal cancer.

Assessments of Pudendal Motor and Sensory Nerves in Patients with or without Fecal Incontinence after Low Anterior Resection for Lower Rectal Cancer

Background:?To clarify the pudendal motor (PMN) and sensory (PSN) nerves?play in preventing fecal incontinence (FI) after low anterior resection (LAR) for lower rectal cancer, the PMN and PSN functions were studied. Methods:?Sixty patients were divided into groups A (n = 20, FI) and B (n = 40, continence). These were compared with group C (n = 30, control subjects). PMN latency (PMNL) (right, left, and posterior sides of the anal canal) was studied by sacral magnetic stimulation. Anal mucosal electric sensitivity (AMES) was measured at the lower, dentate line (DL), and upper zones. Results:?The distance of anastomosis from anal verge (DAAV) in group A was significantly shorter than in group B (p?value p?value p?value p?value Conclusion:?FI after LAR with a short DAAV?may?lead to?external anal sphincter dysfunction due to damage of both PMN and PSN.

LOW ANTERIOR RESECTION TREATMENT FOR MIDDLE AND LOWER RECTAL CANCER

Objective:To evaluate the results of low anteriorresection treatment for middle and lower rectal cancer. Methods:Clinical and follow-up data of 196 patients with middle and lower rectal cancer who received low anteriorresection treatment from June 1991 to June 2001 wereretrospectively analyzed. Results: anterior resectiontechnique including double stapling technique、pull-through and Park抯 operations could get a standard radicalresection and had no significant differences in 1, 3, 5 and 10 years survival rates comparing with the abdominoperineal resection(Miles?. Conclusion:The experience suggests that the low anterior resection technique was safe and simplehad less bleeding and fewer complications and couldincrease the life-quality of the patients with rectal cancer.

Expressions of Connexin and Par-3 in the Distal Margin of Rectal Cancer after Ultra-low Anterior Resection

This study examined the expression of connexin and protease-activated receptor 3 （par-3） in the distal resection margin of rectal cancer and the correlation of the expression of the two proteins with tumor relapse. A total of 40 patients with rectal cancer underwent ultra-low anterior resection with curved cutter stapler. The pathological specimens were divided into 3 groups in terms of sampling sites： tumor group, 2.0-cm group （in which the tissues were harvested 2.0 cm distal to the tumor tissues）, 3.0-cm group （in which the tissues were taken 3.0 cm away from the tumor tissues）. All the samples were pathologically observed and then measured for the expression of connexin and par-3 by employing immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The operations in this series went uneventfully. No anastomotic stoma bleeding, stenosis and death occurred postoperatively. Histopathologically, in the tumor group, epithelial cells lost normal pattern of arrangement and polarity, and were loosely connected and even detached. In the 3.0-cm group, the epithelia had normal appearance, obvious cell polarity and essentially intact cell junction. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting indicated that the 3.0-cm group had the strongest expression of connexin and par-3, and the expression in the 2.0-cm group and the tumor group was relatively weak. There existed significant difference in the expression of the two proteins among the three groups （P〈0.05 for all）. It was concluded that the down-regulated connexin and par-3 in the distal margin of rectal cancer tissues may indicate the progression of the disease and high likelihood of recurrence and metastasis. Although no tumor cells were found in the sections of the 2.0cm group, the decreased expression of connexin and par-3 may suggest the development of anaplasia and the increased odds of tumor relapse. Therefore, we are led to speculate that tumor resection only including 2.0 cm of unaffected rectum could not completely avoid the distant metastasis and local relapse.

Role of protective stoma in low anterior resection for rectal cancer:A meta-analysis

AIM: To provide a comprehensive evaluation of the role of a protective stoma in low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer.

Machine learning model for prediction of low anterior resection syndrome following laparoscopic anterior resection of rectal cancer:A multicenter study

BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)severely impairs patient postoperative quality of life,especially major LARS.However,there are few tools that can accurately predict major LARS in clinical practice.AIM To develop a machine learning model using preoperative and intraoperative factors for predicting major LARS following laparoscopic surgery of rectal cancer in Chinese populations.METHODS Clinical data and follow-up information of patients who received laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal cancer from two medical centers(one discovery cohort and one external validation cohort)were included in this retrospective study.For the discovery cohort,the machine learning prediction algorithms were developed and internally validated.In the external validation cohort,we evaluated the trained model using various performance metrics.Further,the clinical utility of the model was tested by decision curve analysis.RESULTS Overall,1651 patients were included in the present study.Anastomotic height,neoadjuvant therapy,diverting stoma,body mass index,clinical stage,specimen length,tumor size,and age were the risk factors associated with major LARS.They were used to construct the machine learning model to predict major LARS.The trained random forest(RF)model performed with an area under the curve of 0.852 and a sensitivity of 0.795(95%CI:0.681-0.877),a specificity of 0.758(95%CI:0.671-0.828),and Brier score of 0.166 in the external validation set.Compared to the previous preoperative LARS score model,the current model exhibited superior predictive performance in predicting major LARS in our cohort(accuracy of 0.772 for the RF model vs 0.355 for the preoperative LARS score model).CONCLUSION We developed and validated a robust tool for predicting major LARS.This model could potentially be used in the clinic to identify patients with a high risk of developing major LARS and then improve the quality of life.

Colonic pouch confers better bowel function and similar postoperative outcomes compared to straight anastomosis for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND With advancements in laparoscopic technology and the wide application of linear staplers,sphincter-saving procedures are increasingly performed for low rectal cancer.However,sphincter-saving procedures have led to the emergence of a unique clinical disorder termed anterior rectal resection syndrome.Colonic pouch anastomosis improves the quality of life of patients with rectal cancer>7 cm from the anal margin.But whether colonic pouch anastomosis can reduce the incidence of rectal resection syndrome in patients with low rectal cancer is unknown.AIM To compare postoperative and oncological outcomes and bowel function of straight and colonic pouch anal anastomoses after resection of low rectal cancer.METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 72 patients with low rectal cancer who underwent sphincter-saving procedures with either straight or colonic pouch anastomoses.Functional evaluations were completed preoperatively and at 1,6,and 12 mo postoperatively.We also compared perioperative and oncological outcomes between two groups that had undergone low or ultralow anterior rectal resection.RESULTS There were no significant differences in mean operating time,blood loss,time to first passage of flatus and excrement,and duration of hospital stay between the colonic pouch and straight anastomosis groups.The incidence of anastomotic leakage following colonic pouch construction was lower(11.4%vs 16.2%)but not significantly different than that of straight anastomosis.Patients with colonic pouch construction had lower postoperative low anterior resection syndrome scores than the straight anastomosis group,suggesting better bowel function(preoperative:4.71 vs 3.89,P=0.43;1 mo after surgery:34.2 vs 34.7,P=0.59;6 mo after surgery:22.70 vs 29.0,P<0.05;12 mo after surgery:15.5 vs 19.5,P=0.01).The overall recurrence and metastasis rates were similar(4.3%and 11.4%,respectively).CONCLUSION Colonic pouch anastomosis is a safe and effective procedure for colorectal reconstruction after low and ultralow rectal resections.Moreover,colonic pouch construction may provide better functional outcomes compared to straight anastomosis.

Application of electroacupuncture in the prevention of low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)is one of the common postoperative complications in patients with rectal cancer,which seriously affects their postoperative recovery and quality of life(QoL).Electroacupuncture therapy is one of the characteristic therapies of traditional Chinese medicine.There are few reports on the prevention and treatment of LARS by electroacupuncture therapy.AIM To explore the clinical effectiveness of electroacupuncture in managing rectal cancer patients with postoperative LARS.METHODS A total of 50 patients with LARS after rectal cancer surgery were retrospectively selected as the research subjects.According to the treatment methods,they were divided into an observation group(n=25)and a control group(n=25).During the four-week treatment period,the control group received standard defecation function training,while the observation group received electroacupuncture care and traditional defecation function training.The anal pressure index(which includes anal resting pressure,anal systolic pressure,and maximum tolerable volume),European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer(EORTC)QoL C30(QLQ-C30)score,LARS Scale(LARSS)score,Wexner anal incontinence scale score,Xu Zhongfa five-item 10-point scale score,and the occurrence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.RESULTS The experimental group showed considerably enhanced LARSS scores compared to those in the control group after four weeks of treatment.In the first week,second week,and fourth week,the LARSS score and Wexner anal incontinence scale score decreased,and the Xu Zhong method five-item 10-point scale score increased,with significant differences(P<0.05).The experimental group showed substantial improvements in anal resting pressure,anal systolic pressure,and maximum tolerance volume after undergoing 4 wk of therapy in the untreated group(P<0.05).The experimental group's QLQ-C30 score on the EORTC QoL questionnaire was higher than that of the control group during the 1st,2nd,and 4th wk(P<0.05).No significant variation between the groups in the frequency of adverse reactions(P>0.05)was observed.CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture positively impacted LARS following rectal cancer surgery,effectively improving clinical symptoms and anal pressure indicators and patients’standard of life.

Anus-preserving rectectomy via telescopic colorectal mucosal anastomosis for low rectal cancer: Experience from a Chinese cohort

AIM: To investigate the safety and efficacy of anus-preserving rectectomy via telescopic colorectal mucosal anastomosis (TCMA) for low rectal cancer. METHODS: From August 1993 to October 2012, 420 patients including 253 males and 167 females with low rectal cancer underwent transabdominal and transanal anterior resection, followed by TCMA. The distance be-tween the anus and inferior margin of the tumor ranged from 5 to 7 cm, and was 5 cm in 6 patients, 6 cm in 127, and 7 cm in 287 patients. Tumor-node-metastasis staging showed that 136 patients had stage Ⅰ, 252 had stage Ⅱ and 32 had stage Ⅲ. Fifty-six patients with T3 or over received preoperative neoadjuvant chemoradio-therapy. RESULTS: The postoperative follow-up rate was 91.9% (386/420) with a median time of 6.4 years. All 420 pa-tients underwent radical resection. No postoperativedeath occurred. Postoperative complications included anastomotic leakage in 13 (3.1%) patients and anas-tomotic stenosis in 7 (1.6%). The local recurrence rate after surgery was 6.2%, the hepatic metastasis rate was 13.2% and the pulmonary metastasis rate was 2.3%. The 5-year survival rate was 74.0% and the disease-free survival rate was 71.0%. Kirwan classification showed that continence was good in 94.4% of patients with stage I when scored 12 mo after resection. CONCLUSION: TCMA for patients with low rectal cancer leads to better quality of life and satisfactory defecation function, and lowers anastomotic leakage occurrence, and might be one of the safe operative procedures in anus-preserving rectectomy.

Can trans-anal reinforcing sutures after double stapling in lower anterior resection reduce the need for a temporary diverting ostomy?

AIM:To evaluate trans-anal reinforcing sutures in low anterior resection using the double-stapled anastomosis technique for primary rectal cancers performed at a single institution.METHODS:The data of patients who received transanal reinforcing sutures were compared with those of patients who did not receive them after low anterior resection.Patients who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection and the double-stapled anastomosis technique for primary rectal cancer between January2008 and December 2011 were included in this study.Patients with no anastomosis,a hand-sewn anastomosis,high anterior resection,or preoperative chemoradiation were excluded.The primary outcomes measured were the incidence of postoperative anastomotic complications and placement of a diverting ileostomy.RESULTS:Among 110 patients,the rate of placement of a diverting ileostomy was significantly lower in the suture group(SG)compared with the non-suture control group(CG)[SG,n=6(12.8%);CG,n=19(30.2%),P=0.031].No significant difference was observed in the rate of anastomotic leakage[SG,n=3(6.4%);CG,n=5(7.9%)].CONCLUSION:Trans-anal reinforcing sutures may reduce the need for diverting ileostomy.A randomized prospective study with a larger population should be performed in the future to demonstrate the efficacy of trans-anal reinforcing sutures.

Transanal natural orifice specimen extraction for laparoscopic anterior resection in rectal cancer

AIM: To investigate whether transanal natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) is a better technique for rectal cancer resection.METHODS: A prospectively designed database of a consecutive series of patients undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer with various tumor-node-metastasis classi?cations from March 2011 to February 2012 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University was analyzed. Patient selection for transanal specimen extraction and intracorporeal anastomosis was made on the basis of tumor size and distance of rectal lesions from the anal verge. Demographic data, operative parameters, and postoperative outcomes were assessed.RESULTS: None of the patients was converted to laparotomy. Respectively, there were 16 cases in the low anastomosis and five in the ultralow anastomosis groups. Mean age of the patients was 45.4 years, and mean body mass index was 23.1 kg/m2. Mean distance of the lower edge of the lesion from the anal verge was 8.3 cm. Mean operating time was 132 min, and mean intraoperative blood loss was 84 mL. According to the principle of rectal cancer surgery, we performed D2 lymph node dissection in 13 cases and D3 in eight. Mean lymph nodes harvest was 17.8, and the number of positive lymph nodes was 3.4. Median hospital stay was 6.7 d. No serious postoperative complication occurred except for one anastomotic leakage. All patients remained disease free. Mean Wexner score was 3.7 at 11 mo after the operation.CONCLUSION: Transanal NOSE for total laparoscopic low/ultralow anterior resection is feasible, safe and oncologically sound. Further studies with long-term outcomes are needed to explore its potential advantages.

Low rectal cancer:Sphincter preserving techniques-selection of patients,techniques and outcomes

Low rectal cancer is traditionally treated by abdominoperineal resection. In recent years, several new techniques for the treatment of very low rectal cancer patients aiming to preserve the gastrointestinal continuity and to improve both the oncological as well as the functional outcomes, have been emerged. Literature suggest that when the intersphincteric resection is applied in T1-3 tumors located within 30-35 mm from the anal verge, is technically feasible, safe, with equal oncological outcomes compared to conventional surgery and acceptable quality of life. The Anterior Perineal Plan E for Ultra-low Anterior Resection technique, is not disrupting the sphincters, but carries a high complication rate, while the reports on the oncological and functional outcomes are limited. Transanal Endoscopic Micro Surgery(TEM) and Trans Anal Minimally Invasive Surgery(TAMIS) should represent the treatment of choice for T1 rectal tumors, with specific criteria according to the NCCN guidelines and favorable pathologic features. Alternatively to the standard conventional surgery, neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy followed by TEM or TAMIS seems promising for tumors of a local stage T1sm2-3 or T2. Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision should be performed only when a board approved protocol is available by colorectal surgeons with extensive experience in minimally invasive and transanal endoscopic surgery.

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.

Anorectal dysfunction in patients with mid-low rectal cancer after surgery: A pilot study with three-dimensional high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND The quality of life in patients who develop low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)after surgery for mid-low rectal cancer is seriously impaired.The underlying pathophysiological mechanism of LARS has not been fully investigated.AIM To assess anorectal function of mid-low rectal cancer patients developing LARS perioperatively.METHODS Patients diagnosed with mid-low rectal cancer were included.The LARS score was used to evaluate defecation symptoms 3 and 6 mo after anterior resection or a stoma reversal procedure.Anorectal functions were assessed by threedimensional high resolution anorectal manometry preoperatively and 3-6 mo after surgery.RESULTS The study population consisted of 24 patients.The total LARS score was decreased at 6 mo compared with 3 mo after surgery(P<0.05),but 58.3%(14/24)lasted as major LARS at 6 mo after surgery.The length of the high-pressure zone of the anal sphincter was significantly shorter,the mean resting pressure and maximal squeeze pressure of the anus were significantly lower than those before surgery in allpatients (P < 0.05), especially in the neoadjuvant therapy group after surgery (n = 18). The focalpressure defects of the anal canal were detected in 70.8% of patients, and those patients had higherLARS scores at 3 mo postoperatively than those without focal pressure defects (P < 0.05). Spasticperistaltic contractions from the new rectum to anus were detected in 45.8% of patients, whichwere associated with a higher LARS score at 3 mo postoperatively (P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONThe LARS score decreases over time after surgery in the majority of patients with mid-low rectalcancer. Anorectal dysfunctions, especially focal pressure defects of the anal canal and spasticperistaltic contractions from the new rectum to anus postoperatively, might be the majorpathophysiological mechanisms of LARS.

Sphincter Saving Surgeries for Locally Advanced Low Rectal Cancer after Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation

Background: Rectal cancer accounts for the largest distribution within one anatomical region of the large bowel, with approximately one third of all CRC located within the rectum. The Golden standard treatment of primary rectal cancer is curative surgical resection;however, a fine balance remains between disease cure and restoration of gastrointestinal continuity. Combined modality has proven efficacy in many malignant tumors with advantage of organ preservation. Methods: Forty nine (49) patients with low rectal carcinoma were included in a prospective study, between Jan 2007 and Jan 2012. Preoperative chemoradiation was administrated to all patients and subjected to different techniques of sphincter saving surgery. Stage I and Stage IV disease at diagnosis were excluded from the study. Results: Forty nine patients were included in the study. 27 (55%) patients were male and 22 (45%) were female;the age ranges from 23 years to 70 years with the median age 46 years. The main presenting symptoms were bleeding per rectum and tenesmus, Stage II 18 patients (36.7%), stage III 31 patients (63.3%). Complete clinical and pathological response in 3 patients (6%), and complete clinical response with only microscopically residual carcinoma in 20 patients (41%), partial response in 18 patients (36.7%), and no significant response in 8 patients (16%) 7 from 8 were mucoid carcinoma. Low anterior resection (LAR) in 22 patients (44.9%), Hartman’s procedure in 4 patients (8.1%), Coloanal pull-through (COP) was done in 19 patients (38.9%) and perineal colostomy in 4 patients (8.1%). For patients with colo-anal pull-through technique complete dehiscent and retraction observed in 2 cases, Major leakage in one case, stenosis in 4 cases. Conclusion: There is tendency of colorectal cancers to affect younger groups. Most patients presented in advanced stage. Neadjuvant chemo radiation is an excellent tool in sphincter saving surgery. Coloanal pull-through technique is not a widely spread technique for low rectal cancer with good oncological safety and acceptable functional outcome.

Application of Succus Entericus Reinfusion in a Patient with Rectal Cancer and Jejunal Diverticulum: A Case Report and Literature Review

We herein report the case of a patient with rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent low anterior resection in our hospital. The patient experienced general peritonitis, septic shock, and ardent fever on postoperative day 3. An exploratory operation revealed a perforated proximal jejunal diverticulum.The patient then underwent total parenteral nutrition and succus entericus reinfusion. The metabolic disturbances and cacotrophy rapidly improved after reinfusion of intestinal secretions, and the patient was successfully cured without requiring a prolonged period of parenteral nutrition. Our data support the saying “If the gut is working, use it.” Our report also confirms the value of succus entericus reinfusion in the successful treatment of a spontaneous perforation of Meckel’s diverticulum after low anterior resection of the rectum.

Assessment and management of low anterior resection syndrome after sphincter preserving surgery for rectal cancer

Many patients develop a variety of bowel dysfunction after sphincter preserving surgeries(SPS)for rectal cancer.The bowel dysfunction usually manifests in the form of low anterior resection syndrome(LARS),which has a negative impact on the patients'quality of life.This study reviewed the LARS after SPS,its mechanism,risk factors,diagnosis,prevention,and treatment based on previously published studies.Adequate history taking,physical examination of the patients,using validated questionnaires and other diagnostic tools are important for assessment of LARS severity.Treatment of LARS should be tailored to each patient.Multimodal therapy is usually needed for patients with major LARS with acceptable results.The treatment includes conservative management in the form of medical,pelvic floor rehabilitation and transanal irrigation and invasive procedures including neuromodulation.If this treatment failed,fecal diversion may be needed.In conclusion,Initial meticulous dissection with preservation of nerves and creation of a neorectal reservoir during anastomosis and proper Kegel exercise of the anal sphincter can minimize the occurrence of LARS.Pre-treatment counseling is an essential step for patients who have risk factors for developing LARS.

Neoadjuvant radiotherapy for rectal cancer management

Thirty per cent of all colorectal tumours develop in the rectum.The location of the rectum within the bony pelvis and its proximity to vital structures presents significant therapeutic challenges when considering neoadjuvant options and surgical interventions.Most patients with early rectal cancer can be adequately managed by surgery alone.However,a significant proportion of patients with rectal cancer present with locally advanced disease and will potentially benefit from down staging prior to surgery.Neoadjuvant therapy involves a variety of options including radiotherapy,chemotherapy used alone or in combination.Neoadjuvant radiotherapy in rectal cancer has been shown to be effective in reducing tumour burden in advance of curative surgery.The gold standard surgical rectal cancer management aims to achieve surgical removal of the tumour and all draining lymph nodes,within an intact mesorectal package,in order to minimise local recurrence.It is critically important that all rectal cancer cases are discussed at a multidisciplinary meeting represented by all relevant specialties.Pre-operative staging including CT thorax,abdomen,pelvis to assess for distal disease and magnetic resonance imaging to assess local involvement is essential.Staging radiology and MDT discussion are integral in identifying patients who require neoadjuvant radiotherapy.While Neoadjuvant radiotherapy is potentially beneficial it may also result in morbidity and thus should be reserved for those patients who are at a high risk of local failure,which includes patients with nodal involvement,extramural venous invasion and threatened circumferential margin.The aim of this review is to discuss the role of neoadjuvant radiotherapy in the management of rectal cancer.