Machine learning identifies the risk of complications after laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic radical gastrectomy is widely used,and perioperative complications have become a highly concerned issue.AIM To develop a predictive model for complications in laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer to better predict the likelihood of complications in gastric cancer patients within 30 days after surgery,guide perioperative treatment strategies for gastric cancer patients,and prevent serious complications.METHODS In total,998 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer at 16 Chinese medical centers were included in the training group for the complication model,and 398 patients were included in the validation group.The clinicopathological data and 30-d postoperative complications of gastric cancer patients were collected.Three machine learning methods,lasso regression,random forest,and artificial neural networks,were used to construct postoperative complication prediction models for laparoscopic distal gastrectomy and laparoscopic total gastrectomy,and their prediction efficacy and accuracy were evaluated.RESULTS The constructed complication model,particularly the random forest model,could better predict serious complications in gastric cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy.It exhibited stable performance in external validation and is worthy of further promotion in more centers.CONCLUSION Using the risk factors identified in multicenter datasets,highly sensitive risk prediction models for complications following laparoscopic radical gastrectomy were established.We hope to facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of preoperative and postoperative decision-making by using these models.

Comparison efficacy and safety of total laparoscopic gastrectomy and laparoscopically assisted total gastrectomy in treatment of gastric cancer

BACKGROUND The development of laparoscopic technology has provided a new choice for surgery of gastric cancer(GC),but the advantages and disadvantages of laparoscopic total gastrectomy(LTG)and laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy(LATG)in treatment effect and safety are still controversial.The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of the two methods in the treatment of GC,and to provide a basis for clinical decision-making.AIM To compare the efficacy of totally LTG(TLTG)and LATG in the context of radical gastrectomy for GC.Additionally,we investigated the safety and feasibility of the total laparoscopic esophagojejunostomy technique.METHODS Literature on comparative studies of the above two surgical methods for GC(TLTG group and LATG group)published before September 2022 were searched in the PubMed,Web of Science,Wanfang Database,CNKI,and other Chinese and English databases.In addition,the following search keywords were used:Gastric cancer,total gastrectomy,total laparoscopy,laparoscopy-assisted,esophagojejunal anastomosis,gastric/stomach cancer,total gastrectomy,totally/completely laparoscopic,laparoscopic assisted/laparoscopy assisted/laparoscopically assisted,and esophagojejunostomy/esophagojejunal anastomosis.Review Manager 5.3 software was used for the meta-analysis after two researchers independently screened the literature,extracted the data,and evaluated the risk of bias in the included studies.RESULTS After layer-by-layer screening,258 pieces of literature were recovered,and 11 of those pieces were eventually included.This resulted in a sample size of 2421 instances,with 1115 cases falling into the TLTG group and 1306 cases into the LATG group.Age or sex differences between the two groups were not statistically significant,according to the meta-analysis,however the average body mass index of the TLTG group was considerably higher than that of the LATG group(P=0.01).Compared with those in the LATG group,the incision length in the TLTG group was significantly shorter(P<0.001),the amount of intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower(P=0.003),the number of lymph nodes removed was significantly greater(P=0.04),and the time of first postoperative feeding and postoperative hospitalization were also significantly shorter(P=0.03 and 0.02,respectively).There were no significant differences in tumor size,length of proximal incisal margin,total operation time,anastomotic time,postoperative pain score,postoperative anal exhaust time,postoperative anastomosis-related complications(including anastomotic fistula,anastomotic stenosis,and anastomotic hemorrhage),or overall postoperative complication rate(P>0.05).CONCLUSION TLTG and esophagojejunostomy are safe and feasible.Compared with LATG,TLTG has the advantages of less trauma,less bleeding,easier access to lymph nodes,and faster postoperative recovery,and TLTG is also suitable for obese patients.

Optimal choice of stapler and digestive tract reconstruction method after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer:A prospective case–control study

BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths,and is classified according to its location in the proximal,middle,or distal stomach.Surgical resection is the primary approach for treating gastric cancer.This prospective study aimed to determine the best reconstruction method after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer.AIM To explore the efficacy of different staplers and digestive tract reconstruction(DTR)methods after radical gastrectomy and their influence on prognosis.METHODS Eighty-seven patients who underwent radical gastrectomy for distal gastric cancer at our institution between April 2017 and April 2020 were included in this study,with a follow-up period of 12-26 mo.The patients were assigned to four groups based on the stapler and DTR plan as follows:BillrothⅠ(B-I)reconstruction+linear stapler group(group A,22 cases),B-I reconstruction+circular stapler group(group B,22 cases),Billroth II(B-II)reconstruction+linear stapler group(group C,22 cases),and B-II reconstruction+circular stapler group(group D,21 cases).The pathological parameters,postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery,postoperative complications,and quality of life(QOL)were compared among the four groups.RESULTS No significant differences in the maximum diameter of the gastric tumors,total number of lymph nodes dissected,drainage tube removal time,QLQ(QOL questionnaire)-C30 and QLQ-STO22 scores at 1 year postoperatively,and incidence of complications were observed among the four groups(P>0.05).However,groups A and C(linear stapler)had significantly lower intraoperative blood loss and significantly shorter anastomosis time,operation time,first fluid diet intake time,first exhaust time,and length of postoperative hospital stay(P<0.05)than groups B and D(circular stapler).CONCLUSION Linear staplers offer several advantages for postoperative recovery.B-I and B-II reconstruction methods had similar effects on QOL.The optimal solution can be selected according to individual conditions and postoperative convenience.

Efficacy and safety of laparoscopic vs open gastrectomy after neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced gastric cancer

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic gastrectomy(LG)is widely accepted as a minimally invasive approach for the treatment of early gastric cancer.However,its role in locally advanced gastric cancer(LAGC)after neoadjuvant therapy(NAT)remains controversial.This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of LG vs open gastrectomy(OG)after NAT for the treatment of LAGC.AIM To compare the efficacy and safety of LG vs OG after NAT for LAGC.METHODS We conducted a prospective study of 76 patients with LAGC who underwent NAT followed by LG(n=38)or OG(n=38)between 2021 and 2023.The primary endpoint was overall survival(OS),and the secondary endpoints were diseasefree survival(DFS),surgical complications,and quality of life(QOL).RESULTS The two groups had comparable baseline characteristics,with a median follow-up period of 24 mo.The 3-year OS rates in the LG and OG groups were 68.4%and 60.5%,respectively(P=0.42).The 3-year DFS rates in the LG and OG groups were 57.9%and 50.0%,respectively(P=0.51).The LG group had significantly less blood loss(P<0.001),a shorter hospital stay(P<0.001),and a lower incidence of surgical site infection(P=0.04)than the OG group.There were no significant differences in other surgical complications between the groups,including anastomotic leakage,intra-abdominal abscess,or wound dehiscence.The LG group had significantly better QOL scores than the OG group regarding physical functioning,role functioning,global health status,fatigue,pain,appetite loss,and body image at 6 months postoperatively(P<0.05).CONCLUSION LG after NAT is a viable and safe alternative to OG for the treatment of LAGC,with similar survival outcomes and superior short-term recovery and QOL.LG patients had less blood loss,shorter hospitalizations,and a lower incidence of surgical site infections than OG patients.Moreover,the LG group had better QOL scores in multiple domains 6 mo postoperatively.Therefore,LG should be considered a valid option for patients with LAGC who undergo NAT,particularly for those who prioritize postoperative recovery and QOL.

Laparoscopic-assisted radical gastrectomy for distal gastric cancer

A 48-year-old female patient was diagnosed with a superficial depressed type early gastric cancer （type IIc） of 1.0 cm at the gastric angle as indicated by gastroscopy. Laparoscopic-assisted greater omentumpreserving D2 radical gastrectomy was performed in combination with Billroth I reconstruction under general anesthesia for the distal gastric cancer on April 5, 2013. The postoperative recovery was satisfying without complications. The patient was discharged seven days after surgery.

Short Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic versus Open Distal Gastrectomy with D2 Lymph Nodes Dissection for Gastric Cancer: A Prospective Study

Background: Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) for gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) is gaining more acceptances worldwide. Its results are still controversial. This study aimed to assess short term outcomes of LDG and compare it to the standard open distal gastrectomy. Patients and Methods: 27 patients with GA of the distal 2/3 of the stomach were included and divided into 2 groups;Group A: 15 patients submitted to open distal gastrectomy with D2 lymph node (LN) dissection, and Group B: 12 patients submitted to LDG with D2 LN dissection. Results: The median age was 54 and 54.3 years in group A and B respectively. The median operative time was 118.7 and 210.2 minutes in group A and B respectively. The median safety margin was 6.52 and 5.7 cm in group A and B respectively while the median number of excised LN was 24.2 and 21.4 in group A and B respectively. One patient in group B had intraoperative bleeding that was controlled laparoscopically. No conversion to open surgery needed in group B. The median number of narcotic doses was 5.9 and 4.25 in group A and B respectively. The median length of hospital stay was 7.2 days in group A and 7.3 days in group B. Three patients in group A and 2 patients in group B had postoperative complications and all were treated successfully conservatively. Conclusion: LDG with D2 LN dissection is oncologically safe with short-term outcomes comparable to those of the open surgery. Gaining more surgeons’ experience is necessary to improve these results.

Roux-en-Y versus BillrothⅠreconstruction after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer:A meta-analysis

AIM: To conduct a meta-analysis to compare Roux-en-Y (R-Y) gastrojejunostomy with gastroduodenal Billroth?I?(B-I) anastomosis after distal gastrectomy (DG) for gastric cancer.METHODS: A literature search was performed to identify studies comparing R-Y with B-I?after DG for gastric cancer from January 1990 to November 2012 in Medline, Embase, Science Citation Index Expanded and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in The Cochrane Library. Pooled odds ratios (OR) or weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95%CI were calculated using either ?xed or random effects model. Operative outcomes such as operation time, intraoperative blood loss and postoperative outcomes such as anastomotic leakage and stricture, bile re?ux, remnant gastritis, re?ux esophagitis, dumping symptoms, delayed gastric emptying and hospital stay were the main outcomes assessed. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan 5.0 software (Cochrane library).RESULTS: Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 9 non-randomized observational clinical studies (OCS) involving 478 and 1402 patients respectively were included. Meta-analysis of RCTs revealed that R-Y reconstruction was associated with a reduced bile re?ux (OR 0.04, 95%CI: 0.01, 0.14; P < 0.00?001) and remnant gastritis (OR 0.43, 95%CI: 0.28, 0.66; P = 0.0001), however needing a longer operation time (WMD 40.02, 95%CI: 13.93, 66.11; P = 0.003). Meta-analysis of OCS also revealed R-Y reconstruction had a lower incidence of bile re?ux (OR 0.21, 95%CI: 0.08, 0.54; P = 0.001), remnant gastritis (OR 0.18, 95%CI: 0.11, 0.29; P < 0.00?001) and re?ux esophagitis (OR 0.48, 95%CI: 0.26, 0.89; P = 0.02). However, this reconstruction method was found to be associated with a longer operation time (WMD 31.30, 95%CI: 12.99, 49.60; P = 0.0008).CONCLUSION: This systematic review point towards some clinical advantages that are rendered by R-Y compared to B-I?reconstruction post DG. However there is a need for further adequately powered, well-designed RCTs comparing the same.

Comparison between uncut Roux-en-Y and Roux-en-Y reconstruction after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: A meta-analysis

AIM To compare uncut Roux-en-Y(U-RY) gastrojejunostomy with Roux-en-Y(RY) gastrojejunostomy after distal gastrectomy(DG) for gastric cancer.METHODS A literature search was conducted in Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and China Science and Technology Journal Database to identify studies comparing U-RY with RY after DG for gastric cancer until the end of December 2017. Pooled odds ratio or weighted mean difference with 95% confidence interval was calculated using either fixed-or random-effects models. Perioperative outcomes such as operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospital stay; postoperative complications such as anastomotic bleeding, stricture and ulcer, reflux gastritis/esophagitis, delayed gastric emptying, and Roux stasis syndrome; and postoperative nutritional status(serum hemoglobin, total protein, and albumin levels) were the main outcomes assessed. Metaanalyses were performed using RevM an 5.3 software.RESULTS Two randomized controlled trials and four nonrandomized observational clinical studies involving 403 and 488 patients, respectively, were included. The results of the meta-analysis showed that operative time [weighted mean difference(WMD):-12.95; 95%CI:-22.29 to-3.61; P = 0.007] and incidence of reflux gastritis/esophagitis(OR: 0.40; 95%CI: 0.20-0.80; P = 0.009), delayed gastric emptying(OR: 0.29; 95%CI: 0.14-0.61; P = 0.001), and Roux stasis syndrome(OR: 0.14; 95%CI: 0.04-0.50; P = 0.002) were reduced; and the level of serum albumin(WMD: 0.71; 95%CI: 0.24-1.19; P = 0.003) was increased in patients undergoing U-RY reconstruction compared with those undergoing RY reconstruction. No differences were found with respect to intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, anastomotic bleeding, anastomotic stricture, anastomotic ulcer, the levels of serum hemoglobin, and serum total protein. CONCLUSION U-RY reconstruction has some clinical advantages over RY reconstruction after DG.

Laparoscopic and robot-assisted gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Current considerations

Radical gastrectomy with an adequate lymphadenectomy is the main procedure which makes it possible to cure patients with resectable gastric cancer (GC). A number of randomized controlled trials and meta-analysis provide phase III evidence that laparoscopic gastrectomy is technically safe and that it yields better short-term outcomes than conventional open gastrectomy for early-stage GC. While laparoscopic gastrectomy has become standard therapy for early-stage GC, especially in Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea, the use of minimally invasive techniques is still controversial for the treatment of more advanced tumours, principally due to existing concerns about its oncological adequacy and capacity to carry out an adequately extended lymphadenectomy. Some intrinsic drawbacks of the conventional laparoscopic technique have prevented the worldwide spread of laparoscopic gastrectomy for cancer and, despite technological advances in recent year, it remains a technically challenging procedure. The introduction of robotic surgery over the last ten years has implied a notable mutation of certain minimally invasive procedures, making it possible to overcome some limitations of the traditional laparoscopic technique. Robot-assisted gastric resection with D2 lymph node dissection has been shown to be safe and feasible in prospective and retrospective studies. However, to date there are no high quality comparative studies investigating the advantages of a robotic approach to GC over traditional laparoscopic and open gastrectomy. On the basis of the literature review here presented, robot-assisted surgery seems to fulfill oncologic criteria for D2 dissection and has a comparable oncologic outcome to traditional laparoscopic and open procedure. Robot-assisted gastrectomy was associated with the trend toward a shorter hospital stay with a comparable morbidity of conventional laparoscopic and open gastrectomy, but randomized clinical trials and longer follow-ups are needed to evaluate the possible influence of robot gastrectomy on GC patient survival.

Use of a clinical pathway in laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer

AIM: To evaluate the implementation of a clinical pathway and identify clinical factors affecting the clinical pathway for laparoscopic gastrectomy.METHODS: A standardized clinical pathway for gastric cancer(GC) patients was developed in 2001 by the GC surgery team at the Asan Medical Center. We reviewed the collected data of 4800 consecutive patients treated using the clinical pathway following laparoscopic gastrectomy with lymph node dissection for GC involving intracorporeal and extracorporeal anastomosis. The patients were treated between August 2004 and October 2013 in a single institution. To evaluate the rate of completion and risk factors affecting dropout from the clinical pathway, we used a multivariate logistic regression analysis.RESULTS: The overall completion rate of the clinical pathway for laparoscopic gastrectomy was 84.1%(n = 4038). In the comparison between groups of intracorporeal anastomosis and extracorporeal anastomosis patients, the completion rates were 8 3. 8 8 %(n = 1 7 4 0) a n d 8 4. 3 6 %(n = 2 0 7 1), respectively, showing no statistically significant difference. The main reasons for dropping out were postoperative complications(n = 463, 9.7%) and the need for patient observation(n = 299, 6.2%). Among the discharged patients treated using the clinical pathway, the number of patients who were readmitted within 30 d due to postoperative complications was 54(1.1%). In a multivariate analysis, the intraoperative events(OR = 2.558) were the most predictable risk factors for dropping out of the clinical pathway. Additionally, being male(OR = 1.459), advanced age(OR = 1.727), total gastrectomy(OR = 2.444), combined operation(OR = 1.731), and ASA score(OR = 1.889) were significant risk factors affecting the dropout rate from the clinical pathway.CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic gastrectomy appears to be a good indication for the application of a clinical pathway. For successful application, patients with risk factors should be managed carefully.

Laparoscopic vs open total gastrectomy for gastric cancer:A meta-analysis

AIM:To conduct a meta-analysis comparing laparoscopic total gastrectomy(LTG)with open total gastrectomy(OTG)for the treatment of gastric cancer.METHODS:Major databases such as Medline(PubMed),Embase,Academic Search Premier(EBSCO),Science Citation Index Expanded and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials(CENTRAL)in The Cochrane Library were searched for studies comparing LTG and OTG from January 1994 to May 2013.Evaluated endpoints were operative,postoperative and oncological outcomes.Operative outcomes included operative time and intraoperative blood loss.Postoperative recovery included time to first fatus,time to first oral intake,hospital stay and analgesics use.Postoperative complications comprised morbidity,anastomotic leakage,anastomotic stenosis,ileus,bleeding,abdominal abscess,wound problems and mortality.Oncological outcomes included positive resection margins,number of retrieved lymph nodes,and proximal and distal resection margins.The pooled effect was calculated using either a fixed effects or a random effects model.RESULTS:Fifteen non-randomized comparative studies with 2022 patients were included(LTG-811,OTG-1211).Both groups had similar short-term oncological outcomes,analgesic use(WMD-0.09;95%CI:-2.39-2.20;P=0.94)and mortality(OR=0.74;95%CI:0.24-2.31;P=0.61).However,LTG was associated with a lower intraoperative blood loss(WMD-201.19 mL;95%CI:-296.50--105.87 mL;P<0.0001)and overall complication rate(OR=0.73;95%CI:0.57-0.92;P=0.009);fewer wound-related complications(OR=0.39;95%CI:0.21-0.72;P=0.002);a quicker recovery of gastrointestinal motility with shorter time to frst fatus(WMD-0.82;95%CI:-1.18--0.45;P<0.0001)and oral intake(WMD-1.30;95%CI:-1.84--0.75;P<0.00001);and a shorter hospital stay(WMD-3.55;95%CI:-5.13--1.96;P<0.0001),albeit with a longer operation time(WMD 48.25 min;95%CI:31.15-65.35;P<0.00001),as compared with OTG.CONCLUSION:LTG is safe and effective,and may offer some advantages over OTG in the treatment of gastric cancer.

Small-volume chylous ascites after laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer:Results from a large population-based sample

AIM:To report the incidence and potential risk factors of small-volume chylous ascites(SVCA)following laparoscopic radical gastrectomy(LAG).METHODS:A total of 1366 consecutive gastric cancer patients who underwent LAG from January 2008 to June 2011 were enrolled in this study.We analyzed the patients based on the presence or absence of SVCA.RESULTS:SVCA was detected in 57(4.17%)patients,as determined by the small-volume drainage(range,30-100 m L/24 h)of triglyceride-rich fluid.Both univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the total number of resected lymph nodes(LNs),No.8 or No.9 LN metastasis and N stage were independent risk factors for SVCA following LAG(P<0.05).Regarding hospital stay,there was a significant difference between the groups with and without SVCA(P<0.001).The 3-year disease-free and overall survival rates of the patients with SVCA were 47.4%and 56.1%,respectively,which were similar to those of the patients without SVCA(P>0.05).CONCLUSION:SVCA following LAG developed significantly more frequently in the patients with≥32harvested LNs,≥3 metastatic LNs,or No.8 or No.9LN metastasis.SVCA,which was successfully treated with conservative management,was associated with a prolonged hospital stay but was not associated with the prognosis.

A comparative study of totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy versus laparoscopic-assisted distal gastrectomy in gastric cancer patients: Short-term operative outcomes at a high-volume center

Objective： Laparoscopic gastrectomy has been established as a standard treatment for early gastric cancer, and its use is increasing recently. Compared with the conventional laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy （LADG）, totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy （TLDG） involves intracorporeal reconstruction, which can avoid the additional incision, resulting in pain reduction and early recovery. This study aimed to compare the short-term postoperative outcomes of TLDG vs. LADG in gastric cancer in a high-volume center.Methods： A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 1,322 patients who underwent laparoscopic distal gastrectomy from June 2012 to June 2017 at the National Cancer Center, Korea. LAD G was performed in the early period before July 2015, and TLDG was applied in the later period. Postoperative short-term outcomes were compared in terms of complication and clinical course between the two groups. Pain score was measured by rating the pain intensity from 0 to 10 points on postoperative day （POD） 1 and 3. Results： A total of 667 patients underwent LADG and 655 patients underwent TLDG. Clinieopathologic characteristics were not different in both groups. Intraoperative estimated blood loss （EBL） was significantly lower in the TLDG group （P〈0.001）. Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the TLDG group than in the LADG group on POD 1 （5.1±1.5 vs. 4.8±1.4, P=0.015）. First flatus passage after operation was significantly earlier in the TLDG group （3.4±0.8 d vs. 3.2±0.6 d, P〈0.001）. There were no differences in postoperative complications and hospital stay between the two groups. Conclusions： Based on the reported short-term postoperative outcomes, TLDG is safe and feasible as well as LADG. Moreover, compared with LADG, TLDG can reduce intraoperative EBL and postoperative pain and enhance the bowel motility in gastric cancer surgery.

Additional laparoscopic gastrectomy after noncurative endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND The necessity of additional gastrectomy for early gastric cancer (EGC) patients who do not meet curative criteria after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is controversial. AIM To examine the clinicopathologic characteristics of patients who underwent additional laparoscopic gastrectomy after ESD and to determine the appropriate strategy for treating those after noncurative ESD. METHODS We retrospectively studied 45 patients with EGC who underwent additional laparoscopic gastrectomy after noncurative ESD from January 2013 to January 2019 at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. We analyzed the patients’ clinicopathological data and identified the predictors of residual cancer (RC) and lymph node metastasis (LNM). RESULTS Surgical specimens showed RC in ten (22.2%) patients and LNM in five (11.1%).Multivariate analysis revealed that positive horizontal margin [odds ratio (OR)=13.393, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.435-125, P=0.023] and neural invasion (OR=14.714, 95%CI: 1.087-199, P=0.043) were independent risk factors for RC. Undifferentiated type was an independent risk factor for LNM (OR=12.000, 95%CI: 1.197-120, P=0.035). Tumors in all patients with LNM showed submucosal invasion more than 500 μm. Postoperative complications after additional laparoscopic gastrectomy occurred in five (11.1%) patients, and no deaths occurred among patients with complications. CONCLUSION Gastrectomy is necessary not only for patients who have a positive margin after ESD, but also for cases with neural invasion, undifferentiated type, and submucosal invasion more than 500 μm. Laparoscopic gastrectomy is a safe, minimally invasive, and feasible procedure for additional surgery after noncurative ESD. However, further studies are needed to apply these results to clinical practice.

Digestive tract reconstruction options after laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer

In addition to the popularity of laparoscopic gastrectomy(LG),many reconstructive procedures after LG have been reported.Surgical resection and lymphatic dissection determine long-term survival;however,the election of a reconstruction procedure determines the postoperative quality of life for patients with gastric cancer(GC).Presently,no consensus exists regarding the optimal reconstructive procedure.In this review,the current state of digestive tract reconstruction after LG is reviewed.According to the determining influence of the tumor site on the procedures of surgical resection and reconstruction,we divide these reconstruction procedures into three categories consistent with the resection procedures.We focus on the technical tips of every reconstruction procedure and examine the surgical outcomes(length of surgery and blood loss)and postoperative complications(anastomotic leakage and stricture)to facilitate gastrointestinal surgeons to understand the merits and demerits of every reconstruction procedure.

Efficacy of totally laparoscopic compared with laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy for gastric cancer: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic radical gastrectomy is currently the most common surgical approach for gastric cancer.The main difference between totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy(TLTG)and laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy(LATG)is the route of digestive tract reconstruction.However,TLTG is currently not widespread as the safety and feasibility of intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy is uncertain.AIM To compare the short-term efficacy of TLTG and LATG for radical gastrectomy of gastric cancer,and to determine the safety and feasibility of intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy.METHODS PubMed,EMBASE,and Web of Science databases were searched for all relevant articles regarding TLTG vs LATG for gastric cancer published up to October 1,2019.Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established.All the basic conditions of patients and important clinical data related to surgery were extracted,and a meta-analysis was performed with RevMan 5.3 software.RESULTS Eight studies involving a total of 1883 cases(869 cases in the TLTG group and 1014 cases in the LATG group)were included.Compared with the LATG group,reduced intraoperative blood loss(weighted mean difference=-35.37,95%CI:-61.69--9.06,P=0.008)and a larger number of retrieved lymph nodes(weighted mean difference=3.11,95%CI:-2.60-12.00,P=0.01)were found in the TLTG group.There were no significant differences in operating time,anastomotic time,tumor size,proximal resection margin length,postoperative pain score,time to first flatus,time to first oral intake,postoperative hospital stay,postoperative anastomosis-related complication rate and overall complication rate between the two groups(P>0.05).CONCLUSION Intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy is safe and feasible.TLTG has the advantages of being minimally invasive,reduced intraoperative blood loss and easier access to lymph nodes compared with LATG.Totally laparoscopic gastrectomy is likely to be the surgical trend for gastric cancer in the future.

Comparison of short-term efficacy between totally laparoscopic gastrectomy and laparoscopic assisted gastrectomy for elderly patients with gastric cancer

BACKGROUND Totally laparoscopic gastrectomy(TLG)entails both gastrectomy and gastrointestinal reconstruction under laparoscopy.Compared with laparoscopic assisted gastrectomy(LAG),TLG has been demonstrated in many studies to require a smaller surgical incision,result in a faster postoperative recovery and less pain and have comparable long-term efficacy,which has been a research hotspot in recent years.Whether TLG is equally safe and feasible for elderly patients remains unclear.AIM To compare the short-term efficacy of and quality of life(QOL)associated with TLG and LAG in elderly gastric cancer(GC)patients.METHODS The clinicopathological data of 462 elderly patients aged≥70 years who underwent LAG or TLG(including distal gastrectomy and total gastrectomy)between January 2017 and January 2022 at the Department of General Surgery,First Medical Center,Chinese PLA General Hospital were retrospectively collected.A total of 232 patients were in the LAG group,and 230 patients were in the TLG group.Basic patient information,clinicopathological characteristics,operation information and QOL data were collected to compare efficacy.Compared with those in the LAG group,intraoperative blood loss in the TLG group was significantly lower(P<0.001),and the time to first flatus and postoperative hospitalization time were significantly shorter(both P<0.001).The overall incidence of postoperative complications in the TLG group was significantly lower than that in the LAG group(P=0.01).Binary logistic regression results indicated that LAG and an operation time>220 min were independent risk factors for postoperative complications in elderly patients with GC(P<0.05).In terms of QOL,no statistically significant differences in various preoperative indicators were found between the LAG group and the LTG group(P>0.05).Compared with the laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy group,patients who received totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy had lower nausea and vomiting scores and higher satisfaction with their body image(P<0.05).Patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted distal gastrectomy were more satisfied with their body image than patients in the totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION TLG is safe and feasible for elderly patients with GC and has outstanding advantages such as reducing intracorporeal blood loss,promoting postoperative recovery and improving QOL.

Laparoscopic vs open total gastrectomy for advanced gastric cancer following neoadjuvant therapy:A propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic total gastrectomy(LTG)has drawn increasing attention over the years.Although LTG has shown surgical benefits compared to open TG(OTG)in early stage gastric cancer(GC),little is known about the surgical and oncological outcomes of LTG for advanced GC following neoadjuvant therapy(NAT).AIM To compare the long-and short-term outcomes of advanced GC patients who underwent LTG vs OTG following NAT.METHODS Advanced GC patients who underwent TG following NAT between April 2011 and May 2018 at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences were enrolled and stratified into two groups:LTG and OTG.Propensity score matching analysis was performed at a 1:1 ratio to overcome possible bias.RESULTS In total,185 patients were enrolled(LTG:78;OTG:109).Of these,138 were paired after propensity score matching.After adjustment for propensity score matching,baseline parameters were similar between the two groups.Compared to OTG,LTG was associated with a significantly shorter length of hospital stay(P=0.012).The rates of R0 resection,lymph node harvest,and postoperative morbidity did not significantly differ between the two groups.Overall survival(OS)outcomes were comparable between the two groups.Pathological T and N stages were found to be independent risk factors for OS.CONCLUSION LTG can be a feasible method for advanced GC patients following NAT,as it appears to be associated with better short-and comparable long-term outcomes compared to OTG.

Radical gastrectomy for D2 distal gastric cancer

Patient＇s information The patient is a 56-year-old man who visited our hospital for ＂repeated epigastric pain for more than two months.＂ Physical examination showed nearly pale appearance; abdomen was soft and no mass palpable; left supraclavicular lymph node （-）; and digital rectal examination （-）.

Effect on changes of blood coagulation function, cytokines and immune function in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Objective:To explore the changes of coagulation function, cytokines and T lymphocyte in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer and its clinical significance.Methods: 40 cases of laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer patients and 40 cases of open radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer patients in our hospital were selected to detect and investigate the perioperative coagulation function [APTT (activated partial thromboplastin time), FIB (fibrinogen), and PLT (platelet)], cytokines [CRP (C reactive protein), IL-6 (IL-6) and TNF-alpha (Tumor necrosis factor-alpha)] and T lymphocytes (CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+/CD8+) changes and clinical meaning of patients in the two groups.Results: The coagulation function related indicators, cytokines and T lymphocytes of the two groups before treatment did not change significantly (P>0.05). 1 d after operation, blood coagulation, TNF-alpha, CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ levels were significantly lower than that before operation in two groups of patients (P<0.05), while IL-6, CRP and CD8+ were significantly higher than that before the operation (P<0.05), and the index change in open group was more obvious. 3 d after surgery, the APTT, IL-6, CRP, CD4+, CD8+ and PLT levels in two group patients were significantly lower than that 1 d after surgery, while FIB, TNF-alpha and CD4+/CD8+ were significantly higher than that 1 d after surgery;blood coagulation index, TNF-alpha and CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ were significantly lower in the laparotomy group patients than in laparoscopic group, while IL-6, CRP and CD8+ were significantly higher than the laparoscopic group (P<0.05). 5 d after operation, the APTT, TNF-alpha, FIB, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ and PLT in two groups were significantly higher than that 3 d after surgery (P<0.05), while IL-6, CRP and CD8+ levels were significantly lower than that of 3 d after surgery (P<0.05);blood coagulation index, TNF-alpha and CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ in the laparotomy group patients were significantly lower than laparoscopic group (P<0.05), while IL-6, CRP and CD8+ were significantly higher than the laparoscopic group (P<0.05).Conclusions: Radical resection of gastric cancer can cause coagulation disorder, inhibit the immune function and inflammatory reaction, and gradually recover with the passage of time;Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic radical gastrectomy have smaller impact on patients and recovery faster.