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Background Post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is the most significant cause of morbidity following distal pancreatectomy. Hemopatch™ is a thin, bovine collagen-based hemostatic sealant. We hypothesized that application of Hemopatch™ to the pancreatic stump following distal pancreatectomy would decrease the incidence of clinically-significant POPF. Methods We conducted a prospective, single-arm, multicentre phase II study of application of Hemopatch™ to the pancreatic stump following distal pancreatectomy. The primary outcome was clinically-significant POPF within 90 days of surgery. A sample size of 52 patients was required to demonstrate a 50% relative reduction in Grade B/C POPF from a baseline incidence of 20%, with a type I error of 0.2 and power of 0.75. Secondary outcomes included incidence of POPF (all grades), 90-day mortality, 90-day morbidity, re-interventions, and length of stay. Results Adequate fixation Hemopatch™ to the pancreatic stump was successful in all cases. The rate of grade B/C POPF was 25% (95%CI: 14.0–39.0%). There was no significant difference in the incidence of grade B/C POPF compared to the historical baseline (p = 0.46). The 90-day incidence of Clavien–Dindo grade ≥3 complications was 26.9% (95%CI: 15.6–41.0%). Conclusion The use of Hemopatch™ was not associated with a decreased incidence of clinically-significant POPF compared to historical rates. (NCT03410914).

Background Few reports have evaluated prognostic modelling studies of tools used for surgical decision-making. This systematic review aimed to describe and critically appraise studies that have developed or validated multivariable prognostic models for post-operative liver decompensation following partial hepatectomy. Methods This study was designed using the CHARMS checklist. Following a comprehensive literature search, two reviewers independently screened candidate references for inclusion and abstracted relevant study details. Qualitative assessment was performed using the PROBAST tool. Results We identified 36 prognostic modelling studies; 25 focused on development only, 3 developed and validated models, and 8 validated pre-existing models. None compared routine use of a prognostic model against standard clinical practice. Most studies used single-institution, retrospective cohort designs, conducted in Eastern populations. In total, 15 different outcome definitions for post-operative liver decompensation events were used. Statistical concerns surrounding model overfitting, performance assessment, and internal validation led to high risk of bias for all studies. Conclusions Current prognostic models for post-operative liver decompensation following partial hepatectomy may not be valid for routine clinical use due to design and methodologic concerns. Landmark resources and reporting guidelines such as the TRIPOD statement may assist researchers, and additionally, model impact assessment studies represent opportunities for future research.

Incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following hepatectomy for colorectal cancer (CRC) metastases is unclear. These patients may represent a vulnerable population due to increased tumour burden. We aim to identify the risk of VTE development in routine clinical practice among patients with resected CRC liver metastases, the associated risk factors, and its impact on survival. We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of Ontario patients undergoing hepatectomy for CRC metastases between 2002 and 2009 using linked universal healthcare databases. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the association between patient characteristics and VTE risk at 30 and 90-days after surgery. Cox proportional-hazards regression was used to estimate the association between VTE and adjusted cancer specific (CSS) and overall survival (OS). 1310 patients were included with a mean age of 63 ± 11. 62% were male. 51% had one metastatic deposit. Major hepatectomy occurred in 64%. VTE occurred in 4% within 90 days of liver resection. Only longer length of stay was associated with VTE development (OR 6.88 (2.57–18.43), p

Appropriate patient selection for liver resection in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is critical to mitigation of major liver-related postoperative complications. Currently, no standard prognostic tool exists to predict the risk of postoperative liver decompensation events (POLDEs) after partial hepatectomy for patients with cirrhosis and HCC. This study aimed to identify independent preoperative predictors of POLDEs for future development of prognostic tools to improve surgical decision-making. This population-based, retrospective cohort study investigated patients with cirrhosis and incident HCC between 2007 and 2017, identified using administrative health data from Ontario, Canada. The occurrence of a POLDE or death within 2 years after surgery was described. Multivariable Cox regression identified independent predictors of POLDE-free survival, as well as cause-specific hazards for POLDEs and death. Among 611 patients with cirrhosis and HCC who underwent liver resection, 160 (26.2%) experienced at least one POLDE, and 189 (30.9%) died within 2 years after surgery. Diabetes, cirrhosis etiology, major liver resection, and previous non-malignant decompensation were independent predictors of POLDE-free survival. Except for extent of resection, the same risk factors were associated with POLDEs in the cause-specific analysis. In contrast, only age and history of previous non-malignant decompensation were independent predictors of mortality. Among patients with cirrhosis undergoing resection for HCC, patient and disease-related factors are associated with POLDEs and POLDE-free survival. These factors can be used both to inform clinical practice and to advance the development of preoperative prognostic tools, which may lead to improved outcomes for this population.

Prior work has shown associations between blood transfusion (BT) and inferior outcomes during resection for colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM). Herein, we describe short and long-term outcomes relating to perioperative BT in routine clinical practice.All CRLM resections in Ontario, Canada from 2002 to 2009 were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry. Log-binomial regression and Cox regression were used to explore factors associated with receipt of BT and the association of BT with 5-year cancer specific (CSS) and overall survival (OS), respectively.The study included 1310 patients; 31% (403/1310) had perioperative BT. Transfused patients had longer median length of stay (9 vs. 7 days, p 0.001), higher 90-day mortality (9% vs. 1%, p 0.001), greater 90-day readmission (28% vs. 16%, p 0.001), and inferior 5-year CSS (41% vs. 48%, p = 0.001) and OS (38% vs. 47%, p 0.001). Transfusion was independently associated with inferior CSS (HR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.11-1.63) and OS (HR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.10-1.53), however, excluding 90-day postoperative deaths showed these associations were no longer significant.Perioperative BT is common in patients undergoing resection of CRLM. While transfusion is associated with greater morbidity, mortality, and inferior survival, after excluding early postoperative deaths, BT does not appear to be independently associated with CSS or OS.

BACKGROUND There is an elevated risk of venous thromboembolism in patients treated for colon cancer. Postoperative venous thromboembolism has been studied previously, but no large study has compared the risks during different stages of treatment. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to quantify and compare the risks of venous thromboembolism before surgery, after surgery, during adjuvant chemotherapy, and up to 365 days after surgery among patients with resected colon cancer. DESIGN This is a population-based retrospective cohort study. SETTING This study was conducted in a single-payer, universal health care setting (Ontario) between 2002 and 2008. PATIENTS A total of 6806 patients with stage I to III colon cancer treated with surgical resection were included. INTERVENTIONS Phases of treatment were evaluated, including preoperative, in-hospital, postoperative, during adjuvant chemotherapy, and 365 days postoperatively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Venous thromboembolism, as defined using diagnostic codes from administrative data sources, was the primary outcome measured. RESULTS Of the 6806 patients included, 327 (5%) developed venous thromboembolism. Patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy had a higher risk versus surgery-alone patients (6% vs 4%, p < 0.001). Of the 327 who developed venous thromboembolism, 32% (1.6% overall) were diagnosed during hospital admission and 13.5% (0.6% overall) were diagnosed between discharge and 30 days after surgery. The majority of venous thromboembolisms diagnosed in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (53%, 3.1% of all patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy) were diagnosed within 180 days of starting adjuvant chemotherapy. Venous thromboembolism was an independent risk factor for worse 5-year overall survival (HR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.43-1.91; p < 0.001). LIMITATIONS This study was limited by the potential for misclassification of venous thromboembolism and unknown compliance with prophylaxis recommendations. CONCLUSION Patients who undergo treatment for stage I to III colon cancer are at considerable risk of developing venous thromboembolism. The risk is elevated in those who require adjuvant chemotherapy, and venous thromboembolism is associated with worse long-term outcomes. There may be a role of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis during all phases of treatment, including both after surgery and during adjuvant chemotherapy. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B123. UN ESTUDIO DE COHORTE POBLACIONAL DE LAS TASAS DE TROMBOEMBOLISMO VENOSO DESPUES DE CIRUGIA Y DURANTE QUIMIOTERAPIA ADYUVANTE EN PACIENTES CON CANCER DE COLON: Existe un riesgo elevado de tromboembolismo venoso en pacientes tratados por cancer de colon. El tromboembolismo venoso postoperatorio se ha estudiado previamente, pero ningun estudio grande ha comparado los riesgos durante las diferentes etapas del tratamiento.Cuantificar y comparar los riesgos de tromboembolismo venoso antes de la cirugia, despues de la cirugia, durante quimioterapia adyuvante y hasta 365 dias despues de cirugia en pacientes con cancer de colon resecado.Estudio retrospectivo de cohorte poblacional.Escenario de atencion medica universal con pagador unico (Ontario) entre 2002-2008.6,806 pacientes con cancer de colon en estadio I-III tratados con reseccion quirurgica.Fase de tratamiento, incluyendo preoperatorio, hospitalizacion, postoperatorio, durante quimioterapia adyuvante y 365 dias despues de la operacion.Tromboembolismo venoso, tal como se define utilizando codigos de diagnostico de fuentes de datos administrativos.Se incluyeron 6,806 pacientes, con 327 (5%) que desarrollaron tromboembolismo venoso. Los pacientes que recibieron quimioterapia adyuvante tuvieron un mayor riesgo en comparacion con los pacientes con cirugia solamente (6% vs 4%, p

The symptom profile in cancer patients and the association between palliative care (PC) and symptoms has not been studied in the general population. We addressed these gaps in gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients in the final year of life. Patients dying of esophageal, gastric, colon, and anorectal cancers during 2003–2015 were identified. Symptom scores were recorded in the year before death using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS), which includes scores from 0 to 10 in nine domains. Symptom severity was categorized as none–mild (≤ 3) or moderate–severe (≥ 4–10). Adjusted associations between outpatient PC and moderate–severe ESAS scores were determined, and the effect of PC initiation on ESAS scores was estimated. The cohort included 11,242 patients who died (esophageal [17%], gastric [20%], colon [38%], and anorectal [26%] cancers). Fifty percent experienced moderate–severe scores in tiredness, lack of well-being, and lack of appetite earlier (weeks 18 to 12 before death), whereas 50% experienced moderate–severe scores in drowsiness, pain, and shortness of breath later (weeks 5 to 2 before death) in the disease course. Outpatient PC was associated with an increased likelihood of moderate–severe scores in all domains, with the highest score in pain (odds ratio [OR] 1.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.68–2.05). In PC-naive patients with moderate–severe scores, initiation of outpatient PC was associated with a 1- to 3-point decrease in subsequent scores, with the greatest reductions in pain (OR − 1.91, 95% CI − 2.11 to − 1.70) and nausea (OR − 3.01, 95% CI − 3.31 to − 2.71). GI cancer patients experience high symptom burden in the final year of life. Outpatient PC initiation is associated with a decrease in symptoms.

Background Blood loss and transfusion remain a significant concern in liver resection (LR). Patient blood management (PBM) programs reduce use of transfusions and improve outcomes and costs, but are not standardized for LR. This study sought to create an expert consensus statement on PBM for LR using modified Delphi methodology. Methods An expert panel representing hepato-biliary surgery, anesthesiology, and transfusion medicine was invited to participate. 28 statements addressing the 3 pillars of PBM were created. Panelists were asked to rate statements on a 7-point Likert scale. Three-rounds of iterative rating and feedback were completed anonymously, followed by an in-person meeting. Consensus was reached with at least 70% agreement. Results The 35 experts panel recommended routine pre-operative transfusion risk assessment, and investigation and management of anemia with iron supplementation. Intra-operatively, restrictive fluid administration without routine central line insertion was recommended, along with intermittent hepatic pedicle occlusion and surgical techniques considerations. Specific criteria for restrictive intra-operative and post-operative transfusion strategy were recommended. Conclusions PBM for LR included medical and technical interventions throughout the perioperative continuum, addressing specificities of LR. Diffusion and adoption of these recommendations can standardize PBM for LR to improve patient outcomes and resource utilization.

Background Differences in outcomes between males and females with biliary tract cancer (BTC) has been previously reported but not studied. Methods This was a population-based retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing BTC resection in Ontario between 2002 and 2012. Descriptive statistics on patient, disease, and treatment-related factors in each BTC subtype were reported. Kaplan Meier Curves and Cox Proportional Hazards analysis were used to examine the univariate relationship between sex and overall survival. Results 714 patients underwent resection of a BTC. Kaplan Meier Curves shows trends towards different survival for males and females in different BTC subtypes: improved for females with intrahepatic and ampullary cancers and poorer survival for females with perhilar and distal cholangiocarcinomas. These trends were not statistically significant. Conclusions Sex may be an important factor in overall survival following resection of BTC. Further work is needed to better characterize the relationship between sex and outcomes of BTC.

Appendectomy is a common emergency procedure. The risks have been reported in previous studies but often are limited to inpatient complications. The purpose of this study was to describe inpatient and outpatient rates of complications associated with appendectomy in a contemporary population-based cohort and explore factors associated with these complications.We conducted a retrospective study using linked data for Ontario within Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences databases. Patients who underwent emergent appendectomy between 2009 and 2014 were included. The primary outcome was a complication (death, readmission, emergency department visit, lengthy [7 d] hospital stay, percutaneous abscess drainage, reoperation or 1 of the predefined complication codes) occurring within 30 days of surgery. We used modified Poisson regression to identify predictors of complications.A total of 50 369 patients underwent emergent appendectomy over the study period, of whom 16 953 (33.7%) had a perforated appendix. Overall, 14 451 patients (28.7%) (8428 [25.2%] in the nonperforated group and 6023 [35.5%] in the perforated group) had at least 1 complication. The most common complication was an emergency department visit (7942 patients [15.8%]), followed by surgical site infection (4792 [9.5%]). Increasing age, female sex, rural residence, perforation status, daytime surgery and open surgical technique were associated with increased risk of complications.We found a higher rate of complications after appendectomy than previously reported. The most common complication was presentation to the emergency department. Our definition of complications is more inclusive than in previous studies and provides a deeper understanding of complications after appendectomy.L'appendicectomie est une intervention urgente qui est courante. Les risques qui y sont associés ont déjà fait l'objet d'études, mais se limitent souvent aux complications perhospitalières. Cette étude avait pour but de décrire les taux de complications chez les patients durant et après leur hospitalisation pour appendicectomie dans une cohorte contemporaine basée dans la population et d'explorer les facteurs associés à ces complications.Nous avons procédé à une étude rétrospective à partir des données reliées des bases de données de l'Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences pour l'Ontario. Les patients soumis à une appendicectomie urgente entre 2009 et 2014 ont été inclus. Le paramètre principal était la survenue d'une complication (décès, réadmission, consultation aux urgences, séjour hospitalier prolongé [7 j], drainage d'abcès percutané, réintervention ou l'un des codes de complications prédéfinis) dans les 30 jours suivant la chirurgie. Nous avons utilisé la régression de Poisson pour identifier les facteurs prédicteurs de complications.En tout, 50 369 patients ont subi une appendicectomie urgente au cours de la période de l'étude, dont 16 953 (33,7 %) présentaient un appendice perforé. Globalement, 14 451 patients (28,7 %) (8 428 [25,2 %] dans le groupe ayant l'appendice non perforé et 6 023 [35,5 %] dans le groupe ayant l'appendice perforé) ont eu au moins une complication. La complication la plus fréquente a été une consultation aux urgences (7942 patients [15,8 %]), suivie de l'infection du site opératoire (4792 [9,5 %]). L'âge avancé, le fait d'être de sexe féminin, de vivre en milieu rural, un appendice perforé, la chirurgie effectuée durant le jour et la technique chirurgicale ouverte ont tous été associés à un risque accru de complications.Nous avons observé un taux de complications post-appendicectomie plus élevé comparativement aux rapports précédents. La complication la plus fréquente était la consultation aux urgences. Notre définition du terme complications est plus inclusive que celle des précédentes études et permet une compréhension plus approfondie des complications post-appendicectomie.

Inguinal hernias are a common surgical complaint, with a lifetime incidence requiring repair of 27% in men and 3% in women.1 Recurrence of an inguinal hernia requiring repair depends on a number of factors, including repair type, surgeon experience, and patient factors, but has been estimated at 1–4%.2,3 The bladder is involved in 1–4% of inguinal hernias in the general population, and involvement is as high as 10% in men over age 50.4 Risk factors for urinary bladder involvement in an inguinal hernia include male gender, age over 50, and obesity.5 The mainstay of treatment for an inguinal bladder hernia is herniorrhaphy. Most small bladder hernias are discovered intraoperatively due to the lack of urinary symptoms prior to herniorrhaphy. In fact, less than 7% are diagnosed preoperatively.4 Small urinary bladder hernias are often asymptomatic, but clinical manifestations can include urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia, hematuria, and double-phase micturition.6 Extensive herniation of the bladder, commonly referred to as a scrotal cystocele, is much less frequent. These are more likely to present with urinary symptoms, and urgent intervention is usually required, as bladder infarction and/or obstruction may result.6 Inguinal bladder hernias with associated small bowel obstruction are rare and rates have not been characterized in the literature. We present a case of a recurrent inguinal hernia with bladder and small bowel incarceration, as well as associated small bowel obstruction. In addition, aside from a case involving complete herniation of the bladder,6 we present the first such images of a Foley catheter balloon being found within the herniated portion of the bladder.

Resection of lung metastases is considered standard treatment for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. We describe surgical management, prognostic factors, and outcomes in routine clinical practice.All cases of colorectal cancer lung metastases in Ontario, Canada, resected during 2002 to 2009 were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry and linked electronic records. Pathology reports were reviewed to identify extent of disease.The study population included 420 patients (60% male). Median age was 64 years. A solitary metastasis was present in 61% (256 of 420). Mean size of the largest metastasis was 2.4 cm. Lymph nodes were resected in 63% (263 of 420) of patients. The 5-year cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) was 42% (95% confidence interval [CI], 37% to 47%) and 40% (95% CI, 35% to 45%), respectively. On adjusted analyses, greater number (p0.001) and size (p = 0.001) of lesions and lymph node involvement (p0.001) were associated with inferior CSS and OS. Lymph node positivity was strongly associated with survival (adjusted CSS hazard ratio, 2.19 [95% CI, 1.48 to 3.25]; adjusted OS hazard ratio, 2.08 [95% CI, 1.41 to 3.07]). Unadjusted 5-year CSS/OS was 49%/47% for node-negative disease and 19%/19% for node-positive disease. The negative prognostic effect of size (2 cm) and number (1) of lesions was additive: 5-year CSS/OS ranged from 57%/55% (single lesion2 cm) to 24%/20% (multiple lesions, largest lesion2 cm).Long-term survival of patients with resected colorectal cancer lung metastases in routine practice is comparable to outcomes reported in institutional case series. Lymph node positivity is strongly associated with reduced survival. Combining size and number of metastatic lesions in advance of the operation may facilitate treatment decision making.

A fundamental aspect of surgical planning in liver resections is the identification of key vessel tributaries to preserve healthy liver tissue while fully resecting the tumor(s). Current surgical planning relies primarily on the surgeon's ability to mentally reconstruct 2D computed tomography/magnetic resonance (CT/MR) images into 3D and plan resection margins. This creates significant cognitive load, especially for trainees, as it relies on image interpretation, anatomical and surgical knowledge, experience, and spatial sense. The purpose of this study is to determine if 3D reconstruction of preoperative CT/MR images will assist resident-level trainees in making appropriate operative plans for liver resection surgery.Ten preoperative patient CT/MR images were selected. Images were case-matched, 5 to 2D planning and 5 to 3D planning. Images from the 3D group were segmented to create interactive digital models that the resident can manipulate to view the tumor(s) in relation to landmark hepatic structures. Residents were asked to evaluate the images and devise a surgical resection plan for each image. The resident alternated between 2D and 3D planning, in a randomly generated order. The primary outcome was the accuracy of resident's plan compared to expert opinion. Time to devise each surgical plan was the secondary outcome. Residents completed a prestudy and poststudy questionnaire regarding their experience with liver surgery and the 3D planning software.Senior level surgical residents from the Queen's University General Surgery residency program were recruited to participate.A total of 14 residents participated in the study. The median correct response rate was 2 of 5 (40%; range: 0-4) for the 2D group, and 3 of 5 (60%; range: 1-5) for the 3D group (p0.01). The average time to complete each plan was 156 ± 107 seconds for the 2D group, and 84 ± 73 seconds for the 3D group (p0.01). A total 13 of 14 residents found the 3D model easier to use than the 2D. Most residents noticed a difference between the 2 modalities and found that the 3D model improved their confidence with the surgical plan proposed.The results of this study show that 3D reconstruction for liver surgery planning increases accuracy of resident surgical planning and decreases amount of time required. 3D reconstruction would be a useful model for improving trainee understanding of liver anatomy and surgical resection, and would serve as an adjunct to current 2D planning methods. This has the potential to be developed into a module for teaching liver surgery in a competency-based medical curriculum.

We examined the delivery of physician palliative care (PC) services and its association with aggressive end-of-life care (EOLC) in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer in Ontario, Canada. All patients with primary cause of death from esophageal, gastric, colon, and anorectal cancer from January 2003 to December 2013 were identified. PC services within 2 years of death were classified: (1) any PC; (2) timing of first PC (≤ 7, 8–90, 91–180, and 181–730 days before death); and (3) intensity of PC measured by number of days used (1st–25th, 26th–50th, 51st–75th, and 76th–100th percentiles). Aggressive EOLC was defined as any of the following: chemotherapy, emergency department visits, hospital or intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (all ≤ 30 days of death), and death in hospital and in the ICU; these were combined as a composite outcome (any aggressive EOLC). The cohort included 34,630 patients, of whom 74% had at least one PC service. Timing of the first PC service varied: ≤ 7 (12%), 8–90 (42%), 91–180 (16%), and 181–730 (30%) days before death. Compared with patients not receiving PC, any PC was associated with a reduction in any aggressive EOLC (risk ratio [RR] 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74–0.76); this association was similar regardless of timing of the first PC service. The most dramatic reduction in aggressive EOLC occurred in patients who received the greatest number of days of PC (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.63–0.67). The majority of patients received PC within 2 years of death. A larger number of days of PC was associated with a greater reduction in aggressive EOLC.

Factors associated with time-to-surgery (TTS) and survival in colon cancer has not been well studied. Cancer Care Ontario recommends surgery within 42 days of diagnosis and that 90% of patients meet this benchmark. We describe factors associated with TTS and survival in routine clinical practice.Retrospective population-based cohort study of patients receiving elective colonic resection after diagnosis of colon cancer in Ontario, Canada from 2002 to 2008 followed until 2012. Factors associated with TTS were identified using multivariate log-binomial and Quantile regression at 42 days and 90th percentiles. The association between TTS and cancer-specific (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were examined using multivariate Cox regression.4326 patients; median age 71 years and 52% male. Median TTS was 24 days (IQR 14-37); at the 90th percentile 56 days. Factors associated with TTS ≥ 42 days and90th percentile included older age, co-morbid illness, surgeon volume, and stage I disease (P 0.05 for all). In patients whose TTS was either at 42 days or 90th percentile, those ≥80 years old waited two weeks longer than those60 years, individuals with co-morbid illness waited 10 days longer than without co-morbidity, and patients with stage I disease waited 10 days longer than those with stage IV disease (P 0.05 for all). Delay in TTS 42 days or90th percentile was not associated with OS or CSS.Age, co-morbidity, and stage of cancer are associated with TTS. There was no association between TTS and CSS or OS.

Background: Studies have reported overly aggressive end-of-life care (EOLC) in many cancers. We investigate trends in, and factors associated with, aggressive EOLC among patients who died of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers in Ontario, Canada. Methods: All patients with primary cause of death from esophageal, gastric, colon, and anorectal cancer from January 2003 to December 2013 were identified through the Ontario Cancer Registry, and information was collected from linked databases. Outcomes representing aggressive EOLC were assessed: administration of chemotherapy, any emergency department (ED) visits, hospital admissions, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (all within 30 days of death), death in hospital and in ICU, and a composite outcome representing any aggressive EOLC. Temporal trends were analyzed using the Cochran-Armitage test. Results: There were 34 630 patients in the cohort: 43% colon, 26% anorectal, 19% gastric, and 12% esophageal cancers. Aggressive EOLC was delivered to 65%, with a significantly decreasing trend from 64.8% in 2003 to 62.5% in 2013 ( P = .001). Utilization of specific elements of aggressive EOLC included 8% chemotherapy, 46% ED visits, 49% hospital admissions, 6% ICU admissions, 45% death in hospital, and 5% death in ICU. Trends over the study period showed that ED visits (from 43% to 46.9%; P = .0001) and death in ICU (from 3.7% to 4.9%; P = .04) significantly increased; hospital admissions (from 48.9% to 47.8%; P = .02) and death in hospital (from 46.6% to 38.9%; P < .0001) significantly decreased. Conclusions: Two-thirds of patients with GI cancer had aggressive EOLC in the last 30 days of life.

Background More than half of the patients undergoing resection for colorectal cancer liver metastases develop recurrent hepatic disease. We report management and outcomes of patients undergoing repeat hepatectomy in routine practice. Methods All cases of repeat hepatectomy for colorectal cancer liver metastases from 2002 to 2009 in the Canadian Province of Ontario were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry and linked treatment records. Results Of 1,310 patients who underwent resection of CRLM, 78 (6.0%) underwent a repeat liver resection. Mean age was 56 years and the median time between resections was 19 months. Compared with the first resection, second resections were associated with fewer lesions (2.7 vs 1.5; P = .001) and fewer major resections (58% vs 31%; P = .024). The size of largest lesion, positive margin rate, length of hospital stay, and 90-day mortality were similar. Unadjusted 5-year overall survival from the time of second resection was 45% (95% confidence interval=32% to 59%) and cancer-specific survival was 47% (95% confidence interval=30% to 64%). Conclusions Repeat liver resections for metastatic CRC involve fewer lesions and less extensive surgery and a substantial proportion of patients achieve long-term survival.

Simultaneous resection of primary colorectal cancer (CRC) and synchronous liver metastases (LM) is gaining interest. We describe management and outcomes of patients undergoing simultaneous resection in the general population.All patients with CRC who underwent surgical resection of LM between 2002 and 2009 were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry and linked electronic treatment records. Synchronous disease was defined as having resection of CRCLM within 12 weeks of surgery for the primary tumour.During the study period, 1310 patients underwent resection of CRCLM. Of these, 226 (17%) patients had synchronous disease; 100 (44%) had a simultaneous resection and 126 (56%) had a staged resection. For the simultaneous and the staged groups, the mean number of liver lesions resected was 1.6 and 2.3, respectively (Compared with a staged approach, patients undergoing simultaneous resections had fewer and smaller liver metastases and underwent less aggressive resections. One-third of these patients achieved long-term survival.La résection simultanée des cancers colorectaux primitifs et des métastases hépatiques synchrones suscitent de plus en plus d'intérêt. Nous décrivons la prise en charge et les résultats de patients de la population générale ayant subi une résection simultanée.Tous les patients atteints d'un cancer colorectal ayant bénéficié d'une résection chirurgicale des métastases hépatiques entre 2002 et 2009 ont été identifiés au moyen du Registre des cas de cancer de l'Ontario en population générale et des dossiers électroniques associés sur le traitement. La maladie synchrone a été définie comme le fait d'avoir subi une chirurgie de résection des métastases hépatiques du cancer colorectal dans les 12 semaines de la chirurgie de la tumeur primitive.Pendant la période de l'étude, 1310 patients ont subi une résection des métastases hépatiques du cancer colorectal. Sur ce nombre, 226 (17 %) patients présentaient une maladie synchrone; 100 (44 %) patients ont subi une résection simultanée et 126 (56 %) patients ont subi une résection en 2 temps. Dans les groupes des résections simultanées et des résections en 2 temps, le nombre moyen de lésions hépatiques réséquées était de 1,6 et de 2,3, respectivement (Comparativement à l'approche en 2 temps, les patients avec résections simultanées présentaient moins de métastases hépatiques et des métastases de plus petite taille, et les résections pratiquées étaient moins agressives. Le tiers de ces patients ont obtenu une survie à long terme.

BACKGROUND Clinical trials have established surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) as the standard management for stage III colon cancer; however, the extent to which these results apply to elderly patients in routine practice is unclear. This article describes the management and outcomes of elderly patients with stage III colon cancer. METHODS All cases of surgically resected colon cancer from 2002 to 2008 were identified with the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry. Pathology reports were obtained for a random sample (25% of all cases); those with stage III disease constituted the study population. The utilization of ACT, cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) in elderly patients (≥70 years) and nonelderly patients (

International guidelines recommend peri-operative chemotherapy for patients with resectable colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM). Chemotherapy delivery in routine practice is not well described.All cases of CRC who underwent resection of LM in 2002-2009 were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry. Electronic treatment records identified chemotherapy delivered within 16 weeks before or after hepatectomy. All pathology reports were reviewed to describe extent of LM. Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors associated with chemotherapy delivery. Cox proportional hazards model and propensity score analysis were used to explore the association between post-operative chemotherapy and cancer-specific (CSS) and overall (OS) survival.We identified 1310 patients. Sixty-two percent of cases (815/1310) received peri-operative chemotherapy; 25% (200/815) pre-operative, 45% (366/815) post-operative, and 31% (249/815) pre- and post-operative. Utilization of chemotherapy increased over time from 51% in 2002 (57/112) to 73% in 2009 (157/216, p 0.001). Fifty-four percent of patients received FOLFOX, 41% FOLFIRI, and 10% 5-FU monotherapy. Factors that were independently associated with greater utilization of post-operative chemotherapy included younger age (p 0.001), female sex (p = 0.050), shorter disease-free interval (p = 0.006), and no prior adjuvant chemotherapy (p 0.001). Utilization of chemotherapy varied substantially across geographic regions (from 24% to 71%, p = 0.001). Post-operative chemotherapy was associated with improved CSS (HR 0.58, 95%CI 0.44-0.76) and OS (HR 0.49, 95%CI 0.38-0.61); results were consistent in propensity score analysis.Utilization of chemotherapy for resected CRCLM in routine practice has evolved with emerging evidence. Post-operative chemotherapy is associated with improved survival in the general population.

BACKGROUND Adjuvant oxaliplatin is now a standard treatment option for patients with early-stage colon cancer. However, treatment delivery and outcomes achieved in routine practice are not well described. METHODS All cases of colon cancer diagnosed in Ontario from 2002 to 2008 were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry. Pathology reports were obtained for a 25% random sample to identify stage II and III cases; patients treated with adjuvant oxaliplatin were included in this analysis. Treatment records were reviewed to identify oxaliplatin dose reductions or omissions. Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors associated with dose reduction/omission. Cox proportional hazards model was used to explore factors associated with cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS The study population included 532 patients; 88% (469/532) had stage III disease. The mean/median number of oxaliplatin cycles delivered was 10/12. A dose reduction/omission of oxaliplatin occurred in 54% of cases (288/532), and the dose was subsequently escalated in 34% of these (97/288). Women were more likely than men to have dose reduction/omission (relative risk, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.10-1.51). Dose reduction/omission was not associated with inferior CSS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.76; 95% CI, 0.51-1.14) or OS (HR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.59-1.13). Five-year CSS and OS of all cases were 77% (95% CI, 72-81) and 72% (95% CI, 68-76), respectively. On-treatment mortality rates were 1% and 3% within 30 and 90 days of oxaliplatin, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Dose reductions of adjuvant oxaliplatin are common in routine practice but are not associated with inferior survival. Long-term survival achieved in the general population is comparable to the results of clinical trials.

The frequency and predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within each liver imaging reporting and data system (LI-RADS) category remains unclear. We sought to estimate the cumulative frequency of HCC in LI-RADS observations of high/intermediate category and identify clinical/radiographic features associated with HCC.Our diagnostic imaging database was searched for computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging reports of patients with evidence of cirrhosis and liver observations. LI-RADS categories were determined by imaging review, while demographic and clinical outcomes were assigned by chart review. A composite outcome of clinical/radiographic confirmation of HCC was used. We used multivariable analysis to identify features associated with HCC, and competing risks regression to estimate the cumulative frequency of HCC in each category.Our search returned 95 patients with 137 observations (LR2 = 4, LR3 = 53, LR4 = 37, and LR5 = 43). On multivariable analysis, increasing age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.76 per 10 years, p = 0.049), washout (HR 5.34, p 0.002), and increasing size (size 10 mm reference, 10-20 mm, HR 3.93, p = 0.014; size 20 mm, HR 21.69, p 0.001) were associated with HCC. Median time to diagnosis was 6.13 months (interquartile range [IQR] 4.6-13.1), 4.7 months (IQR 2.5-14.5), and 3.6 months (IQR 1.9-6.6) for LR3, 4, and 5 category observations, respectively. The cumulative frequency of HCC was 59.8% in LR3, 84.62% in LR4, and 99.84% in LR5, at last follow-up.The frequency of HCC within each LI-RADS category reflects the intended purpose, intermediate probability for LR3, probable HCC for LR4, and definite HCC for LR5.

BACKGROUND To the authors’ knowledge, the incidence of biliary tract cancer (BTC) in Canada is unknown. In the current study, the authors sought to describe the epidemiology of BTC using a large population-based cancer database from Ontario, Canada. METHODS The current study was a population-based cohort study using the Ontario Cancer Registry. Patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC), extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHCC), and gallbladder cancer (GBC) diagnosed between 1994 and 2012 were included. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates were compared using incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Overall survival from the time of diagnosis was calculated for 3 eras: 1994 through 1999, 2000 through 2005, and 2006 through 2012. The number of patients receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery was determined using linked clinical data. RESULTS A total of 9039 cases (1569 IHCC cases, 4337 EHCC cases, and 3133 GBC cases) were identified. The rate of BTC increased by 1.6% per year (IRR, 1.016; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.008-1.024 [P

Most literature describing surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastases (LM) comes from high volume centres. Here, we report management and outcomes achieved in routine clinical practice.All cases of CRC in Ontario who underwent resection of LM in 1994-2009 were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry. Electronic treatment records identified chemotherapy delivery. Temporal trends are described for 3 periods: 1994-1999, 2000-2004, 2005-2009. We describe volume of resected CRCLM as a ratio of incident cases per CRCLM resection. Overall (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) are measured from time of LM resection.2717 patients underwent resection of CRCLM. Between 1994 and 2009 there was a 78% increase in case volume; from one resection for every 48 incident cases to one resection for every 27 incident cases, p0.001. Use of peri-operative chemotherapy increased over study periods from 44% (306/700), to 52% (429/830), to 65% (777/1187, p0.001). Chemotherapy utilization rates varied across geographic regions (range 43%-69%, p0.001). Post-operative mortality rates at 30 and 90 days were 2.5% and 4.3% respectively. Five year OS during the study periods was 36% (95% CI 32-39%), 40% (95% CI 36-43%), and 46% (95% CI 43-49%) (p0.001); CSS was 38% (95% CI 35-42%), 42% (95% CI 38-45%), 49% (95% CI 44-53%) (p0.001). The temporal improvement in OS/CSS persisted on adjusted analyses.Outcomes of patients with resected CRCLM in routine practice is comparable to those reported from high volume centres. Survival improved over the study period despite a greater proportion of patients with CRC undergoing liver resection.

BACKGROUND International guidelines recommend adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) for patients with stage III colon cancer. Whether efficacy observed in clinical trials translates to effectiveness in routine practice is less well understood. Here we describe use and outcomes of ACT in routine practice. METHODS All cases of colon cancer treated with surgery in Ontario 2002-2008 were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry. Linked electronic records of treatment identified surgery and ACT use. Pathology reports were obtained for a random 25% sample of all cases; patients with stage III disease were included in the study population. Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors associated with ACT. Cox proportional hazards model and propensity score analysis were used to explore the association between ACT and cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS The study population included 2,801 patients with stage III colon cancer; 66% (n=1,861) received ACT. ACT use rates varied substantially across age groups; 90% among patients aged 20 to 49 years versus 68% among those aged 70 to 79 years (P

Introduction Selection criteria and benefits for resection of noncolorectal, nonneuroendocrine liver metastases (NCNNELM) remain debated. A prognostic score was developed by the Association Francaise de Chirurgie (AFC) for patient selection, but not validated. We performed a geographic external validation of this score. Methods Patients with resected NCNNELM from six institutions (2000-2014) were assigned risk groups based on the AFC score. Discrimination was evaluated by visually inspecting separation of overall survival (OS) curves among risk categories. The slope of the continuous score on OS and hazard ratios for risk categories were examined. Results Of 165 patients, 53 (32.1%) were low-risk, 85 (51.5%) intermediate-risk, and 27 (16.4%) high-risk. The OS curves did not separate among risk groups: 5-year OS were 60.1% (low), 57.1% (intermediate), and 55.6% (high). The parameter estimate (0.02) indicated lower discrimination than in the AFC cohort. Hazard ratios of 1.05 (0.63 to 1.70) for low vs intermediate, 0.87 (0.46 to 1.64) for low vs high, and 0.83 (0.46 to 1.49) for intermediate vs. high, demonstrated lack of discrimination in OS among risk groups. Conclusion While long-term survival is achievable, discrimination of the AFC score is not maintained in a geographic external cohort of resected NCNNELM. It is not generalizable to this external population.

BACKGROUND: Factors associated with time-to-surgery (TTS) and survival in patients with colon cancer has not been well studied. Cancer Care Ontario recommends surgery within 42 days of diagnosis and that 90% of patients meet this benchmark. AIMS: We describe factors associated with TTS and survival in routine clinical practice. METHODS: Retrospective population-based cohort study of patients receiving elective colonic resection after diagnosis of colon cancer in Ontario, Canada from 2002–2008. Factors associated with TTS were identified using multivariate log-binomial and Quantile regression at 42 days and 90(th) percentiles. The association between TTS and cancer-specific (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were examined using multivariate Cox regression. RESULTS: 4,326 patients; median age 71 years and 52% male. Median TTS was 24 days (IQR 14–37); at the 90(th) percentile 56 days. Factors associated with TTS ≥ 42 days and > 90(th) percentile included older age, co-morbid illness, surgeon volume, and stage I disease (P < 0.05 for all). In patients whose TTS was either at 42 days or 90(th) percentile, those ≥ 80 years old waited two weeks longer than those < 60 years, individuals with co-morbid illness waited 10 days longer than those without co-morbidity, and patients with stage I disease waited 10 days longer than those with stage IV disease (P < 0.05 for all). Delay in TTS > 42 days or > 90(th) percentile was not associated with OS or CSS. CONCLUSIONS: Age, co-morbidity, and stage of cancer are associated with TTS. There was no association between TTS and CSS or OS. FUNDING AGENCIES: Southeastern Ontario Academic Medical Association (SEAMO)

Recent data have suggested that disease biology and outcome of colon cancer may differ between right-sided and left-sided tumors. However, the literature on the prognostic value of tumor laterality is conflicting.To explore differences in laterality based on disease characteristics and outcomes in a population-based cohort of early-stage colon cancer.This investigation was a population-based retrospective cohort study of patients with early-stage colon cancer from the province of Ontario, Canada. Electronic records of treatment were linked to the Ontario Cancer Registry to identify all patients with colon cancer who underwent resection between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2008. The date of the final analysis was October 20, 2016. The study population included a 25% random sample of all patients with resected stage I to III disease. Right-sided colon cancer was defined as any tumor arising in the cecum, ascending colon, hepatic flexure, or transverse colon. Left-sided colon cancer was defined as any tumor arising in the splenic flexure, descending colon, sigmoid colon, or rectosigmoid colon.Overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) measured from the time of resection.This study identified 6365 patients with early-stage colon cancer (48.7% [3098 of 6365] female). Their median age was 72 years, and 51.7% (3291 of 6365) had right-sided disease. Stage distribution was 18.3% (1163 of 6365) stage I, 38.4% (2446 of 6365) stage II, and 43.3% (2756 of 6365) stage III. Patients with right-sided colon cancer were more likely to be older (median age, 73 vs 70 years; P .001) and female (54.4% [1790 of 3291] vs 42.6% [1308 of 3074], P .001) and have greater comorbidity. Right-sided cancers were more likely to be T4 (19.2% [631 of 3291] vs 15.9% [490 of 3074], P .001) and poorly differentiated (21.1% [695 of 3291] vs 9.6% [295 of 3074], P .001) but less likely to be node positive (42.0% [1383 of 3291] vs 44.7% [1373 of 3074], P = .03) compared with left-sided disease. In adjusted analyses, there was no difference in long-term survival for right-sided compared with left-sided colon cancer: the hazard ratios were 1.00 (95% CI, 0.92-1.08) for OS and 1.00 (95% CI, 0.91-1.10) for CSS. These results were consistent when the survival analyses were restricted to stage III disease: the hazard ratios were 1.03 (95% CI, 0.93-1.14) for OS and 1.10 (95% CI, 0.97-1.24) for CSS.In this population-based cohort of early-stage resected colon cancer, disease laterality was not associated with long-term OS or CSS.

Literature suggests that peri-operative blood transfusion among patients with resected colon cancer may be associated with inferior long-term survival. The study objective was to characterize this association in our population.This is a retrospective cohort study using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry (2002-2008). Pathology reports were obtained for a 25% random sample of all cases and constituted the study population. Log binomial regression was used to identify factors associated with transfusion. Cox proportional hazards model explored the association between transfusion and cancer specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS).The study population included 7198 patients: 18% stage I, 36% stage II, 40% stage III, and 6% stage IV. Twenty-eight percent of patients were transfused. Factors independently associated with transfusion included advanced age (p0.001), female sex (p0.001), greater comorbidity (p0.001), more advanced disease (p0.001) and open surgical resection (p0.001). Transfusion was associated with inferior CSS (HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.38-1.65) and OS (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.41-1.63), after adjusting for important confounders.Peri-operative transfusion rates among patients with colon cancer have decreased over time. Transfusion is associated with inferior long-term CSS and OS.

The incidence of colon cancer varies by sex. Whether women and men show differences in extent of disease, treatment, and outcomes is not well described. We used a large population-based cohort to evaluate sex differences in colon cancer. Using the Ontario Cancer Registry, all cases of colon cancer treated with surgery in Ontario during 2002&ndash, 2008 were identified. Electronic records of treatment identified use of surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Pathology reports for a random 25% sample of all cases were obtained, and disease characteristics, treatment, and outcomes in women and men were compared. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify factors associated with overall (os) and cancer-specific survival (css). The study population included 7249 patients who underwent resection of colon cancer, 49% (n = 3556) were women. Stage of disease and histologic grade did not vary by sex. Compared with men, women were more likely to have right-sided disease (55% vs. 44%, p &le, 0.001). Surgical procedure and lymph node yield did not differ by sex. Adjuvant chemotherapy was delivered to 18% of patients with stage ii and 64% of patients with stage iii disease, when adjusted for patient- and disease-related factors, use of adjuvant chemotherapy was similar for women and men [relative risk: 0.99, 95% confidence interval (ci): 0.94 to 1.03]. Adjusted analyses demonstrated that os [hazard ratio (hr): 0.80, 95% ci: 0.75 to 0.86] and css (hr: 0.82, 95% ci: 0.76 to 0.90) were superior for women compared with men. Long-term survival after colon cancer is significantly better for women than for men, which is not explained by any substantial differences in extent of disease or treatment delivered.

Guidelines recommend that 12 or more lymph nodes (lns) be evaluated during surgical resection of colon cancer. Here, we report ln yield and its association with survival in routine practice. Electronic records of treatment were linked to the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry to identify all patients with colon cancer treated during 2002&ndash, 2008. The study population (n = 5508) included a 25% random sample of patients with stage ii or iii disease. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify factors associated with ln yield, Cox models were used to explore the association between ln yield and overall (os) and cancer-specific survival (css). During 2002&ndash, 2008, median ln yield increased to 17 from 11 nodes (p < 0.001), and the proportion of patients with 12 or more nodes evaluated increased to 86% from 45% (p < 0.001). Lymph node positivity did not change over time (to 53% from 54%, p = 0.357). Greater ln yield was associated with younger age (p < 0.001), less comorbidity (p = 0.004), higher socioeconomic status (p = 0.001), right-sided tumours (p < 0.001), and higher hospital volume (p < 0.001). In adjusted analyses, a ln yield of less than 12 nodes was associated with inferior os and css for stages ii and iii disease [stage ii os hazard ratio (hr): 1.36, 95% confidence interval (ci): 1.19 to 1.56, stage ii css hr: 1.52, 95% ci: 1.26 to 1.83, and stage iii os hr: 1.45, 95% ci: 1.30 to 1.61, stage iii css hr: 1.54, 95% ci: 1.36 to 1.75]. Despite a temporal increase in ln yield, the proportion of cases with ln positivity has not changed. Lymph node yield is associated with survival in patients with stages ii and iii colon cancer. The association between ln yield and survival is unlikely to be a result of stage migration.

ObjectivesAmong patients with initially unresectable colorectal cancer liver metastases (CLM), a subset are rendered resectable following the administration of systemic chemotherapy. This study reports the results achieved in liver resections performed at a single hepatobiliary referral centre after downsizing chemotherapy in patients with initially unresectable CLM.MethodsAll liver resections for CLM performed over a 10-year period at the Toronto General Hospital were considered. Data on initially non-resectable patients who received systemic therapy and later underwent surgery were included for analysis.ResultsBetween January 2002 and July 2012, 754 liver resections for CLM were performed. A total of 24 patients were found to meet the study inclusion criteria. Bilobar CLM were present in 23 of these 24 patients. The median number of tumours was seven (range: 2–15) and median tumour size was 7.0cm (range: 1.0–12.8cm) before systemic therapy. All patients received oxaliplatin- or irinotecan-based chemotherapy. Fourteen patients received combined treatment with bevacizumab. Negative margin (R0) resection was accomplished in 21 of 24 patients. There was no perioperative mortality. Ten patients suffered perioperative morbidity. Eighteen patients suffered recurrence of disease within 9 months. Rates of disease-free survival at 1, 2 and 3 years were 47.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 30.4–74.6%], 23.8% (95% CI 11.1–51.2%) and 19.0% (95% CI 7.9–46.0%), respectively. Overall survival at 1, 2 and 3 years was 91.5% (95% CI 80.8–100%), 65.3% (95% CI 48.5–88.0%) and 55.2% (95% CI 37.7–80.7%), respectively.ConclusionsLiver resection in initially unresectable CLM can be performed with low rates of morbidity and mortality in patients who respond to systemic chemotherapy, although these patients do experience a high frequency of disease recurrence.

236 Background: The role of chemotherapy in the setting of resected colorectal cancer pulmonary metastases (CRCPM) is not well defined. Here we describe utilization of peri-operative chemotherapy and outcomes among patients with resected CRCPM in the general population. Methods: All cases of CRCPM who underwent resection from 2002-2009 were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry (OCR). Electronic treatment records identified peri-operative chemotherapy delivered within 16 weeks before or after pulmonary metastectomy (PM). Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors associated with chemotherapy delivery. Cox proportional models were used to explore the association between post-operative chemotherapy and cancer-specific (CSS) and overall survival (OS). Results: The study population included 420 patients. Thirty-six percent of patients (151/420) received peri-operative chemotherapy. Among these patients, 75% (113/151) received post-operative chemotherapy. Factors that were independently associated with use of post-operative chemotherapy included higher socioeconomic status (SES) and no prior adjuvant chemotherapy (p < 0.01). In adjusted analyses post-operative chemotherapy was not associated with improved CSS (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.67-1.47) or OS (HR 0.93 95%CI 0.66-1.31). In exploratory analyses, among those patients who did not receive previous adjuvant therapy for the primary colorectal cancer, post-operative chemotherapy following lung metastatectomy was associated with HR 0.50 (95%CI 0.27-0.95) for OS and HR 0.59 (95%CI 0.27-1.27) for CSS. Conclusions: One third of patients with resected CRCPM in routine practice receive peri-operative chemotherapy. A randomized controlled trial is warranted to evaluate whether chemotherapy following resection of CRCPM is associated with improved survival.

Background It is well established that lymph node (LN) yield in colonic cancer resection has prognostic significance, although optimal numbers are not clear. Here, LN thresholds associated with both LN positivity and survival were evaluated in a single population-based data set. Methods Treatment records were linked to the Ontario Cancer Registry to identify a 25 per cent random sample of all patients with stage II / III colonic cancer between 2002 and 2008. Multivariable regression and Cox models evaluated factors associated with LN positivity and cancer-specific survival (CSS) respectively. Optimal thresholds were obtained using sequential regression analysis. Results On adjusted analysis of 5508 eligible patients, younger age (P < 0·001), left-sided tumours (P = 0·003), higher T category (P < 0·001) and greater LN yield (relative risk 0·89, 95 per cent c.i. 0·81 to 0·97; P = 0·007) were associated with a greater likelihood of LN positivity. Regression analyses with multiple thresholds suggested no substantial increase in LN positivity beyond 12–14 LNs. Cox analysis of stage II disease showed that lower LN yield was associated with a significant increase in the risk of death from cancer (CSS hazard ratio range 1·55–1·74; P < 0·001) compared with a greater LN yield, with no significant survival benefit beyond a yield of 20 LNs. Similarly, for stage III disease, a lower LN yield was associated with an increase in the risk of death from cancer (CSS hazard ratio range 1·49–2·20; P < 0·001) versus a large LN yield. In stage III disease, there was no observed LN threshold for survival benefit in the data set. Conclusion There is incongruity in the optimal LN evaluation for colonic cancer. Although the historically stated threshold of 12 LNs may ensure accurate staging in colonic cancer, thresholds for optimal survival are associated with far greater yields.

While the indications for surgery among patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM) are expanding, the role of surgery in patients with hepatic lymph node involvement remains controversial. We report management and outcomes in a population-based cohort of patients undergoing hepatectomy with concomitant hepatic lymphadenectomy for CRCLM.All cases of hepatectomy for CRCLM in the Canadian Province of Ontario from 2002 to 2009 were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry and linked electronic records of treatment. Pathology reports were used to identify concomitant lymphadenectomy with liver resection as well as extent of disease and surgical procedure.Among 1310 patients who underwent resection for CRCLM, 103 (8%) underwent simultaneous regional lymphadenectomy. Seventy-one percent of cases with lymphadenectomy (70/103) had a major liver resection (≥3 segments). Of the 103 lymphadenectomy cases, 80 (78%) were hepatic pedicle, 16 (16%) were celiac and 7 (7%) were para-aortic. The mean number of nodes removed was 2.2 (range 1-15). Ninety-day mortality was 6%. Twenty-nine percent (30/103) of cases had positive nodes. Unadjusted overall survival at 5 years for positive vs negative nodes was 21% vs 42% (p = 0.003); cancer-specific survival was 10% vs 43% (p 0.001). In adjusted analyses, hepatic node involvement was associated with inferior OS (HR 2.19, p = 0.010) and CSS (HR 3.07, p = 0.002).Patients with resected CRC liver metastases with regional lymph node involvement have inferior survival compared to patients with negative nodes. Despite this poor prognostic factor, a small proportion of cases with involved nodes will achieve long-term survival.

The annual Eastern Canadian Colorectal Cancer Consensus Conference held in Montreal, Quebec, 17&ndash, 19 October 2013, marked the 10-year anniversary of this meeting that is attended by leaders in medical, radiation, and surgical oncology. The goal of the attendees is to improve the care of patients affected by gastrointestinal malignancies. Topics discussed during the conference included pancreatic cancer, rectal cancer, and metastatic colorectal cancer.

Reasons for variable utilization of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) for colon cancer have not been well described. We report medical oncology (MO) referral patterns and subsequent use of ACT.Treatment records were linked to the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry to describe MO referral and ACT use among 5289 patients with stage II-III colon cancer treated in 2002-2008. Modified Poisson regression was used to analyze factors associated with MO referral and ACT use. Multilevel modeling was used to explore the proportion of variation in practice attributable to providers.There was wide geographic variation in MO referral rates for stage II (range 37-80 %, p 0.001) and stage III disease (range 77-98 %, p 0.001). Use of ACT among referred patients varied across regions for stage II (range 12-49 %, p 0.001) but not stage III (range 67-79 %, p = 0.353). For both stages, younger patients (p 0.001) with less comorbidity (p 0.010) were more likely to be referred to MO and treated with ACT. Applying the fitted regression model to nonreferred stage III patients suggests that 38 % had50 % probability of having ACT if they had seen a MO. Among stage III patients, 15 % percent of the variance in MO referral rate and 6 % of the variance in ACT utilization rate is attributable to the surgeon and MO respectively.A substantial proportion of non-referred patients with stage III colon cancer may have been offered ACT if they had seen MO. A small proportion of variance in referral rate and ACT treatment is attributable to providers.

Hepatic metastasis from colorectal cancer (CRC) is best managed with a multimodal approach; however, the optimal timing of liver resection in relation to administration of perioperative chemotherapy remains unclear. Our strategy has been to offer up-front liver resection for patients with resectable hepatic metastases, followed by post–liver resection chemotherapy. We report the outcomes of patients based on this surgical approach. A retrospective review of all patients undergoing liver resection for CRC metastases over a 5-year period (2002–2007) was performed. Associations between clinicopathologic factors and survival were evaluated by the Cox proportional hazard method. A total of 320 patients underwent 336 liver resections. Median follow-up was 40 (range 8–80) months. The majority (n = 195, 60.9 %) had metachronous disease, and most patients (n = 286, 85 %) had a major hepatectomy (>3 segments). Thirty-six patients (11 %) received preoperative chemotherapy, predominantly for downstaging unresectable disease. Ninety-day mortality was 2.1 %, and perioperative morbidity occurred in 68 patients (20.2 %). Actual disease-free survival at 3 and 5 years was 46.2 % and 42 %, respectively. Actual overall survival (OS) at 3 and 5 years was 63.7 % and 55 %, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified four factors that were independently associated with differences in OS (hazard ratio; 95 % confidence interval): size of metastasis >6 cm (2.2; 1.3–3.5), positive lymph node status of the primary CRC (N1 (2.0; 1.0–3.8), N2 (2.4; 1.2–4.9)), synchronous disease (2.1; 1.3–3.5), and treatment with chemotherapy after liver resection (0.42; 0.23–0.75). Up-front surgery for patients with resectable CRC liver metastases, followed by chemotherapy, can lead to favorable OS.

The use of newer chemotherapeutic agents before resection of colorectal cancer liver metastases has been linked with parenchymal liver injury, in particular preoperative irinotecan and oxaliplatin with chemotherapy-associated steatohepatitis (CASH) and vascular parenchymal injury, respectively. We retrospectively assessed 334 cases from 2002 to 2007 and correlated pathologic findings with chemotherapy use and perioperative course. Features of fatty liver disease were graded according to established schemes, and several features of vascular injury, including sinusoidal dilation, nodular regenerative hyperplasia and parenchymal extinction lesions (PELs), were also scored semiquantitatively and a combined vascular injury (CVI) score was determined. Moderate and severe fatty injury was uncommon with steatohepatitis detected in 8 cases (2.4%), 7 of whom did not receive chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis showed steatosis greater than 33% and steatohepatitis were independently associated with Body Mass Index of 30 or more (P

Surgical resection is standard treatment for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastases (LM). Limited data describe practice and outcomes among elderly patients.To describe management and outcomes of surgical resection of CRC LM in elderly patients in routine practice.Population-based retrospective cohort study of routine clinical practices in the Canadian province of Ontario. All cases of CRC in Ontario who underwent resection of LM between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2009, were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry and included in this study. Complete information about vital status in the Ontario Cancer Registry was available up to December 31, 2012; cause of death was available up to December 31, 2010. Final study analyses were performed March 13, 2015. Surgical resections of CRC LM were identified from hospital admission records. Pathology reports provided details regarding extent of disease and surgical procedure. Patients were classified into 3 age groups: younger than 65 years, 65 to 74 years, and 75 years or older. We describe volume of resected CRC LM as a ratio of incident cases per CRC LM resection. Use of perioperative chemotherapy was identified through linked electronic treatment and physician billing records. Preoperative and postoperative chemotherapy was defined as chemotherapy given within 16 weeks of surgery.Overall survival and cancer-specific survival measured from time of LM resection.We identified 1310 patients: 710 (54%) younger than 65 years; 414 (32%) 65 to 74 years; and 186 (14%) 75 years or older. Case volumes of CRC LM resection varied substantially across age groups. For patients younger than 65 years, there was 1 resection per 26 incident cases; 65 to 74 years, 1 per 38; and 75 years or older, 1 per 101 (P.001). Patients less than 65 years of age had a mean of 2.3 lesions; 65 to 74 years, 2.0; and 75 years or older, 1.6 (P.001). For patients younger than 65 years, mean size of the largest lesion was 4.0 cm; patients 65 to 74 years, 4.4 cm; and 75 years or older, 4.5 cm (P=.04). The likelihood patients younger than 65 years were to undergo a major liver resection of more than 3 segments was 65%; 65 to 74 years, 65%; and 75 years or older, 42% (P=.04). The percentage of patients younger than 65 years who underwent perioperative chemotherapy was 71% (501 of 710); 65 to 74 years, 57% (237 of 414); and 75 years or older, 41% (77 of 186) (P.001). The incidence of 90-day mortality for patients younger than 65 years was 2% (11 of 710); 65 to 74 years, 5% (20 of 414); and 75 years or older, 8% (14 of 186) (P.001). Cancer-specific survival at 5 years for patients younger than 65 years of age was 49%; 65 to 74 years, 47%; and 75 years or older, 35% (P.001). Overall survival for patients younger than 65 years was 49%; 65 to 74 years, 44%; and 75 years or older, 28% (P.001).Resection of CRC LM is associated with greater risk of postoperative mortality among elderly patients despite less aggressive treatment. Although the long-term outcomes are inferior to younger patients, a substantial proportion of elderly patients will have long-term survival.

Previous reports on the outcome of surgery for colorectal cancer lung metastases (CRCLM) have come from high-volume centers. This report describes the outcomes achieved in the general population of Ontario. All patients in Ontario who underwent resection of CRCLM between 1994 and 2009 were identified using the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry. Electronic treatment records identified surgical procedures and chemotherapy delivery. This report describes the volume of resections for CRCLM in relation to the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC). Temporal trends in practice are described during three periods: 1994–1999, 2000–2004, and 2005–2009. Overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were measured from the time of lung resection. A total of 709 patients underwent resection of CRCLM. Between 1994 and 2009, surgical volume increased 190 %, from 1 resection for every 282 incident cases to 1 resection for every 97 incident cases (p

Electromagnetic tracking allows for increased flexibility in designing image-guided interventions, however it is well understood that electromagnetic tracking is prone to error. Visualization and assessment of the tracking error should take place in the operating room with minimal interference with the clinical procedure. The goal was to achieve this ideal in an open-source software implementation in a plug and play manner, without requiring programming from the user. We use optical tracking as a ground truth. An electromagnetic sensor and optical markers are mounted onto a stylus device, pivot calibrated for both trackers. Electromagnetic tracking error is defined as difference of tool tip position between electromagnetic and optical readings. Multiple measurements are interpolated into the thin-plate B-spline transform visualized in real time using 3D Slicer. All tracked devices are used in a plug and play manner through the open-source SlicerIGT and PLUS extensions of the 3D Slicer platform. Tracking error was measured multiple times to assess reproducibility of the method, both with and without placing ferromagnetic objects in the workspace. Results from exhaustive grid sampling and freehand sampling were similar, indicating that a quick freehand sampling is sufficient to detect unexpected or excessive field distortion in the operating room. The software is available as a plug-in for the 3D Slicer platforms. Results demonstrate potential for visualizing electromagnetic tracking error in real time for intraoperative environments in feasibility clinical trials in image-guided interventions.

e15148 Background: Recent data has suggested that disease biology and outcome of colon cancer may differ between right-sided and left-sided tumours. Here we explore differences in laterality based on disease characteristics and outcomes in a population-based cohort of early-stage colon cancer. Methods: Electronic records of treatment were linked to the Ontario Cancer Registry to identify all patients with colon cancer in 2002-2008. The study population included a 25% random sample of all patients with resected stage 0-III disease. Right-sided colon cancer was defined as any tumor arising in the cecum, ascending colon, hepatic flexure or transverse colon. Left-sided colon cancer was defined as any tumor arising from the splenic flexure, descending colon, sigmoid colon or rectosigmoid colon. Log binomial regression was used to identify factors associated with laterality. Cox models were used to explore the association between laterality and overall (OS) and cancer-specific (CSS) survival. Results: Among the study cohort (n = 6391) median age was 72 and 52% (3307/6391) had right-sided disease. Stage distribution was 2% (98/6391) stage 0, 17% (1091/6391) stage I, 38% (2446/6391) stage II, and 43% (2756/6391) stage III. Patients with right-sided colon cancer were more likely to be older (p < 0.001), female (p < 0.001) and have greater co-morbidity (p = 0.001). Right-sided cancer was more likely to be T4 (19% vs 16%, p = 0.001) and poorly differentiated (21% vs 10%, p < 0.001) but less likely to be node positive (42% vs 45%, p = 0.029) compared to left-sided disease. In adjusted analyses there was no difference in long-term survival for right-sided compared to left-sided colon cancer: OS HR 1.00 (95%CI, 0.92-1.08); CSS HR 1.00 (0.91-1.10). These results were consistent when the survival analyses were restricted to stage III disease: OS HR 1.03 (95%CI 0.93-1.14); CSS HR 1.10 (0.97-1.24). Conclusions: In this population-based cohort of early-stage resected colon cancer disease laterality was not associated with long-term survival.

3610Background: Colorectal cancer guidelines recommend ≥ 12 LNs be harvested during resection; however, this threshold is based on limited evidence. While numerous studies show that LN yield is ass...

Although guidelines do not recommend adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) for stage II colon cancer, many state that ACT may be considered in high-risk disease. Here we describe practice patterns and outcomes associated with ACT in the general population.All cases of colon cancer diagnosed in Ontario 2002-2008 were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry, which was linked to electronic treatment records. Pathology reports were obtained for a 25% random sample of cases. High-risk disease was defined as: T4 tumours,12 lymph nodes, poorly differentiated histology, lymphovascular invasion. Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors associated with ACT. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to explore the association between ACT and cancer-specific (CSS) and overall survival.The study population included 2488 patients with stage II colon cancer; 1175 (47%) with high-risk disease. ACT was delivered to 18% of all patients and 24% of patients with high-risk disease. ACT rates were higher among younger patients (51% age 20-49 years versus 16% age 70-79, P 0.001) and varied considerably across geographic regions (range 10-39%, P 0.001). Among all patients with stage II colon cancer, ACT was not associated with improved CSS (hazard ratio 1.41, 95% confidence interval 1.09-1.82) or overall survival (hazard ratio 1.16, 95% confidence interval 0.94-1.42). Stratified survival analysis for patients with high-risk disease did not show benefit to ACT (CSS hazard ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 0.84-1.55; overall survival hazard ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval 0.79-1.31).ACT use varies across age groups and geographic regions. ACT is not associated with improved survival among patients with stage II colon cancer including those with high-risk disease.

e15110Background: Oxaliplatin is now a standard component of adjuvant chemotherapy for colon cancer. Details regarding delivery of oxaliplatin and outcomes achieved in routine practice are not well...

702 Background: International guidelines recommend ACT for patients (pts) with stage III CC based on level I evidence showing improved survival. For stage II CC ACT is not routinely recommended but may be considered for pts with high-risk features. Here we describe practice patterns and outcomes associated with ACT in a routine population-based setting. Methods: All CC cases treated with surgery in Ontario 2002-2008 were identified using the population-based Cancer Registry. Electronic treatment records were linked to the registry to identify surgical procedures and utilization of ACT. Pathology reports were obtained for a 25% random sample of all cases to obtain details of extent of disease; pts with stage II or III were included in the study population. High-risk stage II was defined as: T4