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Background Retrosternal reconstruction is associated with a lower risk of mediastinitis, gastro-tracheal fistula, and hiatal hernia. Historically, traumatic manual creation of the retrosternal tunnel has been performed using one's fist. We report a novel and atraumatic laparoscopic procedure to create the retrosternal route. Methods We have laparoscopically created the retrosternal route in 25 thoracoscopic, mediastinoscopic, or robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomies since August 2019. Specifically, a peritoneal incision is started at the dorsal side of the xiphoid process. Through a 12-mm port inserted slightly to the right of and superior to the umbilical camera port, we dissect loose connective tissues from the caudal to the cranial side using behind the sternum and inside the internal thoracic vessels as landmarks. The time required to create the route was calculated. Then, the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method and the simple moving average of five cases were used to evaluate the learning curve of this novel procedure. Operative outcomes were analyzed according to the learning curve results and also compared with 25 cases of postmediastinal reconstruction counterparts. Results Twenty-five patients were divided into the early group (six patients) and late group (19 patients) based on the peak of the CUSUM chart. The time required for route creation was 28.5 min (median) in the early and 15 min in the late group, indicating a significant difference (P = 0.038). The overall incidence of pleural injury was 20% (5 of 25 patients), with no significant difference between the groups. There was no significant difference in the incidence of perioperative complications. Also, there were no significant differences in perioperative complications or gastric conduit functions 1 year after surgery between the retrosternal and the postmediastinal reconstruction. Conclusion Laparoscopic creation of a retrosternal route for gastric conduit reconstruction is safe and feasible and has a short learning curve.

Background Esophagectomy with lymphadenectomy is the principal treatment for localized esophageal cancer. Conventional minimally invasive esophagectomy (C-MIE) in prone position has spread worldwide as it is less invasive. However, its efficacy remains controversial. Robot-assisted MIE (RAMIE) can have more advantages than C-MIE. Therefore, the current study aimed to validate whether RAMIE is associated with lower incidence of left recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy compared with C-MIE in prone position. Patients and Methods In total, 404 patients with esophageal carcinoma underwent MIE (353 C-MIEs and 51 RAMIEs) in prone position at Kobe University between 2010 and 2020. Then, propensity score matching was performed, and results showed that 51 patients should be included in each group. Thereafter, the perioperative outcomes between the two groups were compared. Results The RAMIE group had a significantly longer operative time than the C-MIE group (P < 0.0001). However, the number of lymph nodes resected along the left RLN was similar in both groups. Moreover, the incidence of left RLN palsy was significantly lower in the RAMIE group than in the C-MIE [Clavien-Dindo classification grade II; 0 (0%) versus 32 (9%), P = 0.022 in entire cohort, and 0 (0%) versus 5 (10%), P = 0.022 in matched cohort. Esophagectomy Complications Consensus Group definitions type I; 8 (16%) versus 101 (29%), P = 0.041 in entire cohort and 8 (16%) versus 18 (35%) in matched cohort, P = 0.023]. Conclusion RAMIE is superior to C-MIE in prone position in decreasing the incidence of left RLN palsy.

INTRODUCTION Although lateral pelvic lymph node dissection is considered as a treatment option for advanced rectal cancer, it is technically demanding. Recently, the transanal approach for total mesorectal excision has become increasingly used. In this Technical Note, we describe lateral pelvic lymph node dissection using a 2-team method that was assisted by the transanal approach. TECHNIQUE First, the lateral pelvic area was entered from the anal side by dissection between the S4 sacral splanchnic nerve and levator ani muscle. Then, the fatty tissues including the obturator compartment and the distal part of the internal iliac compartment were separated from the inferior and superior vesical vessels and the bladder wall. Next, the fatty tissues were separated from the lateral pelvic wall. The obturator nerve was isolated and preserved, whereas the obturator vessels were resected at their peripheral end. Then, the fatty tissues were dissected from the bottom plane. Finally, the fatty tissues were dissected from the ventral bladder wall and were completely isolated from the obturator nerve in cooperation with the transabdominal team. RESULTS The 2-team method shortened the operative time dramatically and decreased mental and physical burden on the operators during lateral dissection. Assistance with the transanal approach helped with a secure and effective dissection, especially of the most distal parts, such as around the internal pudendal and inferior vesical arteries, because substantial skill is required for the transabdominal approach alone. CONCLUSIONS This procedure is useful for the safe and effective performance of lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for patients with rectal cancer.

Background/aim Cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to resistance against neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We conducted a retrospective observational study for the relationship between the expression levels of CSC markers in biopsy specimens prior to 5-fluorouracil plus cisplatin (FP)-NAC and the pathological responses. Patients and methods We included 171 patients with ESCC who underwent the FP-NAC followed by radical resection. Biopsy specimens prior to the FP-NAC were obtained and immunochemically stained for CD44, CD133, and CD24. Results The biopsy specimens of the non-responders had the CD44high/CD24low expression at high levels, which was found as an independent predictor of not only FP-NAC resistance but also poor overall survival by multivariate analyses. Conclusion CD44high/CD24low expression in the biopsy specimens prior to FP-NAC may be a predictor of FP-NAC resistance and poor prognosis of ESCC patients.

Despite the increasing utilization of transanal total mesorectal excision as a promising approach for low rectal cancer, the feasibility and safety of transperineal minimally invasive abdominoperineal resection (tp-APR) remain unclear. In total, 25 patients who underwent tp-APR between April 2017 and May 2020 (tp-APR group) and 27 patients who underwent conventional laparoscopic APR between May 2009 and September 2016 (lap-APR group) for low rectal cancer were enrolled in this retrospective study. Clinical outcomes were compared between the groups before and after propensity score matching. The primary outcome was the incidence of the overall postoperative complications with Clavien–Dindo grade II or above. Standardized technique of tp-APR was also demonstrated. On comparison, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and overall postoperative complications with Clavien–Dindo grade II or above were significantly less in the tp-APR group both before and after propensity score matching. The rates of urinary disturbance and perineal wound infection were significantly less in the tp-APR group after matching. Further, postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the tp-APR group both before and after matching. However, pathological outcomes did not differ between the groups before and after matching. There has been no local recurrence in the tp-APR group with a median follow-up period of 18 months. Standardized tp-APR for low rectal cancer is feasible and seems superior to conventional laparoscopic APR in terms of short-term outcomes. Further larger-scale studies with a longer follow-up period are required to evaluate oncological outcomes.

Aim The outcomes of gastrectomy for gastric cancer in patients at each severity of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unknown. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 560 patients who underwent distal or total gastrectomy for gastric cancer between 2009 and 2018. We classified the patients into four groups based on estimated glomerular filtration rate: stage 1/2 (normal to mild, n = 375), stage 3a (mild to moderate, n = 122), stage 3b (moderate to severe, n = 43), and stage 4/5 (severe to end‐stage, n = 20) CKD. The relationship between CKD stage and the incidence of postoperative morbidity was analyzed. Results CKD was a predictor of overall morbidity independent of age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists Performance Status, pulmonary comorbidity, extent of lymphadenectomy, and operation time in a multivariate analysis. The incidences of overall and severe morbidity were significantly increased with CKD progression (both P, Chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression increases the risk of morbidity following gastrectomy in gastric cancer patients. The risk elevates substantially at moderate CKD with an eGFR ≤ 45 ml/min/1.73 m2.

Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a rare condition in which the internal organ's position is a mirror image of normal anatomy. Although several investigators reported laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer in patients with SIT, it is considered difficult even for an experienced surgeon because of the mirror position. We show a case report of laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with the splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) procedure in SIT. A 79-year-old woman with SIT was referred to our hospital for a locally advanced sigmoid cancer (cT3N1M0, cStageIIIB). We safely performed the laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with SFM, as shown in detail below. No postoperative complication occurred, and the patient is in good health with no recurrences 30 months after surgery, as of the writing this report. We propose three critical points; checking the CT angiography to understand the anatomy; using flip-horizontal video of "normal" laparoscopic sigmoidectomy to confirm an unfamiliar situation; adding the epigastric trocar to make SFM procedures safe and comfortable.

Given the worldwide popularization of conventional minimally invasive esophagectomy (C-MIE), robot-assisted MIE (RAMIE) can be expected to provide a finer procedure. However, controversy remains regarding whether RAMIE is superior to C-MIE in preventing recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy. Considering the shallow learning curve for RAMIE, a novel procedure for lymphadenectomy along the RLN during RAMIE is needed. Based on a logical and simple understanding of the left upper mediastinum anatomy, the authors developed a novel “modified bascule method” for RAMIE that could simplify lymphadenectomy along the left RLN and prevent it from being touched and stretched. Between 2018 and 2020, 46 patients with esophageal carcinoma underwent RAMIE using this method at Kobe University. The modified bascule method was used to perform RAMIE for 29 men and 17 women with a median age of 67 years (range, 49–82 years). The median thoracoscopic procedure time was 438 min (range, 344–625 min), and the median console time was 351 min (range 273–518 min). The study harvested a median of 24 (range, 8–34) lymph nodes from the thoracic portion and 4 (range, 0–10) lymph nodes from along the left RLN. The mortality rate was 0%. Postoperative left RLN palsy classified as Clavien–Dindo (C–D) grade 1 or higher was observed for 9 patients (19%), whereas grade 2 or higher was not seen (0%). Pneumonia and anastomotic leakage rates higher than C–D grade 2 were respectively 13% and 19%. The novel modified bascule method for RAMIE can promote feasible lymphadenectomy along the left RLN even when performed during the learning period.

BACKGROUND/AIM The safety of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) combined with total mesorectal excision (TME) and selective lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LLND) is unclear in elderly patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). PATIENTS AND METHODS Forty-two patients with LARC underwent TME and selective LLND following NACRT at Kobe University Hospital. The clinical outcomes were retrospectively compared between the elderly (aged ≥70 years, n=13) and non-elderly patients (aged

Esophageal cancer has a poor prognosis despite the fact that surgical techniques have been advanced and optimized, and systemic multimodality approaches have progressed recently. Adding chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy to the basic surgical approach have been shown to have therapeutic benefit for esophageal cancer. This review describes the latest development of chemoradiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, which have contributed to the reduction in esophageal cancer growth and improved the survival of patients. Chemoradiation is a treatment option for resectable esophageal cancer to preserve the esophagus for patients who cannot tolerate surgery. Moreover, a combination of chemoradiotherapy and salvage surgery could extend the survival of patients. The effects of a triplet chemotherapy regimen are currently being verified in some Phase III studies for unresectable advanced/recurrent esophageal cancer. In addition, with the great promise of immune checkpoint inhibitors, strategies that incorporate the use of immunotherapy may shift from the metastatic setting to the neoadjuvant/adjuvant setting as a result of clinical trials. More precise comprehension of the molecular biology of esophageal cancer is expected to further control disease progression using multimodality treatments in the future.

Objectives: Dissection of the No. 11p lymph nodes is technically challenging because of variations in anatomical landmarks. This study aimed to determine the accuracy and efficacy of predicting the dorsal landmark of No. 11p lymph node using three-dimensional computed tomography simulation. Methods: Laparoscopic gastrectomy with No. 11p lymph node dissection with preoperative simulation using three-dimensional computed tomography was performed in 24 patients at our institution from October 2016 to May 2018. Initially, preoperative three-dimensional computed tomography findings with operative videos in these 24 patients were compared. The dorsal landmark was defined as an anatomical structure behind the splenic artery on preoperative three-dimensional computed tomography and operative videos. The dorsal landmark of No. 11p lymph node was divided into four types: (1) splenic vein type, (2) splenic vein and pancreas type, (3) pancreas type, and (4) unclear type. Then, to investigate the efficacy of three-dimensional computed tomography, we compared the clinical and pathological features and surgical outcomes of nine patients who underwent preoperative three-dimensional computed tomography simulation (three-dimensional computed tomography group) and 23 patients who did not undergo three-dimensional computed tomography simulation from August 2014 to September 2016 (non-three-dimensional computed tomography group). All procedures were performed by one surgeon certified by the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System in Japan. Results: The concordance rate between three-dimensional computed tomography and operative videos of the dorsal landmark using three-dimensional computed tomography was 79% (19/24). The operative time of No. 11p lymph node dissection was significantly shorter in the three-dimensional computed tomography group than in the non-three-dimensional computed tomography group (7.7 versus 15.8 min, P = 0.044). Conclusion: The accuracy of predicting the dorsal landmark of No. 11p lymph node using three-dimensional computed tomography was extremely high. Preoperative simulation with three-dimensional computed tomography was useful in shortening the operative time of No. 11p lymph node dissection.

This study was conducted to determine whether establishing the proximal resection line using India ink tattooing can ensure safe resection margins during totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy. This retrospective study included 81 patients who underwent totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer on the lower two-thirds of the stomach. The proximal resection margins were analyzed with respect to the macroscopic type and clinical T stage, and the intraoperative appearance of the stain on the serosa was classified by reviewing surgical videos. R0 resection was performed in all patients. The rates of the intended margins were 89.2% in patients without a frozen section diagnosis and 84.2% in patients with differentiated type lesions who underwent a frozen section diagnosis; however, most patients with undifferentiated advanced lesions failed to achieve the intended resection margins. Intraoperative appearance revealed that 85.2% of patients had localized type stains, whereas 11.1% had widespread-type stains. Our procedure to determine the proximal resection line in totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy is oncologically safe. However, careful observation of the resected specimen and a frozen section analysis should be performed for undifferentiated advanced lesions.

Background/aim To investigate the outcomes of laparoscopic surgery in colorectal cancer patients with dialysis. Patients and methods Fourteen dialysis (dialysis group) and 567 non-dialysis (non-dialysis group) patients who underwent laparoscopic and open surgery for colorectal cancer between April 2008 and December 2015 were included. Short-term and long-term outcomes were compared between the groups. A 1:2 propensity score matching was performed to compare long-term outcomes. Results All the dialysis patients underwent laparoscopic surgery. There were no significant differences in operative outcomes and postoperative short-term outcomes between the two groups. In the whole cohort, overall survival of dialysis patients was shorter than that in the non-dialysis ones (p=0.020), while disease-free survival did not differ between the two groups. After matching, there was no significant difference between the groups in overall or disease-free survival. Conclusion Laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery for dialysis patients seems safe and feasible and associates with comparable short-term outcome and recurrence rate to non-dialysis patients.

Background Lateral pelvic lymph node metastasis impairs the oncological outcomes of patients with rectal cancer. Although lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LLND) might be an effective procedure for such patients, the associated risk factors for postoperative complications are unknown. Patients and methods The operative outcomes of 21 patients undergoing unilateral LLND and 26 patients undergoing bilateral LLND for rectal cancer were compared. The risk factors for complications were evaluated using a logistic regression model. Results Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that a longer operative time (≥480 min) was the most important risk factor for grade II or more postoperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification (odds ratio=6.58; 95% confidence interval=1.35-32.1; p=0.020). A bilateral procedure was not a significant risk factor for postoperative complications. Conclusion Surgeons should make efforts to shorten the operative time to reduce the risk of postoperative complications.

Recent advances in treatment for esophageal cancer have improved prognosis after esophagectomy, but they have led to an increased incidence of gastric conduit cancer. In most gastric conduit cancer patients who underwent retrosternal reconstruction, median sternotomy is performed, which is associated with a risk of postoperative bleeding and osteomyelitis; pain often negatively affects respiration. To avoid these problems, we developed thoracoscopic retrosternal gastric conduit resection in the supine position (TRGR-S) as new procedure. Methods We performed the first case of TRGR-S for a 75-year-old male with retrosternal gastric conduit cancer. He was placed in the supine position. Four ports were placed in the left chest wall. The gastric conduit was separated from the epicardium, sternum, and left brachiocephalic vein. Due to adhesions between the gastric tube and the right pleura, combined resection of the right pleura was performed. Next, pediculated jejunal reconstruction via the presternal route was performed. Results Because there were few adhesions in the left thoracic cavity, this approach provided safety and a good surgical view, and it was easy to recognize the landmark including epicardium, sternum, and left brachiocephalic vein leading to appropriate resection of the tissue. Furthermore, there were few restrictions on the operative angle for the forceps and operability was quite ergonomic. Moreover, the lungs can be noninvasively contracted via an artificial pneumothorax. The pathological diagnosis was signet ring cell carcinoma (pT1b, pN0, M0, pStage I), indicating R0 resection. There were no post-operative complications. Conclusion This approach does not require sternotomy, so it has less risk of postoperative bleeding and osteomyelitis. Due to fewer adhesions, this approach is safe and provides a good surgical view. TRGR-S is a safe, ergonomic, and reliable procedure for resection of retrosternal gastric conduit cancer. Video This is the video of the operation ‘TRGR-S’, which is the new procedure for the gastric conduit cancer. https://www.dropbox.com/s/2whnekgp73hw1lz/video%20for%20ISDE2020.mov?dl=0.

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) producing tumor is one type of growth factor producing tumor that induces leukocytosis. On the other hand, adenocarcinoma with enteroblastic differentiation disease is known as α-fetprotein (AFP), glypican3, and Sal-like protein 4 (SALL4) producing tumor. We report a first case of G-CSF producing esophageal cancer with enteroblastic differentiation which has never been reported in the world. Methods [Case presentation]: A fifty-six year-old man was admitted to our hospital to treat esophageal carcinoma. His body temperature was elevated. Blood biochemistry tests showed leukocytosis (WBC 14000/μl). Gastroscopy revealed a 10-cm diameter, superficial elevated lesion in the lower thoracic esophagus. Biopsy findings indicated a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. No distant metastasis, but right subclavian and para esophageal lymph nodes swelling were identified via computed tomography. Thus, we planned neo adjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) (5-FU 800 mg/m2 plus Cisplatin 80 mg/m2) before surgical resection. The patient’s hyperthermia and leukocytosis improved by not antibiotics but NAC. Therefore, we suspected G-CSF producing tumor. Results The serum level of G-CSF was markedly elevated at 133 pg/ml (normal range, Additionally, PET/CT showed abnormally high uptake of (18) F-FDG not only by the tumor itself, but also diffusely throughout the bone marrow. The patient underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy in the prone position with two-field lymph node dissection. Immunohistochemical studies showed G-CSF producing adenocarcinoma with enteroblastic differentiation (AFP negative, glypican3 and SALL4 positive). Pathological stage was pT2N0M0, stageII. After resection, improvement of hyperthermia, leukocytosis, and serum level of G-CSF can be seen. Findings of (18) F-FDG throughout the bone marrow were also disappeared. Conclusion We experienced an extremely rare case of G-CSF producing, esophageal adenocarcinoma with enteroblastic differentiation.

Introduction Recently, sarcopenia has been reported to be associated with poor postoperative outcomes in various cancers. However, its clinical significance for rectal cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) followed by surgery remains unknown. Materials and methods This study included 46 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who underwent curative surgery after NACRT. Sarcopenia was assessed by measuring the cross-sectional psoas muscle area (PA) at L3 and total bilateral psoas muscle volume (PV). Patients with a lower PV or PA value than the median were assigned to the sarcopenia group while others were assigned to the non-sarcopenia group. Clinical outcomes were then compared between groups. Results The sarcopenia group included 22 patients. The rate of overall postoperative complications did not differ between groups. Five-year relapse-free survival (RFS) was significantly lower in the sarcopenia group when sarcopenia was assessed by PV after NACRT (44.0% vs. 82.6%, P = 0.00494). In contrast, RFS did not differ between groups when sarcopenia was assessed by PA. Multivariable analysis identified PV after NACRT as the most significant risk factor for RFS (hazard ratio 4.00; 95% CI 1.27–12.66, P = 0.018). Conclusion Sarcopenia assessed by total PV after NACRT may be an accurate and reliable predictor of poor oncological outcomes in rectal cancer patients.

INTRODUCTION Laparoscopic surgery has become popular for colorectal cancer treatment in recent years. However, its success rate even among high-risk patients remains debatable. The present study aims to compare the short- and long-term outcomes between laparoscopic and open surgeries in the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classes 3 and 4 patients with colorectal cancer. METHODS This was a single-center, retrospective, cohort study performed at a university hospital, with 78 patients suffering from colorectal cancer who underwent surgery in ASA classes 3 and 4 as respondents. Patient and tumor characteristics, operative outcomes, and prognoses were factors compared between the open and laparoscopic groups. RESULTS Compared with the open group, laparoscopic group had longer operation time (median 287.5 vs 204.5 minutes, P = .001), less operative blood loss (median 40 vs 240 mL, P = .020), and fewer postoperative complications (24% vs 55%, P = .011). In addition, operative approach (open vs laparoscopic) served as an independent factor for the occurrence of postoperative complications [HR = 3.963 (1.344-12.269), P = .013]. In terms of overall survival and recurrence-free survival (P = .171 and .087, respectively), no significant difference was found between the two groups. CONCLUSION Laparoscopic surgery is thus associated with more favorable short-time outcomes and could be adopted as treatment even for colorectal cancer ASA class 3 and 4 patients.

Skeletal muscle loss after gastrectomy can worsen patients’ quality of life and prognosis. Laparoscopic gastrectomy is less invasive than open gastrectomy and has become commonly performed. However, the degree of skeletal muscle loss after laparoscopic procedures remains unclear. We herein report the degree and risk factors of psoas muscle loss after laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The total psoas area (TPA) on computed tomography of 50 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) and 167 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) for gastric cancer was retrospectively evaluated at one postoperative year. The TPA loss was compared between LDG and LTG and univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for TPA loss > 10%. The median TPA decrease rate was 5.9% in the LDG group and 15.6% in the LTG group. LTG and postoperative respiratory complications were independent factors associated with a severe TPA loss of > 10%. In the LTG group, no independent factors were identified in a multivariate analysis. In the LDG group, postoperative complications were identified as an independent risk factor for TPA loss > 10%. Laparoscopic gastrectomy leads to postoperative TPA loss, especially in patients who underwent LTG and had postoperative respiratory complications. Postoperative complications after LDG were also a risk factor for TPA loss.

Oral health is associated with various diseases, including cancer. Tooth loss is a simple and objective index of oral health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between preoperative tooth loss and esophageal cancer prognosis after esophagectomy. This study included 191 patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer after perioperative dental evaluation and oral care at Kobe University Hospital from April 2011 to March 2016. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (tooth loss

Introduction Recent advances in the treatment for esophageal cancer have improved the prognosis after esophagectomy, but they have led to an increased incidence of gastric tube cancer. In most patients who underwent retrosternal reconstruction, median sternotomy is performed; it is associated with a risk of postoperative bleeding and osteomyelitis, and pain often negatively affects respiration. Here, we report the first case of thoracoscopic retrosternal gastric conduit resection in the supine position (TRGR-S). Materials and surgical technique A 75-year-old male patient was placed in the supine position. Four ports were placed in the left chest wall. The gastric tube was separated from the epicardium, sternum, and left brachiocephalic vein. Because of adhesions between the gastric tube and the right pleura, combined resection of the right pleura was performed. The dorsal side of the gastric tube was dissected before the ventral side, enabling the gastric tube to be suspended from the back of the sternum and, thus, making it easier to expose the surgical field. Next, pedicled jejunal reconstruction via the presternal route was performed. There were no postoperative complications. The pathological diagnosis was signet ring cell carcinoma (pT1b, pN0, M0, pStage I), indicating R0 resection. Discussion TRGR-S does not require sternotomy, reducing the risk of postoperative bleeding and osteomyelitis. In the presence of adhesions, TRGR-S is safe and provides a good surgical view. It is also reliable procedure for resection of retrosternal gastric tube cancer, and it is ergonomic for surgeons.

Purpose Completion gastrectomy (CG) is a common procedure for remnant gastric cancer (RGC). However, partial gastrectomy for gastric cancer has several benefits compared to total gastrectomy in terms of the quality of life. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and advantage of subtotal resection of the remnant stomach (SR) for clinical stage IA RGC. Methods A total of 43 patients who underwent gastrectomy for clinical stage IA RGC were included. CG and SR were performed on 27 (62.8%) and 16 patients (37.2%), respectively. The short- and long-term outcomes, including the nutritional status, after CG and SR for clinical stage IA RGC were compared between the two groups. Results There were no significant differences in pathological stage or incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups. The decrease in body weight, body mass index, and serum albumin level was significantly lower in the SR group than in the CG group (P

Retroperitoneal cellular angiofibroma (RCA) is very rare, and the optimal treatment for RCA has not been established. We report the case of RCA in a 58-year-old man who underwent curative laparoscopy-assisted resection. Preoperative computed tomography showed heterogeneous enhancement of the 7 cm diameter tumor in the pelvis. A smaller (2.3 cm) mass was also detected in the small intestine. The preoperative diagnosis was peritoneal metastasis of the gastrointestinal tumor of the small intestine. The pelvic tumor was laparoscopically mobilized from the rectum, the left ureter, and the left internal iliac vessels. The tumor was excised by detachment from the urinary bladder in laparotomy. The pathological diagnosis was RCA. The tumor had not recurred by the 1-year follow-up. The laparoscopic approach thus might be useful for resection of RCA.

Purpose: The surgical indication of laparoscopic surgery for pT4 colon cancer remains to be established because only a few studies have investigated the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for them to date. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the validity of laparoscopic surgery for them. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 81 patients with pT4 colon cancer who underwent surgical resection with a curative intent at Kobe University Hospital from January 2007 to December 2015. The short- and long-term outcomes were compared between the propensity score–matched patients who underwent laparoscopic colectomy (LAP group, n = 25) and those who underwent open colectomy (OP group, n = 25). Results: Intraoperative blood loss was significantly less in the LAP group than in the OP group (p = 0.029). Operative time, R0 resection rate, and morbidity did not significantly differ between the two groups. The 5-year overall survival (OS) and the 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) did not significantly differ between the propensity score–matched groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses of the entire cohort showed the surgical approach (LAP vs OP) selected was not a significant prognostic factor for OS or RFS. Conclusions: The short and the long-term outcomes were similar between the LAP and OP groups. Laparoscopic surgery might be a safe and feasible option for pT4 colon cancer patients.

Esophagectomy with extended lymphadenectomy remains the mainstay of treatment for localized esophageal cancer. However, it is one of the most invasive procedures with high morbidity. To reduce invasiveness, minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE), which includes thoracoscopic, laparoscopic, mediastinoscopic, and robotic surgery, is becoming popular worldwide. Thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the prone position is ergonomic for the surgeon and has better perioperative arterial oxygen pressure/fraction of inspired oxygen (P/F) ratio. Thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the left decubitus position is easy to introduce because it is similar to standard right posterolateral open esophagectomy (OE) in position. It has a relatively short operative time. Laparoscopic approach could potentially have a substantial effect on pneumonia prevention under the condition of thoracotomy. Mediastinoscopic surgery has the potential to reduce pulmonary complications because it can avoid a transthoracic procedure. In robotic surgery, in the future, less recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy will be expected as a result of polyarticular fine maneuvering without human tremors. In studies comparing MIE with OE, mediastinoscopic surgery and robotic surgery are usually not included; these studies show that MIE has a longer operative time and less blood loss than OE. MIE is particularly beneficial in reducing postoperative respiratory complications such as atelectasis, despite no dramatic decrease in pneumonia. Reoperation might occur more frequently with MIE. There is no significant difference in mortality rate between MIE and OE. It is important to recognize that the advantages of MIE, particularly “less invasiveness”, can be of benefit at facilities with experienced medical personnel.

There has been an increase in the percentage of elderly patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). However, few studies have reported the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for elderly patients with CRC aged over 80 years. This study included 529 patients who underwent laparoscopic resection for clinical stage 0–III CRC at Kobe University Hospital between January 2010 and December 2018. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to create balanced cohorts of the elderly (aged ≥ 80, n = 113) and the non-elderly (aged

INTRODUCTION The closure of the appendiceal stump is a crucial part of a laparoscopic appendectomy, and an endoloop or endostapler is generally used. The endoloop can be more cost effective than the endostapler. However, reports have shown that the endoloop has a higher postoperative abdominal abscess rate than the endostapler in complicated appendicitis. At our institution, we perform a purse-string suture after ligating by endoloop to reduce postoperative abdominal abscess risk. This study aimed to clarify whether this method could reduce the incidence of postoperative abdominal abscess compared with the endostapler. METHODS Patients with acute appendicitis were classified into the purse-string suture group (n = 149) and the endostapler group (n = 82). Postoperative outcomes were compared after propensity score matching (n = 47). RESULTS No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of the patient characteristics and postoperative complications, including abdominal abscess. However, the purse-string suture group had more drain placement and a shorter hospital stay than the endostapler group (P = .04 and P = .02, respectively). In patients with complicated appendicitis, there was less drain placement and a shorter hospital stay in the purse-string suture group than in the endostapler group (P

OBJECTIVE To elucidate the association between preoperative hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and short-term outcomes after oncologic esophagectomy. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Although diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with an increased risk of postoperative morbidity in several types of surgery, the association of DM with short-term outcomes after esophagectomy has shown conflicting results. METHODS We analyzed 15801 patients who underwent oncologic esophagectomy between 2015 and 2017 from the National Clinical Database. We evaluated the associations between preoperative HbA1c levels and short-term outcomes, using multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models. RESULTS The cohort included 12074, 1361, 1097, 909, and 360 patients with HbA1c levels of ≤5.9%, 6.0%-6.4%, 6.5%-6.9%, 7.0%-7.9%, and ≥8.0%, respectively. There were value-dependent associations between HbA1c values and odds ratios (ORs) for anastomotic leakage (AL), surgical site infections (SSIs), pneumonia, and composite outcomes. Compared with the HbA1c category of ≤5.9%, the categories of 7.0%-7.9% and ≥8.0% were at higher risk for AL (P

BACKGROUND Omentoplasty is sometimes used to prevent perineal wound complications after abdominoperineal resection (APR) following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT). However, recent studies have raised some controversy about its clinical benefit. PATIENTS AND METHODS Outcomes for rectal cancer patients who received APR after NACRT were retrospectively compared between the groups with omentoplasty (n=28) and without omentoplasty (n=14). RESULTS The operative time was significantly longer in the omentoplasty group (575 vs. 404 min, p

Summary The number of elderly patients with esophageal cancer has increased in recent years. The use of thoracoscopic esophagectomy has also increased, and its minimal invasiveness is believed to contribute to postoperative outcomes. However, the short- and long-term outcomes in elderly patients remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the safety and feasibility of minimally invasive esophagectomy in elderly patients. This retrospective study included 207 patients who underwent radical thoracoscopic esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma at Kobe University Hospital between 2005 and 2014. Patients were divided into non-elderly (

INTRODUCTION Although a self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) or a transnasal or transanal decompression tube is sometimes used as a bridge to surgery in patients with obstructive colorectal cancer, the optimal decompression procedure to achieve successful laparoscopic surgery remains unclear. METHODS Forty-two patients with obstructive colorectal cancer who were preoperatively decompressed by using SEMS (the SEMS group, n = 20) or a decompression tube (the DT group, n = 22) between January 2010 and February 2017 were included in this retrospective study. RESULTS In the SEMS group, 20 patients (100%) were able to eat and 17 patients (85%) were able to undergo total colonoscopy preoperatively, but no patients could do so in the DT group (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively). The serum albumin level increased in the time between admission and just before surgery in five patients in the SEMS groups (25%), whereas it decreased in all patients in the DT group (P = 0.037). Laparoscopic surgery was performed more frequently in the SEMS groups (19 patients, 95%) than in the DT group (13 patients, 59.1%) (P = 0.018). Primary anastomosis without stoma was also achieved more frequently in the SEMS groups (19 patients, 95%) than in the DT group (15 patients, 68.2%) (P = 0.047). Anastomotic leakage did not occur in the SEMS group, but it did occur in one patient in the DT group. The recurrence-free survival rate did not differ between the groups (median follow-up period: 21 months). CONCLUSION In patients with obstructive colorectal cancer, SEMS appears to be more effective than a decompression tube as a preoperative treatment to achieve successful laparoscopic resection without stoma.

Background/aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the necessity of gastrectomy including endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) scar with margin-negative early gastric cancer (EGC). Patients and methods We analyzed 83 patients with EGC who received additional gastrectomy after non-curative ESD and evaluated the risk factors for residual cancer (RC) and lymph node (LN) metastasis. Results In addition to positive ESD margin, ulceration was a risk factor for RC. Among cases with deep submucosal invasion (sm), 3 were diagnosed as having negative margins in ESD specimens, but the surgical specimens were positive for cancer. The rate of LN metastasis was 12.0%. There was no significant difference in LN metastasis between tumor characteristics. Conclusion LN dissection is recommended after non-curative ESD. Gastrectomy including the ESD scar should be performed not only for cases with positive margin in ESD, but also for cases with invasion deeper than sm2, even though the margin is negative.

Gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection has become the global standard procedure for locally advanced gastric cancer to maximally reduce locoregional recurrence. In East Asia, based on the evidence of the ACTS‐GC and the CLASSIC trials, postadjuvant chemotherapy with S‐1 monotherapy or capecitabine and oxaliplatin after curative D2 gastrectomy is the current standard strategy. However, approximately 20% to 30% of patients still develop distant recurrence even after these postadjuvant chemotherapies, especially in those with pathological stage III disease. This review summarizes recent (2008‐2018) evidence on the benefits of adjuvant therapy for locally advanced gastric cancer. JACRO GC‐07, a Phase III trial, recently showed a superior 3‐year recurrence‐free survival of the S‐1 plus docetaxel regimen in comparison to S‐1 monotherapy for patients with pathological stage III gastric cancer after curative D2 gastrectomy. With regard to recent new evidence on neoadjuvant strategy, JCOG0501, a Phase III trial, did not show any superiority in 3‐year overall survival (OS) of additional neoadjuvant chemotherapy with S‐1/cisplatin over postadjuvant S‐1 monotherapy in scirrhous type gastric cancer. Further clinical trials of neoadjuvant chemotherapy are ongoing to improve the poor prognosis for gastric cancer with extensive lymph node metastases. These trials could lead to new evidence for improved treatment of gastric cancer in the near future.

Purpose: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is widely used to treat esophageal cancer, but some patients require additional treatment due to the possibility of lymph node metastasis. The aim of this study was to elucidate the clinical outcomes of these additional treatments. Methods: The study included 59 patients who developed superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after noncurative ESD treated between 2005 and 2016, of whom 28 underwent esophagectomy and 31 received chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Results: The median follow-up periods were 45 months in the esophagectomy group and 41 months in the CRT group. The overall survival did not differ significantly between the groups (P = 0.46). However, there were no recurrences in the esophagectomy group, and the disease-specific survival rate was significantly higher in this group (P = 0.042). Among the patients at high risk for recurrence due to massive tumor invasion (≥ SM2) with lymphovascular invasion (esophagectomy group, six patients; CRT group, ten patients), none in the esophagectomy group had recurrence, whereas four in the CRT group died of esophageal cancer (P = 0.031). Conclusion: The overall survival did not differ significantly between the groups. However, compared with CRT, esophagectomy provided more favorable disease control for patients with massive tumor invasion (≥ SM2) with lymphovascular invasion.

Although the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic surgery for transverse colon cancer have been shown by the recent studies, the optimal laparoscopic approach for mid-transverse colon cancer is controversial. We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients with the mid-transverse colon cancer at our institutions between January 2007 and April 2017. Thirty-eight and 34 patients who received extended right hemicolectomy and transverse colectomy, respectively, were enrolled. There were no significant differences in operating time, blood loss, and hospital stay between the two groups. Postoperative complications developed in 10 of 34 patients (29.4%; wound infection: 2 cases, anastomotic leakage: 2 cases, bowel obstruction: 1 case, incisional hernia: 2 cases, others: 3 cases) for the transverse colectomy group and in 4 of 38 patients (10.5%; wound infection: 1 case, anastomotic leakage: 0 case, bowel obstruction: 2 cases, incisional hernia: 0 case, others: 1 case) for the extended right hemicolectomy group (P = 0.014). Although the median number of harvested #221 and #222 LNs was similar between the two groups (6 vs. 8, P = 0.710, and 3 vs. 2, P = 0.256, respectively), that of #223 was significantly larger in extended right hemicolectomy than in transverse colectomy (3 vs. 1, P = 0.038). The 5-year disease-free and overall survival rates were 92.4 and 90.3% for the extended right hemicolectomy group, and 95.7 and 79.6% for the transverse colectomy group (P = 0.593 and P = 0.638, respectively). Laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy and laparoscopic transverse colectomy offer similar oncological outcomes for mid-transverse colon cancer. Laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy might be associated with fewer postoperative complications.

Esophageal cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide. Esophagectomy with lymphadenectomy is regarded as the only curative option for resectable esophageal cancer, but it is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Multidisciplinary team (MDT) management was recently associated with improved outcomes after surgery for esophageal cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of standardizing procedures for minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in the MDT setting. This was a case-matched control study of 154 patients with esophageal cancer who underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the prone position (TEP) between 2012 and 2016. Surgery was performed by two attending surgeons (surgeons A and B) who began working together in the same MDT in 2015. At that time, the following surgical procedures were standardized between surgeons A and B: mediastinal lymphadenectomy, abdominal procedures, and estimation of the blood supply of the gastric conduit. Short-term outcomes were compared between the following paired groups using propensity scores: surgeon A’s pre- and post-standardization groups, surgeon B’s pre- and post-standardization groups, and surgeon A’s post-standardization group and surgeon B’s post-standardization group. Concerning surgeon A, the estimated total blood loss in the post-standardization group (142 ± 87 mL) was significantly lower than that in the pre-standardization group (376 ± 215 mL, P = 0.006). The rate of left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy in the post-standardization group (13%) was significantly lower than that in the pre-standardization group (47%, P = 0.046). Concerning surgeon B, the rate of anastomotic leakage in the post-standardization group (0%) was significantly lower than that in the pre-standardization group (11%, P = 0.039). Comparing the post-standardization groups of surgeons A and B, there were no significant differences in operative outcomes or morbidity. Standardizing procedures for MIE improved and homogenized surgical short-term outcomes.

Because of recent advances in medical technology and new findings of clinical trials, treatment options for colorectal cancer are evolutionally changing, even in the last few years. Therefore, we need to update the treatment options and strategies so that patients can receive optimal and tailored treatment. The present review aimed to elucidate the recent global trends and update the surgical treatment strategies in colorectal cancer by citing the literature published in the last 2 years, namely 2016 and 2017. Although laparoscopic surgery is still considered the most common approach for the treatment of colorectal cancer, new surgical technologies such as transanal total mesorectal excision, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic lateral pelvic lymph node dissection are emerging. However, with the recent evidence, superiority of the laparoscopic approach to the open approach for rectal cancer seems to be controversial. Surgeons should notice the risk of adverse outcomes associated with unfounded and uncontrolled use of these novel techniques. Many promising results are accumulating in preoperative and postoperative treatment including chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, and targeted therapy. Development of new biomarkers seems to be essential for further improvement in the treatment outcomes of colorectal cancer patients.

Highlights • We experienced a case of appendiceal cancer invading the ileum with a fistula. • This is the first case report of appendiceal cancer with an ileal fistula that successfully treated with laparoscopic resection. • Laparoscopic resection can be a feasible, safe and curative procedure in selected cases of appendiceal cancer with a fistula. • Laparoscopic ileocecal resection can be applied for appendiceal cancers with a fistula by experienced surgeons with careful consideration., Introduction Primary appendiceal cancer with fistula formation is extremely rare. We report a case of a patient with appendiceal cancer invading the ileum who underwent successful laparoscopic ileocecal resection. Presentation of case A 76-year-old man who presented with fever and abdominal pain was diagnosed with acute appendicitis and received antibiotics at a local hospital. After a few days, he was referred to our hospital because of an abnormality found in the colonoscopy, which was an oozing ulcer in the terminal ileum. Laparoscopic ileocecal resection was performed with a preoperative diagnosis of ileal cancer. The tumor adhered to the right internal inguinal ring. We dissected the right spermatic cord involved in the tumor. The resected specimen revealed a fistula between the appendiceal orifice and ileac ulcer. Histopathological examination revealed a well differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma. We made the diagnosis of appendiceal cancer with an ileal fistula because the ileal ulcer was derived from the appendiceal site. Discussion Most cases of appendiceal cancer with a fistula undergo laparotomy, but in selected cases, laparoscopic resection should be considered a feasible, safe, and curative procedure. Our patient underwent laparoscopic ileocecal resection, whereby the tumor and other organs with invasion were resected successfully with a negative surgical margin. Conclusion This is the first case report of appendiceal cancer with an ileal fistula successfully treated with laparoscopic resection. Laparoscopic ileocecal resection can be applied for appendiceal cancers with a fistula by experienced surgeons with careful consideration.

With the extension of life expectancy, cancer has been increasing in elderly populations. Postoperative pneumonia can negatively influence immediate mortality following gastrectomy for elderly patients, but its impact on long‐term survival remains unclear. We retrospectively reviewed the cases of patients aged ≥75 years who underwent curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer from 2000 to 2014 to determine the long‐term effects of postoperative pneumonia and to identify independent risk factors along with physical status and surgical procedure. Of 250 patients, 32 (12.8%) developed postoperative pneumonia. Patients with postoperative pneumonia had significantly worse overall survival (OS) than those without postoperative pneumonia (P

C-reactive protein to albumin (CRP/Alb) ratio, a novel inflammation-based prognostic score, was first developed as a prognostic score for septic patients. Recent reports show that CRP/Alb ratio is also a prognostic score for cancer patients, including esophageal cancer. However, the role of CRP/Alb ratio for those with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and the changes of CRP/Alb ratio around NAC have never been discussed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the significance of CRP/Alb ratio around NAC for patients with cStage II/III esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC). A total of 149 patients who were diagnosed as cStage II/III ESCC were enrolled between February 2007 and December 2014. We retrospectively investigated the relation between pre-NAC and post-NAC CRP/Alb ratio and short and long outcomes. The optimal cutoff level for pre-NAC and post-NAC CRP/Alb ratio was 0.030 and 0.048, respectively. There was no relation between CRP/Alb ratio level and postoperative outcomes. Post-NAC CRP/Alb ratio < 0.048 had a significantly higher overall survival rate than CRP/Alb ratio ≥0.048 (P< 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that cT, cN, pre-NAC CRP/Alb ratio < 0.030 and post-NAC CRP/Alb ratio < 0.048 was prognostic factors (P= 0.003, P= 0.022, P= 0.033, and P< 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that cT and post-NAC CRP/Alb ratio < 0.048 was independent prognostic factors (P= 0.030 and P< 0.001, respectively). Post-NAC CRP/Alb ratio is an independent prognostic factor in patients with cStage II/III ESCC.

Background and study aims Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for duodenal tumors results in a high delayed perforation rate due to the thinness of the duodenal wall. In most cases with perforation after duodenal ESD, additional surgery is needed due to severe peritonitis. A newly developed procedure, laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery for duodenal tumors (D-LECS), may help to avoid perforation after ESD. In our institution, patients with superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADET) smaller than 50 mm which could not have en-bloc resection by endoscopic mucosal resection were treated with D-LECS. After a laparoscopic exposure of anterior duodenal wall of second portion, ESD was performed. Laparoscopic suturing from the serosal side of ESD site was performed for reinforcement. There were neither postoperative leakage nor other complications. Therefore, D-LECS can be performed safely and prevent perforation after ESD for SNADET. D-LECS could be selected as a treatment for SNADET which can be cured by ESD.

Verrucous squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is a rare esophageal tumor histologically defined as a well-differentiated subtype. We present a rare case that was diagnosed as esophageal VSCC preoperatively. A 62-year-old Japanese man was referred to our hospital for further evaluation, presenting with anorexia and postcibal vomiting. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy examination showed esophageal stricture with white-colored papillary nodules in the lower esophagus. We performed repeated superficial endoscopic biopsies of the lesion, but the histologic findings showed nonspecific changes. With an endoscopic boring biopsy, the lesion showed an endophytic growth pattern, well-differentiated SCC with minimal cellular atypia and rare mitosis, and mature squamous epithelium with extensive keratinization. We preoperatively diagnosed the lesion as esophageal VSCC, and we performed a video-assisted thoracoscopic subtotal esophagectomy and cardiectomy with the patient in the prone position. Histologic findings revealed that the invasive well-differentiated SCC extended into the esophageal adventitia and the stomach wall with a pushing border. Regional lymph node metastasis and vascular invasion were negative. The expression of Ki-67 was distributed mainly in the basal cells rather than parabasal cells. Without a conclusive diagnosis, a certain degree of diagnostic prediction is possible by understanding the clinical manifestations, macroscopic form, and histology around the basal cells. It is helpful to obtain the high accuracy provided by an endoscopic biopsy including the basal layer to avoid the diagnostic dilemma that is often presented by esophageal VSCC.

Standard chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for local advanced rectal cancer (LARC) rarely induce rectal perforation. Here we report a rare case of rectal perforation in a patient with LARC in the midst of preoperative CRT. A 56-year-old male was conveyed to our hospital exhibiting general malaise. Colonoscopy and imaging tests resulted in a clinical diagnosis of LARC with direct invasion to adjacent organs and regional lymphadenopathy. Preoperative 5-fluorouracil-based CRT was started. At 25 d after the start of CRT, the patient developed a typical fever. Computed tomography revealed rectal perforation, and he underwent emergency sigmoid colostomy. At 12 d after the surgery, the remaining CRT was completed according to the original plan. The histopathological findings after radical operation revealed a wide field of tumor necrosis and fibrosis without lymph node metastasis. We share this case as important evidence for the treatment of LARC perforation in the midst of preoperative CRT.

Background/aim To investigate the impact of inguinal lymph node dissection (ILND) following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) for rectal cancer patients with ILN metastasis. Patients and methods Forty-three patients with rectal cancer underwent NACRT followed by curative surgery between January 2005 and December 2016. Seven patients underwent ILND after NACRT for clinically-positive ILN metastasis (ILND (+) group), while the remaining 36 did not receive ILND for clinically negative ILN metastasis (ILND (-) group). Their outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. Results Only one patient in the ILND (+) group had a local recurrence at six years after surgery. The 5-year recurrence-free survival was 100% and 65.4% in the ILND (+) and ILND (-) groups, respectively (p=0.09), and the 5-year overall survival was 100% and 83.2%, respectively (p=0.32). Conclusion ILND following NACRT seems effective for rectal cancer patients with ILN metastasis.

Background/aim To clarify the usefulness of intraoperative colonoscopy (CS) for preventing postoperative anastomotic leakage and bleeding in rectal cancer surgery. Patients and methods The data of rectal cancer patients who underwent circular-stapled anastomosis from January 2008 to December 2016 were compared between 162 patients who received intraoperative CS (the CS group) and 23 patients who did not receive intraoperative CS (the non-CS group). Results Anastomotic leakage rate in the CS group (8.6%) was similar to that in the non-CS group (4.3%) (p=0.70). Postoperative anastomotic bleeding rate was also similar between the CS and non-CS groups (2.4% vs. 0%, p=0.50). Although a positive air leak test was observed in two patients in the CS group, no postoperative leakage developed by adding intraoperative treatment. Conclusion Although intraoperative CS did not significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage or bleeding, it can be useful for certain cases.

Background During the past decade, minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) for esophageal cancer has been adopted worldwide with expectations of lower invasiveness. However, the rate of postoperative pneumonia, which is an independent risk factor for oncological prognosis in esophageal cancer, remains high. The aim of this retrospective follow-up study is to clarify whether there is a strong correlation between recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy and postoperative pneumonia in MIE. Methods This retrospective follow-up study included 209 patients with esophageal cancer who underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the prone position (TEP) at Kobe University between 2011 and 2018. Inclusion criteria included age 18-85 years; cT1-3, cN0-3 disease; upper mediastinal lymphadenectomy; and ability to undergo simultaneous esophagectomy and reconstruction of the gastric conduit or pedicled jejunum. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were conducted to identify independent risk factors for pneumonia. Results Among 209 TEPs, pneumonia of Clavien-Dindo classification grade > II occurred in 44 patients (21%). In the pneumonia positive and negative groups, there were significant differences in age (67.9 ± 7.5 vs. 64.9 ± 8.6 years), 3-field lymph node dissection [27 (61%) vs. 67 (41%)], transfusion [20 (45%) vs. 41 (25%)], left RLN palsy [19 (43%) vs. 18 (11%)], and any RLN palsy [20 (45%) vs. 18 (11%)]. In multivariate analysis, any RLN palsy was associated with a higher incidence of pneumonia [odds ratio (OR), 6.210; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.728-14.480; P < 0.0001]. In addition, age was associated with a higher incidence of pneumonia (OR, 1.049; 95% CI, 1.001-1.103; P = 0.046). Changes in the rate of any RLN palsy over time were quite similar to changes in the incidence of pneumonia. Conclusion There is a strong correlation between RLN palsy and pneumonia in MIE for esophageal cancer. Prevention of RLN palsy may reduce the incidence of pneumonia, leading to better oncological prognosis.

AIM Total lymphocyte count in preoperative peripheral blood is associated with prognosis in various cancers. The predictive value of preoperative total lymphocyte count for survival was assessed in older gastric cancer patients after gastrectomy. METHODS A total of 200 gastric cancer patients aged ≥75 years who underwent curative resection from 2000 to 2014 were included in this retrospective study. The cut-off value of total lymphocyte count in preoperative peripheral blood was determined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and the association with prognosis was examined. RESULTS The cut-off value of total lymphocyte count was 1462/μL, and 94 patients were classified as low total lymphocyte count patients and 106 patients were classified as high total lymphocyte count patients. In univariate analysis, American Society of Anesthesiologists score ≥3, Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥3, total lymphocyte count

Esophagectomy for esophageal cancer is a highly invasive procedure, and a feeding jejunostomy tube (FJT) is routinely placed to ensure adequate enteral nutrition. However, the effect of perioperative short-term FJT placement remains controversial, and the aim of this study was to assess risks and benefits of routine FJT placement during esophagectomy and to determine parameters that can identify patients needing long-term FJT. This retrospective study included 393 patients who had undergone esophagectomy with gastric tube reconstruction via the posterior mediastinal route at the Kobe University Hospital and the Hyogo Cancer Center between April 2010 and December 2017. Propensity score matching was used to identify matched patients (139 per group) in the FJT and no-FJT groups. The incidence of postoperative complications and weight loss (3 months post-procedure) was compared in the matched cohort and significant risk factors predicting the need for long-term FJT placement in the whole cohort were identified. In the matched cohort, while weight loss was not different between the FJT and no-FJT groups (11% vs. 10%), the incidence of small bowel obstruction in the FJT group (11.5%) was significantly higher than that in the no-FJT group (0%). Multivariate analysis revealed that age (≥75 years), preoperative therapy, anastomosis leakage, and pulmonary complications were independent risk factors for long-term FJT placement. Routine placement of an FJT during esophagectomy increases small bowel obstruction and does not result in better nutritional status, suggesting that selective long-term FJT placement in high-risk patients should be considered.

Perioperative adjuvant treatment for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma has been attempted, but the efficacy of preoperative therapy is unclear. We report here a case of pathologic complete response after preoperative treatment containing trastuzumab in esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma. A 54-year-old man presented at our institution with dysphagia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and computed tomography revealed an 8 × 5 cm sized tumor on the gastric cardia and lower intrathoracic esophagus with invasion to the diaphragm (T4bN0M0, Stage IIIB). Biopsy showed a well-differentiated and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive adenocarcinoma. He received 2 cycles of preoperative chemotherapy consisting of trastuzumab, cisplatin, and capecitabine, without severe toxicity. Afterward, he underwent esophagectomy and total gastrectomy with mediastinal and abdominal D2 lymph node dissections. No cancer cells were detected during histopathologic examination, indicating pathologic complete response. Regimens containing trastuzumab are feasible and promising as preoperative chemotherapy for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma.

Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a rare congenital anomaly in which the organs are transposed from the normal to the opposite side. Occasionally, we encounter a patient with a combination of this condition and gastric cancer. Several cases of laparoscopic distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer in such patients have been reported. However, there is no report of totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG) for such patients. We present a case of advanced gastric cancer with SIT that was successfully treated by TLTG involving radical lymph node dissection. A 63-year-old woman who presented with hematemesis was admitted to our hospital. She was diagnosed with advanced gastric cancer. Endoscopic findings revealed that tumor invasion was to the depth of the muscularis propria. Computed tomography (CT) showed a lack of lymph node swelling or distant metastasis. She was also diagnosed with SIT (a characteristic of Kartagener syndrome). Total gastrectomy was deemed necessary and we planned laparoscopic surgery. We carefully analyzed the location of abdominal organs from a preoperative examination, including three-dimensional reconstruction images from CT. In this operation, we reversed the normal positions of the surgeon, assistant, nurse, and trocar sites to accommodate the inverted abdominal locations of organs. TLTG was completed safely without any postoperative complications. Three-dimensional reconstruction images from CT and the inverse transposition of our usual intraoperative positions led to a smooth operation. TLTG may be not only a minimally invasive, but also a useful option for gastric cancer cases exhibiting SIT.