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01 april 2023, Item does not contain fulltext, BACKGROUND: During ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC), rectal dissection can be performed via close rectal dissection (CRD) or in a total mesorectal excision plane (TME). Although CRD should protect autonomic nerve function, this technique may be more challenging than TME. The aim of this study was to compare long-term outcomes of patients undergoing CRD and TME. METHODS: This single-centre retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients who underwent IPAA surgery for UC between January 2002 and October 2017. Primary outcomes were chronic pouch failure (PF) among patients who underwent CRD and TME and the association between CRD and developing chronic PF. Chronic PF was defined as a pouch-related complication occurring ≥ 3 months after primary IPAA surgery requiring redo pouch surgery, pouch excision or permanent defunctioning ileostomy. Secondary outcomes were risk factors and causes for chronic PF. Pouch function and quality of life were assessed via the Pouch dysfunction score and Cleveland global quality of life score. RESULTS: Out of 289 patients (155 males, median age 37 years [interquartile range 26.5-45.5 years]), 128 underwent CRD. There was a shorter median postoperative follow-up for CRD patients than for TME patients (3.7 vs 10.9 years, p < 0.01). Chronic PF occurred in 6 (4.7%) CRD patients and 20 (12.4%) TME patients. The failure-free pouch survival rate 3 years after IPAA surgery was comparable among CRD and TME patients (96.1% vs. 93.5%, p = 0.5). CRD was a no predictor for developing chronic PF on univariate analyses (HR 0.7 CI-95 0.3-2.0, p = 0.54). A lower proportion of CRD patients developed chronic PF due to a septic cause (1% vs 6%, p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Although differences in chronic PF among CRD and TME patients were not observed, a trend toward TME patients developing chronic pelvic sepsis was detected. Surgeons may consider performing CRD during IPAA surgery for UC.

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Item does not contain fulltext, BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Adequate endoscopic scoring in Crohn's disease [CD] is crucial, as it dictates the need for initiating postoperative medical therapy and is utilized as an outcome parameter in clinical trials. Here we aimed to observe anastomotic wound healing in relation to endoscopic scoring of both inverted and everted stapled lines in side-to-side anastomoses. METHODS: Two prospective patient cohorts were included: ileocolic resection [ICR] for CD, and right-sided colon resection for colorectal cancer [CRC]. Videos taken during colonoscopy 6 months postoperatively were evaluated. The Simplified Endoscopic Activity Score for Crohn's Disease and modified Rutgeerts score were determined. The primary outcome was the presence of ulcerations in CD patients on both the inverted and the everted stapled lines. Secondary outcomes were the presence of anastomotic ulcerations in CRC patients and the number of cases having ulcerations exclusively at the inverted stapled line. RESULTS: Of the 82 patients included in the CD cohort, ulcerations were present in 63/82 [76.8%] at the inverted- vs 1/71 [1.4%] at the everted stapled line. Likewise in the CRC cohort, ulcerations were present in 4/6 [67.7%] at the inverted vs 0/6 [0%] at the everted stapled line. In total, 27% of the 63 patients in the CD cohort had ulcerations exclusively on the inverted stapled line. CONCLUSION: Inverted stapled lines heal with ulcerations, whereas everted stapled lines heal without any ulcerations, in both CD and non-CD patients. The abnormalities at the inverted stapled line might interfere with endoscopic scoring of recurrence, with potentially an impact on patients' quality of life and on healthcare costs if postoperative treatment is initiated incorrectly.

Item does not contain fulltext, BACKGROUND: Although there are various surgical causes of and therapeutic approaches to the chronically failing ileoanal pouch (PF), cases are often detailed without distinguishing the exact cause and corresponding treatment. The aim of our study was to classify causes of PF and corresponding surgical treatment options, and to establish efficacy of surgical approach per cause. METHODS: This retrospective study included all consecutive adult patients with chronic PF surgically treated at our tertiary hospital between July 2014 and March 2021. Patients were classified according to a proposed sub-classification for surgical related chronic PF. Results were reported accordingly. RESULTS: A total of 59 procedures were completed in 50 patients (64% male, median age 45 years [IQR 34.5-54.3]) for chronic PF. Most patients had refractory ulcerative colitis as indication for their restorative proctocolectomy (68%). All patients could be categorized according to the sub-classification. Reasons for chronic PF were septic complications (n = 25), pouch body complications (n = 12), outlet problems (n = 11), cuff problems (n = 8), retained rectum (n = 2), and inlet problems (n = 1). For these indications, 17 pouches were excised, 10 pouch reconstructions were performed, and 32 pouch revision procedures were performed. The various procedures had different complication rates. Technical success rates of redo surgery for the different causes varied from 0 to 100%, with a 75% success rate for septic causes. CONCLUSIONS: Our sub-classification for chronic PF and corresponding treatments is suitable for all included patients. Outcomes varied between causes and subsequent management. Chronic PF was predominantly caused by septic complications with redo surgery achieving a 75% technical success rate.

Contains fulltext : 295956.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access), BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are at increased risk of advanced neoplasia (high-grade dysplasia or colorectal cancer). The authors aimed to (1) assess synchronous and metachronous neoplasia following (sub)total or proctocolectomy, partial colectomy or endoscopic resection for advanced neoplasia in IBD, and (2) identify factors associated with treatment choice. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective multicenter cohort study, the authors used the Dutch nationwide pathology databank (PALGA) to identify patients diagnosed with IBD and colonic advanced neoplasia (AN) between 1991 and 2020 in seven hospitals in the Netherlands. Logistic and Fine & Gray's subdistribution hazard models were used to assess adjusted subdistribution hazard ratios for metachronous neoplasia and associations with treatment choice. RESULTS: The authors included 189 patients (high-grade dysplasia n =81; colorectal cancer n =108). Patients were treated with proctocolectomy ( n =33), (sub)total colectomy ( n =45), partial colectomy ( n =56) and endoscopic resection ( n =38). Partial colectomy was more frequently performed in patients with limited disease and older age, with similar patient characteristics between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Synchronous neoplasia was found in 43 patients (25.0%; (sub)total or proctocolectomy n =22, partial colectomy n =8, endoscopic resection n =13). The authors found a metachronous neoplasia rate of 6.1, 11.5 and 13.7 per 100 patient-years after (sub)total colectomy, partial colectomy and endoscopic resection, respectively. Endoscopic resection, but not partial colectomy, was associated with an increased metachronous neoplasia risk (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratios 4.16, 95% CI 1.64-10.54, P <0.01) compared with (sub)total colectomy. CONCLUSION: After confounder adjustment, partial colectomy yielded a similar metachronous neoplasia risk compared to (sub)total colectomy. High metachronous neoplasia rates after endoscopic

Contains fulltext : 296545.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access), BACKGROUND: Acute resection for left-sided obstructive colon carcinoma is thought to be associated with a higher mortality risk than a bridge-to-surgery approach using decompressing stoma or self-expandable metal stent, but prediction models are lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the influence of treatment strategy on mortality within 90 days from the first intervention in patients presenting with left-sided obstructive colon carcinoma. DESIGN: This was a national multicenter cohort study that used data from a prospective national audit. SETTINGS: The study was performed in 75 Dutch hospitals. PATIENTS: Patients were included if they underwent resection with curative intent for left-sided obstructive colon carcinoma between 2009 and 2016. INTERVENTIONS: First intervention was either acute resection, bridge to surgery with self-expandable metallic stent, or bridge to surgery with decompressing stoma. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The main outcome measure was 90-day mortality after the first intervention. Risk factors were identified using multivariable logistic analysis. Subsequently, a risk model was developed. RESULTS: In total, 2395 patients were included, with the first intervention consisting of acute resection in 1848 patients (77%), stoma as bridge to surgery in 332 patients (14%), and stent as bridge to surgery in 215 patients (9%). Overall, 152 patients (6.3%) died within 90 days from the first intervention. A decompressing stoma was independently associated with lower 90-day mortality risk (HR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.094-0.62). Other independent predictors for mortality were age, ASA classification, tumor location, and index levels of serum creatinine and C-reactive protein. The constructed risk model had an area under the curve of 0.84 (95% CI, 0.81-0.87). LIMITATIONS: Only patients who underwent surgical resection were included. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment strategy had a significant impact on 90-day mortality. A decompressing stoma considerably lowers the ris

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Item does not contain fulltext, BACKGROUND: Present theory is that uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis are different entities. Recent studies suggest it is safe to delay surgery in patients with uncomplicated appendicitis. We hypothesize that patients with complicated appendicitis are at higher risk for postoperative complications when surgery is delayed. METHODS: Data was used from the multicenter, prospective SNAPSHOT appendicitis study of 1975 patients undergoing surgery for suspected appendicitis. Adult patients (≥ 18 years) who underwent appendectomy for appendicitis were included in this study. The primary outcome was the difference in postoperative complications between patients with complicated appendicitis who were operated within and after 8 h after hospital presentation. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of both uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis in relationship to delay of appendectomy. Follow-up was 30 days. A multivariable analysis was performed. RESULTS: Of 1341 adult patients with appendicitis, 34.3% had complicated appendicitis. In patients with complicated appendicitis, 22.8% developed a postoperative complication compared to 8.2% for uncomplicated appendicitis (P < 0.001). Delay in surgery (> 8 h) increased the complication rate in patients with complicated appendicitis (28.1%) compared to surgery within 8 h (18.3%; P = 0.01). Multivariate analysis showed a delay in surgery as an independent predictor for a postoperative complication in patients with complicated appendicitis (OR 1.71; 95%CI 1.01-2.68, P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: In-hospital delay of surgery (> 8 h) in patients with complicated appendicitis is associated with a higher risk of a postoperative complication. It is important that we recognize and treat these patients early.

Contains fulltext : 251504.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access), BACKGROUND: Radiologic imaging can accurately diagnose acute appendicitis, but little is known about its discriminatory capacity between complicated and uncomplicated appendicitis. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the accuracy of imaging in discriminating complicated from uncomplicated appendicitis. METHODS: Data was used from the prospective, nationwide, observational SNAPSHOT appendicitis database, including patients with suspected acute appendicitis who were planned for an appendectomy. Usage of ultrasound (US), CT, MRI or a combination was recorded. Radiological reports were used to group for complicated or uncomplicated appendicitis. The reference standard was based on operative and pathological findings. Primary outcomes were sensitivity and specificity in discriminating complicated from uncomplicated appendicitis. Secondary outcomes were diagnostic accuracy results per imaging modality and for the subgroups age, BMI, and sex. RESULTS: Preoperative imaging was performed in 1964 patients. In 1434 patients (73%), only US was used; in 109 (6%) patients, only CT was used; and 421 (21%) patients underwent US followed by CT or MRI. Overall, imaging workup as practiced, following the national guideline, had a poor sensitivity for complicated appendicitis of only 35%, although specificity was as high as 93%. For US, accuracy for complicated appendicitis was higher in children than in adults; sensitivity 41.2% vs. 26.4% and specificity 94.6% vs. 93.4%, respectively, p = 0.003. For relevant subgroups such as age, sex and BMI, no other differences in the discriminatory performance were found. CONCLUSION: A diagnostic workup with stepwise imaging, using a conditional CT or MRI strategy, poorly discriminates between complicated and uncomplicated appendicitis in daily practice.

Contains fulltext : 252173.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access), BACKGROUND: There is emerging evidence to suggest that Crohn's disease (CD) may be a disease of the mesentery, rather than of the bowel alone. A more extensive mesenteric resection, removing an increased volume of mesentery and lymph nodes to prevent recurrence of CD, may improve clinical outcomes. This study aims to analyse whether more extensive 'oncological' mesenteric resection reduces the recurrence rate of CD. METHODS: This is an international multicentre randomized controlled study, allocating patients to either group 1-mesenteric sparing ileocolic resection (ICR), the current standard procedure for CD, or group 2-extensive mesenteric ICR, up to the level of the ileocolic trunk. To detect a clinically relevant difference of 25 per cent in endoscopic recurrence at 6 months, a total of 138 patients is required (including 10 per cent dropout). Patients aged over 16 with CD undergoing primary ICR are eligible. Primary outcome is 6-month postoperative endoscopic recurrence rate (modified Rutgeerts score of greater than or equal to i2b). Secondary outcomes are postoperative morbidity, clinical recurrence, quality of life, and the need for (re)starting immunosuppressive medication. For long-term results, patients will be followed up for up to 5 years to determine the reoperation rate for recurrence of disease at the anastomotic site. CONCLUSION: Analysing these two treatment strategies in a head-to-head comparison will allow an objective evaluation of the clinical relevance of extensive mesenteric resection in CD. If a clinical benefit can be demonstrated, this could result in changes to guidelines which currently recommend close bowel resection. REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT00287612 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Item does not contain fulltext, Background: The effect of diagnosing appendicitis at re-assessment on post-operative outcomes is not clear. This study aims to compare patients diagnosed with appendicitis at initial presentation versus patients who were diagnosed at re-assessment. Patients and Methods: Data from the Dutch SNAPSHOT appendicitis collaborative was used. Patients with appendicitis who underwent appendectomy were included. Effects of diagnosis at re-assessment were compared with diagnosis at initial presentation. Primary outcomes were the proportion of patients with complicated appendicitis and the post-operative complication rate. Results: Of 1,832 patients, 245 (13.4%) were diagnosed at re-assessment. Re-assessed patients had a post-operative complication rate comparable to those diagnosed with appendicitis at initial presentation (15.1% vs. 12.7%; p = 0.29) and no substantial difference was found in the proportion of patients with complicated appendicitis (27.9% vs. 33.5%; p = 0.07). For patients with complicated appendicitis, more post-operative complications were seen if diagnosed at re-assessment than if diagnosed initially (38.2% vs. 22.9%; p = 0.006). Conclusions: For patients in whom appendicitis was not diagnosed at first presentation, but at re-assessment, both the proportion of complicated appendicitis and the post-operative complication rate were comparable to those who were diagnosed with appendicitis at initial presentation. However, re-assessed patients with complicated appendicitis encountered more post-operative complications.

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Item does not contain fulltext, PURPOSE: For the diagnosis of acute appendicitis, the combination of clinical and laboratory variables achieves high diagnostic accuracy. Nevertheless, appendicitis can present with normal laboratory tests of inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of normal inflammatory markers in patients operated for acute appendicitis. METHODS: This is an analysis of data from a prospective, multicentre SNAPSHOT cohort study of patients with suspected acute appendicitis. Only patients with histopathologically proven acute appendicitis were included. Adult patients with acute appendicitis and normal preoperative inflammatory markers were explored further in terms of abdominal complaints, preoperative imaging results and intraoperative assessment of the degree of inflammation and compared to those with elevated inflammatory markers. RESULTS: Between June and July 2014, 1303 adult patients with histopathologically proven acute appendicitis were included. In only 23 of 1303 patients (1.8%) with proven appendicitis, both preoperative white blood cell count and C-reactive protein levels were normal. Migration of pain was reported less frequently in patients with normal inflammatory markers compared to those with elevated inflammatory marker levels (17.4% versus 43.0%, p = 0.01). Characteristics like fever, duration of symptoms and localized peritonitis were comparable. Only 4 patients with normal inflammatory markers (0.3% overall) had complicated appendicitis at histopathological evaluation. CONCLUSION: Combined normal WBC and CRP levels are seen in about 2 per 100 patients with confirmed acute appendicitis and can, although rarely, be found in patients with complicated appendicitis.

Contains fulltext : 239366.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access), AIM: Nonrestorative low anterior resection (n-rLAR) (also known as low Hartmann's) is performed for rectal cancer when a poor functional outcome is anticipated or there have been problems when constructing the anastomosis. Compared with restorative LAR (rLAR), little oncological outcome data are available for n-rLAR. The aim of this study was to compare oncological outcomes between rLAR and n-rLAR for primary rectal cancer. METHOD: This was a nationwide cross-sectional comparative study including all elective sphincter-saving LAR procedures for nonmetastatic primary rectal cancer performed in 2011 in 71 Dutch hospitals. Oncological outcomes of patients undergoing rLAR and n-rLAR were collected in 2015; the data were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and the results compared using log-rank testing. Uni- and multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between the type of LAR and oncological outcome measures. RESULTS: A total of 1197 patients were analysed, of whom 892 (75%) underwent rLAR and 305 (25%) underwent n-rLAR. The 3-year local recurrence (LR) rate was 3% after rLAR and 8% after n-rLAR (P < 0.001). The 3-year disease-free survival and overall survival rates were 77% (rLAR) vs 62% (n-rLAR) (P < 0.001) and 90% (rLAR) vs 75% (n-rLAR) (P < 0.001), respectively. In multivariable Cox analysis, n-rLAR was independently associated with a higher risk of LR (OR = 2.95) and worse overall survival (OR = 1.72). CONCLUSION: This nationwide study revealed that n-rLAR for rectal cancer was associated with poorer oncological outcome than r-LAR. This is probably a noncausal relationship, and might reflect technical difficulties during low pelvic dissection in a subset of those patients, with oncological implications.

Item does not contain fulltext, The two most essential technical aspects of any gastrointestinal anastomosis are adequate perfusion and sufficient reach. For ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA), a trade-off exists between these two factors, as lengthening manoeuvers to avoid tension may require vascular ligation. In this technical note, we describe two cases in which we used indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography (FA) to assess perfusion of the pouch after vascular ligation to acquire sufficient reach. In both cases, FA allowed us to distinguish better between an arterial inflow problem and venous congestion than white light assessment. Both pouches remained viable and no anastomotic leakage occurred. Our results indicate that ICG FA is of great value after vascular ligation to obtain reach during IPAA.

Contains fulltext : 238480.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access), BACKGROUND: The optimal timing of resection after decompression of left-sided obstructive colon cancer is unknown. Revised expert-based guideline recommendations have shifted from an interval of 5 - 10 days to approximately 2 weeks following self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement, and recommendations after decompressing stoma are lacking. We aimed to evaluate the recommended bridging intervals after SEMS and explore the timing of resection after decompressing stoma. METHODS: This nationwide study included patients registered between 2009 and 2016 in the prospective, mandatory Dutch ColoRectal Audit. Additional data were collected through patient records in 75 hospitals. Only patients who underwent either SEMS placement or decompressing stoma as a bridge to surgery were selected. Technical SEMS failure and unsuccessful decompression within 48 hours were exclusion criteria. RESULTS: 510 patients were included (182 SEMS, 328 decompressing stoma). Median bridging interval was 23 days (interquartile range [IQR] 13 - 31) for SEMS and 36 days (IQR 22 - 65) for decompressing stoma. Following SEMS placement, no significant differences in post-resection complications, hospital stay, or laparoscopic resections were observed with resection after 11 - 17 days compared with 5 - 10 days. Of SEMS-related complications, 48 % occurred in patients operated on beyond 17 days. Compared with resection within 14 days, an interval of 14 - 28 days following decompressing stoma resulted in significantly more laparoscopic resections, more primary anastomoses, and shorter hospital stays. No impact of bridging interval on mortality, disease-free survival, or overall survival was demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS: Based on an overview of the data with balancing of surgical outcomes and timing of adverse events, a bridging interval of approximately 2 weeks seems appropriate after SEMS placement, while waiting 2 - 4 weeks after decompressing stoma further optimizes surgical conditions for laparoscop

Contains fulltext : 229842.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access), INTRODUCTION: In patients treated with an appendectomy for acute appendicitis, the specimen is generally sent for histological evaluation. In an era of increasing non-operative treatment for acute appendicitis, it is important to know the incidence, the diagnostic accuracy, and treatment consequences of appendicular neoplasms that are found in acute appendicitis. We hypothesize that pre- and intra-operative parameters might predict an appendicular neoplasm. METHODS: Data was used from our previous prospective observational cohort study. All patients undergoing surgery for suspected acute appendicitis were included. The primary outcome was the incidence of appendicular neoplasms in patients operated for acute appendicitis. Secondary outcomes were pre-operative diagnostics and imaging outcomes, intra-operative surgical judgment, and postoperative management and outcome. Possible predictors of an appendicular neoplasm were identified and used in multivariable logistic regression. Patients with an appendicular neoplasm were followed for 3 years after initial appendectomy. RESULTS: A total of 1975 patients underwent surgery for suspected acute appendicitis and in 98.3% (1941/1975) the appendix was removed. In 1.5% (30/1941) of these patients, an appendicular neoplasm was found. Among the malignant neoplasms, the majority were grade 1 neuroendocrine tumors (NET) in 65% (13/20). On pre-operative imaging, there was no suspicion of malignancy. In three cases, there was an intra-operative suspicion of malignancy. Multivariable analysis showed only age as an independent predictor for appendicular neoplasms. No recurrent or new malignancy was found during follow-up. DISCUSSION: The incidence of appendicular neoplasm in patients undergoing an acute appendectomy is very low and clinical risk factors could not be identified.

Background and Objectives: Magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis has a limited accuracy to detect positive lymph nodes but does dictate neoadjuvant treatment in rectal cancer. This study aimed to investigate preoperative lymph node understaging and its effects on postoperative local recurrence rate. Methods: Patients were selected from a retrospective cross‐sectional snapshot study. Patients with emergency surgery, cM1 disease, or unknown cN‐ or (y)pN category were excluded. Clinical and pathologic N‐categories were compared and the impact on local recurrence was determined by multivariable analysis. Results: Out of 1548 included patients, 233 had preoperatively underestimated lymph node staging based on (y)pN category. Out of the 695 patients staged cN0, 168 (24%) had positive lymph nodes at pathology, and out of the 594 patients staged cN1, 65 (11%) were (y)pN2. Overall 3‐year local recurrence rate was 5%. Clinical N‐category was not associated with local recurrence when corrected for pT‐category, neoadjuvant therapy, and resection margin, neither in patients with

Objective: The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of omentoplasty on pelviperineal morbidity following abdominoperineal resection (APR) in patients with cancer. Background: Recent studies have questioned the use of omentoplasty for the prevention of perineal wound complications. Methods: A systematic review of published literature since 2000 on the use of omentoplasty during APR for cancer was undertaken. The authors were requested to share their source patient data. Meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effects model. Results: Fourteen studies comprising 1894 patients (n ¼ 839 omentoplasty) were included. The majority had APR for rectal cancer (87%). Omentoplasty was not significantly associated with the risk of presacral abscess formation in the overall population (RR 1.11; 95% CI 0.79–1.56), nor in planned subgroup analysis (n ¼ 758) of APR with primary perineal closure for nonlocally advanced rectal cancer (RR 1.06; 95% CI 0.68–1.64). No overall differences were found for complicated perineal wound healing within 30 days (RR 1.30; 95% CI 0.92–1.82), chronic perineal sinus (RR 1.08; 95% CI 0.53–2.20), and pelviperineal complication necessitating reoperation (RR 1.06; 95% CI 0.80– 1.42) as well. An increased risk of developing a perineal hernia was found for patients submitted to omentoplasty (RR 1.85; 95% CI 1.26–2.72). Complications related to the omentoplasty were reported in 4.6% (95% CI 2.5%– 8.6%). Conclusions: This meta-analysis revealed no beneficial effect of omentoplasty on presacral abscess formation and perineal wound healing after APR, while it increases the likelihood of developing a perineal hernia. These findings do not support the routine use of omentoplasty in APR for cancer.

Purpose: The optimal surgical approach for perforated diverticulitis with purulent or fecal peritonitis (Hinchey grade III or IV) remains debated. In recent years, accumulating evidence comparing sigmoid resection with primary anastomosis (PA) with the Hartmann’s procedure (HP) was presented. Therefore, the aim was to provide an updated and extensive synthesis of the available evidence. Methods: A systematic search in Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was performed. Studies comparing PA to HP for adult patients with Hinchey III or IV diverticulitis were included. Data on mortality, morbidity, stoma reversal, and patient-reported and cost-related outcomes were extracted. Random effects models were used to pool data and estimate odds ratios (ORs). Results: From a total of 1560 articles, four randomized controlled trials and ten observational studies were identified, reporting on 1066 Hinchey III/IV patients. Based on trial outcomes, PA was found to be favorable over HP in terms of stoma reversal rates (OR 2.62, 95% CI 1.29, 5.31) and reversal-related morbidity (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.16, 0.69). No differences in mortality (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.32, 2.19), morbidity (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.65, 1.51), and reintervention rates (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.39, 2.11) after the index procedure were demonstrated. Data on patient-reported and cost-related outcomes were scarce, as well as outcomes in PA patients with or without ileostomy construction and Hinchey IV patients. Conclusion: Although between-study heterogeneity needs to be taken into account, the present results indicate that primary anastomosis seems to be the preferred option over Hartmann’s procedure in selected patients with Hinchey III or IV diverticulitis.

Background: Several studies have been published favouring sigmoidectomy with primary anastomosis over Hartmann's procedure for perforated diverticulitis with purulent or faecal peritonitis (Hinchey grade III or IV), but cost-related outcomes were rarely reported. The present study aimed to evaluate costs and cost-effectiveness within the DIVA arm of the Ladies trial. Methods: This was a cost-effectiveness analysis of the DIVA arm of the multicentre randomized Ladies trial, comparing primary anastomosis over Hartmann's procedure for Hinchey grade III or IV diverticulitis. During 12-month follow-up, data on resource use, indirect costs (Short Form Health and Labour Questionnaire) and quality of life (EuroQol Five Dimensions) were collected prospectively, and analysed according to the modified intention-to-treat principle. Main outcomes were incremental cost-effectiveness (ICER) and cost–utility (ICUR) ratios, expressed as the ratio of incremental costs and the incremental probability of being stoma-free or incremental quality-adjusted life-years respectively. Results: Overall, 130 patients were included, of whom 64 were allocated to primary anastomosis (46 and 18 with Hinchey III and IV disease respectively) and 66 to Hartmann's procedure (46 and 20 respectively). Overall mean costs per patient were lower for primary anastomosis (€20 544, 95 per cent c.i. 19 569 to 21 519) than Hartmann's procedure (€28 670, 26 636 to 30 704), with a mean difference of €–8126 (–14 660 to –1592). The ICER was €–39 094 (95 per cent bias-corrected and accelerated (BCa) c.i. –1213 to –116), indicating primary anastomosis to be more cost-effective. The ICUR was €–101 435 (BCa c.i. –1 113 264 to 251 840). Conclusion: Primary anastomosis is more cost-effective than Hartmann's procedure for perforated diverticulitis with purulent or faecal peritonitis.

Aim: The goal of this European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) guideline project is to give an overview of the existing evidence on the management of diverticular disease, primarily as a guidance to surgeons. Methods: The guideline was developed during several working phases including three voting rounds and one consensus meeting. The two project leads (JKS and EA) appointed by the ESCP guideline committee together with one member of the guideline committee (WB) agreed on the methodology, decided on six themes for working groups (WGs) and drafted a list of research questions. Senior WG members, mostly colorectal surgeons within the ESCP, were invited based on publication records and geographical aspects. Other specialties were included in the WGs where relevant. In addition, one trainee or PhD fellow was invited in each WG. All six WGs revised the research questions if necessary, did a literature search, created evidence tables where feasible, and drafted supporting text to each research question and statement. The text and statement proposals from each WG were arranged as one document by the first and last authors before online voting by all authors in two rounds. For the second voting ESCP national representatives were also invited. More than 90% agreement was considered a consensus. The final phrasing of the statements with < 90% agreement was discussed in a consensus meeting at the ESCP annual meeting in Vienna in September 2019. Thereafter, the first and the last author drafted the final text of the guideline and circulated it for final approval and for a third and final online voting of rephrased statements. Results: This guideline contains 38 evidence based consensus statements on the management of diverticular disease. Conclusion: This international, multidisciplinary guideline provides an up to date summary of the current knowledge of the management of diverticular disease as a guidance for clinicians and patients.

BACKGROUND: Abdominoperineal resection (APR) for rectal cancer is associated with high morbidity of the perineal wound, and controversy exists about the optimal closure technique. Primary perineal wound closure is still the standard of care in the Netherlands. Biological mesh closure did not improve wound healing in our previous randomised controlled trial (BIOPEX-study). It is suggested, based on meta-analysis of cohort studies, that filling of the perineal defect with well-vascularised tissue improves perineal wound healing. A gluteal turnover flap seems to be a promising method for this purpose, and with the advantage of not having a donor site scar. The aim of this study is to investigate whether a gluteal turnover flap improves the uncomplicated perineal wound healing after APR for rectal cancer. METHODS: Patients with primary or recurrent rectal cancer who are planned for APR will be considered eligible in this multicentre randomised controlled trial. Exclusion criteria are total exenteration, sacral resection above S4/S5, intersphincteric APR, biological mesh closure of the pelvic floor, collagen disorders, and severe systemic diseases. A total of 160 patients will be randomised between gluteal turnover flap (experimental arm) and primary closure (control arm). The total follow-up duration is 12 months, and outcome assessors and patients will be blinded for type of perineal wound closure. The primary outcome is the percentage of uncomplicated perineal wound healing on day 30, defined as a Southampton wound score of less than two. Secondary outcomes include time to perineal wound closure, incidence of perineal hernia, the number, duration and nature of the complications, re-interventions, quality of life and urogenital function. DISCUSSION: The uncomplicated perineal wound healing rate is expected to increase from 65 to 85% by using the gluteal turnover flap. With proven effectiveness, a quick implementation of this relatively simple surgical technique is expe

Contains fulltext : 226478.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access), PURPOSE: To identify discrepancies between intraoperative and histological evaluations of the appendix in acute appendicitis and to evaluate the effect on surgical outcome. METHODS: Data was used from our previous multicentre, prospective, cohort study of patients with suspected acute appendicitis. Appendices were scored during intraoperative and histological evaluation as uncomplicated or complicated appendicitis. Primary outcome was percentage of concordance between intraoperative and histological evaluation. Secondary outcomes were (infectious) postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, hospital re-admission and re-intervention rate, all within 30 days of surgery. RESULTS: A total of 1850 patients were included. In 65.7% (1215/1850) of the appendices, the intraoperative evaluation was uncomplicated and in 34.3% (635/1850), complicated appendicitis. Patients with uncomplicated appendicitis had a postoperative course with significantly less postoperative complications (7.2% vs 24.3%), a shorter length of hospital stay (2 vs 5 days) and a lower re-admission (4.2% vs 9.6%) and re-intervention rate (1.1% vs 4.3%) than intraoperative complicated appendicitis (p < 0.001). In 93.5% (1136/1215) of the intraoperative uncomplicated patients and in 46.6% (296/635) of the intraoperative complicated patients, there was an agreement with pathology (Kappa 0.45). In 23.9% (81/339) of patients with intraoperative complicated and histological uncomplicated appendicitis, a postoperative complication was observed, which was similar to the postoperative complication rate of complicated appendicitis both on intraoperative and histological evaluation (24.7% (73/296)). CONCLUSIONS: There is a moderate agreement between a surgeon and pathologist in diagnosing patients with complicated appendicitis. However, the intraoperative diagnosis of complicated appendicitis was significantly associated with postoperative complications. Routine histological evaluation should be preserved f

Contains fulltext : 229393.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access), OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this population-based study was to compare decompressing stoma (DS) as bridge to surgery (BTS) with emergency resection (ER) for left-sided obstructive colon cancer (LSOCC) using propensity-score matching. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Recently, an increased use of DS as BTS for LSOCC has been observed in the Netherlands. Unfortunately, good quality comparative analyses with ER are scarce. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with nonlocally advanced LSOCC between 2009 and 2016 in 75 Dutch hospitals, who underwent DS or ER in the curative setting, were propensity-score matched in a 1:2 ratio. The primary outcome measure was 90-day mortality, and main secondary outcomes were 3-year overall survival and permanent stoma rate. RESULTS: Of 2048 eligible patients, 236 patients who underwent DS were matched with 472 patients undergoing ER. After DS, more laparoscopic resections were performed (56.8% vs 9.2%, P < 0.001) and more primary anastomoses were constructed (88.5% vs 40.7%, P < 0.001). DS resulted in significantly lower 90-day mortality compared to ER (1.7% vs 7.2%, P = 0.006), and this effect could be mainly attributed to the subgroup of patients over 70 years (3.5% vs 13.7%, P = 0.027). Patients treated with DS as BTS had better 3-year overall survival (79.4% vs 73.3%, hazard ratio 0.36, 95% confidence interval 0.20-0.65) and fewer permanent stomas (23.4% vs 42.4%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In this nationwide propensity-score matched study, DS as a BTS for LSOCC was associated with lower 90-day mortality and better 3-year overall survival compared to ER, especially in patients over 70 years of age.