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Accurate early diagnosis of a gastrointestinal anastomotic leak remains a challenge. When an anastomotic leak develops, the electrical properties of the tissue undergoing inflammatory processes change, resulting from the extravasation of inflammatory fluid and cellular infiltration. The method described here intends to provide a novel early anastomotic leak warning system based upon measurable changes in tissue impedance nearby an acute inflammatory process.A biodegradable Mg-alloy was compared with a nonabsorbable stainless steel (STS) electrode connected to a wireless recording system for impedance measurement. In vitro measurements were made in physiological solutions and small animal (eight mice) and large animal (eight pigs) models with an anastomotic leak simulated by an open colotomy. Measurements were made at 10 mm intervals from the open colon at baseline and up to 120 min comparing these with a sutured colonic wound and normal tissue.In-vitro biodegradable magnesium electrode impedance evaluation showed good sensitivity to different media due to its environmental corrosion properties. The impedance of an acidic environment (1.06 ± 0.02 kΩ for citric acid) was twice that of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (0.64 ± 0.008 kΩ) with a distinction between Normal Saline (0.42 ± 0.013 kΩ) and PBS (0.64 ± 0.008 kΩ). This was in contrast to the performance characteristics of the control STS electrodes, where impedance in an acidic environment was lower than saline or PBS (citric acid:0.76 ± 0.01 kΩ versus PBS: 1.32 ± 0.014 kΩ). In a mouse model simulating an anastomotic leak, there was a significant increase in impedance after 120 min when compared with controls (99.7% increase versus 9.6% increase, respectively; P 0.02). This effect was confirmed in a pig model when relative impedance measurements of the leak and control groups were compared (1.86 ± 0.46 versus 1.07 ± 0.02, respectively; P 0.027).Electrophysiological measurement shows diagnostic sensitivity for a gastrointestinal leak with potential clinical utility in the postoperative detection of early intra-abdominal sepsis. Further investigation of biodegradable tissue sensors capable of monitoring an early anastomotic leak is required.

Whether fecal calprotectin (FC) and quality of life (QoL) questionnaires reflect change in disease activity in patients with a J-pouch is unknown.Patients with acute pouchitis were prospectively treated with a 2-week course of antibiotics. The full Pouchitis Disease Activity Index, FC, and QoL questionnaires were measured at baseline and after antibiotic therapy.Twenty patients were prospectively enrolled. After 2 weeks of antibiotic treatment, the Pouchitis Disease Activity Index decreased from a median of 9 to 5 ( P = 0.007). FC decreased from a median of 661 ug/g to 294 ug/g ( P = 0.02), and QoL questionnaires improved significantly.FC and QoL questionnaires reflect real-time changes in inflammatory pouch activity.

Background and Aims Escherichia coli is over-abundant in the gut microbiome of patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Here, we aimed to identify IBD-specific genomic functions of diverse E. coli lineages. Methods We investigated E. coli genomes from patients with ulcerative colitis [UC], Crohn’s disease [CD] or a pouch, and healthy subjects. The majority of genomes were reconstructed from metagenomic samples, including newly sequenced faecal metagenomes. Clinical metadata were collected. Functional analysis at the gene and mutation level were performed and integrated with IBD phenotypes and biomarkers. Results Overall, 530 E. coli genomes were analysed. The E. coli B2 lineage was more prevalent in UC compared with other IBD phenotypes. Genomic metabolic capacities varied across E. coli lineages and IBD phenotypes. Host mucin utilisation enzymes were present in a single lineage and depleted in patients with a pouch, whereas those involved in inulin hydrolysis were enriched in patients with a pouch. E. coli strains from patients with UC were twice as likely to encode the genotoxic molecule colibactin than strains from patients with CD or a pouch. Strikingly, patients with a pouch showed the highest inferred E. coli growth rates, even in the presence of antibiotics. Faecal calprotectin did not correlate with the relative abundance of E. coli. Finally, we identified multiple IBD-specific non-synonymous mutations in E. coli genes encoding for bacterial cell envelope components. Conclusions Comparative genomics indicates that E. coli is a commensal species adapted to the overactive mucosal immune milieu in IBD, rather than causing it. Our results reveal mutations that may lead to attenuated antigenicity in some E. coli strains.

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic surgery aims at reducing wound complications and improving cosmetics, among other advantages. High rates of postoperative ventral hernia (POVH) are observed after laparoscopic-assisted colectomies. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a 2011 to 2016 retrospective study of all patients at Rabin Medical Center, we examined POVH prevalence after right hemicolectomy for neoplasia and correlation to specimen extraction site. We also compared laparoscopic-assisted colectomy to hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy. Included were patients who had postoperative abdominal computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scan as part of their routine oncological follow-up to 6 months postsurgery. Patients were excluded for conversion to laparotomy, and prior abdominal surgeries after right colectomy and before follow-up computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging scan. Demographic and surgical data were collected from patient electronic records, and scans reviewed for POVH by a designated radiologist. RESULTS Of 370 patients, 138 (mean age 70.09 y, 58 males) were included: 54 (39.1%) were diagnosed with POVH, 42/72 (58.3%) at midline extraction site, and 12/66 (18.8%) at off-midline extraction sites (P

D-PLEXA post-hoc analysis of a previously reported prospective randomized trial assessing D-PLEXThe overall incidence of SSI was significantly lower for the D-PLEXD-PLEX

Background and Aims Bacterial urease is a major virulence factor of human pathogens, and murine models have shown that it can contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases [IBD]. Methods The distribution of urease-producing bacteria in IBD was assessed using public faecal metagenomic data from various cohorts, including non-IBD controls [n = 55], patients with Crohn’s disease [n = 291] or ulcerative colitis [n = 214], and patients with a pouch [n = 53]. The ureA gene and the taxonomic markers gyrA, rpoB, and recA were used to estimate the percentage of urease producers in each sample. Results Levels of urease producers in patients with IBD and non-IBD controls were comparable. In non-IBD controls and most IBD patients, urease producers were primarily acetate-producing genera such as Blautia and Ruminococcus. A shift in the type of the dominant urease producers towards Proteobacteria and Bacilli was observed in a subset of all IBD subtypes, which correlated with faecal calprotectin levels in one cohort. Some patients with IBD had no detectable urease producers. In patients with a pouch, the probiotic-associated species Streptococcus thermophilus was more common as a main urease producer than in other IBD phenotypes, and it generally did not co-occur with other Bacilli or with Proteobacteria. Conclusions Unlike all non-IBD controls, patients with IBD often showed a shift towards Bacilli or Proteobacteria or a complete loss of urease production. Probiotics containing the species S. thermophilus may have a protective effect against colonisation by undesirable urease-producing bacteria in a subset of patients with a pouch.

Resume But de l’etude L’intervention de Hartmann est la technique chirurgicale de reference dans les diverticulites perforees. Le retablissement de la continuite (RC) colorectale peut etre difficile et le moment optimal pour le realiser reste controverse. Le but de cette etude etait d’analyser l’influence du delai de RC sur les suites operatoires. Patients et methodes Une etude de cohorte multicentrique retrospective a inclus tous les patients ayant eu un RC entre janvier 2004 et juin 2015 dans 5 centres chirurgicaux. Resultats Cent vingt-deux patients etaient inclus dans la base de donnees. Le delai median entre l’intervention de Hartmann et le RC etait de 182,7 jours, avec une majorite de patients (n = 76, 62,2 %) operes entre 60 et 180 jours apres l’intervention de Hartmann. Cinquante-sept patients (46,7 %) ont eu des complications postoperatoires, le plus souvent des infections de paroi (n = 27, 22,1 %). La courbe ROC et le score de propension n’ont pas revele de correlation entre le delai de RC et les complications post-RC (p = 0,16), et les complications majeures (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3) (p = 0,19), mineures (Clavien-Dindo 1–2) (p = 0,14). La duree d’hospitalisation mediane etait de 10,9 (3–90) jours et l’analyse de correlation de Pearson n’a pas montre de relation entre le delai du RC et la duree de sejour (p = 0,4). Conclusion Le RC apres intervention de Hartman est souvent difficile avec des risques eleves de complications postoperatoires. Cette etude montre que le delai de RC n’a aucune influence sur les suites operatoires.

Aim Life expectancy and incidence of cancer among older adults are increasing. The aim of this study was to assess whether routinely used nursing screening tools can predict surgical outcomes in older adults with colorectal cancer. Methods Data of patients who underwent elective colorectal cancer surgery at Rabin Medical Center during the years 2014-2016 were collected retrospectively. Patients were divided into study group (age 80-89 y), and control group (age 60-69 y) for comparing surgical outcomes and six-month mortality. In the study group, screening tool scores were evaluated as potential predictors of surgical outcomes. These included Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), Admission Norton Scale Scores (ANSS), Morse Fall Scale (MFS), and Charlson Co-morbidity Index (CCI). Results The study group consisted of 77 patients, and the control group consisted of 129 patients. Postoperative mortality and morbidity were similar in both groups. Nursing screening tools did not predict immediate postoperative outcomes in the study group. MUST and CCI were predictors for six-month mortality. CCI score was 9.43±2.44 in those who died within six months from surgery compared to 7.07 ±1.61 in those who were alive after six months (p

ObjectiveEscherichia coliis over-abundant in the gut microbiome of patients with IBD, yet most studies have focused on the adherent-invasiveE. colipathotype. Here, we aimed to identify IBD-specific or phenotype-specific genomic functions of diverseE. colilineages.DesignWe investigatedE. colifrom patients with UC, CD and a pouch and healthy subjects. The majority ofE. coligenomes were reconstructed directly from metagenomic samples, including publicly available and newly sequenced fecal metagenomes. Clinical metadata and biomarkers were collected. Functional analysis at the gene and mutation level and genome replication rates ofE. coli strainswere performed, and correlated with IBD phenotypes and biomarkers.ResultsOverall, 530E. coligenomes were analysed. A specificE. colilineage (B2) was more prevalent in UC compared to other IBD phenotypes. Genomic metabolic capacities varied acrossE. colilineages and IBD phenotypes. Specifically,sialidases involved in host mucin utilization, were exclusively present in a single lineage and were depleted in patients with a pouch. In contrast, enzymes that hydrolyze inulin were enriched in patients with a pouch.E. colifrom patients with UC were twice as likely to encode the genotoxic molecule colibactin than strains from patients with CD or pouch. Strikingly, patients with a pouch showed the highestE. coligrowth rates, even in the presence of antibiotics. Fecal calprotectin did not correlate with the relative abundance ofE. coli. Finally, we identified multiple IBD-specific loss-of function mutations inE. coligenes encoding for bacterial cell envelope and secretion components.ConclusionThis study presentsE. colias a commensal species better adapted to the overly-active mucosal immune milieu in IBD, that may benefit from intestinal inflammation, rather than causing it. The evidence given here suggests adaptive evolution toward attenuated virulence in someE. colistrains, coupled with a rapid growth despite the presence of antibiotics.

Crohn9s disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and pouchitis are multifactorial and chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Pouchitis develops in former UC patients after proctocolectomy and ileal-pouch-anal anastomosis and is characterized by inflammation of the previously normal small intestine comprising the pouch. The extent to which microbial functional alteration (dysbiosis) in pouchitis resembles that of CD or UC has not been investigated, and the pathogenesis of pouchitis remains unknown. We collected 208 fecal metagenomes from 69 patients with a pouch (normal pouch and pouchitis) and compared them to publicly available metagenomes of patients with CD (n = 88), patients with UC (n = 76), and healthy controls (n = 56). Patients with pouchitis presented the highest alterations in species, metabolic pathways, and enzymes, which was correlated with intestinal inflammation. Ruminococcus gnavus strains encoding mucin-degrading glycoside hydrolases were highly enriched in pouchitis. Butyrate and secondary bile acid biosynthesis pathways were decreased in IBD phenotypes and were especially low in pouchitis. Pathways such as amino acid biosynthesis and degradation of aromatic compounds and sugars, encoded by members of the Enterobacteriaceae, were enriched in pouch and CD but not in UC. We developed microbial feature-based classifiers that can distinguish between patients with a normal pouch and pouchitis and identified species and genes that were predictive of pouchitis. We propose that the noninflamed pouch is already dysbiotic and microbially is similar to CD. Our study reveals microbial functions that outline the pathogenesis of pouchitis and suggests bacterial groups and functions that could be targeted for intervention to attenuate small intestinal inflammation present in pouchitis and CD. IMPORTANCE Crohn9s disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and pouchitis are chronic inflammatory conditions of the bowel. Pouchitis develops in former UC patients after proctocolectomy and ileal-pouch-anal anastomosis and is characterized by inflammation of the previously normal small intestine comprising the pouch. The extent to which microbial dysbiosis in patients with pouchitis resembles that of CD or UC and the pathogenesis of pouchitis remains unclear. We investigated the functions in the gut microbiomes of these patients using metagenomics. We found that the noninflamed pouch is already dysbiotic and microbially is similar to CD. Our study reveals microbial functions with a potential role in pouchitis pathogenesis such as depletion in butyrate and secondary bile acid synthesis and enrichment of amino acid synthesis and degradation of aromatic compounds, encoded by members of the Enterobacteriaceae. We developed microbial feature-based classifiers that can distinguish between patients with a normal pouch and pouchitis and identified species and genes that were predictive of pouchitis. We suggest species and functions that could be targeted for intervention to attenuate small intestinal inflammation present in pouchitis and CD.

Post operative ventral hernias are common following Hartmann's procedure. There is a debate whether hernia repair is safe when performed concomitantly with colostomy closure. In this study we aimed to evaluate the outcomes of synchronous Hartmann reversal (HR) with a hernia repair, compared to a staged procedure. A retrospective multi-center study was conducted, including all patients who underwent Hartmann’s procedure from January 2004 to July 2017 in 5 medical centers. Patient data included demographics, surgical data and post-operative outcome. Two hundred and seventy-four patients underwent colostomy reversal following Hartmann's procedure. In 107 patients (39%) a concomitant ventral hernia was reported during the Hartmann's reversal. Out of this cohort, 62 patients (58%) underwent hernia repair during follow-up. Thirty two patients (52%) underwent a synchronous hernia repair and 30 patients (48%) underwent hernia repair as a separate procedure. Post operative complication rate was significantly higher in the colostomy reversal with synchronous hernia repair group when compared to HR alone group (53% vs. 20%; p

Summary Aim Hartmann's procedure is the surgical treatment of choice for perforated acute diverticulitis. Hartmann's reversal (HR) that is performed at a later stage may be challenging. The optimal timing for HR is still a subject for controversy. The aim of this study is to assess whether the timing of HR affects surgical outcome. Patients and methods A retrospective-cohort multi-center study was conducted, including all patients who underwent HR for acute diverticulitis from January 2004 to June 2015 in 5 medical centers. Patient data included demographics, surgical data and post-operative outcome. Results One hundred and twenty-two patients were included in the database. Median time from Hartmann's procedure to reversal was 182.7 days, with the majority of patients (76 patients, 62.2%) operated 60 to 180 days from the Hartmann's procedure. Fifty-seven patients (46.7%) had post-operative complications, most commonly wound infections (27 patients, 22.1%). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and a propensity score match analysis (P = 0.43) correlating between days to HR from the index procedure showed no specific cut-off point regarding post-operative complications (P = 0.16), Major (Clavien–Dindo score of 3 or more) complications (P = 0.19), Minor (Clavien Dindo 1-2) and no complications (P = 0.14). Median length of stay was 10.9 days (range 3-90) and Pearson correlation failed to demonstrate a correlation between timing of surgical intervention and length of stay (P = 0.4). Conclusion Hartmann's Reversal is a complex surgical procedure associated with high rates of complications. In our series, timing of surgery did not affect surgical complications rate or severity or the length of hospital stay.

Hartmann’s procedure is commonly practiced in emergent cases with the restoration of bowel continuity planned at a second stage. This study assessed the rate of restorations following Hartmann’s procedure and evaluated factors affecting decision-making. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, causes for Hartmann’s procedure, reversal rate, and complications were collected in a multicenter retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent Hartmann’s procedure in five medical centers. Six hundred forty patients underwent Hartmann’s procedure for diverticular disease (36.1%), obstructing malignancy (31.8%), benign obstruction (5%), and other reasons (23.1%). Overall, 260 (40.6%) patients underwent subsequent restoration of bowel continuity. One hundred twenty-one (46.5%) patients had post-reversal complications, with an average Clavien-Dindo score of 1.4 and a mortality rate of 0.77%. Decision to avoid reversal was mostly related to comorbidities (49.7%) and metastatic disease (21.6%). Factors associated with the decision to restore bowel continuity included male gender (P = 0.02), patient age (62.3 years in Hartmann’s reversal patients vs 73.5 years in non-reversal patients; P

The management of diverticular disease has evolved in the last few decades from a structured therapeutic approach including operative management in almost all cases to a variety of medical and surgical approaches leading to a more individualized strategy. There is an ongoing debate among surgeons about the surgical management of diverticular disease, questioning not only the surgical procedure of choice, but also about who should be operated and the timing of surgery, both in complicated and uncomplicated diverticular disease. This article reviews the current treatment of diverticulitis, with a focus on the indications and methods of surgery in both the emergency and elective settings. Further investigation with good clinical data is needed for the establishment of clear guidelines.

Background: The Cologuard CG-100 is a novel intraluminal bypass device designed to reduce the clinical outcomes associated with low colorectal anastomotic leak. The device is inserted transanally, anchored to the colon above the anastomosis, and deployed intraluminally to cover the anastomosis from within. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and performance of the device in a porcine model. Method: Twelve pigs underwent low colorectal anastomosis with insertion of the Cologuard CG-100 device. Contrast material injection, abdominal X-ray, and histologic studies were used to evaluate sealing quality, device positioning, and tissue damage, respectively. The surgeons completed a usability and satisfaction questionnaire after completion of the procedure. Results: Absolute sealing was observed in all 4 animals euthanized immediately after surgery. In the other 8 animals, the device was kept in situ for 10 days and then extracted. X-ray films with injection of contrast material through a designated injection tube before device removal showed that the sheath and ring were correctly placed. No leak was demonstrated. There were no device-related adverse events, and no critical histological abnormalities were noted in the bowel area that was compressed by the device. The device was found to be easy to insert, position, and extract. Conclusion: The Cologuard CG-100 device efficiently reduced contact between fecal content and low colorectal anastomosis in a porcine model and is easily deployed and extracted. It holds promise for possible clinical use pending further studies.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) testing for mismatch repair proteins (MMRP) in patients with colorectal cancer can be performed on endoscopic biopsy material or the surgical resection material. Data are continuing to accumulate regarding the deleterious effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on MMRP expression. However, despite continuing rise in the use of endoscopic biopsies for IHC, most pathology departments still use mainly the surgical materials for IHC testing. In this study we compared the quality of stains among 96 colon cancer subjects with paired endoscopic and surgical material available for MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 stains (96 × 4, yielding 384 paired stains). Each slide received both a quantitative score (immunoreactivity [0-3] × percent positivity [0-4]) and a qualitative score (absent; weak and focal; strong). The quantitative scores of all MMRP were significantly higher among the endoscopic material (P

Background Anti-TNF therapy is the most effective strategy for post-operative prophylaxis in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) who are considered to be at high risk for recurrence. However, some patients fail to maintain long-term remission under these therapies. We aimed to assess predictors for the efficacy of post-operative anti-TNF therapy. Methods Patients with CD who underwent a curative bowel resection and were given post-operative anti-TNF prophylaxis between 2010 and 2019 were identified, and their data analysed retrospectively. Patients were assessed for disease recurrence at their first post-operative colonoscopy, a Rutgeerts score of >2a or clinically active disease that required a change in treatment was considered prophylaxis failure. Results Overall, 51 patients were included in our analysis. Male: 23 (45%); most of them had a penetrating complication (n = 23, 63%) that required surgery. Median age at surgery: 32 years (IQR 26–46). Anti-TNF therapy was started within a median of 9 weeks (IQR 6–14) post-surgery. Anti-TNF naïve: 14/51; 37/51 were anti-TNF experienced; of whom, 23 (62%) were treated with the same anti-TNF given before surgery. Disease recurrence occurred in 23 patients (45%) within a median follow-up of 13 months (IQR 8–26). Of the patients with disease recurrence, 10 (43%) were male, the median age of CD diagnosis was 26 years (IQR 15–49), 15 (65%) had penetrating disease, 5 (21%) had previous surgery, and 5 (21%) were active smokers. Disease recurrence was more common among patients operated at an older age (43 vs 33 years, p < 0.05) and in patients who had previous exposure to anti-TNF agents (56% vs. 14%, p = 0.01). In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, previous anti-TNF exposure was predictive of disease recurrence after surgery (HR 5.5, 95% CI 1.3–24, p < 0.05). Conclusion Post-operative prophylaxis using anti-TNF therapy in patients with CD who are anti-TNF experienced is associated with high rates of disease recurrence. This failure might be attributed to immunogenicity or pharmacodynamic failure. Closer monitoring and early treatment modifications should be considered in anti-TNF experienced patients.

Background Current staging of pathological stage III colon cancer (CC) is suboptimal; many patients recur despite unremarkable preoperative staging. We previously reported that early postoperative PET‐CT can alter the stage and management of up to 15% of patients with high‐risk stage III CC. This study aimed to determine the role of the test in the general stage III CC population. Methods A retrospective study of all consecutive patients with stage III CC who underwent early postoperative PET‐CT between 2005 and 2017. Results A total of 342 patients, 166 (48.5%) males, median age 66 years (range, 29‐90), were included. Pathological stage was IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC in 18 (5.3%), 257 (75.1%), and 67 (19.6%) patients, respectively. Median number of positive lymph nodes was 2 (range, 0‐32). PET‐CT results modified the management of 46 patients (13.4%): 37 (10.8%) with overt metastatic disease and 9 (2.6%) with a second primary. The 5‐year disease‐free survival for true stage III patients was 81%. The median overall survival for the entire cohort and for true stage III patients was not reached and was 57.2 months for true stage IV. Of the 37 patients found to be metastatic, 14 (37.8%) underwent curative treatments and 9/14 (64.3%) remain disease‐free, with a median follow‐up of 83.8 months. Predictive factors for upstaging following PET‐CT were identified. Conclusion Early postoperative PET‐CT changed the staging and treatment of 13.4% of stage III CC patients and has the potential for early detection of curable metastatic disease. Outcome results are encouraging. Prospective validation is ongoing.

Hartmann’s reversal is a challenging surgical procedure with significant postoperative morbidity rates. Various surgical methods have been suggested to lower the risk of postoperative complications. In this study, we aimed to compare the postoperative results between open and laparoscopic techniques for Hartmann’s reversal. A retrospective study of all patients who underwent Hartmann’s reversal in five centers in central Israel between January 2004 and June 2015 was conducted. Medical charts were reviewed, analyzing preoperative and operative parameters and short-term postoperative outcomes. 260 patients were included in the study. 76 patients were operated laparoscopically with a conversion rate of 26.3% (20 patients). No differences were found between patients operated laparoscopically and those operated in an open technique regarding gender (p = 0.785), age (61.34 vs. 62.64, p = 0.521), body mass index (26.6 vs. 26.2, p = 0.948), Charlson index score (1.79 vs. 1.95, p = 0.667), and cause for Hartmann’s procedure (neoplastic vs. non-neoplastic, p = 0.644). No differences were seen in average time from the Hartmann’s procedure to reversal (204.89 vs. 213.60 days, p = 0.688) and in overall complication rate (46.4 vs. 46.5%, p = 1). The Clavien–Dindo score for distinguishing between minor (0–2 score, p = 1) and major complications (3–5 score, p = 0.675) failed to demonstrate an advantage to laparoscopy, as well as to average length of stay (10.91 days in the laparoscopic group vs. 11.72 days in the open group, p = 0.529). An analysis based on the intention-to-treat with laparoscopy, including converted cases in the laparoscopic group, showed similar results, including overall complication rate (48.6 vs. 45.6%, p = 0.68) and Clavien–Dindo score in both minor (p = 0.24) and major complications (p = 0.44). Length of stay (10.92 vs. 11.81 days, p = 0.45) was also similar between the two groups. In this series, a laparoscopic approach to Hartmann’s reversal did not offer any short-term advantage when compared to an open surgical approach.

Background The Silastic ring vertical gastroplasty (SRVG), a modification of Mason's vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG), was the restrictive procedure of choice for many bariatric surgeons. The reoperation rate for failure/complications reported in long-term studies is approximately 50%. Objective We report our experience in laparoscopic conversion of failed SRVG to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). Setting A single surgeon's experience at a university-affiliated hospital. Methods Between March 2006 and April 2014, 39 patients underwent conversion of SRVG to laparoscopic RYGB (n = 25) or BPD (n = 14). The outcomes were retrieved from a prospectively collected database and analyzed. Results Most (89%) of the conversions were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 195 and 200 min for RYGB and BPD, respectively. There was no mortality. Complications occurred in 11 patients (28%), 5 in RYGB (19%) and 6 in BPD (42%). At the 3-year follow-up, the mean body mass index decreased from 47±8 kg/m 2 to 26±4 kg/m 2 for BPD, and from 43 kg/m 2 to 34 kg/m 2 ( P = .05) for RYGB. Weight (kg) decreased from 110 to 84 and to 92, and from 123 to 81 and 68, at 1 and 3 years for RYGB and BPD, respectively. Conclusions The weight loss for RYGB and BPD was equal at 1 year but tended to be better for BPD at 3 years postoperatively. Laparoscopic conversion of failed VBG to RYGB or BPD was feasible, but it was followed by prohibitively high complication rates in BPD patients. The risk:benefit ratio of these procedures in this series is questionable.

Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) can reduce mortality and morbidity. Current screening methods include colonoscopy and stool tests, but a simple low-cost blood test would increase compliance. This preliminary study assessed the utility of analyzing the entire bio-molecular profile of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for early detection of CRC. Blood samples were prospectively collected from 62 candidates for CRC screening/diagnostic colonoscopy or surgery for colonic neoplasia. PBMCs and plasma were separated by Ficoll gradient, dried on zinc selenide slides, and placed under a FTIR microscope. FTIR spectra were analyzed for biomarkers and classified by principal component and discriminant analyses. Findings were compared among diagnostic groups. Significant changes in multiple bands that can serve as CRC biomarkers were observed in PBMCs (p = ~0.01) and plasma (p = ~0.0001) spectra. There were minor but statistically significant differences in both blood components between healthy individuals and patients with benign polyps. Following multivariate analysis, the healthy individuals could be well distinguished from patients with CRC, and the patients with benign polyps were mostly distributed as a distinct subgroup within the overlap region. Leave-one-out cross-validation for evaluating method performance yielded an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.77, with sensitivity 81.5 % and specificity 71.4 %. Joint analysis of the biochemical profile of two blood components rather than a single biomarker is a promising strategy for early detection of CRC. Additional studies are required to validate our preliminary clinical results.

The incidence of appendicitis in the elderly has risen. Older age is an independent predictor of poor surgical outcome. Herein, we present the most comprehensive single institution study to describe the natural history and outcome of appendicitis in elderly patients.A review of 1898 consecutive patients who underwent appendectomy between 2004 and 2007 was performed. The elderly patients were defined as older than 68 years.The median age of the entire cohort was 25 years, and 55% were males. The elderly group included 68 patients (3.6%). On comparison by age, the elderly group had a significantly longer delay from symptom onset to admission (50 vs. 31 h, P = 0.01) and from admission to surgery, a longer operative time and hospital stay, and higher rates of postoperative complications and complicated appendicitis.The current study demonstrated several unique characteristics of the elderly population with acute appendicitis, which include poor outcome and longer time intervals to diagnosis and treatment. In order to improve the poor outcome of the elderly population with appendicitis, prospective trials are necessary.

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness and cost of home electrical stimulation and standardized biofeedback training in females with fecal incontinence Thirty-six females suffering from fecal incontinence were randomized into two groups, matched for mean age (67.45 ± 7.2 years), mean body mass index (kg/m2) (26.2 ± 3.9), mean disease duration (4.1 ± 0.8 years), mean number of births (2.7 ± 1.3), and reports of obstetric trauma (25 %). Questionnaires were used to evaluate their demographics, medical, and childbearing history. Subjects were randomized to home electrical stimulation or standardized biofeedback training for a period of 6 weeks. Subjective outcome measures included the frequency of fecal, urine, and gas incontinence by visual analog scale, Vaizey incontinence score, and subjects’ levels of fecal incontinence related anxiety. Objective outcome measures included pelvic floor muscle strength assessed by surface electromyography. We also compared the cost of each treatment modality. Only females who received home electrical stimulation (HES) reported a significant improvement in Vaizey incontinence score (p = 0.001), anxiety (p = 0.046), and in frequency of leaked solid stool (p = 0.013). A significant improvement in pelvic floor muscle strength was achieved by both groups. HES was much cheaper compared to the cost of standardized biofeedback training (SBT) (US$100 vs. US$220, respectively). Our study comprised a small female population, and the study endpoints did not include objective measures of anorectal function test, such as anorectal manometry, before and after treatment. Home electrical stimulation may offer an alternative to standardized biofeedback training as it is effective and generally well-tolerated therapy for females with fecal incontinence.

Background Bariatric surgery is considered as being contraindicated for morbidly obese patients who also have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of our study was to report the outcomes of bariatric surgery in morbidly obese IBD patients. Methods The prospectively collected data of all the patients diagnosed as having IBD who underwent bariatric operations in 2 medical centers between October 2006 and January 2014 were retrieved and analyzed. Results One male and 9 female morbidly obese IBD patients (8 with Crohn's disease and 2 with ulcerative colitis) underwent bariatric surgery. Their mean age was 40 years, and their mean body mass index was 42.6 kg/m 2 . Nine of them underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and 1 underwent a laparoscopic adjustable gastric band. Eight patients had obesity-related co-morbidities, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, osteoarthropathy, etc. After a median follow-up of 46 months (range 9–67), all of the patients lost weight, with an excess weight loss of 71%, and 10 out of 16 obesity-related co-morbidities were resolved. There was 1 complication not related to IBD, and no IBD exacerbation. Conclusion Bariatric surgery was safe and effective in our morbidly obese IBD patients. The surgical outcome in this selected patient group was similar to that of comparable non-IBD patients.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive operation with hormonal elements that is rapidly gaining popularity. The most feared complication of the procedure is a staple line leak. The treatment of staple line leakage depends on timing and clinical and anatomical considerations. If leakage persists and transforms into a chronic fistula, a definitive surgical procedure is required. In cases where the fistula originates close to the esophagogastric junction, the surgical possibilities are limited and one treatment option is total gastrectomy with esophagojejunal anastomosis. We report a case series of four patients with chronic fistulae, who failed conservative treatment and required total gastrectomy. Their average length of hospital stay was 8.7 days (range, 5-15 days), without conversions, leaks, or other complications. In experienced hands, total gastrectomy is feasible by laparoscopic techniques and should be performed soon after the fistula is established.

To assess the risk of recurrence of third- and fourth-degree perineal tears (34DPT) and to determine whether previous 34DPT is an independent risk factor for 34DPT in subsequent deliveries.The study group included all women who had a vaginal delivery complicated by 34DPT (2000-2012, N = 356) and subsequently delivered again in the same medical center (N = 204). The rate of recurrence of 34DPT was compared with a control group of women who had a previous vaginal delivery not complicated by 34DPT (N = 58 581) and had a subsequent delivery in the same time period (N = 23 045).Women in the past-34DPT group had a higher rate of CS (18.6% versus 10.1%, p 0.001), fetal head in occiput-posterior position (POP; 2.5% versus 0.7%, p = 0.004) and mediolateral episiotomy (25.5% versus 19.4%, p = 0.03). Women in the past-34DPT group had a higher rate of 34DPT in the subsequent delivery (2.0% versus 0.3%, p 0.001). The rate of recurrence of 34DPT was considerably higher among women with past fourth-degree tear versus women with past third-degree tear (22.2% versus 1.0%, p 0.001). 34DPT in previous pregnancy is independently associated with increased risk of 34DPT in subsequent delivery (OR = 4.6, 95%-CI 1.3-15.3).Women who experienced 34DPT in their previous pregnancy have an increased risk for recurrence of 34DPT in subsequent pregnancy, especially in cases of past fourth-degree tears.

Recent data challenge the traditional management of acute appendicitis with early surgical intervention. This study evaluated the impact of timing of appendectomy and other potential risk factors on progression of acute appendicitis.A search of the relevant databases of a tertiary medical center identified 1,604 patients with verified acute appendicitis who underwent appendectomy in 2004-2007. Demographic and clinical data and time from symptom onset to emergency room admission ("patient interval") and from emergency room admission to surgery ("hospital interval") and their combination were analyzed by pathological grade.On multivariate analyses, independent risk factors for appendiceal perforation were age20 years (OR = 1.58, 95 % CI 1.07-2.35) or50 years (OR = 2.84, 95 % CI 1.82-4.45) (relative to 20-50 years), white cell count10 × 103/mm(3) (OR = 4.45, 95 % CI 2.05-9.67), body temperature37.8 °C (OR = 2.23, 95 % CI 1.45-3.41), hospital interval24 h (OR = 2.84, 95 % CI 1.49-5.4), patient interval48 h (OR = 3.84, 95 % CI 2.35-6.29), and combined interval48 h (OR = 4.29, 95 % CI 2.2-8.36). No association with perforation was found for the hour of emergency room arrival, hour of operation, surgical approach, or the performance of preoperative imaging.In the general population, the risk of advanced pathological grade of appendicitis increases with time. Thus, prompt appendectomy is warranted. Prospective studies of subgroups of perforated and nonperforated appendicitis are needed.

Background: There are limited large animal models for the research of novel anastomotic technologies. Subtotal colectomy requires the anastomosis of relatively remote segments of the alimentary tract that are different anatomically, histologically, and pose significant physiological challenge. The quest for a foreign material–free anastomotic line reintroduced nitinol compression anastomosis into clinical use in the last decade. Objective: To evaluate the safety, histological, and physiological parameters of side-to-side ileocolic nitinol compression anastomosis in a newly developed large animal model, mimicking the human subtotal colectomy. Intervention: Resection of the entire spiral colon with an ileocolic side-to-side compression anastomosis in 12 animals, compared to resection of a short ileal segment in 6 animals. All anastomoses were constructed by using a novel nitinol-based compression device. The animals were followed up to 30 days postoperatively and were reoperated and sacrificed. Results: All 12 animals underwent successful subtotal colectomy with side-to-side nitinol compression anastomosis. No signs of abdominal infection were found. The increase in the colectomized animals’ bodyweight over the postoperative course was significantly lower and the animals presented with longer periods of diarrhea. The histopathology revealed minimal inflammation and foreign body reaction with good alignment of the bowel wall layers in both groups. The anastomotic line width was shown to be reduced during the healing course of the compression anastomoses. Conclusions: Side-to-side nitinol compression anastomosis is safe and demonstrates favorable functional and histopathological features. The porcine model of subtotal colectomy can be used for further research of novel anastomotic technologies.

To assess the incidence and risk factors for third- and fourth-degree perineal tears (34DPT), and to identify subgroups of women who are at especially high risk for 34DPT.A cohort study of women who underwent vaginal delivery in a single tertiary medical center between 1999 and 2011, (58 937 deliveries). Women diagnosed with 34DPT following delivery were compared to control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and tree classification analysis were used to identify combinations of risk factors which were associated with considerable risk for 34DPT.Overall, 356 (0.6%) deliveries were complicated by 34DPT (340 (95.5%) third-degree tears and 16 (4.5%) fourth-degree tears). Independent predictors of 34DPT were: forceps delivery (odds ratio (OR) = 5.5, confidence interval (CI) 3.9-7.8), precipitate labor (OR = 5.2, CI 2.9-9.2), persistent occiput posterior position (OR = 2.6, CI 1.6-4.3), vacuum extraction (OR = 1.9, CI 1.4-2.6) as well as large for gestational age (LGA) infant and gestational age 40 weeks. Fourth-degree tears were associated with forceps delivery (OR = 12.5, CI 2.3-66.2), precipitate labor (OR = 9.7, 95%-CI 1.2-75.4) and LGA infant (OR = 7.4, 95%-CI 1.7 -1.5). Overall, the predictability of 34DPT was limited (R(2 )= 0.4). In subgroups of women with certain combinations of risk factors the risk of 34DPT ranged from 10% to 25%.Despite the limited predictability of 34DPT by individual risk factors, the use of combinations of risk factors may assist obstetricians in identifying women who are at especially high risk for 34DPT.

Purpose To assess whether radiation therapy for prostate cancer (PCa) increases the risk of metachronous rectal cancer (RCa) and compare outcomes of RCa after radiation therapy and surgery. Patients and methods The Israel Cancer Registry was queried to identify patients with PCa and RCa diagnosed between 1982 and 2005. The age adjusted standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of RCa was defined as the ratio between the observed and expected (calculated) RCa cases and compared among the following: overall Israeli male population, patients with PCa treated with radiation therapy, patients with PCa treated surgically. The medical records of men diagnosed with RCa were reviewed and clinical characteristics retrieved. Results Of 29,593 men diagnosed with PCa, 2163 were treated with radiation therapy, 6762 were treated surgically and 20,068 patients were treated with either primary androgen deprivation therapy or offered watchful waiting. Of the entire study cohort, 194 (0.65%) patients were diagnosed with subsequent RCa. Compared to the overall male population and stratified by treatment modality, the risk of developing RCa after radiation therapy was significantly increased (SIR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.2-2.5), whereas it was not increased in those managed by surgery (SIR = 1.22, 95% CI 0.85-1.65). RCa after radiation therapy was diagnosed at a more advanced stage, translating into inferior disease specific survival. Conclusions Compared to men diagnosed with PCa managed by surgery, we observed an increased risk of RCa in patients treated with radiation therapy. Further studies are needed to validate these findings and assess whether routine colonoscopic surveillance is warranted after pelvic radiation.

Shape-memory compression bowel anastomosis using a nickel and titanium alloy may reduce leak rates and eliminate foreign anastomotic material. Its safety and efficacy had been demonstrated by animal studies. We conducted the first prospective multi-center clinical evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of BioDynamix anastomosis with ColonRing™ for large-bowel end-to-end or side-to-end anastomosis.The ColonRing™ was compared to the standard double-stapled colorectal/colocolonic anastomosis. Intraoperative and immediate postoperative and 1- and 3-month postoperative follow-up data were recorded.Ten study patients (four males, median age 62 years, range 35-75) were compared to 13 demographically matched controls (six males, median age 62 years, range 47-82). Colorectal neoplasia was the most frequent indication for surgery (21/23 patients, 91%). The median anastomotic distance from the anal verge for both groups was 10 cm (6-20 cm). The first postoperative bowel movement was on day 5 ±2.2 (study group) and on day 4 ±1.8 (controls), and the median hospital stay was 8 days (6-14 days) and 7 days (6-13 days), respectively. There were no anastomotic leaks. There were three minor complications in each group, unrelated to the device in the study group. Two patients required transanal digital extraction of the ring which was detached but not expelled (one had a soft anastomotic stricture).Our preliminary results in this first study on humans indicate that the safety and efficacy of BioDynamix anastomosis with ColonRing™ in colorectal anastomosis in human is comparable to standard staples technology and warrant larger studies for further validation.

The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics of this unique patient population, their clinical presentations, and outcomes. The Los Angeles County and University of Southern California Medical Center Trauma Registry was used to retrospectively identify patients who sustained perineal injuries. Information included gender, age, vital signs, trauma scores, mechanisms of injury, studies performed, surgeries performed, and outcomes. Pediatric patients and injuries related to obstetric trauma were not included. Sixty-nine patients were identified between February 1, 1992 and October 31, 2005. One patient died on arrival; 85 per cent (58 of 68) were males, mean age was 30 ± 12 years, and there was a penetrating mechanism in 56 per cent. Vital signs on admission were systolic blood pressure 119 ± 33 mmHg, heart rate 94 ± 27 beats/minute, and respiratory rate 20 ± 6 breaths/min. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was 13 ± 3, Revised Trauma Score (RTS) was 7.2 ± 1.5, and Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 11 ± 12. CT scan was obtained for 23 (33%) patients. Lower extremity fractures were 35 per cent and pelvic fractures 32 per cent. The most common surgery was debridement and drainage, diversion with colostomy in five patients (7%). Overall mortality was 10 per cent. Mortality group mean scores were: GCS, 6; RTS, 5.74; and ISS, 34. The survival group mean scores were: GCS, 14; RTS, 7.7; and ISS, 8. There was a statistically significant association between mortality and GCS, RTS, and ISS scores ( P < 0.001). Most patients with perineal injuries (93%) can be managed without colostomy. Associated injuries are not uncommon, particularly bony fractures. Mortality is mostly the result of exsanguination related to associated injuries.

Objective To evaluate the effect of surgically induced weight loss on pelvic floor disorders (PFD) in morbidly obese women. Summary background data Although bariatric surgery may lead to the improvement of some obesity-related comorbidities, the resolution of global PFD has not been well described. Methods Women with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m(2) or more who were considering bariatric surgery were asked to complete 2 validated condition-specific questionnaires assessing the distress/quality of life impact of PFD, total and by domain (pelvic organ prolapse, colorectal-anal, and urogenital). Women who achieved a > or =50% excess body weight loss after surgery were asked to complete the same questionnaires for comparison. Results Of the 178 women who underwent surgery, 46 completed the postoperative questionnaires. Mean age of this group was 45 years (range, 20-67), and mean preoperative BMI was 45 kg/m(2) (range, 35-75). The prevalence of PFD symptoms improved from 87% before surgery to 65% after surgery (P = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.05%-53%). There was a significant reduction in total mean distress scores after surgery (P = 0.015, 95% CI: 3.3-32.9), which was attributed mainly to the significant decrease in urinary symptoms (P = 0.0002, 95% CI: 8.2-22.7). Reductions in the scores were noted for the other PFD domains as well. Quality of life total scores improved (P = 0.002, 95% CI: 4.8-27.1), as did scores in the urinary domain (P = 0.0005, 95% CI: 3.8-13.5) and the pelvic organ prolapse domain (P = 0.015, 95% CI: 0.6-9.5). Age, parity, history of complicated delivery, percent excess body weight loss, BMI, type of weight loss procedure and presence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension had no predictive value for postoperative outcomes. Conclusion Surgically induced weight loss has a beneficial effect on symptoms of PFD in morbidly obese women.

At present, the preferred treatment for rectal cancer is low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision and sphincter preservation. Complete removal of the tumor's lymphatic and vascular pad with free resection margins has led to a reduction in rates of local recurrence and improved disease-specific survival. In addition to the distal and proximal margins from the tumor edge, for an optimal outcome, it is essential to consider distal mesorectal spread and the circumferential mesorectal margin.