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Techniques in Coloproctology Dec 2017Transanal local excision (TLE) has become the treatment of choice for benign and early-stage selected malignant tumors. However, closure of the rectal wall defect... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Transanal local excision (TLE) has become the treatment of choice for benign and early-stage selected malignant tumors. However, closure of the rectal wall defect remains a controversial point and the available literature still remains unclear. Our aim was to determine through a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis of relevant studies whether or not the wall defect following TLE of rectal tumors should be closed.
METHODS
Medline and the Cochrane Trials Register were searched for trials published up to December 2016 comparing open versus closed management of the surgical rectal defect after TLE of rectal tumors. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.0.
RESULTS
Four studies were analyzed, yielding 489 patients (317 in the closed group and 182 in the open group). Meta-analysis showed no significant difference between the closed and open groups regarding the overall morbidity rate (OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.32-4.91; p = 0.74), postoperative local infection rate (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.23-1.62; p = 0.33), postoperative bleeding rate (OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.29-1.77; p = 0.63), and postoperative reintervention rate (OR 2.21; 95% CI 0.52-9.47; p = 0.29).
CONCLUSIONS
This review and meta-analysis suggest that there is no difference between closure or non-closure of wall defects after TLE.
Topics: Humans; Postoperative Hemorrhage; Rectal Neoplasms; Reoperation; Surgical Wound Infection; Transanal Endoscopic Surgery; Wound Closure Techniques
PubMed: 29134387
DOI: 10.1007/s10151-017-1714-9 -
Techniques in Coloproctology Oct 2017The surgical treatment of complex anal fistulae, particularly those involving a significant portion of the anal sphincter in which fistulotomy would compromise... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The surgical treatment of complex anal fistulae, particularly those involving a significant portion of the anal sphincter in which fistulotomy would compromise continence, is challenging. Video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT), fistula tract laser closure (FiLaC™) and over-the-scope clip (OTSC) proctology system are all novel sphincter-sparing techniques targeted at healing anal fistulae. In this study, all published articles on these techniques were reviewed to determine efficacy, feasibility and safety.
METHODS
A systematic search of major databases was performed using defined terms. All studies reporting on experience of these techniques were included and outcomes (fistula healing and safety) evaluated.
RESULTS
Eighteen studies (VAAFT-12, FiLaC™-3, OTSC-3) including 1245 patients were analysed. All were case series, and outcomes were heterogeneous with follow-up ranging from 6 to 69 months and short-term (< 1 year) healing rates of 64-100%. Morbidity was low with only minor complications reported. There was one report of minor incontinence following the first reported study of FiLaC™, and this was treated successfully at 6 months with rubber band ligation of hypertrophied prolapsed mucosa. There are inconsistencies in the technique in studies of VAAFT and FiLaC™.
CONCLUSIONS
All three techniques appear to be safe and feasible options in the management of anal fistulae, and short-term healing rates are acceptable with no sustained effect on continence. There is, however, a paucity of robust data with long-term outcomes. These techniques are thus welcome additions; however, their long-term place in the colorectal surgeon's armamentarium, whether diagnostic or therapeutic, remains uncertain.
Topics: Anal Canal; Humans; Laser Therapy; Operative Time; Organ Sparing Treatments; Proctoscopy; Rectal Fistula; Video-Assisted Surgery
PubMed: 29080959
DOI: 10.1007/s10151-017-1699-4 -
Infection Dec 2017Meningitis occurs in 0.8-1.5% of patients undergoing neurosurgery. The aim of the study was to evaluate the characteristics of meningitis after endoscopic endonasal... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Meningitis occurs in 0.8-1.5% of patients undergoing neurosurgery. The aim of the study was to evaluate the characteristics of meningitis after endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (EETS) comparing the findings retrieved to those highlighted by literature search.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Patients treated by EETS during an 18-year period in the Department of Neurosurgery of 'Federico II' University of Naples were evaluated and included in the study if they fulfilled criteria for meningitis. Epidemiological, demographic, laboratory, and microbiological findings were evaluated. A literature research according to PRISMA methodology completed the study.
RESULTS
EETS was performed on 1450 patients, 8 of them (0.6%) had meningitis [median age 46 years (range 33-73)]. Endoscopic surgery was performed 1-15 days (median 4 days) before diagnosis. Meningeal signs were always present. CSF examination revealed elevated cells [median 501 cells/μL (range 30-5728)], high protein [median 445 mg/dL (range 230-1210)], and low glucose [median 10 mg/dL (range 1-39)]. CSF culture revealed Gram-negative bacteria in four cases (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Alcaligenes spp., and Haemophilus influenzae), Streptococcus pneumoniae in two cases, Aspergillus fumigatus in one case. An abscess occupying the surgical site was observed in two cases. Six cases reported a favorable outcome; two died. Incidence of meningitis approached to 2%, as assessed by the literature search.
CONCLUSIONS
Incidence of meningitis after EETS is low despite endoscope goes through non-sterile structures; microorganisms retrieved are those present within sinus microenvironment. Meningitis must be suspected in patients with persistent fever and impaired conscience status after EETS.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Female; Humans; Incidence; Italy; Male; Meningitis; Middle Aged; Postoperative Complications; Sphenoid Bone; Sphenoid Sinus; Transanal Endoscopic Surgery; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 28776163
DOI: 10.1007/s15010-017-1056-6 -
Critical Reviews in Oncology/hematology Jun 2017Current guidelines recommend radical resection for stage I rectal cancer. However, since screening programs are being installed, an increasing number of cancers are... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Current guidelines recommend radical resection for stage I rectal cancer. However, since screening programs are being installed, an increasing number of cancers are being detected in early stages. Endoscopic resection is often performed at the time of diagnosis. This systematic review was undertaken to review the evidence on endoscopic approach vs. radical resection for stage I rectal cancer. Recommendations were issued based on the GRADE methodology and risk stratification used in clinical practice. A systematic search (until March 2015) identified 2 meta-analyses and 1 additional randomized trial. For the primary outcomes (overall survival, disease-free survival, local recurrence-free survival and metastasis-free survival) no evidence could be found on the superiority of local or radical resection. Secondary outcomes (blood loss, hospital stay, operative time, number of permanent stomas and perioperative deaths) were in favour of local resection. The authors strongly recommend radical resection for T2 rectal cancer, but consider 'en bloc' local resection sufficient for pT1 sm1 rectal cancers when confirmed pathologically. Discussion by a multidisciplinary team and adequate surveillance remain mandatory.
Topics: Humans; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; Neoplasm Staging; Rectal Neoplasms; Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 28477746
DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.03.008 -
Injury Jun 2017Traumatic injuries to the lower gastrointestinal tract (rectum and anus) have been largely reported in the military setting with sparse publications from the civilian... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Traumatic injuries to the lower gastrointestinal tract (rectum and anus) have been largely reported in the military setting with sparse publications from the civilian setting. Additionally, there remains a lack of international consensus regarding definitive treatment pathways. This systematic review aimed to assess the current literature and propose a standardised treatment algorithm to aid management in the civilian setting.
METHODS
A systematic review of available literature from 1999 to 2016 that was performed. Primary endpoints were the assessment and surgical management of reported rectal and anal trauma.
RESULTS
Seven studies were included in this review, reporting on 1255 patients. 96.3% had rectal trauma and 3.7% had anal trauma. Gunshot wounds are the most common mechanism of injury (46.9%). The overwhelming majority of injuries occurred in males (>85%) and were associated with other pelvic injuries. Surgical management has substantially evolved over the last five decades, with no clear consensus on best management strategies.
CONCLUSION
There remains significant international discrepancy regarding the management of penetrating trauma to the rectum. Key management principals include the varying use of the direct primary closure, faecal diversion, pre-sacral drainage and/or distal rectal washout (rarely used). To date, there is sparse evidence regarding the management of penetrating anal trauma.
Topics: Algorithms; Anal Canal; Clinical Protocols; Digestive System Surgical Procedures; Drainage; Emergency Medicine; Fecal Incontinence; Humans; Peritoneal Lavage; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Proctoscopy; Rectum; Wounds, Penetrating
PubMed: 28292518
DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2017.03.002 -
Techniques in Coloproctology Dec 2016Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) has been developed to improve quality of TME for patients with mid and low rectal cancer. However, despite enthusiastic... (Review)
Review
Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) has been developed to improve quality of TME for patients with mid and low rectal cancer. However, despite enthusiastic uptake and teaching facilities, concern exists for safe introduction. TaTME is a complex procedure and potentially a learning curve will hamper clinical outcome. With this systematic review, we aim to provide data regarding morbidity and safety of TaTME. A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE (Ovid) and Cochrane Library. Case reports, cohort series and comparative series on TaTME for rectal cancer were included. To evaluate a potential effect of case volume, low-volume centres (n ≤ 30 total volume) were compared with high-volume centres (n > 30 total volume). Thirty-three studies were identified (three case reports, 25 case series, five comparative studies), including 794 patients. Conversion was performed in 3.0% of the procedures. The complication rate was 40.3, and 11.5% were major complications. The quality of the mesorectum was "complete" in 87.6%, and the circumferential resection margin (CRM) was involved in 4.7%. In low- versus high-volume centres, the conversion rate was 4.3 versus 2.7%, and major complication rates were 12.2 versus 10.5%, respectively. TME quality was "complete" in 80.5 versus 89.7%, and CRM involvement was 4.8 and 4.5% in low- versus high-volume centres, respectively. TaTME for mid and low rectal cancer is a promising technique; however, it is associated with considerable morbidity. Safe implementation of the TaTME should include proctoring and quality assurance preferably within a trial setting.
Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Clinical Competence; Conversion to Open Surgery; Female; Hospitals, High-Volume; Hospitals, Low-Volume; Humans; Learning Curve; Male; Mesocolon; Middle Aged; Postoperative Complications; Rectal Neoplasms; Rectum; Transanal Endoscopic Surgery; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 27853973
DOI: 10.1007/s10151-016-1545-0 -
World Neurosurgery Jan 2017The pituitary adenoma causing acromegaly is typically resected through a transsphenoidal approach and visualized with an operating microscope or endoscope. We undertook... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
The pituitary adenoma causing acromegaly is typically resected through a transsphenoidal approach and visualized with an operating microscope or endoscope. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the clinical efficacy of endoscopic and microsurgical approaches.
METHODS
Relevant studies using either endoscopic or microscopic transsphenoidal approaches for growth hormone pituitary adenomas were identified until February 2016. Data were extracted and analyzed according to predefined clinical end points.
RESULTS
We identified 31 studies, in which 950 patients underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal resection and 2137 patients underwent microsurgical transsphenoidal resection. Patients undergoing microsurgery were less likely to present with hypothyroidism (10.7% vs. 19.1%, P = 0.033, 462 vs. 156 patients) and less likely to have macroadenomas (66.9% vs. 83.8%, P ≤ 0.001, 1484 vs. 884 patients); adenomas with cavernous sinus invasion (21.3% vs. 44.4%, P = 0.036, 592 vs. 558 patients); and a lower mean tumor volume (17.84 vs. 20.54 mm, P = 0.012, 158 vs. 248 patients). Patients treated via the endoscopic approach were more likely to achieve remission for noninvasive macroadenomas (83.8% vs. 66.9%, P ≤ 0.001, 115 vs. 365 patients). Sinusitis (15.6% vs. 2.6%, P < 0.001, 241 vs. 295 patients) and intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak (21.6% vs. 1.0%, P = 0.022, 697 vs. 127 patients) were more common in patients treated endoscopically, and meningitis (0.7% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.027, 511 vs. 1513 patients) was more common in patients undergoing a microsurgical approach.
CONCLUSIONS
Our study shows the clinical utility of the endoscopic approach and demonstrates potential benefits including increased remission rates with noninvasive macroadenomas and a lower rate of meningitis.
Topics: Adenoma; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Comorbidity; Female; Growth Hormone-Secreting Pituitary Adenoma; Humans; Male; Microsurgery; Middle Aged; Neuroendoscopy; Postoperative Complications; Prevalence; Risk Factors; Sphenoid Bone; Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 27756664
DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.10.029 -
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery Sep 2016The craniovertebral junction (CVJ) is a complex region of the spine with unique anatomical and functional relationships. To alleviate symptoms associated with... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECT
The craniovertebral junction (CVJ) is a complex region of the spine with unique anatomical and functional relationships. To alleviate symptoms associated with pathological processes involving the odontoid process, decompression is often required, including odontoidectomy. Accurate knowledge of the complication rates following the transoral and transnasal techniques is essential for both patients and surgeons.
METHODS
We conducted MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science database searches for studies reporting complications associated with the transoral and transnasal techniques for odontoidectomy. Case series presenting data for less than three patients were excluded. Rates of complication and clinical outcomes were calculated and subsequently analyzed using a fixed-effects model to assess statistical significance.
RESULTS
Of 1288 articles retrieved from MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, twenty-six met inclusion criteria. Transoral and transnasal procedures resulted in the following respective complication rates: arterial injury 1.9% and 0.0%, intraoperative CSF leak 0.3% and 30.0%, postoperative CSF leak 0.8% and 5.2%, 30-day mortality 2.9% and 4.4%, medical complications 13.9% and 28.6%, meningitis 1.0% and 4.0%, pharyngeal wound dehiscence 1.7% (transnasal not reported), pneumonia 10.3% (transnasal not reported), prolonged or re-intubation 5.6% and 6.0%, reoperation 2.5% and 5.1%, sepsis 1.9% and 7.7%, tracheostomy 10.8% and 3.4%, velopharyngeal insufficiency 3.3% and 6.4% and wound infection 3.3% and 1.9%. None of these differences were statistically significant, except for postoperative tracheostomy, which was significantly higher after transoral odontoidectomy 8.4% (95% CI 4.9% -11.9%) compared to transnasal odontoidectomy 0.8% (95% CI -1.0% -2.9%). Neurologic outcome was improved in 90.0% and worse in 0.9% of patients after transoral compared to 94.0% and 0.0% after transnasal odontoidectomy (p=0.30).
CONCLUSIONS
This work presents a systematic review of complications reported for transoral or transnasal odontoidectomy across a heterogeneous group of surgeons and patients. Due to inconsistent reporting, statistical significance was only achieved for postoperative tracheostomy, which was significantly higher in the transoral group. This investigation sets the framework for further discussions regarding odontoidectomy approach options and their associated complications during the informed consent process.
Topics: Humans; Intraoperative Complications; Mouth; Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery; Odontoid Process; Postoperative Complications; Transanal Endoscopic Surgery
PubMed: 27442001
DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2016.07.019 -
BMC Cancer Jul 2016Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is an emerging surgical technique for rectal cancer. However, the oncological and perioperative outcomes are controversial... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study Meta-Analysis Review
Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) for rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of oncological and perioperative outcomes compared with laparoscopic total mesorectal excision.
BACKGROUND
Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is an emerging surgical technique for rectal cancer. However, the oncological and perioperative outcomes are controversial when compared with conventional laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (laTME).
METHODS
A systematic review and meta-analysis based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane database. All original studies published in English that compared taTME with laTME were included for critical appraisal and meta-analysis. Data synthesis and statistical analysis were carried out using RevMan 5.3 software.
RESULTS
A total of seven studies including 573 patients (taTME group = 270; laTME group = 303) were included in our meta-analysis. Concerning the oncological outcomes, no differences were observed in harvested lymph nodes, distal resection margin (DRM) and positive DRM between the two groups. However, the taTME group showed a higher rate of achievement of complete grading of mesorectal quality (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.02-3.01, P = 0.04), a longer circumferential resection margin (CRM) and less involvement of positive CRM (CRM: WMD = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.60-1.31, P <0.01; positive CRM: OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.17-0.86, P = 0.02). Concerning the perioperative outcomes, the results for hospital stay, intraoperative complications and readmission were comparable between the two groups. However, the taTME group showed shorter operation times (WMD = -23.45, 95% CI = -37.43 to -9.46, P <0.01), a lower rate of conversion (OR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.11-0.81, P = 0.02) and a higher rate of mobilization of the splenic flexure (OR = 2.34, 95% CI = 0.99-5.54, P = 0.05). Although the incidence of anastomotic leakage, ileus and urinary morbidity showed no difference between the groups, a significantly lower rate of overall postoperative complications (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.45-0.95, P = 0.03) was observed in the taTME group.
CONCLUSIONS
In comparison with laTME, taTME seems to achieve comparable technical success with acceptable oncologic and perioperative outcomes. However, multicenter randomized controlled trials are required to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of taTME.
Topics: Anastomotic Leak; Digestive System Surgical Procedures; Female; Humans; Intraoperative Complications; Length of Stay; Male; Operative Time; Postoperative Complications; Rectal Neoplasms; Rectum; Transanal Endoscopic Surgery; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 27377924
DOI: 10.1186/s12885-016-2428-5 -
Diseases of the Colon and Rectum Apr 2016Transanal mesorectal resection has been developed to facilitate minimally invasive proctectomy for rectal cancer. (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Transanal mesorectal resection has been developed to facilitate minimally invasive proctectomy for rectal cancer.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the evidence regarding technical parameters, oncological outcomes, morbidity, and mortality after transanal mesorectal resection.
DATA SOURCES
The Cochrane Library, PubMed, and MEDLINE databases were reviewed.
STUDY SELECTION
Systematic review of the literature from January 2005 to September 2015 was used for study selection.
INTERVENTION
Intervention included transanal mesorectal resection for rectal cancer.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Technical parameters, histological outcomes, morbidity, and mortality were the outcomes measured.
RESULTS
Fifteen predominately retrospective studies involving 449 patients were included (mean age, 64.3 years; 64.1% men). Different platforms were used. The operative mortality rate was 0.4% and the cumulative morbidity rate 35.5%. Circumferential resection margins were clear in 98%, and the resected mesorectum was grade III in 87% of patients. Median follow-up was 14.7 months. There were 4 local recurrences (1.5%) and 12 patients (5.6%) with metastatic disease. No study followed patients long enough to report on 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates. Functional outcome was only reported in 3 studies.
LIMITATIONS
A low number of procedures were performed by expert early adopters. There are no comparative or randomized data included in this study and inconsistent reporting of outcome variables.
CONCLUSIONS
Transanal mesorectal resection for rectal cancer may enhance negative circumferential margin rates with a reasonable safety profile. Contemporary randomized, controlled studies are required before there can be universal recommendation.
Topics: Disease-Free Survival; Humans; Rectal Neoplasms; Rectum; Transanal Endoscopic Surgery; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 26953993
DOI: 10.1097/DCR.0000000000000571