Peri-Operative Bowel Perforation in Early Stage Colon Cancer is Associated with an Adverse Oncological Outcome

Background

The presence of an inflammatory response resulting from bowel perforation or anastomotic leakage has been suggested to enhance recurrence rates in colorectal cancer patients. Currently, it is unknown if bowel perforation or anastomotic leakage has prognostic significance in early stage colon cancer patients. In this study, the impact of peri-operative bowel perforation including anastomotic leakage on disease-free survival of stage I/II colon cancer patients was investigated.

Methods

Prospective follow up data of 448 patients with stages I/II colon cancer that underwent resection were included. Patients who died within 3?months after initial surgery were excluded.

Results

Median follow up was 56.0?months. Patients with peri-operative bowel perforation (n?=?25) had a higher recurrence rate compared to patients without perforation (n?=?423), 36.0?% vs. 16.1?% (p?=?0.01). Disease-free survival was significantly worse for the perforation group compared to patients without perforation (p?=?0.004). Multivariate analysis including T-stage, histological grade, and adjuvant chemotherapy showed peri-operative bowel perforation to be an independent factor significantly associated with disease recurrence (odds ratio, 2.7; 95?% CI, 1.1?C6.7).

Conclusion

Peri-operative bowel perforation is associated with increased recurrence rates and impaired disease-free survival in early-stage colon cancer patients.     

Perforation through small bowel malignant tumors

Data on 19 patients (6 women and 13 men) with malignancy perforation through small bowel tissue were retrospectively reviewed. The median patient age was 57 years (range, 41–81 years). The histopathology included lymphoma (seven patients), leiomyosarcoma (two patients), gastrointestinal stromal tumor (one patient), adenocarcinoma (one patient), metastatic carcinomas with unknown primary tumor (four patients), metastatic adenocarcinoma from the lung (one patient), and metastatic carcinomas from the hypopharynx (one patient), cervix (one patient), and lung (one patient). Resection of a segment of perforated bowel with primary anastomosis was performed in 16 patients, wedge resection of perforated lesion with plication in two patients, and loop ileostomy in one patient. Postoperative deaths occurred in 10 (52.6%) patients, owing to sepsis and organ functional failure. Seven patients died from the primary malignancy at a median follow-up of 6.5 months (range, 5 months to 1 year 9 months) after surgery. Moreover, two patients with small bowel lymphoma were alive with disease at 4 years 8 months and 7 years 1 month after surgery. In conclusion, perforation through small bowel malignant tumors had a high postoperative mortality rate. High index of suspicion of the disease with early surgical treatment may improve treatment outcomes. Supported by Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, under contract No. BMRP072.     

Boerhaave’s syndrome secondary to an incarcerated inguinal hernia: A case report

IntroductionBoerhaave’s syndrome is defined as the spontaneous perforation of the esophagus. Although it has been reported in association with different gastrointestinal pathologies, there are no previous reports in association with an incarcerated inguinal hernia containing ischemic small bowel.Presentation of caseWe present an unusual case of a gentleman who presented with severe chest pain after a 24-h period of emesis. He was found to have developed an esophageal perforation presumed secondary to an incarcerated inguinal hernia causing small bowel obstruction. The patient underwent a thoracotomy to repair the perforated esophagus followed by a groin exploration, small bowel resection and repair of the inguinal hernia.DiscussionBoerhaave’s syndrome is well known to be a postemetic phenomenon in association with upper gastrointestinal obstruction. However, to our knowledge, this is the first reported case of esophageal perforation secondary to strangulated bowel in an inguinal hernia. In similar situations, we recommend the surgical correction of the esophageal perforation, followed by exploration and resection of any ischemic small bowel.ConclusionHere we present a patient who was diagnosed with a perforated esophagus after forceful emesis secondary to an incarcerated inguinal hernia containing ischemic bowel.     

Outcomes of small bowel obstruction in patients with previous gynecologic malignancies

BackgroundFeatures predictive of malignant small bowel obstructions among patients with previous gynecologic malignancies remain undetermined.MethodsPredictors of malignancy and mortality among patients with gynecologic malignancies and bowel obstructions were identified through a retrospective review of records.ResultsMalignancy was noted among 69.8% of 189 patients included in the analysis. Advanced-stage cancer (P = .006, odds ratio [OR] = 6.62), ovarian malignancy (P = .001, OR = 25.64), and early-onset obstruction (P = .014) predicted malignant etiology, whereas chemotherapy (P < .001, OR = .02) or radiation therapy (P = .027, OR = .09) predicted benign obstruction. The average survival was 9 months versus 49 months for malignant and benign obstructions, respectively. Ovarian cancer (P = .009, hazard ratio [HR] = 4.45), anemia (P = .001, HR = 1.11), and renal dysfunction (P < .001, HR 1.81) impaired survival.ConclusionsPalliative care should be considered for patients with advanced-stage cancer, ovarian malignancy, and a shorter time interval between cancer diagnosis and bowel obstruction, especially in the setting of anemia and renal dysfunction.     

Deep infection after hip fracture surgery: predictors of early mortality

IntroductionThis study analysed the predictors of mortality in patients who are diagnosed with deep infection following hip fracture surgery.MethodsData were prospectively collected for 3 years from all patients undergoing hip fracture surgery and who had developed a subsequent deep infection. Infection was defined as positive microbiology culture from deep tissue or fluid samples. Demographic data, treatment, complications and subsequent surgeries were analysed. Potential predisposing factors including chronic medical co-morbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, alcohol excess and smoking were assessed. The main outcome measures were 30-day and 1-year mortality.ResultsThere were 2718 consecutive operations performed for a fracture of the proximal femur over a 3-year period. Forty-three (1.6%) patients had a deep postoperative infection diagnosed on fluid and/or tissue sampling. The mean age was 73 years (25–94) and 65% were female. Of the 43 patients who developed deep infection, the primary procedure in 25 (58%) patients was reduction and internal fixation, with 18 (42%) undergoing hemi-arthroplasty. The most common causative organism was Staphylococcus epidermidis (n = 13, 30%), with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) accounting for 23% (n = 10). The 30-day mortality was significantly higher than that of patients with no deep infection (19% vs. 6.5%; p = 0.004). On univariate analysis, increasing age, dementia and diabetes were predictive of both 30-day and 1-year mortality (all p < 0.05). S. aureus (sensitive or resistant) was approaching significance at 1 year (p = 0.065). On multivariate analysis, dementia and diabetes were independent predictors of 30-day mortality, with dementia and S. aureus predictive at 1 year.ConclusionsThe 30-day mortality rate in patients diagnosed with deep infection following hip fracture surgery is higher than those without infection. Dementia, diabetes and S. aureus infection are independent predictors of mortality following deep infection.     

Death within 48 h--adverse events after general surgical procedures

BackgroundComorbidity and emergency intervention are established risk factors for post-operative mortality. This study sought to identify adverse events associated with death within 48 h of general surgical procedures.MethodsAll general surgical patients who died within 48 h of operative intervention from 2002–2006 in Scotland underwent retrospective peer review using established Scottish Audit of Surgical Mortality (SASM) methodologies (www.SASM.org).ResultsDuring the 5 years, 1299 patients died within 48 h of surgery, 1134 (87.3%) admitted as an emergency, with a mean age of 71 years; 898 patients (69.1%) were ASA grade 3, 4 or 5; 727 (56.0%) patients had cardiovascular, 398 (30.6%) respiratory and 191 (14.7%) renal comorbidity. Over time exploratory laparotomy (443, 34.1%) was carried out less often (p = 0.004) prior to death due to cardiovascular disease (435, 33.5%), mesenteric ischaemia (264, 20.3%) or multi-organ failure (255, 19.6%). The decision to operate by consultant surgeons rose significantly (p < 0.001). Adverse events were identified in 721 of the 1299 cases; concerns about inappropriate operations (p = 0.018) and poor pre-operative assessment (p = 0.012) decreased significantly.ConclusionsPatients dying within 48 h of surgery are usually elderly, emergency admissions with significant comorbidities who die of cardiovascular events. Timely, appropriate surgery and high quality peri-operative care delivered by consultant staff may prevent early post-operative mortality.     

Surgical necrotizing enterocolitis: Association between surgical indication,timing, and outcomes

Background/PurposeDespite improvements in neonatal care the outcomes of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) remain unchanged over previous decades. The study aims to explore whether different indications for surgical intervention in NEC are associated with timing of surgery and outcomes.MethodsPopulation-based, prospective, observational study of all 27 paediatric surgical centres in the United Kingdom and Ireland identified using the British Association of Paediatric Surgeons Congenital Anomalies Surveillance System from 1st February 2013 to 28th February 2014. Infants were included if they had NEC and underwent first surgical intervention within 7 days of diagnosis. Primary outcomes were death, parenteral nutrition requirement or a composite outcome of death or PN requirement at 28 days post surgery.ResultsThere were 133 infants meeting inclusion criteria. Indications for surgery were bowel perforation (n = 67), suspected necrotic bowel without bowel perforation and not deemed to have failed medical management (n = 20), those who had failed medical management (n = 42) and a palpable mass without any other indication (n = 4). Failed medical treatment as an indication for surgery was associated with an increased time to surgery of 30.28 (95% CI 13.46–47.10) hours from those whose indication was perforation and was also the strongest predictor of PN requirement or death at 28 days post-surgery (OR 4.54 [1.59–13.0]).ConclusionsFailed medical treatment as an indication for surgery for NEC is associated with poor outcome. Earlier intervention in these infants represents a potential opportunity to improve outcomes in this population.     

Multifocal small bowel stromal tumours presenting with peritonitis in an HIV positive patient

INTRODUCTIONThe most common mesenchymal tumour of the gastrointestinal tract is stromal tumours (GISTs). Symptomatic GISTs can present with complications such as haemorrhage, obstruction and perforation. Complete surgical resection with negative margins is the mainstay of treatment but may be imprudent on emergent occasion. Tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been revolutionary in the treatment of GISTs and have resulted in improved outcomes.PRESENTATION OF CASEA 41 year old HIV positive male presented with an acute history of abdominal pain and obstructive symptoms. Clinical examination revealed sepsis and peritonitis. One of the several small bowel tumours discovered at exploratory laparotomy was necrotic and perforated. The perforated tumour alone was resected and a small bowel internal hernia reduced. The patient made an uneventful recovery and will be considered for TKI therapy with a view to later re-operation.DISCUSSIONGISTs very rarely perforate. The pathophysiology of stromal tumour necrosis is poorly understood. Multifocality and small bowel location are poor prognosticators and may occur in the setting of familial GISTs, specific syndromes and sporadic cases. There is no established association between HIV and GISTs.CONCLUSIONPerforation occurs infrequently in ≤8% of symptomatic cases and poses increased risk of local recurrence. The surgical management of perforation takes precedence in an emergency. The surgeon must however take cognisance of the adherence to ideal oncologic principles where feasible. TKI therapy is invaluable if a re-exploration is to be later considered.     

Surgery for Small Bowel Perforation in an Asian Population: Predictors of Morbidity and Mortality

Introduction

Peritonitis from small bowel perforation is associated with prohibitive morbidity and mortality rates. The aims of our study were to review our institution’s experience in the surgical management of small bowel perforation and to identify factors that could predict morbidity and mortality.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent operative intervention for peritonitis from small bowel perforation from January 2003 to May 2008 was performed. Patients were identified from the hospital’s diagnostic index and operating records. The severity of abdominal sepsis for all patients was graded using the Mannheim peritonitis index (MPI). All the complications were graded according to the classification proposed by Clavien and group.

Results

Forty-seven patients, of median age 68 years (18–95 years), formed the study group. Pneumoperitoneum on chest radiographs was seen in only 11 (23.4%) patients. Foreign body ingestion (17.0%), adhesions (14.9%), and malignancy (12.8%) accounted for majority of the pathologies. There was one patient who had several small bowel perforations from Degos disease. Small bowel resection was performed in the majority of the patients (74.5%). The mortality rate in our series was 19.1%, while another 57.4% patients had perioperative complications. On univariate analysis, American Society of Anesthesiologists score?≥?3, MPI?>?26, hypotension, stoma creation, abnormal electrolyte level, and renal impairment were related to worse outcome, while the three independent variables that were related to worse outcome after multivariate analysis were MPI?>?26, hypotension, and abnormal serum potassium level.

Conclusion

Surgery for small bowel perforation is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Patients with more severe peritonitis and physiological derangement were more likely to fare worse.     

Intestinal perforation secondary to intestinal Burkitt lymphoma

Introduction and importanceSmall intestinal perforation in patients with Burkitt lymphoma is extremely rare. We present the first report of such a case.Case presentationA 53-year-old woman was admitted with abdominal pain and vomiting. Abdominal examination revealed rigidity and tenderness in the upper abdomen.Computed tomography scan showed thickening of the wall of the jejunum, intra-abdominal free gas, and ascites; the patient was diagnosed with small intestinal perforation, and underwent emergency surgery on the same day. Laparoscopic findings were a 50 mm jejunal perforation and perforation in the transverse mesocolon. A partial jejunal resection of the perforated area, partial transverse colectomy, temporary colostomy, and intra-abdominal drainage were performed. Histological examination showed diffuse infiltration of medium-sized atypical lymphocytes in the perforated area, exhibiting a “starry sky” appearance.Immunostaining results showed that the atypical lymphocytes were CD20 and virtually 100% Ki-67 positive, and CD56, CD30, and EBER negative. The lesion was identified as Burkitt lymphoma (BL). The postoperative course was favorable. On postoperative day 18 the patient began chemotherapy through the hematology department. Currently, the patient is in remission.Clinical discussionThe majority of the malignant lymphomas occurring in the digestive tract are identified in the stomach; over 90% are B-cell lymphomas and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma Nakamura et al. BL originating from the small intestine accounts for only about 9%.ConclusionThe incidence of BL in the small intestine is low. Pretreatment BL can lead to bowel perforation. Prompt involvement of the hemato-oncologist after definitive diagnosis, and commencing chemotherapy as early as possible after surgery, are thought to improve prognosis.     

A Review of 2255 Emergency Abdominal Operations Performed over 17 years (1996–2013) in a Gastrointestinal Surgery Unit in India

There is little information regarding the clinical spectrum and outcome of emergency abdominal operations from specialized units in India. We examined these in our gastrointestinal surgery and liver transplantation unit from a prospective database maintained between July 1996 and April 2013. Out of 9966 operations performed, 2255 (26%) were emergency procedures (reoperations during the same admission, e.g., for necrotizing pancreatitis were excluded). The primary outcome was 30-day postoperative mortality. The mean age of the patients was 47 years (range 1–107) and included the following age groups: 0–18 years (n = 105, 4.7%); 19–64 years (n = 1766, 78.3%), and >65 years (n = 384, 17.0%). The majority were males (1609, 71%), and there were 646 females (29%). The most common indications were small bowel emergencies (598, 26.5%), followed by pancreatic (417, 18.5%) and colonic (281, 12.5%) emergencies. Pancreatic operations were the second commonest in the adult and middle aged group. Colorectal operations were the second commonest in the geriatric age group (>65 years). Emergency operations for other conditions were: postoperative complications following elective operations 171 (7.5%), gastroduodenal bleeding or perforation in 144 (6.3%), and liver surgery in 93 patients (4.1%) patients. In the small bowel emergencies, 223 patients (37.2%) had primary diagnosis of adhesive obstruction, gangrene in 135 patients (22.5%), perforation in 121 patients (20%), and fistula in 56 patients (9.3%). Mesenteric venous thrombosis was found to be the primary cause of small bowel emergencies, either as a primary cause in gangrene or as a secondary cause in perforations and adhesions. The postoperative mortality after emergencies was 12.6% compared to 2% in elective procedures. Mortality was significantly higher in males (14%) than females (9.6%), p < 0.005. Category wise mortality was as follows: pancreatic surgery (n = 86, 20.6%), surgery for postoperative complications (n = 33, 19.3%), duodenal surgery (n = 18, 12.5%), small intestinal surgery (n = 68, 11.4%), and colonic surgery (n = 35, 12.45%). Emergency operations comprise a significant proportion of a GI surgical unit’s workload. The mortality is greatest after pancreatic operations followed by those done for postoperative complications. Despite advances in surgical and postoperative care, emergency operations for abdominal emergencies are associated with mortality which is six times higher compared to elective procedures.     

A comparative study of the mortality rate of rats receiving a half lethal dose of fat intravenously: under general anaesthesia versus under spinal anaesthesia

BackgroundThere is no data that demonstrates what anaesthesia is suitable for patients who have a high risk of fat embolism syndrome (FES). We investigated the mortality rates of rats that received a half lethal dose (LD₅₀) of fat by intravenous injection after induction of general or spinal anaesthesia.MethodsAn LD₅₀ of fat for rats was determined by using a toxicological method. Three hundred and seventy five rats were randomly assigned to receive general anaesthesia (group GA, n = 125), or spinal block (group SA, n = 125), or no anaesthesia (group C, n = 125). The rats were injected with the LD₅₀ of fat at 20 min after anaesthesia induction. The mortality rates were recorded at 2, 8, 12, and 24 h after fat injection.ResultsThe LD₅₀ of fat was 0.706 ml/kg and its 95% CI was 0.622 ml/kg–0.801 ml/kg. The mortality rate was lower in the group GA than in the group SA (p < 0.01), whilst there was no statistical difference between the group SA and the group C (p = 0.442).ConclusionIt is feasible to assess the efficacy of various treatments for FES by comparing the mortality rates of animals after injection of an LD₅₀ of fat. The mortality rate of rats was lower when FES was induced under general anaesthesia than under spinal anaesthesia which implies that general anaesthesia is superior to spinal anaesthesia for patients who have a high risk of FES.     

Cirrhotic and malignant ascites: differential CT diagnosis

ObjectivesTo assess the diagnostic accuracy of the different computed tomography (CT) signs for differentiating between malignant and cirrhotic ascites.Materials and methodsWe performed a retrospective study of 102 CT scans in adults, distributed into two groups based on the cirrhotic or malignant etiology of their ascites. The CT signs studied were ascites volume and relative distribution between the greater peritoneal cavity (GPC) and the omental bursa (OB), the density of the ascites, the thickness of the gallbladder wall, the thickness of the parietal peritoneum and its degree of enhancement, and tethered-bowel sign.ResultsThe CT signs associated with malignant ascites were: presence of fluid in the omental bursa (P = 0.003), thickening of the peritoneum its degree of enhancement (P = 0.005), increased density of the ascites (P = 0.01), and loss of mobility of bowel loops in the ascites (P = 0.001). There was no difference in gallbladder wall thickness between the two groups.ConclusionThe CT scan can play a role in diagnosing malignant ascites. We confirm the usefulness of the indirect signs composed of distribution of ascites fluid, thickening and enhancement of the parietal peritoneum, and loss of mobility of the bowel loops in the ascites.     

Renal cell carcinoma with IVC and atrial thrombus: A single centre's 10 year surgical experience

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) propagates into the IVC in 4% of cases with 1% extending into the right atrium. Radical surgical resection remains the definitive curative/palliative treatment in those without significant metastases. The aim was to review our experience in patients with different levels of IVC involvement, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and perioperative/long term outcomes.Patients and methodsFrom 2001 to 2012, 24 radical nephrectomies with IVC thrombectomy were performed. A retrospective chart review was undertaken to record demographics, presenting symptoms, duration of surgery, peri-operative transfusion, CPB and peri-operative complications, tumour grade/stage, and patient survival.ResultsWe identified 24 patients (18 male, Age median 59 range 35–78). The commonest presenting symptoms were weight loss, pain and haematuria. The majority of tumours were right sided (n = 17) with 8 having lung metastases at presentation. Thrombus level was 16 (infradiaphragmatic), 2 (supradiaphragmatic), 6 (intra-atrial). 15 patients required sternotomy for vascular control and 9 required CPB both with a significantly longer operative time compared (6.1 ± 3.5 vs. 7.2 ± 1.2 vs. 3.5 ± 1.1 h, respectively). Peri-operative complications (n = 21) included cardiopulmonary, renal, gastrointestinal and septic problems. There were 2 peri-operative deaths. Blood transfusion was significantly less in those not requiring sternotomy or CPB using the "Cell Saver" device. The majority were Fuhrman grade 3 (n = 16) and clear cell type (n = 14). Overall 3-year survival was 100% (Laparotomy only), 40% (sternotomy + cross-clamp), and 20% (CPB).ConclusionsIVC thrombectomy has significant morbidity and requires careful patient selection and a multi-disciplinary approach to optimise patient outcomes. In this series, the level of IVC thrombus and requirement for CPB directly affects patient morbidity and outcome.     

Current Outcomes of Emergency Large Bowel Surgery

Introduction

Emergency large bowel surgery (ELBS) is known to carry an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have reported morbidity and mortality rates up to 14.3%. However, there has not been a recent study to document the outcomes of ELBS following several major changes in surgical training and provision of emergency surgery. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the current outcomes of ELBS.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of a prospectively maintained database of the clinical records of all patients who had ELBS between 2006 and 2013. Data pertaining to patient demographics, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) grade, diagnosis, surgical procedure performed, grade of operating surgeon and assistant, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications and in-hospital mortality were analysed.

Results

A total of 202 patients underwent ELBS during the study period. The mean patient age was 62 years and the most common cause was colonic carcinoma (n=67, 33%). There were 32 patients (15.8%) who presented with obstruction and 64 (31.7%) had bowel perforation. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 14.8% (n=30). A consultant surgeon was involved in 187 cases (92.6%) as either first operator, assistant or available in theatre.

Conclusions

ELBS continues to carry a high risk despite several major changes in the provision of emergency surgery. Further developments are needed to improve postoperative outcomes in these patients.     

An alternative method for predicting size of femoral component of Oxford partial knee replacement

BackgroundNo direct intra-operative measurement to determine the ideal size of the femoral component of Oxford unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) is currently present. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of patients’ shoe size as a predictor of femoral component size.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted to identify the correlation between patients’ shoe size (British system) and the femoral component size. After excluding patients who died (n = 2) and patients in whom the implanted femoral component size was inaccurate (n = 13), the remaining cases (93 UKR in 88 patients) formed the study sample. Postoperative radiographs were reviewed to determine femoral component fit.ResultsWe found positive correlation between shoe size and femoral component size. In females; a shoe size from 2.5 to 6 predicted a small femoral component and shoe size from 6.5 to 8.0 predicted a medium femoral component. In males, a shoe size from 6 to 9.5 predicted a medium femoral component and a shoe size from 10 to 13 predicted a large femoral component. This relation predicted the femoral component size accurately in 80% of cases. A subgroup analysis, after excluding patients who changed their shoe size during adulthood after foot surgery or pathology (n = 20), showed an accuracy rate of 81%.ConclusionShoe size is a simple method that predicts femoral component size more accurately than other methods currently used such as templating, tibial component size and height based on gender.     

Acute upper limb infections in a regional Scottish plastic surgery unit during COVID-19: Lessons learned

IntroductionSmoking is a risk factor for post-operative complications following breast reconstruction. Abruptly refraining from all nicotine products may be difficult for patients with a new cancer diagnosis. The goal of this study is to assess complications following a distinct approach to tissue expander reconstruction in nicotine users.MethodsPatients who underwent tissue expander reconstruction after mastectomy were retrospectively reviewed. The approach to optimize outcomes in smokers was to delay reconstruction at least 7 days after the mastectomy and place the expander submuscularly (Group I). The other patients underwent standard immediate reconstruction on the day of mastectomy and were divided into Group II (active smokers) and Group III (non-smokers). Group III was considered the control group.ResultsThere was a total of 195 patients (323 breast reconstructions): Group I (10 patients, 19 expanders); Group II (11 patients, 19 expanders) and Group III (174 patients, 285 expanders). In Group I, n = 1/19 breasts had wound dehiscence requiring surgical management, compared to n = 18/285 in Group III (p = 1.0). Group II exhibited more wound dehiscence (n = 6/19) compared to Group III (p = 0.002). There was no significant difference when comparing wound dehiscence in prepectoral expander placement (7.0%) versus submuscular placement (4.8%) in Group III (p = 0.60).ConclusionNicotine users who are offered tissue expander breast reconstruction 1) at least 7 days after the mastectomy (to allow for vascular delay and demarcation) and 2) in the submuscular plane can normalize their risk of skin necrosis to that of non-smokers who have standard (prepectoral or submuscular) reconstruction on the day of mastectomy.     

Malignant lymphoma incidentally diagnosed due to the perforation of the small intestine caused by a fish bone: A case report

IntroductionThe ingestion of a foreign body is relatively common. However, it rarely results in the perforation of gastrointestinal tract. We herein report an unusual case of malignant lymphoma incidentally diagnosed after the perforation of the small intestine by a fish bone.Presentation of caseA 90-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital because of abdominal pain and vomiting. Abdominal computed tomography demonstrated free air and ascites in the abdominal cavity. In the pelvic cavity, a radiopaque linear shadow about 35 mm in diameter was shown in the small intestine, and the stricture was exposed to the abdominal cavity. Therefore, a diagnosis of perforation of the small intestine due to ingestion of a foreign body and panperitonitis was made. Emergent laparotomy was performed. The intraoperative findings revealed perforation of the small intestine with a fish bone in the jejunum. Local inflammation at the perforation site was seen, and circulated wall thickness was observed at the distal side of the jejunum. Partial resection of the jejunum and anastomosis of jejuno-jejunostomy was performed. A pathological examination and immunohistochemical study of the resected specimen resulted in a diagnosis of malignant lymphoma of follicular lymphoma Grade 1.DiscussionIt is very difficult to identify the existence malignancy accompanied with gastrointestinal perforation with ingestion of a foreign body.ConclusionIn cases suspected of involving malignancy, careful observation during surgery is needed in order to avoid missing the accompanying malignancy.     

Initial experience with transanal proctectomy in children

BackgroundThe use of transanal proctectomy may have particular advantages for pediatric patients with small pelvic working space. We report short-term outcomes of transanal completion proctectomy (taCP) during surgery for inflammatory bowel disease.MethodsAll patients (age≤19) underwent taCP from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2019. Prior total abdominal colectomy (TAC) was performed using a single-incision technique. At operation, patients underwent single-incision laparoscopy with taCP. Patient demographics, pre and perioperative details, and postoperative complications were abstracted.ResultsSeven patients (n = 6) with a median age of 18 years [Range: 13–19] were included in this initial series. All patients had a prior TAC with end-ileostomy with taCP occurring a median of 6 [Range: 3–89] months after TAC. Six of 7 had a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) while 1 patient had Crohn's colitis. For patients with UC, taCP was part of an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis with the majority (n = 4) proceeding as a modified-two stage and the remaining (n = 2) a three-stage approach. Single-incision laparoscopy through the prior ileostomy site was used in all IPAA patients. Median operative time was 226 [Range: 150–264] minutes with no conversions to more invasive technique. Median hospital length of stay (LOS) was 5 [Range: 2–8] days.In-hospital complications occurred in two patients who had watery diarrhea that prolonged LOS but resolved postdischarge. One patient was readmitted for bowel obstruction that resolved with placement of red rubber catheter at the ileostomy site.Of the 4 patients with a functioning ileal pouch, 1 patient reported 6–10 bowel movements per day, while 3 others reported ≤5 bowel movements per day. Half (n = 2) reported 1–2 nocturnal bowel movements at their first postoperative visit. No patients reported soiling or leakage, though one patient had a single episode of incontinence.ConclusionIn this pilot series, transanal proctectomy was effective and safe. Future work should compare traditional MIS completion proctectomy to taCP for applications in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease.Type of study: Case series.Level of Evidence: IV.     

A surgeon's predicament: Clinical predictors of surgery and mortality in neutropenic enterocolitis

BackgroundNeutropenic enterocolitis is uncommon but potentially life-threatening, with the cornerstone of treatment being medical management (MM), and surgical intervention reserved for clinical deterioration or bowel perforation. We hypothesized that the Shock Index Pediatric Age-Adjusted (SIPA) is elevated in patients who are at greatest risk for surgical intervention and mortality. We also sought to identify computed tomography (CT) findings associated with surgical intervention and mortality.MethodsA single-center cancer registry was reviewed for neutropenic enterocolitis patients from 2006 -2018. Survival models compared patients with normal versus elevated SIPA throughout their hospitalizations for the time to surgical management (SM), as well as in-hospital mortality.ResultsSeventy-four patients with neutropenic enterocolitis were identified; 7 underwent surgery. In-hospital mortality was 12% in MM and 29% in SM; mortality among patients with elevated SIPA was 4.7 times higher compared to those with normal SIPA (95% CI: 1.1, 19.83, p = 0.04). CT findings of bowel obstruction, pneumatosis, and a greater percentage of large bowel involvement were associated with surgical intervention (all ps < 0.05).ConclusionSelect pre-operative CT findings were associated with need for operative management. Elevated SIPA was associated with increased mortality. Elevated SIPA in pediatric cancer patients with neutropenic enterocolitis may help to identify those with more severe disease and expedite beneficial interventions.