Factors Associated with Clinically Significant Anastomotic Leakage after Large Bowel Resection: Multivariate Analysis of 707 Patients

The aim of this study was to determine by univariate and multivariate analyses the factors associated with clinically significant anastomotic leakage (AL) after large bowel resection. From 1990 to 1997 a series of 707 patients underwent colonic or rectal resection (without a stoma). Patients were divided into two groups: those with clinical anastomotic leakage (group 1) and those without it (group 2). AL occurred in 43 of 707 patients (6%). The overall mortality was 2.2% and was significantly higher in patients with AL than in those without: 5 of 43 (12%) versus 11 of 664 (1.6%), p <0.001. Univariate analysis showed 15 variables associated with the risk of AL: previous abdominal or pelvic irradiation (p = 0.02), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score > 2 (p = 0.04), leukocytosis (p = 0.02), renal failure (p = 0.03), steroid treatment (p = 0.01), duration of operation (p = 0.001), intraoperative septic conditions (p = 0.006), total colectomy (p = 0.009), transverse colectomy (p = 0.02), difficulties encountered during anastomosis (p = 0.001), ileorectal anastomosis (p = 0.02), colocolic anastomosis (p = 0.01), abdominal drainage (p = 0.05), and blood transfusion intraoperatively (p = 0.006) and postoperatively (p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that only preoperative leukocytosis (p = 0.04), intraoperative septic conditions (p = 0.001), difficulties encountered during anastomosis (p = 0.007), colocolic anastomosis (p = 0.004), and postoperative blood transfusion (p = 0.0007) were independent factors associated with AL. The risk of AL increased from a range of 12% to 30% if one risk factor was present, to 38% with two factors, to 50% with three factors. After colorectal resection and intraperitoneal anastomosis, a temporary protective stoma is proposed in selected patients with high risk factors for AL, as observed in our study.     

Higher morbidity and mortality after combined total gastrectomy and pancreaticosplenectomy for gastric cancer

Total gastrectomy with pancreaticosplenectomy for gastric cancer has been proposed for facilitating lymph node dissection or for resection of direct tumor invasion to the pancreas, especially for T4 lesions. Its effectiveness in improving patient survival is still controversial, and higher morbidity and mortality with this procedure have been reported in several series. Such risks to patient survival were not observed in the Japanese series. Based on a prospective gastric cancer database maintained from 1987 to 1999 in our institution, the morbidity and mortality were analyzed in our series of pancreaticosplenectomies. A total of 1,278 patients with gastric cancer received gastrectomy in our surgical unit. Of these, 127 patients underwent curative total gastrectomy with pancreaticosplenectomy in order to facilitate lymph node dissection or removal of direct tumor invasion. Operative time, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, and surgical mortality were analyzed. Compared to another 201 total gastrectomies, longer mean operative time (7.91 +/- 2.16 hours vs. 6.67 +/- 2.01, p <0.001) and postoperative hospital stay (median, 24.5 days vs. 17, p <0.001) for combined organ resection (pancreaticosplenectomy) were shown in this series. The major complication rate, including intraabdominal abscess, anastomotic leak, postoperative bleeding, pancreatitis/fistula, chylous leak, and general complications causing unstable vital signs (26.8% vs. 11.9%, p = 0.001), but not the mortality rate (6.3% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.608), was also shown to be higher in pancreaticosplenectomy patients. The most frequent fatal complication was intraabdominal abscess. However, more than 50% of complications occurred in the first 40 pancreaticosplenectomies (1987-1991); after adequate accumulation of experience, the total complication rate (57.5% vs. 35.6%, p = 0.021), major complication rate (40% vs. 20.7%, p = 0.022), and mortality rate (17.5% vs. 1.1%, p = 0.001) improved significantly in the remaining 87 patients (1991-1999). We therefore conclude that total gastrectomy with pancreaticosplenectomy can be performed by experienced surgeons with acceptable risk of morbidity and mortality.     

持续低氧血症对食管重建术后吻合口狭窄的影响

目的分析食管重建术后吻合口瘢痕狭窄的相关因素，尤其相关的全身性因素。方法回顾性分析中山大学附属肿瘤医院收治的1111例食管癌切除、消化道重建术患者的病例资料，对可能导致吻合口瘢痕狭窄的全身及局部因素进行logistic单因素、多因素回归分析，并对筛选出的因素进行相关分析。结果单因素回归分析显示：术后持续低氧血症（P=0．003）、胸部并发症（P=0．000）、吻合口瘘（P=0．000）、糖尿病史（P=0．019）、慢性阻塞性肺病病史（P=0．046）和心血管并发症（P=0．015）6项因素有统计学意义；而多因素回归分析则显示仅持续低氧血症（P=0．044）、胸部并发症（P=0．009）、吻合口瘘（P=0．001）和糖尿病史（P=0．036）4项因素有统计学意义：相关分析显示：持续低氧血症与胸部并发症及吻合口瘘三者之间呈正相关。结论持续低氧血症是食管重建术后吻合口瘢痕狭窄的重要全身性因素。     

Endoscopic treatment of mediastinal anastomotic leaks

BACKGROUND: Surgery, as well as conservative treatment, in patients with clinically apparent intrathoracic anastomotic leaks are often associated with poor results and carry a high morbidity and mortality. This report describes our results with the endoscopic treatment of intrathoracic anastomotic leakages. PATIENTS: 27 consecutive patients presenting with clinically apparent intrathoracic anastomotic leak, caused by resection of an epiphrenic diverticulum (n=1), esophagectomy for esophageal cancer (n=19), limited resection for carcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction (n=1) or gastrectomy for gastric cancer (n=6) were endoscopically treated. The extent of the dehiscences ranged from about 10-70%. After endoscopic lavage and debridement of the leakage (mean duration: 16,8 days) the leaks were closed with fibrin clue (n=9) or endoclips (n=2) in cases of smaller leaks or by stent placement (n=11), stent placement after unsuccessful fibrin clue injections (n=3) or stent placement and endoclipping (n=1) in patients with a large leakage. Simultaneously the periesophageal mediastinum was drained by chest drains. RESULTS: 25 of 27 patients were successfully treated endoscopically. Under endoscopic treatment one patient died due to septic multiorgan failure. Another patient developed a refractory, persistent leak. Procedure related complications (stent migration, anastomotic stenosis) were obtained in 6 patients. CONCLUSION: An endoscopic approach is successful and safe to treat symptomatic intrathoracic anastomotic leaks smaller than 70% of the circumference. An endoscopic lavage and debridement of the leak, prior to leak closure, seems to be helpful to reduce mediastinal and pleural inflammation. In patients with smaller leaks (<30%) fibrin clue injections and endoclipping is recommended. Patients with a dehiscence from 30-70% of the circumference profit from stent placement.     

Analysis of pulmonary complications after three-field lymph node dissection for esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary complications are a major component of morbidity and mortality after esophagectomy, and have not been well studied after extended lymphadenectomy. METHODS: Four hundred forty-one patients underwent three-field lymph node dissection and were retrospectively reviewed. Pulmonary complications developed in 32 patients (7.3%) and resulted in 11 deaths (34.4% of pulmonary complications were fatal, and 62.4% of all mortality was caused by pulmonary complications). Pulmonary complications were divided into primary (group A) and secondary pulmonary morbidities (group B), and analyzed separately. Perioperative arterial blood gases on room air were compared with a matched control group (group C). RESULTS: All primary complications occurred in the first postoperative week, whereas secondary complications were distributed evenly after operation. The incidence of serious infection (60% versus 23.5%, p = 0.041) and respiratory failure (70.6% versus 31.6%, p = 0.045) was significantly higher in group B as compared with group A and was associated with a higher death rate (47.1% versus 15.8%, p = 0.047). Changes in arterial blood gases were similar in groups A and C, both PaO(2) and pH were reduced in group B, and PaCO(2) was increased. Independent risk factors for primary pulmonary complications were history of major operation, abnormal spirometry, and chronic renal dysfunction. Predictive factors for secondary pulmonary complications were old age, concomitant total gastrectomy, major anastomotic leakage, and bilateral vocal cord palsy. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary complications can be kept at a low level, but they still account for most of the mortality after three-field lymph node dissection. Primary and secondary pulmonary complications are two distinct entities that should be managed differently. Arterial blood gases on room air are helpful in the management of pulmonary complications.     

1142例胃癌切除术围手术期死亡因素分析

目的研究影响胃癌围手术期死亡的主要因素,为指导选择合理的切除范围和手术方式提供依据。方法回顾1989年1月至2004年3月胃癌手术后1142例患者的临床资料,按照不同年代分为3组,第1组:1989年1月至1994年1月,405例;第2组:1994年2月至1999年1月,377例;第3组:1999年2月至2004年3月,360例。比较3组间的围手术期死亡率,采用Logistic多因素回归分析研究影响手术死亡率的危险因素。结果全组患者术后并发症发生率和死亡率分别为11.2%(128/1142)和3.6%(41/1142)。第1、2、3组的术后并发症发生率依次为13.1%、10.1%和10.3%;3组比较,P>0.05。3组手术死亡率依次为4.7%、3.4%和2.5%,3组比较,P>0.05。术后最常见的并发症是吻合口瘘(24.2%,31/128),影响手术死亡的主要因素为临床Ⅳ期、姑息性切除术、联合脏器切除及术前合并症的存在(P<0.05)。Logistic多元回归分析显示淋巴结的清除范围和手术方式不是影响手术死亡的主要因素(P>0.05)。结论胃癌晚期患者手术死亡率高,对胃癌Ⅳ期患者行姑息性切除手术时应避免施行不必要的淋巴结清除及联合脏器切除术。     

Mortality secondary to esophageal anastomotic leak.

BACKGROUND: Esophageal anastomotic leak is a potentially life threatening complication of esophagectomy and esophagogastrectomy. We reviewed our experience with this complication and tried to identify factors predictive of mortality after esophageal anastomotic leak. METHODS: Records of patients undergoing esophagectomy and esophagogastrectomy for benign or malignant disease over a 10-year period (1989-1999), who developed esophageal anastomotic leaks, were reviewed. RESULTS: Three-hundred and seven patients underwent esophagectomy or esophagogastrectomy. Twenty-three (7.5%) developed esophageal anastomotic leaks. Eight of these patients (35%) died. Four of 23 (17%) patients had seemingly normal postoperative contrast studies. Factors potentially predictive of death included age (died, 72.8+/-8.3 years; survived, 65.3+/-8.8 years; p=0.063), location of anastomosis (cervical, 3/9 died; thoracic, 5/14 died; p=0.91), leak presentation (clinical, 6/12 died; contrast study, 2/11 died; p=0.11), time of leak (<7 days, 3/5 died; > or =7 days, 5/18 died; p=0.18), presence of gastric necrosis (necrosis, 3/3 died; no necrosis, 5/20 died; p=0.019), and treatment (surgical, 4/4 died; conservative, 4/19 died; p=0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative esophageal anastomotic leaks prove fatal in a significant number of cases. The lethal potential of cervical anastomotic leaks should not be underestimated. Gastric necrosis is an important predictor of subsequent death. Advanced age, early postoperative (<7 days) leakage, and clinically apparent signs of leakage may be predictive of death but these factors did not reach statistical significance in our study. Surgical treatment of esophageal anastomotic leaks is associated with subsequent death, but this relationship is unlikely to be causal; severely ill patients tend to be treated surgically.     

Surgical management of esophageal cancer. A decade of change.

OBJECTIVE: To examine trends for use of transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) and to relate outcome variables to changes in use, controlling for preoperative risk. BACKGROUND: High operative morbidity and mortality rates are reported with conventional transthoracic esophagectomy (TTE). Transhiatal esophagectomy has been proposed as an alternative but is controversial. METHODS: In this retrospective study divided into early and late time periods, outcome variables were subjected to univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: Use of THE increased significantly in the late period (p < 0.0001). Patients who had THE had significantly higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) risk scores (p < 0.001). By the late period, 92% of patients with ASA III/IV scores were resected by THE. Postoperative morbidity decreased significantly and operative mortality decreased from 15% to 0% (p < 0.01) between the early and late time periods. By multivariate analysis, ASA > or = III and TTE were associated with adverse surgical outcome. Pathologic stage determined disease-free survival, which was 37% at 3 years for all survivors. CONCLUSIONS: Increased use of THE results in better operative outcome and does not adversely affect disease-free survival.     

Effect of pyloric drainage procedures on gastric passage and bile reflux after esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Controversy still exists about the need for pyloric drainage procedures (pyloroplasty or pyloromyotomy) after esophagectomy with esophagogastrostomy and vagotomy. Although pyloric drainage may prevent postoperative delayed gastric emptying, it may also promote bile reflux into the oesophagus. We analysed pyloric drainage methods for their potential effect on gastric outlet obstruction and bile reflux in patients undergoing esophagectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and ninety-eight patients with esophageal carcinoma were treated by transthoracal esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction either with pyloromyotomy (group II, n = 118), pyloroplasty (group III, n = 34) or without pyloric drainage (group I, n = 46) between January 2000 and December 2004. The postoperative gastrointestinal passage by radiological investigation, anastomotic leakage rate, mortality and incidence of gastroesophageal reflux by endoscopy within the first postoperative year were retrospectively analysed. RESULTS: Patient demographics and the types of surgical procedures did not differ between the three groups. There was no difference in hospital mortality, anastomotic leakage rate, gastrointestinal passage and postoperative hospital stay between the three groups. However, more patients with pyloric drainage showed bile reflux (I = 0% vs II+III=14.9%, p = 0.069) and reflux esophagitis (I = 10.3% vs II+III = 34.5%, p < 0.05) compared to patients without pyloric drainage. On the multivariate analysis, pyloric drainage and the anastomotic height were independent and were significant risk factors associated with postoperative reflux esophagitis. CONCLUSION: Pyloric drainage after esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction should be omitted because it does not improve gastric emptying and may favour biliary reflux esophagitis.     

The Association Française de Chirurgie (AFC) colorectal index: a reliable preoperative prognostic index in colorectal surgery

INTRODUCTION: Evaluation of outcome after colorectal surgery is always necessary. A new index which permits to appreciate preoperatively postoperative mortality after colorectal resection in colorectal cancer (CRC) and in diverticular disease has been published (i.e., Association Fran?aise de Chirurgie, AFC colorectal index). PATIENTS AND METHODS: From November 2002 to July 2004, in-hospital mortality was analysed on 253 patients who underwent colic resection (N = 220, 87%) or rectal resection, with anastomosis (N = 175, 70%). Mortality was analysed according to emergency resection, neurological co morbidity, lost of weight more than 10% of weight, age older than 70 years. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 63 +/- 18 years (17-92) (45% older than 70 years), 26% of patients were ASA >or= III, 35% underwent surgery in emergency, and 12% underwent laparoscopic surgery. One hundred and fifteen (45%) patients underwent surgery for CRC and 50 (20%), for diverticular disease and 11 patients underwent surgery for ischemic colitis. Overall mortality rate was 10% (N = 26), it was 19% in emergency surgery versus 5% after elective surgery. Global morbidity was 38%, percentage of anastomotic leak was 8% (N = 14/175), reoperation was necessary in 14%. The mean length of stay was 13 +/- 8 days. Ten percent of patients necessitated unplanned readmission. After surgery for CCR or diverticular disease. -i) overall mortality was 9% - ii) among patients who had 0, 1, 2, or 3 predictive risk factors of mortality; mortality was 0% , 5% 15% and 33%. After surgery for other aetiology than CCR or diverticular disease, among patients who had 0, 1, 2, or 3 predictive risk factors of mortality; mortality was 0%, 12% 36% and 25%. CONCLUSIONS: These results showed the reproducibility of the AFC colorectal index and its potential application in all aetiologies after colorectal surgery.     

Early complications after Ivor Lewis subtotal esophagectomy with two-field lymphadenectomy: risk factors and management

BACKGROUND: Esophageal resection represents a major surgical and physiologic insult carrying major morbidity and mortality. We present the results of esophagectomy in a specialist unit with emphasis on early complications and their management. STUDY DESIGN: From January 4, 1990 through January 6, 2000, 228 patients have undergone Ivor Lewis subtotal esophagectomy with two-field lymphadenectomy for malignancy under the care of one surgeon. The median age was 64 years (range 39 to 77 years), with a male to female ratio of 2.3:1 and a predominance of adenocarcinoma (n = 146) compared with squamous cell carcinoma (n = 75) and other tumors (n = 7). Detailed prospective data were collected on preoperative status, operative parameters, and postoperative complications. RESULTS: Median ICU stay was 1 day (range 1 to 47 days) and the median postoperative hospital stay in patients surviving surgery (n= 219) was 13 days (range 9 to 159 days). There were 119 separate postoperative complications occurring in 45% of patients (102 of 228), comprising predominantly pulmonary morbidity. Major respiratory complications (17%) were significantly associated with poor preoperative spirometry (p = 0.002) and a history of smoking (p = 0.03). Seven percent of patients (16 of 228) suffered cardiovascular or thromboembolic complications. Major surgical complications occurred in 10% of patients (22 of 228) including mediastinal leaks in 4%. Isolated anastomotic leaks (2%) were successfully treated conservatively in all cases; extensive leaks from ischemic gastric conduits (1%) or gastrotomy dehiscence (1%) underwent further exploration and either local repair or resection and exclusion. Reoperation for hemostasis was required in 3% (6 of 228) and only 1% of patients (2 of 228) developed chyle leaks. Thirty-day mortality was 2%, rising to 4% for in-hospital mortality. The nine fatalities were significantly older (p = 0.02) than those who survived and 67% (6 of 9) had suffered primary surgical complications. CONCLUSIONS: Overall morbidity after radical esophagectomy is high, but early recognition and aggressive management of complications can minimize subsequent mortality. Concentration of facilities and surgical expertise in specialist units together with more careful patient selection can decrease mortality further.     

70岁以上老年肺癌手术并发症及相关因素分析

目的 探讨70岁以上老年肺癌病人手术治疗特点及影响术后并发症发生的危险因素.方法 回顾总结222例年龄≥70岁接受肺切除手术的老年肺癌病人临床资料.将术后出现严重并发症的病人纳入Ⅰ组,仅出现一般并发症的病人则纳入Ⅱ组,无并发症发生的病人纳入Ⅲ组.定义A1组=Ⅰ组+Ⅱ组,B1组=Ⅲ组,A2组=Ⅰ组、B2组=Ⅱ组+Ⅲ组.对可能影响术后并发症发生的危险因素分别在A1组与B1组间、A2组与B2组间进行单因素分析和二项logistic多因素回归分析.结果 术前161例病人合并其他疾病(72.5%).手术方式以单肺叶切除为主(64.9%),中位淋巴结清扫数为14个(0～57个).术后并发症总发生率63.5%,严重并发症发生率13.5%,围手术期死亡1.8%(4例).Logistic回归分析结果显示,影响术后总体并发症发生的独立危险因素为术前体重下降(P=0.020)、ASA分级(P＜0.001)、MVV(%预测值)(P=0.020)和淋巴结清扫数(P=0.004);影响术后严重并发症发生的独立危险因素为ASA分级(P=0.003)、MVV(%预测值)(P=0.018)和肿瘤位置(P=0.007).结论 重视术前体重下降及术中淋巴结清扫对70岁以上老年肺癌病人手术安全性的影响;对术前高ASA分级、低MVV(%预测值)水平以及肿瘤为中心型的70岁以上老年肺癌病人应特别加强围手术期管理以降低手术风险.

Abstract：

Objective This study is to analyse the clinical feature and risk factors of morbidity after pulmonary resection for lung cancer in patients older than 70 years. Methods The clinical records of 222 patients older than 70 years who had undergone pulmonary resection for their lung cancer was reviewed. The patients were divided into 3 groups: group Ⅰ including the patients who had severe postoperative complications, group Ⅱ including the patients who had mild complications and group Ⅲ including the patients who had no complications. Moreover, the definitions were made that group A1 = group Ⅰ+ Ⅱ , group B1 = group Ⅲ, group A2 = group Ⅰ and group B2 = group Ⅱ + Ⅲ. Univariate analyses and multivariate binary logistic regressions relating postoperative morbidity to risk factors were performed between the group Al and Bl, A2 and B2, resulting in the identification of the independent risk factors for overall morbidity and major morbidity. Results Preoperative comorbidity was recorded in 161 patients (72.5%). Lobectomy (64.9% ) was the predominant surgical procedure. The median number of dissected LN was 14, with the range of 0 to 57. The overall morbidity was 63.5% , including major morbidity of 13.5%. Perioperative mortality was 1.8% (4 cases). The results of binary logistic regression analyses indicated that the independent risk factors for overall morbidity were preoperative weight loss (P =0.020), ASA score (P＜0.001), MVV (% predicted) (P=0. 020 ) and the number of dissected LN ( P = 0.004 ). The independent risk factors for major morbidity were ASA score ( P =0.003), MVV (% predicted) (P= 0.018) and the location of tumor (P=0.007). Conclusion Preoperative weight loss and numbers of dissected mediastinal lymph nodes were risk factor for lung cancer patients older than 70 years, Proper perioperative management for the elderly patients with high ASA score, low MVV (% predicted) or central tumor, could reduce the major postoperative morbidity.     

Independent predictors of operative mortality and postoperative complications in surgically treated carcinomas of the oesophagus and cardia--is the aggressive surgical approach worthwhile?

During the 25 years 1960-84, 657 patients were operated on for carcinomas of the thoracic oesophagus (n = 347) or gastric cardia (n = 310). Resection was carried out in 514 (78%) and oesophagogastrostomy in 481 (73%). Overall operative mortality (defined as death within 30 days) was 19% (n = 122). Pulmonary complications developed in 167 patients (25%), cardiovascular complications in 100 (15%), and anastomotic leakage and mediastinitis in 36 (6%). After radical resection of a localised tumour (n = 144), or non-localised tumour (n = 224), pallative resection (n = 146), or exploration (n = 143), the operative mortality and five year cumulative survival were 10% and 26%, 15% and 8%, 27% and 0, and 24% and 0, respectively (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.0001). Using logistic regression analysis several variables were found to be independent predictors of operative mortality, pulmonary complications, cardiovascular complications, and anastomotic leakage. The predictor variables reflected both general preoperative status of the patients, preexisting cardio-pulmonary diseases, stage of the cancer, and surgical procedures. Based on the final logistic regression models the patients were stratified into risk groups (12 for operative mortality, pulmonary complications, and cardiovascular complications, and eight for anastomotic leakage). Operative mortality varied from 0 to 80%, pulmonary complications from 3 to 100%, cardiovascular complications from 0 to 100%, and anastomotic leakage from 0 to 50% (p less than 0.0001 in each case). Given the high operative mortality and complication rates, and the low five year survival rate after palliative procedures or exploratory operations, a more selective surgical approach seems warranted. Patients likely to have a good response should be identified before operation.     

Ergebnisse der primär chirurgischen Therapie beim Adenokarzinom des ösophagogastralen Übergangs

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is increasing worldwide, and classification systems and resection procedures are being controversially discussed. METHODS AND PATIENTS: We report on 225 AEG patients undergoing primary resection in our unit (1986-2000) with a special focus on perioperative morbidity, mortality, and long-term prognosis under consideration of the AEG type (Siewert classification) and operative procedure performed (subtotal esophagectomy with proximal gastric resection in AEG I, total gastrectomy with distal esophageal resection in AEG II and AEG III). RESULTS: Types I, II, and III carcinomas were found in 32%, 42%, and 26% of the patients, respectively, with R(0) resections in 65%, 69%, and 51% ( P=0.039). The overall 5-year survival rates were 29%, 31%, and 14% ( P=0.068), respectively; in R(0)-resected patients, they were 40%, 41%, and 27% ( P=0.771). In univariate analysis, the TNM classification ( P<0.001), R classification ( P<0.001), and tumor stage ( P<0.001) were relevant prognostic factors. In multivariate analysis, only the R classification ( P=0.003), LN ratio ( P=0.012), and N stage ( P=0.027) were independent prognostic factors. In 35 of 177 patients resected with curative intent, R(0) resections could not be achieved, mainly because of residual tumor in the circumferential plane (22/35=63%). Only in 37% of cases (13/35) was the R(1) situation due to exclusive positive oral or aboral resection margins. Therefore, in only 7% of all patients resected with curative intent (13/177) did the question arise of whether the R(1) resection could have been avoided by a different surgical approach. Surgical, pulmonary, and cardiac complications were found in 33%, 26%, and 10%, respectively. The mortality within 30 days was 4%. CONCLUSIONS: Failure of R(0) resection in patients treated with curative intent is mostly caused by residual tumor in the circumferential plane. Therefore, different surgical approaches with varying oral and aboral resection margins are of minor importance for reducing the frequency of R(1) resections. Downstaging of tumors by neoadjuvant treatment may increase the R(0) resection rate.     

Morbidity, mortality, and long-term survival after sleeve lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE: Sleeve lobectomy is a widely accepted procedure for central tumors for which the alternative is pneumonectomy. The purpose of this study is to assess operative mortality, morbidity, and long-term results of sleeve lobectomies performed for non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). METHODS: A retrospective review of 218 patients who underwent sleeve lobectomy for NSCLC between 1981 and 2005 was undertaken. There were 186 (85%) men and 32 women with a mean age of 61.9 years (range, 19-82 years). Eighty patients (36.6%) had a preoperative contraindication to pneumonectomy. Right upper lobectomy was the most common operation (45.4%). Vascular sleeve resection was performed in 28 patients (12.8%) and was commonly associated with left upper lobectomy (n=20; 9.1%; p=0.0001). The histologic type was predominantly squamous cell carcinoma (n=164; 75%), followed by adenocarcinoma (n=46; 21%). Resection was incomplete in nine (4.1%) patients. RESULTS: There were nine operative deaths; the operative mortality and the morbidity rates were 4.1% and 22.9%, respectively. A total of 14 (6.4%) patients presented with bronchial anastomotic complications: two were fatal postoperatively, seven patients required reoperation, three required a stent insertion, and two were managed conservatively. Multivariate analysis showed that compromised patients (p=0.001), current smoking (p=0.01), right sided resections (p=0.003), bilobectomy (p=0.03), squamous cell carcinoma (p=0.03), and presence of N1 or N2 disease (p=0.01) were risk factors for mortality and morbidity. Follow-up was complete in 208 patients (95.4%). Overall 5-year and 10-year survival rates were 53% and 28.6%, respectively. After complete resection, recurrence was local in 10 patients, mediastinal in 20, and distant in 25. By multivariate analysis, two factors significantly and independently influenced survival: nodal status (N0-N1 vs N2; p=0.01) and the stage of the lung cancer (stage I-II vs III, p=0.02). CONCLUSIONS: For patients with NSCLC, sleeve lobectomy achieves local tumor control, even in patients with preoperative contraindication to pneumonectomy and is associated with low mortality and bronchial anastomotic complication rates. Postoperative complications are higher in compromised patients, smokers, N disease, right sided resections, bilobectomies, and squamous cell cancers. The presence of N2 disease and stage III significantly worsen the prognosis.     

食管癌三切口术后吻合口良性狭窄的危险因素分析

目的探讨食管癌患者行三切口食管切除术(McKeown术)颈部吻合后发生吻合口良性狭窄的危险因素。 方法回顾性分析2016年9月至2017年8月在上海市胸科医院单一治疗组中行McKeown术,以管状胃代食管的所有食管癌患者,以术后出现良性吻合口狭窄并进行连续扩张次数≥3次的患者为狭窄组,无术后狭窄或狭窄较轻扩张次数<3次的患者为非狭窄组,对两组患者的一般情况、ASA评分、手术方式、吻合方式、管胃上提部位、肿瘤R0切除情况、吻合口瘘等进行统计分析,分析吻合口狭窄的危险因素。 结果共入选271例患者,有9.6%的患者需要行3次或3次以上的扩张治疗。单因素分析显示,高龄(>70岁)、术前新辅助治疗、手工吻合、胸骨后管胃上提路径、吻合口瘘、肿瘤的非R0切除与严重的吻合口狭窄均有相关性(P<0.05)。多因素logistic回归分析结果显示,吻合口瘘(OR＝5.541,95% CI：2.110～14.549,P＝0.001)和胸骨后管胃上提路径(OR＝6.736,95% CI ：1.623～27.965,P＝0.009)是严重吻合口狭窄的独立危险因素。 结论吻合口瘘、胸骨后上提路径是食管癌McKeown手术颈部吻合术后出现吻合口狭窄的独立危险因素。     

Management of anastomotic leakage after nondiverted large bowel resection

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the natural history of anastomotic leakage after elective colorectal resection and supraperitoneal anastomosis without temporary stoma.

Study Design: Medical records from 1990 to 1997 were studied; 655 consecutive patients underwent colonic or rectal resection (without stoma). Patients were divided into two groups: those with clinical anastomotic leakage confirmed by laparotomy (group 1) and those without anastomotic leakage (group 2). Postoperative clinical and biologic findings were compared between the two groups.

Results: Anastomotic leakage occurred in 39 of 655 patients (6%). Clinically suspected anastomotic leakage was only confirmed by contrast radiography in 13 of 24 patients (54%), and by CT in 8 of 9 patients (89%). Significantly more patients in group 1 than group 2 had the following: fever (>™38°C) on day 2 (p < 0.001); absence of bowel action on day 4 (p < 0.001); diarrhea before day 7 (p < 0.001); collection of more than 400 mL of fluid through abdominal drains from day 0 to day 3 (p < 0.01); renal failure on day 3 (p < 0.02); and leukocytosis after day 7 (p < 0.02). Among the 39 patients in group 1, 28 (71%) had at least one of these clinical or biologic manifestations before day 5, but the mean delay for reoperation was only 8 days. The combination of signs observed before day 5 was associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage, from 18% with two signs to 67% with three signs.

Overall mortality rate was 2% (13 of 655) and was significantly higher in group 1 than group 2: 5 of 39 (13%) versus 8 of 616 (1%, p < 0.001). In patients with anastomotic leakage, death occurred in 5 of 23 patients (22%) reoperated on after day 5, versus 0 of 11 patients (0%) reoperated on before day 5 (NS). Univariate analysis showed that three clinical characteristics were associated with a significantly high risk of mortality after reoperation for anastomotic leakage: age greater than 65 years (p < 0.01), American Anesthesiologist Association score greater than 3 (p < 0.05), and blood transfusions during the first operation (p < 0.02).

Conclusions: In our study, some postoperative clinical and biologic signs were associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leakage. The knowledge of these findings might help in the early diagnosis and management of patients with anastomotic leakage after large bowel resection.     

Surgical treatment of adenocarcinoma of the cardia.

BACKGROUND. Adenocarcinoma of the gastric cardia presents different features from other gastric carcinomas. This study was performed to analyze the results of a 40-year experience with these lesions. METHODS. Of the 365 patients reviewed, 211 (57.8%) underwent resection. One hundred fifty patients underwent total gastrectomy with lower esophageal resection (TGER) and 46 underwent proximal gastrectomy with distal esophageal resection (PGER). More recently, 15 patients were submitted to total gastrectomy with subtotal esophagectomy (TGSE) without thoracotomy. RESULTS. The tumors were far advanced in most patients: extraparietal invasion in 77.7% of patients, lymph node involvement in 55%, and distant metastases in 11%. The postoperative mortality rate was 25.1% in patients who underwent resection: 26.7% after TGER, 17.4% after PGER, and 33.3% after TGSE (difference not significant). Cardiovascular and respiratory complications were common causes of death after both TGER and PGER. After TGSE, deaths were related exclusively to local complications, mainly as a result of cervical anastomotic leaks. The actuarial 5-year survival rate for all patients surviving resection was 16.7%. No improvement in the results of surgical therapy was observed during the past 20 years. The actuarial 5-year survival rate was significantly affected by pathologic staging: 61.0% stage I, 23.3% stage II, 9.8% stage III, and 0% stage IV (p less than 0.001). No significant differences in actuarial 5-year survival rates were observed between TGER (17.8%) and PGER (14.9%). Sex, duration of symptoms, and histologic type did not reveal prognostic significance. CONCLUSIONS. In early tumors a total gastrectomy with resection of 10 cm of esophagus above the tumor is advocated.     

贲门癌手术的理想途径—经左胸腹联合斜切口

目的:探讨经左胸腹联合斜切口(LOTAI)切除贲门癌的围手术期安全性和价值。方法:2001年7月至2003年7月共对244例贲门癌病人行全胃或近侧胃和下端食管切除、D2淋巴清扫术。对所取的切口、手术方式和术后并发症等进行统计分析。结果:196例(80.3%)病人行LOTAI,12例行正中切口,16例行左肋缘下切口,20例行左上腹斜切口;LOTAI组中60例(30.6%)有肺功能异常,56例有心电图异常。总切除率为91%(222/244),其中206例为D2根治术,16例为姑息性切除术,22例同时行联合脏器切除术。LOTAI组中44例(22.4%)发生胸腔积液,4例肺炎,4例吻合口漏,围手术期死亡2例。不同手术途径的手术时间、输血量、术后住院时间及滴流质时间无显著差异。结论:LOTAI能为贲门癌切除提供较理想的手术暴露,是根治性切除的首选手术途径,术后并发症在可接受的范围内。