Gastrointestinal Quality Of Life Index Score Research Articles

RA06.03: SURGICAL OUTCOMES OF GIANT HIATAL HERNIA REPAIR IN PATIENTS OVER THE AGE OF 80

Abstract Background Patients with giant hiatal herniae are often symptomatic and have significantly reduced quality of life (QoL). Laparoscopic fundoplication is an established treatment of giant hiatal hernia. Advanced age has been previously shown to be the most significant predictor of mortality and morbidity in hiatal hernia repair. Reported outcomes of laparoscopic fundoplication in patients over the age of 80 are limited to case reports and small case series. Methods Data was extracted from a prospectively populated single surgeon database of laparoscopic fundoplication procedures between 1995 and 2014. Patients who were operated for giant HH (> 30% of stomach in the chest) that were aged 80 or older at the time of surgery were included. Quality of life (QOL) data was collected pre-operatively, in early post-operative period (within 12 months) and late post-operative period (24 months or later). QOL data included gastro-intestinal quality of life index (GIQLI), Visick score, dysphagia score and overall satisfaction with surgery. Search of Ryerson index (was conducted to establish month and year of death and calculate post-operative life expectancy. Results Inclusion criteria were met by 89 patients. Average age was 84 (80–93). The proportion of herniated stomach was 70.9% on average (range 30–100%; SD 27.25), the hiatal defect was large in all patients. There was 1 perioperative death from myocardial infarction at 30 days after surgery. There were no other major complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade III-IV). Post-operative survival was an average of 74.5 months (SD 47.8; range 1–233). GIQLI was reduced pre-operatively (mean 91.8; SD 19.4). There was improvement in GIQLI scores on early (mean 101.45; SD 21.2) and late (mean 106.7; SD 19.2; P = 0.005) post-operative follow up. Pre-operative Visick scores (mean 2.92; SD 0.98) have improved significantly in early (mean 1.94; SD 0.97; P = 0.000) and late (mean 2.03; SD 0.99; P = 0.001) post-operative periods. During early post-operative follow up 97% of the patients were satisfied with overall outcome of their operation, whilst 3% were dissatisfied. Overall satisfaction scores remained high on late follow up (93.3% satisfied, 6.7% dissatisfied). Conclusion Findings of this study demonstrate that in carefully selected patients with giant HH surgery is safe and results in improved quality of life post operatively. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

Does Bismuth Subgallate Affect Smell and Stool Character? A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Trial of Bismuth Subgallate on Loop Duodenal Switch Patients with Complaints of Smelly Stools and Diarrhea.

Loop duodenal switch (LDS) can result in fat and starch malabsorption. In a small percentage of patients, a relevant qualitative and quantitative change in stools happens usually characterized by steatorrhea-like diarrhea. Bismuth subgallate (BS) has been marketed as a way to eliminate the odor associated with flatulence and bowel movements. The objective of this study is to see the efficacy and effect of BS on the quality of life (QOL) in patients undergoing LDS. A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study was designed. Thirty-six patients who reported flatus and/or stool odor changes and have completed at least 6months post-LDS were included. Patients participated in two treatment periods, each lasting for 1week, separated by 1-week washout. Patients received 200mg BS, 2 capsules per meal, or placebo for 1week each. The Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaire was used to compare the QOL before the initiation of the therapy and after each treatment completion. Of 36 patients, 5 patients were lost to follow-up and 2 were withdrawn from the study. And 29 patients were included for final analysis. GIQLI scores obtained with BS treatment completion were significantly higher both overall (P = 0.007) and in the digestive domain (P < 0.001) than those obtained before the treatment. GIQLI scores obtained from the other domains were also higher compared to the pre-treatment as well as placebo treatment but not statistically significant. In our double-blinded trial, treatment with BS after LDS statistically improves GIQLI score and steatorrhea-like symptoms.

The Laparoscopic Management of Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome and Its Long-Term Outcomes.

Case reports and small series of the surgical and radiological management of median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) have been described, however, long-term outcome data are lacking. The purpose of this study was to review our experience of the laparoscopic management of MALS, and describe the long-term outcomes after surgical intervention. Data were collected between 2005 and 2016 in a single U.K. institution. All patients with MALS who underwent laparoscopic decompression of the celiac artery were included. Surgical outcomes were recorded from a prospectively collected database. Long-term outcomes were determined by outpatient review and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). Six patients were included. Five were female with a median age of 30 years (22.3-48.3). All six presented with abdominal pain and a bruit. Length of symptoms on presentation was 41 months (19-69). Duplex ultrasonography indicated celiac trunk stenosis in each case, with an elevated peak velocity flow in the celiac trunk of 230 cm/s (210-287.5). All six underwent successful laparoscopic decompression of the celiac artery with no conversions to open. Operating time was 137.3 minutes (95.6-166.3) and intraoperative blood loss was 110 mL (65-225). Length of stay was one day (1-2.3), with no postoperative complications or mortality. Median follow-up was 109.5 months (78-113.5). At this point, all patients remained symptom free with an overall GIQLI score of 129/144 (123.8-134.5). MALS is a rare condition. Laparoscopic decompression of the median arcuate ligament is safe and offers long-term resolution of symptoms, and improvement in patient quality of life.

Clinical feasibility of a new full-thickness endoscopic plication device (GERDx\u2122) for patients with GERD: results of a prospective trial

BackgroundPrevious studies suggest clinical effectiveness of endoscopic full-thickness plication in selected patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The aim of this study was to assess the clinical safety and efficiency of the GERDx™ device by evaluating clinical parameters, reflux symptom scores, and quality of life (QoL).MethodsProspective one-arm trial evaluating the outcome of forty patients with GERD subjected to endoscopic plication with the GERDx™ device. We included patients with at least one typical reflux symptom despite treatment with a PPI for > 6 months, pathologic esophageal acid exposure, hiatal hernia of size < 2 cm, and endoscopic Hill grade II–III. Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), symptom scores, esophageal manometry, and impedance-pH-monitoring were performed at baseline and at 3 months after surgery. (Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 01798212.)ResultsThere were no intraoperative complications. Four out of forty patients experienced postoperative complications requiring intervention. Seven of forty patients were subjected to laparoscopic fundoplication 3 months after endoscopic plication due to persistent symptoms and were lost to further follow-up. Thirty out of forty patients were available at 3-month follow-up. There was an improvement of the GIQLI score, from a mean of 92.45 ± 18.47 to 112.03 ± 13.11 (p < 0.001). The general reflux-specific score increased from a mean of 49.84 ± 24.83 to 23.93 ± 15.63 (p < 0.001), and the DeMeester score from a mean of 46.48 ± 30.83 to 20.03 ± 23.62 (p < 0.001). There was no significant change in manometric data after intervention. Three of thirty patients continued daily antireflux medication.ConclusionsEndoscopic plication with the GERDx™ device reduced distal acid exposure of the esophagus, reflux-related symptoms, and improved GIQLI scores with minimal side effects in a selected cohort of patients and may be a safe alternative in the treatment of GERD.

Laparoscopic repair of large hiatal hernias: clinical outcomes of 10 years.

Whilst laparoscopic repair is the most common surgical procedure for the treatment of large hiatal hernias, knowledge of long-term outcomes (>10 years) is scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term results following this approach, in particular the hernia recurrence rate and the impact of repair on quality of life (QoL). Patients were identified from a prospective database. A standardized questionnaire was used to assess symptoms and a barium swallow radiograph was performed to determine anatomy. A validated QoL measure, Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) was also applied to all patients. Of the 69 eligible patients, clinical follow-up was available for 54 patients (78.3%). Follow-up ranged from 72 to 185 (median: 114) months. Post-operative heartburn and dysphagia were significantly improved, with 45 patients (83%) reporting a good or excellent result. Contrast radiology in 35 patients (65%) revealed recurrence in 12 patients (34%). Fifty-four patients answered the GIQLI questionnaire. The mean GIQLI score was 117 (61-136). Patients with objectively documented anatomic recurrence had a QoL index of 92 (61-121) compared to an index of 122 (77-136, P < 0.01) in the non-recurrent hernia group. At mean 114 months follow-up, laparoscopic repair of large hiatal hernias achieves effective and durable relief of symptoms, and most patients are satisfied with the outcome.

Index admission laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis restores Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) score.

Backgrounds/AimsPrevious studies have evaluated quality of life (QoL) in patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for cholelithiasis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate QoL after index admission LC in patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis (AC) using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaire.MethodsPatients ≥21 years admitted to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore for AC and who underwent index admission LC between February 2015 and January 2016 were evaluated using the GIQLI questionnaire preoperatively and 30 days postoperatively.ResultsA total of 51 patients (26 males, 25 females) with a mean age of 60 years (24–86 years) were included. Median duration of abdominal pain at presentation was 2 days (1–21 days). 45% of patients had existing comorbidities, with diabetes mellitus being most common (33%). 31% were classified as mild AC, 59% as moderate and 10% as severe AC according to Tokyo Guideline 2013 (TG13) criteria. Post-operative complications were observed in 8 patients, including retained common bile duct stone (n=1), wound infection (n=2), bile leakage (n=2), intra-abdominal collection (n=1) and atrial fibrillation (n=2). 86% patients were well at 30 days follow-up and were discharged. A significant improvement in GIQLI score was observed postoperatively, with mean total GIQLI score increasing from 106.0±16.9 (101.7–112.1) to 120.4±18.0 (114.8–125.9) (p<0.001). Significant improvements were also observed in GIQLI subgroups of gastrointestinal symptoms, physical status, emotional status and social function status.ConclusionsIndex admission LC restores QoL in patients with AC as measured by GIQLI questionnaire.

Role of Pepsin and Oropharyngeal pH-Monitoring to Assess the Postoperative Outcome of Patients with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Results of a Pilot Trial.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of salivary pepsin and oropharyngeal pH-monitoring to assess the surgical outcome of patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Twenty consecutive patients with LPR despite proton pump inhibitor treatment received laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Twenty-four hour esophageal pH-monitoring (multichannel intraluminal impedance monitoring [MII]-pH) and esophageal manometry (high-resolution manometry) data were documented preoperatively and at 3-month follow-up. An ears, nose and throat (ENT) examination was performed, including assessment of Belafsky Reflux Finding Score (RFS). Clinical symptoms were evaluated with the Belafsky Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). Simultaneous to the MII-pH and collection of saliva samples, detection of oropharyngeal reflux events was performed. Treatment failure was defined as postoperative pathologic RFS or RSI score and improvement of GIQLI of <10 points, despite showing a normal DeMeester score. At baseline, all patients had a pathological ENT examination, RSI score, and MII-pH data. All patients showed postoperatively a normal DeMeester score (mean 6.39 ± 4.87). Five patients were defined as treatment failures with a change of pepsin concentration from median 157.0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0-422) to 180.7 (95% CI: 0-500). In patients defined as treatment success, median pepsin value decreased from 206.3 (95% CI: 89-278) to 76.0 (95% CI: 55-205); (P = .093). Oropharyngeal pH-monitoring data showed no significant change in both groups. Salivary pepsin could be a marker for treatment success, while oropharyngeal pH-monitoring seems to be inadequate in these terms. However, larger studies are required to reach firm conclusions.

Modified stapled transanal rectal resection combined with perioperative pelvic floor biofeedback therapy in the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome

To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of modified stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) combined with perioperative pelvic floor biofeedback therapy (POPFBFT) in treating obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS). Thirty female ODS patients underwent modified STARR (resection and suture was performed in rectocele with one staple) combined with POPFBFT in Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin university from October 2013 to March 2015. Before the modified STARR, patients received a course of POPFBFT (20 min/time, 2 times/d, 10 times as a course), and another 2 courses were carried out in clinic after discharge. Efficacy evaluation included general conditions of patients, morbidity of postoperative complication, overall subjective satisfaction (excellent: without any symptoms; good: 1 to 2 times of laxatives per month and without the need of any other auxiliary defecation; fairly good: more than 3 times of laxatives per month ; poor: with no improvement; excellent, good, fairly good are defined as effective), Longo ODS score (range 0 to 40 points, the higher the score, the more severe the symptoms), gastrointestinal quality of life index(GIQLI)(range 0 to 144 points, the lower the score, the more severe the symptoms), anorectal manometry and defecography examination. The follow-up lasted 12 months after operation (ended at April 2016). Average age of 30 patients was 57(46 to 72) years and Longo ODS score of every patient was ≥9 before operation. The modified STARR was completed successfully in all the 30 patients with average operation time of 25 (18 to 34) min and average hospital stay of 6(4 to 9) d. Postoperative complications included pain(20%, 6/30), urinary retention (16.7%, 5/30), anorectal heaviness (6.7%, 2/30), and fecal urgency(26.7%, 8/30). Anaorectal heaviness and fecal urgency disappeared within 3 months. No severe complications, such as postoperative bleeding, infection, rectovaginal fistula, anastomotic dehiscence and anal incontinence were observed. The effective rate of overall subjective satisfaction was 93.3%(28/30) during the follow-up of 12 months. There was no significant difference in Longo ODS score between pre- POPFBFT and pre-operation (pre- POPFBFT: 32.95±3.22, pre-operation: 32.85±3.62, t=1.472, P=0.163). Compared with pre-POPFBFT, Longo ODS score at 1 week after operation decreased (t=4.306, P=0.000), moreover, score at 1 month after operation was lower than that at 1 week (13.05±7.49 vs. 15.00±7.17, t=7.322, P=0.000), while no significant differences were found among 1, 3, 6, 12 months after operation (F=2.111, P=0.107). Likewise, there was no significant difference in GIQLI score between pre-POPFBFT and pre-operation (pre-POPFBFT: 79.39±17.14, pre-operation: 76.65±17.56, t=1.735, P=0.096). Compared with the pre-POPFBFT, GIQLI score at 1 week after operation increased (t=4.714, P=0.000), moreover, GIQLI score at 1 month after operation was higher than that at 1 week (102.26±19.24 vs 91.31±21.35, t=5.628, P=0.000), while no significant differences were found among 1, 3, 6, 12 months after operation(F=1.211, P=0.313). In comparison with pre- POPFBFT, parameters of defecography examination at 12 months after operation showed obvious improvement: the rectocele decreased from (34.1±0.4) mm to (3.1±0.3) mm (t=6.847, P=0.000), anorectal angle during defecation increased from (123.8±6.7)degree to (134.7±8.5)degree, enlargement of anorectal angle during defecation increased from (29.1±3.5)degree to (37.1±5.3)degree, while no significant differences in descend of perineum, anorectal angles at rest as well as parameters of anorectal manometry were found (all P>0.05). Modified STARR combined with POPFBFT is safe and effective for ODS patients.

The Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Gastrointestinal Quality of Life

Purpose: “The purpose of this research study was to investigate the effect of Puritan’s Pride probiotic on gastrointestinal quality of life of working adults aged 18 to 65years at the Loma Linda Support Services Building.” Methods: Working adults, 18 to 65years of age, from the Loma Linda Support Services Building were eligible to participate in the study. Subjects were excluded if they were taking antibiotics or had taken antibiotics within the previous six months. Subjects who consented were given an initial Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI)1 test and a probiotic supplement for 60days. Subjects’ body composition was also tested during the initial visit. After the 60 days of supplementation, subjects returned to retake the GIQLI and to retest their body composition. Results: Eleven subjects, 1 male and 10 female, reported for post intervention GIQLI and body composition testing. A mean increase of 10.7 (SD= 11.1) in GIQLI scores was found after probiotic supplementation (p= .009). No significant differences were found in pre and post intervention measurements for BMI, body fat, and weight. The best predictor of post intervention GIQLI scores was pre intervention GIQLI scores. Conclusion: There was an improvement in the related gastrointestinal quality of life in our subjects as shown through a significant increase in GIQLI scores and subjects’ commentary. The best predictor of posttest GIQLI scores was pretest GIQLI scores.

Temporal patterns of hiatus hernia recurrence and hiatal failure: quality of life and recurrence after revision surgery.

Antireflux and paraesophageal hernia repair surgery is increasingly performed and there is an increased requirement for revision hiatus hernia surgery. There are no reports on the changes in types of failures and/or the variations in location of crural defects over time following primary surgery and limited reports on the outcomes of revision surgery. The aim of this study is to report the changes in types of hernia recurrence and location of crural defects following primary surgery, to test our hypothesis of the temporal events leading to hiatal recurrence and aid prevention. Quality of life scores following revision surgery are also reported, in one of the largest and longest follow-up series in revision hiatus surgery. Review of a single-surgeon database of all revision hiatal surgery between 1992 and 2015. The type of recurrence and the location of crural defect were noted intraoperatively. Recurrence was diagnosed on gastroscopy and/or contrast study. Quality of life outcomes were measured using Visick, dysphagia, atypical reflux symptoms, satisfaction scores, and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). Two-hundred eighty four patients (126 male, 158 female), median age 60.8(48.2-69.1), underwent revision hiatal surgery. Median follow-up following primary surgery was 122.8(75.3-180.3) and 91.6(40.5-152.5) months after revision surgery. The most common type of hernia recurrence in the early period after primary surgery was 'telescope'(42.9%), but overall, fundoplication apparatus transhiatal migration was consistently the predominant type of recurrence at 1-3 years (54.3%), 3-5 years (42.5%), 5-10 years (45.1%), and >10 years (44.1%). The location of crural defects changed over duration following primary surgery as anteroposterior defects was most common in the early period (45.5% in <1 year) but decreased over time (30.3% at 1-3 years) while anterior defects increased in the long term with 35.9%, 40%, and 42.2% at 3-5 years, 5-10 years, and >10 years, respectively. Revision surgery intraoperative morbidity was 19.7%, mainly gastric (9.5%) and esophageal (2.1%) perforation. There was a 75% follow-up rate and recurrence following revision surgery was 15.4%(44/284) in unscreened population and 21%(44/212) in screened population. There was no difference in recurrence rate based on size of hiatus hernia at primary surgery, or at revision surgery. There were significant improvements in the Visick score (3.3 vs. 2.4), the modified Dakkak score (23.2 vs. 15.4), the atypical reflux symptom score (23.7 vs. 15.4), and satisfaction scores (0.9 vs. 2.2), but no difference in the various domains (symptom, physical, social, and medical) of the GIQLI scores following revision surgery. Revision hiatal surgery has higher intraoperative morbidity but may achieve adequate long-term satisfaction and quality of life. The most common type of early recurrence following primary surgery is telescoping, and overall is wrap herniation. Anterior crural defects may be strong contributor to late hiatus hernia recurrence. Symptom-specific components of GIQLI, but not the overall GIQLI score, may be required to detect improvements in QOL.

Study of subtotal colectomy combined with psychological intervention in treating slow transit constipation

To investigate the value of psychological intervention in treating slow transit constipation (STC), and to provide the reference to clinical treatment for STC patients with psychological disorder. A total of 94 STC patients with psychological disorder admitted to the Anorectal Hospital of Chengdu from June 2010 to August 2012 were prospectively enrolled and divided into psychological intervention group(subtotal colectomy plus postoperative psychological intervention) and control group (subtotal colectomy without postoperative psychological intervention). Scores of Hamilton depression scale (HAMD), Hamilton anxiety scale(HAMA), Wexner constipation scale (WCS) and gastrointestinal quality-of-life index(GIQLI) were recorded 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after operation. SPSS 17.0 statistical software was used to analyze the data. There were no differences in baseline data, operative time, blood loss, time to the first flatus and time to the first defecation between two groups(all P>0.05). The scores of HAMD and HAMA were significantly reduced in psychological intervention group compared with control group 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after operation (all P<0.05). Ratios of cure, obvious progress, progress and invalidation of depression symptoms in psychological intervention group were 2.6%(1/39), 66.7%(26/39), 25.6%(10/39) and 5.1% (2/39) respectively at postoperative 24-month, which were better than those [0, 34.2%(13/38), 44.7% (17/38) and 21.1%(8/38) respectively] in control group with significant difference(P=0.013). Ratios of cure, obvious progress, progress and invalidation of anxiety symptoms in psychological intervention group were 10.3%(4/39), 53.8%(21/39), 28.2%(11/39) and 7.7%(3/39) respectively at postoperative 24-month, which were better than those [0, 28.9%(11/38), 55.3%(21/38) and 15.8%(6/38) respectively] in control group with significant difference (P=0.011). The WCS scores in psychological intervention group were lower than those in control group 6, 12, 24 months after operation (all P<0.05). The GIQLI scores in psychological intervention group were higher than those in control group 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after operation(all P<0.05). Subtotal colectomy combined with psychological intervention not only can significantly improve psychological disorder, but also increase the efficacy of surgery in the treatment of slow transit constipation patients with psychological disorder.

Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Improves Significantly After Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass-a Prospective Cross-Sectional Study Within a 2-Year Follow-up.

Morbidly obese patients have lower quality of life (QOL) when compared to the general population. So far, no studies have compared gender and procedural differences in gastrointestinal QOL after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Patients before and after bariatric surgery completed the gastrointestinal quality of life index (GIQLI), a 36-item questionnaire with five subscores. Differences between SG and RYGB were analyzed, as were gender differences. Some 186 patients completed the questionnaire, 75 before surgery, 56 within 6months, and 55 within 24months after surgery. Total GIQLI score and all subscores were significantly better within 24months after surgery (80.9±19.2 vs. 109.2±17.7, p<0.001). The specific gastrointestinal items 'feeling of fullness', 'eating pleasure', 'slow speed of eating', and 'diarrhea' were also significantly better after surgery whereas many other gastrointestinal items were not different. Total GIQLI score was significantly higher for SG than for RYGB within 6months, while there were no significant differences within 24months after surgery. There were also no significant differences in specific gastrointestinal items between SG and RYGB within 24months after surgery and in total GIQLI score between female and male patients. Total GIQLI score and all subscores were higher within 24months after bariatric surgery. Total GIQLI score was significantly higher after SG when compared to RYGB within 6months, but not different within 24months after surgery. There was no difference in total GIQLI score between female and male patients.

Predictors of Diarrhea after Hepatectomy and Its Impact on Gastrointestinal Quality of Life in Living Donors.

BackgroundDonor safety and preservation of donor health after living liver donation are of paramount importance. Diarrhea has a significant influence on gastrointestinal quality of life among donors who have undergone living donor hepatectomy. Thus, we aimed to investigate predictors of diarrhea after hepatectomy and its impact on gastrointestinal quality of life in living donors.MethodsWe retrospectively examined the medical records of 204 living liver donors who underwent hepatectomy during the period January 2010 to June 2013 at a single medical center. Diarrhea was defined as the passing of three or more liquid stools per day. The Chinese version of the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) was used to assess the influence of diarrhea on quality of life in donors.ResultsDuring the study period, diarrhea was diagnosed in 62 (30.3%) of the 204 donors and the duration of diarrhea in the majority of them (n = 46, 74%) was <12 months. Risk factors associated with diarrhea included age [risk ratio (RR) = 0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79–0.89, risk difference = 16%], and chronic cholecystitis (RR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.24–0.99, risk difference = 52%). Compared to donors without diarrhea, donors with diarrhea had lower GIQLI scores in the following GIQLI domains: GI symptoms (1.8 vs. 3.6), physical function (2.1 vs. 3.5), emotional function (3.0 vs. 3.6), social function (3.3 vs. 3.7), and treatment reaction (2.6 vs. 3.7).ConclusionsOur findings show that younger donors and those without chronic cholecystitis are at increased risk for diarrhea after living donor hepatectomy and that diarrhea is associated with lower GIQLI scores after hepatectomy.

Surgery versus conservative management for recurrent and ongoing left-sided diverticulitis (DIRECT trial): an open-label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial

Patients with recurrent or persisting complaints after an episode of left-sided diverticulitis are managed with either conservative measures or elective sigmoidectomy. To date, there are no data from randomised trials. We aimed to establish which treatment leads to a better quality of life for patients with diverticulitis. We did an open-label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial (DIRECT trial) in 24 teaching and two academic hospitals in the Netherlands. Patients aged 18-75 years presenting with either recurrent (three or more presentations with clinical signs of acute diverticulitis within 2 years) or persistent abdominal complaints (ongoing lower left abdominal pain or persistent change in bowel habits for ≥3 months) after an episode of left-sided diverticulitis, confirmed by CT, ultrasound, or endoscopy, were included. Patients were excluded if they had previous elective or emergency surgery for acute sigmoid diverticulitis, an absolute operation indication, suspicion of a colorectal malignancy, with a preoperative or postoperative risk greater than III (on the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification), or were unable to complete questionnaire or follow-up. Patients were randomly assigned (3:3) to receive conservative management or elective (laparoscopic) sigmoidectomy using a digital randomisation system, stratified by type of disease and centre, with a block size of six. Patients, physicians, and researchers were not masked to treatment allocation. Our primary endpoint was health-related quality of life, measured by the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) at 6 months after inclusion or surgery, depending on randomisation group. This trial is registered with trialregister.nl, number NTR1478, and is closed for inclusion. Between July 1, 2010, and April 1, 2014, we randomly assigned 109 patients to receive surgical treatment (resection; n=53) or conservative management (n=56), after which the Data Safety and Monitoring Board prematurely terminated the trial because of increasing difficulties in recruitment. 47 (89%) of 53 patients received surgical treatment and 43 (77%) of 56 patients received conservative management. The GIQLI score at 6 months' follow-up was significantly higher in patients randomly assigned to receive surgical treatment (mean 114·4 [SD 22·3]) than conservative management (100·4 [22·7]; mean difference 14·2, 95% CI 7·2-21·1, p<0·0001). 43 (38%) of 109 patients had a severe adverse event in the first 6 months after treatment (18 [34%] of 53 patients in the surgical treatment group vs 23 [40%] of 57 patients in the conservative treatment group). Seven (15%) patients who received surgical treatment developed anastomotic leakage. Of the 56 patients assigned to be treated conservatively, 13 (23%) ultimately underwent elective resection due to ongoing abdominal complaints, with no anastomotic leakage. We recorded no patient deaths. Elective sigmoidectomy, despite its inherent risk of complications, results in better quality of life than conservative management in patients with recurrent and persisting abdominal complaints after an episode of diverticulitis. Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development.

A COMPARISON OF EFECTIVENESS, AND AN ASSESSMENT OF THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY AND ROUX-EN-Y GASTRIC BYPASS

Morbid obesity is nowadays one of the major problems of well developed countries. Treatment of this disease comprises many modalities, but the most successful are surgical ones. With the advent of laparoscopic operations it became clear that these are particularly useful for operation in obese patients due to their minimal invasiveness. The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness and quality of life of patients operated on for morbid obesity by laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric by-pass (LRYGB) by one surgeon in one surgical centre. Between 2006-2011 in the Department of General and Vascular Surgery, Szczecin-Zdunowo Specialist Hospital, 74 morbidly obese patients (54 F, 20 M) were operated on by two methods. Mean age (42.4 and 45 years), and body mass index (46.5 ± 8.9 kg/m2 for LSG and 45.1 ± 4.4 kg/m2 for LRYGB) respectively, were comparable. One surgeon in one centre performed LSG in 33 patients (24 F, 9 M) and LRYGB in 41 patients (30 F, 11 M). An independent observer evaluated patients at times of up to 6 months (37 pts), and after 7 months to 36 months (37 pts) postoperatively. Quality of life was assessed by the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaire, with accessory questions concerning sexual, physical and other activities before and after intervention. There were no serious short or long term complications in either group of patients, although one patient in each group felt permanent postoperative discomfort (2.44% and 3.03%). Percentages of excess weight loss in both groups were similar and reached after 6 months 38.5% for LSG, 39.9% for LRYGB, and after 7-36 months 64.5% for LSG, 66.9% for LRYGB respectively. Quality of life assessment revealed significantly lower values in core symptoms for patients after LRYGB compared to LSG, but after LSG constipation was slightly more frequent. However, the general GIQLI score for patients after both types of surgery was statistically insignificant (110.6 for LSG versus 108.7 for LRYGB). In both groups sexual and physical activities significantly improved after operation. There were no significant differences in effectiveness and quality of life in patients after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric by-pass.

Medium-term durability of giant hiatus hernia repair without mesh.

Introduction This is the second report on objective review of 100 patients who underwent composite fundoplication-cardiopexy for repair of giant hiatus hernia (GHH) at a median of 24 months following surgery. Outcomes were objective follow-up by endoscopy and quality of life (QoL) by Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), modified Visick scores and dysphagia scores. The initial report for this cohort suggested a low objective recurrence rate (9%) and substantial improvements in QoL indices. Methods The rate of hernia recurrence was assessed with Kaplan-Meier analysis and covariates were analysed with the Cox proportional hazards model. Paired t-tests and related samples Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare QoL scores. Unpaired data were compared with the independent samples t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results Objective review was obtained in 97% of the patients. There were five recurrences of hernias that had a vertical height of >2cm from the diaphragmatic hiatus, with three patients requiring reoperation for severe dysphagia. Small recurrences (<2cm) occurred in 20 patients. The median time to recurrence was 40 months (95% confidence interval: 34-46 months). At two years, recurrence of any size had occurred in 24% of cases. At follow-up review (median: 27 months), the mean GIQLI score was 109 (p=0.279), the median modified Visick score was 2 (p=0.954) and the median dysphagia score was 41 (p=0.623). There was no evidence that the GIQLI score (p=0.089), the modified Visick score (p=0.339) or the dysphagia score (p=0.445) changed significantly after recurrence. Conclusions There was a sustained improvement in overall QoL and reflux scores after GHH repair. QoL scores showed persistent improvement in reflux and overall health, even in the subgroup with recurrence. The majority (80%) of recurrences were small and recurrent herniation did not appear to significantly change QoL. The rates of recurrence and QoL are comparable with those for other methods of repair.

Consistency of patient-reported outcomes after cholecystectomy and their implications on current surgical practice: a prospective multicenter cohort study

BackgroundPersistent postoperative pain (up to 41 %) and significant practice variation necessitate better patient selection for cholecystectomy. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are nowadays known to serve as a tool for better patient selection, although variability within these subjective outcomes may be a point for debate. This study determines associations of both the preoperative pain and patient characteristics with PROMs at 24 weeks after cholecystectomy. In order to evaluate variability of PROMs, we also determined consistency of these outcomes in time.MethodsThis prospective multicenter cohort study included adult patients diagnosed with uncomplicated symptomatic cholecystolithiasis. Twenty-four weeks after surgery, a questionnaire study was carried out, containing Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) and Patients’ Experience of Surgery Questionnaire. Results were compared to preoperative data and results 12 weeks post-cholecystectomy. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine associations. Additional post hoc analysis on associations between preoperative selection criteria and PROMs was done.ResultsA total of 360 patients (85 %) responded. Postoperative absence of pain was reported by 59.2 %. Associated characteristics were symptoms ≤1 year prior to surgery [OR 1.85 (95 % CI 1.11–3.09)] and high baseline GIQLI score [OR 1.04 (95 % CI 1.02–1.05)]. General improvement in abdominal symptoms and positive result of surgery were found in 90 %; no preoperative variables were significantly associated. PROMs showed consistency at 12 and 24 weeks postoperatively. Post hoc analysis showed no significant associations.ConclusionPROM-based preoperative selection criteria need to be considered to select those patients who achieve freedom of pain after surgical treatment of uncomplicated symptomatic cholecystolithiasis. Other patients might consider cholecystectomy as successful, but are less likely to be free of pain. Usefulness of PROMs is underscored as they proved to be consistent in time in evaluating surgical outcome.

Bowel function and quality of life after superior mesenteric nerve plexus transection in right colectomy with D3 extended mesenterectomy.

The aim of this study was to ascertain the impact of injury to the superior mesenteric nerve plexus caused by right colectomy with D3 extended mesenterectomy as performed in the prospective multicenter trial: "Safe Radical D3 Right Hemicolectomy for Cancer through Preoperative Biphasic Multi-detector Computed Tomography" in which all soft tissue surrounding the superior mesenteric vessels from the level of the middle colic artery to that of the ileocolic artery was removed. Bowel function and gastrointestinal quality of life in two consecutive cohorts that underwent right colectomy with and without D3 extended mesenterectomy were compared. Main outcome measures were the Diarrhea Assessment Scale (DAS) and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). The data were collected prospectively through telephone interviews. Forty-nine patients per group, comparable for age, sex, length of bowel resected but with significantly shorter follow-up time in the experimental group, were included. There was no difference in total DAS scores, subscores or additional questions except for higher bowel frequency scores in the D3 group (p=0.02). Comparison of total GIQLI scores and subscales showed no difference between groups. Regression analysis with correction for confounding factors showed 0.48 lower bowel frequency scores in the D2 group (p=0.022). Within the D3 group presence of jejunal arteries cranial to the D3 dissection area showed 1.78 lower DAS scores and 0.7 lower bowel frequency scores. Small bowel denervation after right colectomy with D3 extended mesenterectomy leads to increased bowel frequency but does not impact gastrointestinal quality of life. Individual anatomical variants can affect postoperative bowel function differently despite standardized surgery.

Revisional single-anastomosis gastric bypass for a failed restrictive procedure: 5-year results

BackgroundLong-term outcomes of revisional laparoscopic single anastomosis-gastric bypass for a failed restrictive procedure (rSAGB) have not been analyzed. ObjectivesTo assess 5-year outcomes of rSAGB compared with 5-year outcomes of primary SAGB (pSAGB). SettingUniversity public hospital, France. MethodsOne hundred twenty-six patients who underwent SAGB between October 2006 and October 2008 were included in this retrospective study. rSAGB was defined as SAGB performed after failure of a first restrictive procedure. Five-year outcomes of each procedure regarding mortality, morbidity (i.e., Clavien-Dindo score), weight loss (change in body mass index [BMI] and percentage of excess BMI loss [%EBMIL]), co-morbidities remission, and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) score, were assessed. ResultsThirty patients (24%) who had prior restrictive bariatric surgery (including 22 laparoscopic adjustable gastric bandings, 4 vertical banded gastroplasties, and 4 sleeve gastrectomies) underwent conversion to rSAGB. Ninety-six patients (76%) underwent primary SAGB (pSAGB group). Both groups were comparable in age, gender, BMI, and preoperative co-morbidities. Preoperative mean BMI of the rSAGB group was 45.5±7 kg/m2. There were no deaths and the major complications rate was 10%. No increase in morbidity was found between the 2 groups. Two patients required conversion to RYGB after rSAGB because of intractable biliary reflux. At 5 years, mean BMI was 32 kg/m2 and mean %EBMIL was 66% after rSAGB; no significant differences were found compared with pSAGB (BMI = 31 kg/m2, %EBMIL = 73%). Co-morbidities and remission rates were statically similar. Overall, GIQLI score was significantly lower in the rSAGB group (104.1±17.6 versus 112.5±16.8, P = .025). Significant differences were found in “upper gastrointestinal symptoms” and “psychological” scores. ConclusionAt 5 years, rSAGB for a failed restrictive procedure was safe and effective, but quality of life and upper gastrointestinal function were lower compared with pSAGB.

How Do Quality-of-Life and Gastrointestinal Symptoms Differ Between Post-cholecystectomy Patients and the Background Population?

Previous studies have indicated a correlation between indication for cholecystectomy and long-term gastrointestinal quality-of-life (QoL). The aim of the present study was to compare QoL in a post-cholecystectomy cohort with the background population and with historical controls. A post-cholecystectomy study group (on average 4 years after cholecystectomy) was compared with a control group from the background population using the Gastrointestinal Quality-of-Life Index (GIQLI). EQ-5D scores were compared with expected scores derived from recent historical data. The post-cholecystectomy study group (N=451) had better QoL measured by the EQ-5D compared with historical controls (p<0.001), similar total GIQLI scores as the control group (N=390), but scored worse on the GIQLI gastrointestinal symptoms subscale score (p<0.001). The results include an item-by-item breakdown of the GIQLI questionnaire where the scores for diarrhea, bowel urgency, bloating, regurgitation, abdominal pain, flatus, fullness, nausea, uncontrolled stools, belching, heartburn, restricted eating, and bowel frequency were found to be significantly lower (i.e. worse) in the post-cholecystectomy cohort than in the control group. The opposite was true for relationships, endurance, sexual life, physical strength, feeling fit, not being frustrated by illness, and being able to carry out leisure activities, i.e. items related to general performance and well-being. In this study, QoL after cholecystectomy was good, but there was an increased prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms compared to the background population.