Left-sided Colorectal Resections Research Articles

Transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction surgery for left-sided colorectal resection: A single-centre cohort study.

Transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) is an innovative and feasible approach for left-sided colorectal resections in females. This study aimed to report our experience with transvaginal NOSES for left-sided laparoscopic colorectal resections. We analysed data for all patients with transvaginal extraction performed for left-sided laparoscopic colorectal resections between 2011 and 2021 at a tertiary teaching hospital in Taiwan. The 18 post-menopausal patients were of a mean age of 69.2 ± 10.14 years. The lesions were located at the descending ( n = 5), sigmoid colon ( n = 12) and rectum ( n = 1). The operative time was 262.5 ± 83.91 min, and the blood loss was 34 ± 35.98 mL. All patients had an end-to-end anastomosis, and the anastomotic height was 15.06 ± 8.57 cm. Two patients received diversion stoma. The mean length of hospital stay was 5.1 days (standard deviation ± 2.42; range: 3-12 days). There were no cases of clinical infection. The pathology was malignancy ( n = 14, 77.8%), diverticulitis ( n = 2, 11.2%) and benign ( n = 2, 11.2%). In cancers, they were Stage I ( n = 1, 7.1%), IIa ( n = 1, 7.1%), IIIb ( n = 15, 78.7%) and IV ( n = 1, 7.1%). Malignant specimens ( n = 14) were mostly moderately differentiated ( n = 11, 78.6%), with two poorly differentiated (14.3%) and one well-differentiated (7.1%). The lymph nodes harvested were 16.1 ± 8.11. The widest dimension of the lesion was 3.43 cm ± 1.28 (range: 1.5-6) and the length of the specimen was 14.69 cm ± 5.01 (range: 8-27). Transvaginal NOSES is safe and feasible for left-sided colorectal resection. Factors to consider are the characteristics of the specimen, anal canal and vagina.

Effect of a colorectal bundle in an entire healthcare region in Switzerland: results from a prospective cohort study (EvaCol study).

Standardization has the potential to serve as a measure to mitigate complication rates. The objective was to assess the impact of standardization by implementing a colorectal bundle (CB), which comprises nine elements, on the complication rates in left-sided colorectal resections. This prospective, multicentre, observational, cohort trial was conducted in Switzerland at nine participating hospitals. During the control period, each patient was treated in accordance with the local standard protocol at their respective hospital. In the CB period, all patients were treated in accordance with the CB. The primary endpoint was the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) at 30 days. A total of 1141 patients were included (723 in the No CB group and 418 in the CB group). The median age was 66 years, and 50.6% were female. Median CCI before and after CB implementation was 0.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.0-20.9). A hurdle model approach was used for the analysis. The CB was not associated with the presence or severity of complications. Older age (odds ratio [OR] 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00-1.03), surgery for malignancy (OR 1.34, 95% CI: 1.01-1.92), emergency surgery (OR 2.19, 95% CI: 1.31-3.41), elevated nutritional risk score (OR 1.13, 95% CI: 1.01-1.24), and BMI (OR 1.04, 95% CI: 1.00-1.06) were associated with higher odds of postoperative complications. In a supplementary per-protocol analysis, for each additional item of the CB fulfilled, the odds of anastomotic leakage (AL) were 24% lower (OR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.64-0.93). Dedicated teams can establish high-quality colorectal services in a network of hospitals with a joint standard. The study can serve as a model for other healthcare settings to conduct and implement quality improvement programs. The consistent implementation of the CB items can reduce the occurrence of AL.

Is end-to-end or side-to-end anastomotic configuration associated with risk of positive intraoperative air leak test in left-sided colon and rectal resections for colon and rectal cancers?

BackgroundAnastomotic leak following colorectal resection is associated with morbidity, mortality, and poor bowel function. Minimal data exists on the relationship between anastomotic technique, intraoperative leak test, and subsequent clinical leak, particularly on the utility of performing end-to-end versus non-end-to-end anastomoses to avoid postoperative leaks. This study’s aim was to analyze potential associations between anastomotic construction, intraoperative anastomotic assessments, and clinical leak. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients at a tertiary care center with colorectal cancer, who underwent left-sided colorectal resections with colorectal or coloanal anastomoses, comparing anastomotic technique. Outcomes were rates of intraoperative air leak, incomplete anastomotic donuts, and postoperative clinical leak. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate potential association between anastomotic technique and intraoperative anastomotic assessments and subsequent leak. Results/OutcomesAmong 844 patients, 27 (3.2%) had intraoperative leak, 6 (0.7%) had incomplete donuts, and 27 (3.2%) experienced clinical leak. 500 (59.2%) patients had end-to-end anastomoses and 344 (40.7%) had non-end-to-end. There were no significant differences in demographics or comorbidities between groups (p>0.05) or rate of incomplete donuts (p=0.07). End-to-end anastomosis was associated with significantly more intraoperative air leaks than non-end-to-end on univariate (4.9% vs 1.2%, p=0.005) and multivariate analysis (OR 3.6; 95% CI 1.01-12.5, p= 0.049). There was no difference in postoperative clinical leak between groups on univariate (3.0% vs 3.5%, p=0.69) or multivariate analysis (OR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.40-2.34; p=0.94). ConclusionEnd-to-end anastomosis is associated with higher rates of intraoperative air leak than non-end-to-end anastomosis, even after adjusting for potential confounders.

Fluorescence imaging in reducing anastomotic leak after left-sided colorectal resections: a systematic review and updated meta-analysis.

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to pool randomized trials of patients undergoing left-sided colorectal anastomosis, comparing the use of fluorescence perfusion imaging versus visual inspection in reducing anastomotic leaks. Databases searched included PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINHAL (EBSCO), and Google Scholar based on the concepts: randomized, colorectal, anastomotic leak, and fluorescence imaging. The risk of bias was assessed using RoB2 and the certainty of the evidence with the GRADE Pro tool. The analysis used the log odds ratio for dichotomous data with 95% confidence intervals. Back-transformation of the log odds to odds ratio was performed for the summary of findings. All syntheses used the Random-effects model. Six randomized trials were included with 1949 patients and 204 events (leaks). Three trials included exclusively rectal cancer patients, while the other three involved benign and malignant pathologies of the sigmoid and rectum. The use of ostomy and preoperative radiation was variable. None of the studies had a high risk of bias. The pooled odds ratio for anastomotic leak reduction with Indocyanine Green (ICG) fluorescence was 0.586 (95% CI: 0.434-0.792). An absolute reduction of 4.7% in leak rates was observed, with no statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 0; p = 0.529). Due to clinical heterogeneity, the quality of evidence was rated moderate. The use of ICG is associated with reduced leak rates following left-sided colorectal anastomosis with moderate confidence. ICG may be considered a standard of care given the clinically significant benefit in decreasing anastomotic leaks.

An extraperitoneal single-port robotic approach to low anterior resection-Cadaveric experience.

A minimally invasive surgery (MIS) extraperitoneal (XP) approach to left-sided colorectal resection utilizing the laparoscopic approach has recently been shown to be safe and feasible and to have potential advantages over the transperitoneal approach, especially in high-risk surgical patients. The aim of this article is to provide a first cadaveric demonstration of the use of a single-port robotic platform in performing XP low anterior resection by MIS. A single-port robotic platform (DaVinci®SP™) was used to perform XP single-port low anterior resection in two cadavers with body mass indexes (BMIs) of 19 and 40 kg/m2. The single-port robotic platform with versatile arms was successfully used to perform a complete low anterior resection with splenic flexure mobilization and total mesorectal excision through a single port. A single-port robotic platform enhances complete XP dissection in the supine patient in extreme BMI ranges. Clinical studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Anastomotic leak rate following the implementation of a powered circular stapler in elective colorectal surgeries: a retrospective cohort study.

The objective of this study was to compare the anastomotic leak rates between powered and manual circular staplers in elective left-sided colorectal resections. A retrospective cohort study of elective left-sided colorectal resections before and after implementation of a powered circular stapler at a tertiary care center was conducted. The manual stapler group consisted of consecutive resections performed between January 2016 to December 2016 and the powered stapler group, between September 2021 and December 2022. Primary outcome was 30-day anastomotic leak rate. A chi-squared analysis was performed to compare anastomotic leak rates. Factors associated with anastomotic leak were examined. Two-hundred forty-seven patients were included: 154 in the manual stapler group and 93 in the powered stapler group. Mean (SD) age was 60 (15) years old, 37.7% were female and 72.9% of resections were performed for malignancy. Both groups had similar patient characteristics and surgical technique. Overall leak rate was 2.0% in the manual stapler group and 10.8% in the powered stapler group. The powered staplers were found to have 6.06 times the odds of leak compared to manual staplers (95% CI, 1.62-22.65; p = 0.01). None of the other factors were found to be associated with anastomotic leak. Patients who had left-sided colorectal anastomosis had higher anastomotic leak rates with powered compared to manual circular staplers. This finding is contrary to previous retrospective studies that found lower leak rates with powered staplers.

Modified Rosi–Cahill technique after left extended colectomy for splenic flexure advanced tumors

Advanced splenic flexure tumors are uncommon and have a higher risk of relapse. To ensure that the resection includes the entire area of lymphatic drainage with a complete mesocolic excision (CME), a left extended colectomy is needed. In peritoneal carcinomatosis, there is often extensive involvement of the sigma and splenic flexure of the colon. In many instances, total colectomies are chosen for these patients, even when a significant portion of the colon could be preserved. The potential impact on quality of life after splenic flexure colon resection is discussed, as well as the importance of anatomical knowledge and expertise in performing this type of surgery. Overall, this work presents a modified technique that aims to improve the outcomes and quality of life for patients with splenic flexure colon cancer. Creating a tension-free anastomosis after extended left-sided colorectal resection is challenging. There is a negative impact on quality of life when an ileorectal anastomosis is created. The colorectal anastomosis performed after modified Rosi–Cahill or Deloyers’ technique allows reduced small bowel bacterial overgrowth, achieves better water and sodium absorption, and altogether permits improved stool consistency. There are potential advantages of the Rosi–Cahill technique over other popular options such as Deloyers’ procedure as there is no torsion of the ileocolic vessels and no mesenteric windows. A video was recorded showing a potential pitfall during Deloyers’ technique resulting in the creation of a mesenteric window. The proper rotation of the colon during the modified Rosi–Cahill procedure was also filmed. Overall, this work presents a modified technique for reconstruction after left extended colectomy that aims to improve the outcomes and quality of life for patients with splenic flexure colon cancer.

Intraoperative left-sided colorectal anastomotic testing in clinical practice: a multi-treatment machine-learning analysis of the iCral3 prospective cohort.

Current evidence about intraoperative anastomotic testing after left-sided colorectal resections is still controversial. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of Indocyanine Green fluorescent angiography (ICG-FA) and air-leak test (ALT) over standard assessment on anastomotic leakage (AL) rates according to surgeon's perception of anastomosis perfusion and/or integrity in clinical practice. A database of 2061 patients who underwent left-sided colorectal resections was selected from patients enrolled in a prospective multicenter study. It was retrospectively analyzed through a multi-treatment machine-learning model considering standard visual assessment (NW; No. = 899; 43.6%) as the reference treatment arm, compared to ICG-FA alone (WP; No. = 409; 19.8%), ALT alone (WI; No. = 420; 20.4%) or both (WPI; No. = 333; 16.2%). Twenty-four covariates potentially affecting the outcomes were included and balanced into the model within the subgroups. The primary endpoint was AL, the secondary endpoints were overall morbidity (OM), major morbidity (MM), reoperation for AL, and mortality. All the results were reported as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The WPI subgroup showed significantly higher AL risk (OR 1.91; 95% CI 1.02-3.59; p 0.043), MM risk (OR 2.35; 95% CI 1.39-3.97; p 0.001), and reoperation for AL risk (OR 2.44; 95% CI 1.12-5.31; p 0.025). No other significant differences were recorded. This study showed that the surgeons' perception of both anastomotic perfusion and integrity (WPI subgroup) was associated to a significantly higher risk of AL and related morbidity, notwithstanding the extensive use of both ICG-FA and ALT testing.

Clinical Utility of Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging and Real-Time Quantification of Bowel Perfusion in Minimally Invasive Left-Sided Colorectal Resections.

Left-sided colorectal surgery demonstrates high anastomotic leak rates, with tissue ischemia thought to influence outcomes. Indocyanine green is commonly used for perfusion assessment, but evidence remains mixed for whether it reduces colorectal anastomotic leaks. Laser speckle contrast imaging provides dye-free perfusion assessment in real-time through perfusion heat maps and quantification. This study investigates the efficacy of advanced visualization (indocyanine green versus laser speckle contrast imaging), perfusion assessment, and utility of laser speckle perfusion quantification in determining ischemic margins. Prospective intervention group using advanced visualization with case-matched, retrospective control group. Single academic medical center. Forty adult patients undergoing elective, minimally invasive, left-sided colorectal surgery. Intraoperative perfusion assessment using white light imaging and advanced visualization at 3 time points: T1-proximal colon after devascularization, before transection, T2-proximal/distal colon before anastomosis, and T3-completed anastomosis. Intraoperative indication of ischemic line of demarcation before resection under each visualization method, surgical decision change using advanced visualization, post hoc laser speckle perfusion quantification of colorectal tissue, and 30-day postoperative outcomes. Advanced visualization changed surgical decision-making in 17.5% of cases. For cases in which surgeons changed a decision, the average discordance between the line of demarcation in white light imaging and advanced visualization was 3.7 cm, compared to 0.41 cm ( p = 0.01) for cases without decision changes. There was no statistical difference between the line of ischemic demarcation using laser speckle versus indocyanine green ( p = 0.16). Laser speckle quantified lower perfusion values for tissues beyond the line of ischemic demarcation while suggesting an additional 1 cm of perfused tissue beyond this line. One (2.5%) anastomotic leak occurred in the intervention group. This study was not powered to detect differences in anastomotic leak rates. Advanced visualization using laser speckle and indocyanine green provides valuable perfusion information that impacts surgical decision-making in minimally invasive left-sided colorectal surgeries. See Video Abstract . ANTECEDENTES:La cirugía colorrectal del lado izquierdo demuestra altas tasas de fuga anastomótica, y se cree que la isquemia tisular influye en los resultados. El verde de indocianina se utiliza habitualmente para evaluar la perfusión, pero la evidencia sobre si reduce las fugas anastomóticas colorrectales sigue siendo contradictoria. Las imágenes de contraste moteado con láser proporcionan una evaluación de la perfusión sin colorantes en tiempo real a través de mapas de calor de perfusión y cuantificación.OBJETIVO:Este estudio investiga la eficacia de la evaluación de la perfusión mediante visualización avanzada (verde de indocianina versus imágenes de contraste moteado con láser) y la utilidad de la cuantificación de la perfusión con moteado láser para determinar los márgenes isquémicos.DISEÑO:Grupo de intervención prospectivo que utiliza visualización avanzada con un grupo de control retrospectivo de casos emparejados.LUGARES:Centro médico académico único.PACIENTES:Cuarenta pacientes adultos sometidos a cirugía colorrectal electiva, mínimamente invasiva, del lado izquierdo.INTERVENCIONES:Evaluación de la perfusión intraoperatoria mediante imágenes con luz blanca y visualización avanzada en tres puntos temporales: T1-colon proximal después de la devascularización, antes de la transección; T2-colon proximal/distal antes de la anastomosis; y T3-anastomosis completa.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACIÓN:Indicación intraoperatoria de la línea de demarcación isquémica antes de la resección bajo cada método de visualización, cambio de decisión quirúrgica mediante visualización avanzada, cuantificación post-hoc de la perfusión con láser moteado del tejido colorrectal y resultados posoperatorios a los 30 días.RESULTADOS:La visualización avanzada cambió la toma de decisiones quirúrgicas en el 17,5% de los casos. Para los casos en los que los cirujanos cambiaron una decisión, la discordancia promedio entre la línea de demarcación en las imágenes con luz blanca y la visualización avanzada fue de 3,7 cm, en comparación con 0,41 cm (p = 0,01) para los casos sin cambios de decisión. No hubo diferencias estadísticas entre la línea de demarcación isquémica utilizando láser moteado versus verde de indocianina (p = 0,16). El moteado con láser cuantificó valores de perfusión más bajos para los tejidos más allá de la línea de demarcación isquémica y al mismo tiempo sugirió 1 cm adicional de tejido perfundido más allá de esta línea. Se produjo una fuga anastomótica (2,5%) en el grupo de intervención.LIMITACIONES:Este estudio no tuvo el poder estadístico suficiente para detectar diferencias en las tasas de fuga anastomótica.CONCLUSIONES:La visualización avanzada utilizando moteado láser y verde de indocianina proporciona información valiosa sobre la perfusión que impacta la toma de decisiones quirúrgicas en cirugías colorrectales mínimamente invasivas del lado izquierdo. (Traducción-Dr. Ingrid Melo).

Intracorporeal antimesenteric ancillary trocar: an anastomotic technique facilitating natural orifice specimen extraction in left-sided colorectal surgery.

Natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) in left-sided colorectal surgery requires application of the circular stapler anvil to the proximal bowel without exteriorization through an additional abdominal incision. We describe an intracorporeal method to secure the stapler anvil, termed the intracorporeal antimesenteric ancillary trocar (IAAT) technique. The ancillary trocar is attached to the stapler anvil before introduction into the abdominal cavity through the anal or vaginal orifice. The colon is incised before the trocar spike is brought out through the antimesenteric surface 3-4 cm within the cut edge. A linear stapler is used to seal the bowel end. The ancillary trocar is detached and retrieved via the NOSE conduit. Following the NOSE procedure, a side-to-end colorectal anastomosis is performed with the transanal circular stapler. Ten consecutive patients underwent elective left-sided colorectal resection with IAAT for NOSE (seven transanal, three transvaginal) from January to June 2023. Median age and body mass index were 66 (range 47-74) years and 24.3 (range 17.9-30.8) kg/m2 respectively. Two (20%) patients underwent sigmoid colectomy for sigmoid volvulus while eight (80%) underwent anterior resection for colorectal cancer. Median operating time, operative blood loss and postoperative length of hospital stay were 170 (range 140-240) min, 20 (range 10-40) mL and 1 (range 1-3) day respectively. There were no postoperative complications, readmissions or reoperations. Median follow-up duration was 3 (range 1-6) months. The IAAT double-stapling side-to-end anastomotic technique is safe and feasible for patients undergoing left-sided colorectal resection with NOSE, resulting in good outcomes.

How to do it: Splenic flexure mobilisation via medial trans-mesocolic approach.

Complete splenic flexure mobilization is a critical step in left-sided colorectal resections. Surgeons use three approaches-anterior, medial, and lateral-to divide peritoneal ligaments connecting the left colon. The decision to perform mobilization varies, with minimal impact on post-operative outcomes but longer surgery times and rare complications. Pancreatic injury risk is low, though other structures, like arteries and the duodenum, may be at risk. Our video outlines the medial trans-mesocolic approach, with the patient positioned in lithotomy. We expose the duodenal-jejunal flexure, ligate the inferior mesenteric vein, and perform medial to lateral dissection, completing splenic flexure mobilization. This video vignette outlines how to perform this technique for left sided colorectal resections.

The roboticNICE procedure outperforms conventional laparoscopic extracorporeal-assisted colorectal resection: results of a matched cohort analysis.

We introduced the robotic NICE procedure for left-sided colorectal resection in 2018 in which the entire procedure is performed without loss of pneumoperitoneum and without an abdominal wall incision by performing natural orifice-assisted transrectal extraction of the specimen and intracorporeal anastomosis. We compare the results of the NICE procedure versus conventional laparoscopic resection, which was our standard approach prior to 2018. A matched pair case-control study compared patients following the NICE procedure versus those who underwent laparoscopic left-sided colorectal resection with conventional extracorporeal-assisted technique. Cases were performed at an Academic Medical Center and recorded in a prospective database to analyze perioperative outcomes. From a total cohort of 352 patients, 83 were matched in each group. When comparing the NICE procedure vs. the Extracorporeal-Assisted laparoscopic group, there were no significant differences in age (58.5 vs. 59.3years old), sex (47 vs. 42 Female), body mass index (27.4 vs. 27.5kg/m2), ASA, diagnosis, or type of surgery. Operative time (198.8 vs. 197.7min), blood loss (56.0 vs. 53.3ml), intraoperative complications (0.0% vs. 0.0%), and conversion rates (0.0% vs. 0.0%) were similar in both groups. The NICE procedure was associated with significantly earlier return of bowel function (40.7 vs. 23.6h), shorter length of stay (3.1 vs. 2.2days), and lower total opioid use (94.6 vs. 70.5 morphine milligram equivalents). Overall, there were no differences in postoperative abscess formation, complications, readmission, or reoperation rates. When compared to conventional laparoscopic resection, the NICE procedure is associated with short-term benefits including earlier recovery and less opioid use without increased operative time or increased risk of complications. Multicenter studies are recommended to validate benefits and limitations of this technique.

Extraperitoneal approach to left-sided colorectal resections (EXPERTS procedure).

Extraperitoneal approach to left-sided colorectal resections (EXPERTS procedure).

Three-row versus two-row circular staplers for left-sided colorectal anastomosis: a propensity score-matched analysis of the iCral 2 and 3 prospective cohorts.

Since most anastomoses after left-sided colorectal resections are performed with a circular stapler, any technological change in stapling devices may influence the incidence of anastomotic adverse events. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of a three-row circular stapler on anastomotic leakage and related morbidity after left-sided colorectal resections. A circular stapled anastomosis was performed in 4255 (50.9%) out of 8359 patients enrolled in two prospective multicenter studies in Italy, and, after exclusion criteria to reduce heterogeneity, 2799 (65.8%) cases were retrospectively analyzed through a 1:1 propensity score-matching model including 20 covariates relative to patient characteristics, to surgery and to perioperative management. Two well-balanced groups of 425 patients each were obtained: group (A) - true population of interest, anastomosis performed with a three-row circular stapler; group (B) - control population, anastomosis performed with a two-row circular stapler. The target of inferences was the average treatment effect in the treated (ATT). The primary endpoints were overall and major anastomotic leakage and overall anastomotic bleeding; the secondary endpoints were overall and major morbidity and mortality rates. The results of multiple logistic regression analyses for the outcomes, including the 20 covariates selected for matching, were presented as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Group A versus group B showed a significantly lower risk of overall anastomotic leakage (2.1 vs. 6.1%; OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.15-0.73; P =0.006), major anastomotic leakage (2.1 vs. 5.2%; OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.17-0.87; P =0.022), and major morbidity (3.5 vs. 6.6% events; OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.24-0.91; P =0.026). The use of three-row circular staplers independently reduced the risk of anastomotic leakage and related morbidity after left-sided colorectal resection. Twenty-five patients were required to avoid one leakage.

Impact of a digital surgical workflow including Digital Device Briefing Tool on morbidity and mortality in a patient population undergoing primary stapled colorectal anastomosis for benign or malignant colorectal disease: protocol for a multicentre prospective cohort study

IntroductionWith growing emphasis on surgical safety, it appears fundamental to assess the safety of colorectal resection involving primary stapled anastomosis. Surgical stapling devices can considerably foster patient safety in colorectal...

Patient experiences of left-sided colorectal resection by robotic, conventional laparoscopic and open approaches: a qualitative study.

Robotic surgery (RS) is increasingly employed in colorectal surgical practice, widening the range of surgical techniques offered to patients. We investigated the perceptions of patients with colorectal cancer in relation to RS, open surgery (OS) and conventional laparoscopic surgery (CLS), to identify ideas or assumptions which, in the context of shared surgeon-patient decision-making, may affect the resultant choice of surgical technique. We also investigated salient factors affecting patients' perioperative experience, including those of RS patients, to guide improvements in care and preoperative patient preparation. This study was conducted on patients who underwent resection of left-sided colorectal cancer at a large UK teaching hospital from November 2020 to July 2021. Purposive sampling was used to ensure a roughly equal proportion of patients who underwent RS, CLS and OS. The patients included in the study participated in semi-structured interviews sixweeks postoperatively. The interview schedule allowed discussion around patients' experience of their surgery and postoperative recovery, and their perceptions of surgical techniques. Interview transcripts were coded manually using inductive thematic analysis, and analyst triangulation was employed to refine coding schemes and ensure reliability of emerging themes. Twenty-seven patients were recruited to the study; RS n = 9 (median age 69 [range 60-80] years); CLS n = 10 (median age 72 [range 32-82] years; OS n = 8 (median age 71 [range 60-75] years). Patients understood the technological benefits of RS but were concerned by a risk of technological failure causing patient harm. OS was understood to be associated with more pain and longer recovery than RS or CLS. Patients perceived CLS to be more technically challenging compared with OS. Less pain and smaller wounds than expected were significant positive factors in the experience of RS and CLS patients specifically. Complications and emotional impact were significant factors in the experience of all groups, for which many patients felt underprepared. Patients generally have a positive view of RS and technical innovation in surgery. Concerns mostly centred around failure of technology. Many patients felt unprepared for significant factors in their perioperative experience. Surgeons and healthcare providers should be prepared to address patients' perceptions and expectations of colorectal surgery preoperatively.

Comparison of Midline and Off-midline specimen extraction following laparoscopic left-sided colorectal resections: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study aims to evaluate comparative outcomes following midline versus off-midline specimen extractions following laparoscopic left-sided colorectal resections. A systematic search of electronic information sources was conducted. Studies comparing 'midline' versus 'off midline' specimen extraction following laparoscopic left-sided colorectal resections performed for malignancies were included. The rate of incisional hernia formation, surgical site infection (SSI), total operative time and blood loss, anastomotic leak (AL) and length of hospital stay (LOS) was the evaluated outcome parameters. Five comparative observational studies reporting a total of 1187 patients comparing midline (n = 701) and off-midline (n = 486) approaches for specimen extraction were identified. Specimen extraction performed through an off-midline incision was not associated with a significantly reduced rate of SSI (odds ratio [OR]: 0.71; P = 0.68), the occurrence of AL (OR: 0.76; P = 0.66) and future development of incisional hernias (OR: 0.65; P = 0.64) compared to the conventional midline approach. No statistically significant difference was observed in total operative time (mean difference [MD]: 0.13; P = 0.99), intraoperative blood loss (MD: 2.31; P = 0.91) and LOS (MD: 0.78; P = 0.18) between the two groups. Off-midline specimen extraction following minimally invasive left-sided colorectal cancer surgery is associated with similar rates of SSI and incisional hernia formation compared to the vertical midline incision. Furthermore, there were no statistically significant differences observed between the two groups for evaluated outcomes such as total operative time, intra-operative blood loss, AL rate and LOS. As such, we did not find any advantage of one approach over the other. Future high-quality well-designed trials are required to make robust conclusions.

Novel Modality of Endoluminal Anastomotic Integrity Assessment with Fluoroangiography After Left-sided Colorectal Resections

BackgroundSeveral methods have been described for the intraoperative evaluation of colorectal anastomotic integrity. Technological evolution has allowed to progress from basic mechanical methods to the use of more sophisticated techniques. This study describes a novel endoluminal modality of colorectal anastomotic assessment through the use of a Disposable Rigid Scope Introducer (DRSI) also allowing for intraoperative endoluminal perfusion evaluation by indocyanine green (ICG) fluoroangiography in patients undergoing left-sided colorectal resection.MethodsThe DRSI consists of an endoluminal introducer device made up of an insertion tube and port connected to an insufflation bulb to manually insufflate the sigmoid and rectum and is compatible with any laparoscopic camera, also allowing for ICG fluoroangiography for perfusion purposes.ResultsThe DRSI was successfully used to assess anastomotic integrity after left-sided colorectal resections performed in 16 consecutive patients. The DRSI allowed to visualize by fluoroangiography the quality of tissue perfusion at the anastomotic site in all cases, contributing to the decision of avoiding loop ileostomies in low rectal resections. In 2 cases, the DRSI showed the presence of significant anastomotic bleeding which was successfully controlled by laparoscopic suture placement. No adverse event resulted from the use of this device.ConclusionsThe DRSI combines direct endoluminal visualization of the anastomosis together with real-time evaluation of its blood flow. This device holds great potential for prompt intraoperative detection of anastomotic alterations, possibly reducing the risk of postoperative anastomotic bleeding or leaks related to mechanical construction/perfusion issues. Potential advantages of this device warrant larger cohort studies and prospective randomized trials.

Possibilities of tissue perfusion assessment in abdominal surgery: integration into the intraoperative system of safety control points

To evaluate the possibility of integrating tissue perfusion assessment techniques (ICG perfusion and imaging photoplethysmography - iPPG) into the system of intraoperative control points of laparoscopic interventions with a reconstructive component. Quantitative assessment of ICG fluorescence and iPPG were used during 8 laparoscopically assisted interventions: gastrectomy for gastric cancer (total - 2 and distal - 1) and colorectal resections (left-sided colorectal resections - 4 and right hemicolectomy - 1). Four stages are presented for the assessment of tissue perfusion: initial assessment, before intestine transection, before anastomosis formation, and evaluation of anastomosis. From the point of view of the significance of clinical decision-making, the «before intestine transection» stage is of great importance, due to the ease of transferring the resection level to the optimal tissue perfusion zone. Integration of tissue perfusion assessment techniques into the system of intraoperative checkpoints is possible and promising.

Gaining Mesenteric Length following Colorectal Resection: Essential Maneuvers to Avoid Anastomotic Tension.

A surgeon must possess the knowledge and technical skill to obtain length following a left-sided colorectal resection to perform a tension free anastomosis. The distal target organ - either rectum or anus - is fixed in location, and therefore requires surgeons to acquire mastery of proximal mobilization of the colonic conduit. Generally, splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) provides adequate length. Surgeons benefit from clearer understanding of the multiple steps involved in SFM as a result of improved visualization and demonstration of the relevant anatomy - adjacent organs and the attachments, embryologic planes, and mesenteric structures. Much may be attributed to laparoscopic and robotic platforms which provided improved exposure and as a result, development or refinement of novel approaches for SFM with potential advantages. Complete mobilization draws upon the sum or combination of the varied approaches to accomplish the goal. However, in the situation where extended resection is necessary or in the case of re-operative surgery sacrificing either more proximal or distal large intestine often occurs, the transverse colon or even the ascending colon represents the proximal conduit for anastomosis. This challenging situation requires familiarity with special maneuvers to achieve colorectal or coloanal anastomosis using these more proximal conduits. In such instances, operative techniques such as either ileal mesenteric window with retroileal anastomosis or de-rotation of the right colon (Deloyer's procedure) enable the intestinal surgeon to construct such anastomoses and thereby avoid stoma creation or loss of additional large intestine.