Positive Surgical Margins Research Articles

Vein Wall Invasion Is a More Reliable Predictor of Oncological Outcomes than Vein-Related Margins after Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Early Stages of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with vein resection is the only potentially curative option for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with venous involvement. The aim of our study was to assess the oncological prognostic significance of the different variables of venous involvement in patients undergoing PD for resectable and borderline-resectable with venous-only involvement (BR-V) PDAC. We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively acquired data over a 10-year period. Of the 372 patients included, 105 (28%) required vein resection and vein wall involvement was identified in 37% of those. A multivariable analysis failed to identify the vein-related resection margins as independent predictors for OS, DFS or LR. Vein wall tumour involvement was an independent predictor of OS (risk x1.7-2) and DFS (risk x1.9-2.2) in all models, while it replaced overall surgical margin positivity as the only parameter independently predicting LR during an analysis of separate resection margins (risk x2.4). Vein wall tumour invasion may be a more reliable predictor of oncological outcomes compared to traditionally reported parameters. Future studies should focus on possible pre-operative investigations that could identify these cases and management pathways that could yield a survival benefit, such as the use of neoadjuvant treatments.

Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy by Lateral Approach: Technique, Reproducibility and Outcomes.

Radical prostatectomy by lateral approach allows performing a prostatectomy through a buttonhole, with direct access to the seminal vesicle and fully sparing the anterior pubovesical complex. Our aim is to show the results of reproducing the technique of robotic radical prostatectomy by lateral approach, in terms of intraoperative, postoperative, oncological and functional parameters. We analyzed 513 patients submitted to robotic radical prostatectomy by lateral approach from January 2015 to March 2021, operated on by two surgeons in our institution. The oncological and functional results of both surgeons were compared. When comparing both surgeons, the rate of positive surgical margins (PSM) was 32.87% and 37.9% and significant surgical margins (PSM > 2 mm) were 5.88% and 7.58% (p = 0.672) for surgeon 1 and surgeon 2, respectively. Immediate continence was 86% and 85% and sexual potency at one year 73% and 72%, with a similar rate of complications for surgeon 1 and 2. Radical prostatectomy by the lateral approach technique with preservation of the anterior pubovesical complex is reproducible and offers good oncological and functional results.

Successful surgical treatment for primary cardiac angiosarcoma: a case report

BackgroundPrimary cardiac angiosarcomas are extremely rare and their prognosis is poor. Surgical resection is the first-line treatment; however, no clear standard of care has been clearly established because of the rarity of these tumors.Case presentationA 61-year-old man who had presented with dyspnea on exertion was referred to our hospital. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed massive pericardial effusion and a 40-mm enhanced mass adherent to the anterior wall of the right atrium and involving the right coronary artery. Having diagnosed the mass as a cardiac tumor, we resected the mass under the guidance of epi-cardiac echocardiography guidance, which showed continuity between the tumor and the right atrium, reconstructed the right atrial free wall with a bovine pericardial patch, and performed coronary artery bypass grafting to the right coronary artery using the great saphenous vein. The right atrial wall was resected with adequate tumor-free margin. On the right ventricular side, we resected the right atrial wall 1 cm from the tumor, 2 cm from the atrioventricular groove. Because hemodynamic deterioration occurred after aortic declamping, intra-aortic balloon pumping and veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were instituted. Postoperatively, circulatory support devices were removed safely, and the patient was discharged on the 25th postoperative day. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimens resulted in a diagnosis of angiosarcoma, with positive surgical margins. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy (69 Gy in 30 fractions) were therefore initiated after discharge. To date, the patient has been alive and well with no recurrence of tumor for 4 years and 10 months since surgery.DiscussionThis case study suggests the usefulness of multimodality treatment comprising surgical resection and adjuvant therapy, for cardiac angiosarcoma.

Prediction of biochemical recurrence after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

BackgroundRadical prostatectomy (RP) has been considered primary treatment for localized prostate cancer. Biochemical recurrence (BCR) occur approximately 20–30% in five year after RP. We aim to develop a novel nomogram to predict BCR-free survival (BCRFS) and performed external validation using a validation cohort that may help clinicians to make better decision for tailoring adjuvant treatment to specific group of patients.Materials and methodsThis retrospective cohort study included 370 localized and regional prostate cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) in Songklanagarind hospital between January 2010 and December 2019, the patients were divided into two groups (primary cohort and validation cohort). BCR-free survival was created using Kaplan-Meier curve. Predictive factors for BCR were identified with univariable and multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazards model. Predictive nomogram was created using these identified factors and developed for the prediction of biochemical recurrence free survival (BCRFS) at 1 and 5 years after LRP.ResultsFor primary Songklanagarind cohort, BCR was found in 105 patients (44.7%). Overall 1-year BCR-free survival was 52.8%, and 5-year BCR-free survival was 45.7% with median time to BCR of 18.1 months. Multivariable analysis identified unfavorable factor to BCRRF which are high initial serum PSA (> 20) (p < 0.001; HR 3.2), ISUP Gleason grade group > = 3 (p 0.033; HR 2.2), positive surgical margins (p 0.046; HR 1.5), and seminal vesicle involvement (p < 0.001; HR 5.2) and using for develop a novel nomogram to predict BCR. Concordance index 0.78.ConclusionProstate cancer patients with unfavorable factors, including high initial PSA (> 20), ISUP Gleason grade group > = 3, positive margin and extra-prostatic tumor extension are considered high risks and independent predictors of biochemical recurrence. This predictive models could potentially improve the 1 and 5-year BCR prediction after RP, according to the study’s findings and will aid medical professionals in achieving the goal of clinical prediction and creating a proper management for the localized treatment of prostate cancer underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Perioperative NALIRIFOX in patients with resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: The open-label, multicenter, phase II nITRO trial

BackgroundUpfront surgery followed by postoperative treatment is a commonly adopted treatment for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (rPDAC). However, the risk of positive surgical margins, the poor recovery that often impairs postoperative treatments, and the risk of recurrence might limit the outcome of this strategy. This study evaluated the safety and the activity of liposomal irinotecan 50 mg/m2 + 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2 + leucovorin 400 mg/m2 + oxaliplatin 60 mg/m2 (NALIRIFOX) in the perioperative treatment of patients with rPDAC. MethodsEligible patients had a rPDAC with < 180° interface with major veins’ wall. Patients received 3 cycles before and 3 cycles after resection with NALIRIFOX, days 1 and 15 of a 28-day cycle. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients undergoing an R0 resection. Results107 patients began preoperative treatment. Nine patients discontinued the treatment because of related or unrelated adverse events. Disease-control rate was 92.9%. 87 patients underwent surgical exploration, 11 had intraoperative evidence of metastatic disease, and 1 died for surgical complications. R0 resection rate was 65.3%. 49 patients completed the three postoperative cycles. The most common grade ≥ 3 adverse events were diarrhea and neutropenia. Median overall survival (OS) of ITT patients was 32.3 months (95% CI 27.8–44.3). Median disease-free and OS from surgery of resected patients were 19.3 (95% CI 12.6–34.1) and 40.3 months (95% CI 29-NA), respectively. ConclusionPerioperative NALIRIFOX was manageable and active, and deserves further investigation in randomized trials comparing it with standard upfront surgery followed by adjuvant therapy.

Prognostic Significance of Histopathological Parameters for Salivary Gland Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare salivary gland tumor that accounts for approximately 1% of all head and neck cancers. Despite its initial indolent behavior, long-term survival is poor due to locoregional recurrence in approximately 40% and distant metastasis in up to 60% of patients who undergo radical treatment. The histological parameters of ACC and the combination of these parameters in histopathological grading systems provide valuable prognostic information about the clinical course of the disease. Within this context, this review aims to analyze the impact of histopathological parameters, individual or combined in histopathological grading systems of malignancy, on ACC prognosis. Individual histopathological parameters such as solid pattern, presence of tumor necrosis, high-grade transformation, dominance of the epithelial component, presence of perineural and lymphovascular invasion, and positive surgical margins have negative impacts on the survival of patients with ACC. There are currently four histopathological grading systems for ACC; however, few studies have validated these systems and most of them explored small cohorts with short follow-up. Considering that the application of grading systems has been associated with ACC prognosis, a broader validation will allow not only their use for prognostic prediction but also assist in treatment planning.

A Nationwide Analysis of Head and Neck Fibromatoses.

Head and neck fibromatoses (HNFs) are a rare, diverse group of soft tissue tumors characterized by an abnormal proliferation of fibroblasts. Available literature on these tumors is limited to case reports and small single-institutional studies. We aim to provide demographic, socioeconomic, tumor-related, and treatment characteristics of HNFs. Retrospective cohort analysis using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). The NCDB was queried for fibromatosis-related histologic codes located within the head and neck region. Various factors were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses were performed. Between 2004 and 2016, 130 patients were included in the analyses. Average age was 57.4 years old with a predominance of White (83.6%) males (61.5%). Non-desmoid HNFs accounted for 60%-70% of the tumors. The salivary gland was the most common location (38.5%) and more than half of the tumors were high grade. The majority were treated surgically (90.8%) and 25% had positive margins. Mean and median overall survival (OS) were 98.9 and 135.4 months, respectively. Surgery is associated with better OS than nonsurgical alternatives. Addition of adjuvant treatments was not associated with differences in survival. In the largest study to date, we describe demographic, socioeconomic, tumor-related, and treatment patterns of patients with this rare disease. These tumors are most frequently present in middle-aged males with high-grade histology. Most are treated surgically and positive surgical margins are common. Surgery has better OS than nonsurgical alternatives. While adjuvant radiation has become more common, we found no difference in survival compared to surgery alone. 4 Laryngoscope, 134:2228-2235, 2024.

Patient Benefits of Radical Prostatectomy in Certified Prostate Cancer Centers: Comparative Results from the Multicenter IMPROVE Study

Introduction: We investigated differences in treatment outcomes following radical prostatectomy (RP) between certified centers (CCs) and noncertified centers (nCCs) within the IMPROVE study group. Methods: A validated survey assessing various factors, including stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and decision regret (DR), was administered to 950 patients who underwent RP across 19 hospitals (12 CCs and 7 nCCs) at a median follow-up of 15 months after RP (interquartile range: 11–20). The response rate was 74%, with 703 patients participating, including 480 (68%) from CCs. Multivariate binary regression models were used to analyze differences between CCs and nCCs regarding the following binary endpoints: nerve-sparing (NS), positive surgical margins (PSM), SUI (defined as >1 safety pad), complications based on the Clavien-Dindo classification (grade ≥1, grade ≥3) and DR (>15 points indicating critical DR). Results: Considering the multivariate analysis, the rate of NS surgery was lower in CCs than in nCCs (OR = 0.52; p = 0.004). No significant differences were observed in the PSM rate (OR = 1.67; p = 0.051), SUI (OR = 1.03; p = 0.919), and DR (OR = 1.00; p = 0.990). SUI (OR 0.39; p < 0.001) and DR (OR 0.62; p = 0.026) were reported significantly less frequently by patients treated with robotic-assisted RP, which was significantly more often performed in CCs than in nCCs (68.3% vs. 18%; p < 0.001). The total complication rate was 45% lower in CCs (OR = 0.55; p = 0.004), although the number of complications requiring intervention (Clavien-Dindo classification ≥3) did not differ significantly between CCs and nCCs (OR = 2.52; p = 0.051). Conclusion: Within the IMPROVE study group, similarly favorable outcomes after RP were found in both CCs and nCCs, which, however, cannot be transferred to the general treatment landscape of PCA in Germany. Of note, robotic-assisted RP was more often performed in CCs and associated with less SUI and DR, while open prostatectomy was the treatment of choice in low-volume nCCs. Future prospective and region wide studies should also investigate the surgeon caseload and experience as well as a spillover effect of the certification process on nCCs.

Surgical Margin of Resected Colorectal Liver Metastases: How Accurate Is Surgeon Prediction?

The aim of this study was to describe the surgeon's ability to accurately predict the margin following resection of colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs). The decision to resect CRLM is based on the surgeon's ability to predict tumor-free resection margins. However, to date, no study has evaluated the accuracy of surgeon margin prediction. In this single-institution prospective study, the operating attending and fellow independently completed a preoperative and postoperative questionnaire describing their expected resection margin in 100 consecutive cases (200 assessments) of CRLM resections. In cases with multiple metastases, the closest margin was assessed as the margin of interest for the primary outcome. Surgeon assessments were compared with the gold-standard histopathologic assessment. After excluding aborted cases, 190 preoperative and 190 postoperative assessments from 95 cases were included in the analysis. The pathologic margin was noted to be wide (≥1cm), 1mm to 1cm, narrow (<1mm), and positive in 28 (29.5%), 55 (57.9%), 5 (5.3%), and 7 (7.4%) cases, respectively. The 88 cases with negative margins were all predicted to be negative. None of the cases with positive margins were predicted to be positive. Ninety-one (48%) preoperative and 104 (55%) postoperative predictions were accurate. The sensitivity of predicting a margin <1mm was 8.3% preoperatively and 16.7% postoperatively. The positive predictive value for preoperative and postoperative predictions of margin <1mm was 18.2% and 26.7%, respectively. Surgeons are inaccurate at predicting positive and close surgical margins following resection of CRLM. A predicted close margin should not necessarily preclude resection.

Risk Biomarkers for Biochemical Recurrence after Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer Using Clinical and MRI-Derived Semantic Features

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of the covariates derived from a predictive model for detecting extracapsular extension on pathology (pECE+) on biochemical recurrence-free survival (BCRFS) within 4 years after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods: Retrospective data analysis was conducted from a single center between 2015 and 2022. Variables under consideration included prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, patient age, prostate volume, MRI semantic features, and Grade Group (GG). We also assessed the influence of pECE+ and positive surgical margins on BCRFS. To attain these goals, we used the Kaplan–Meier survival function and the multivariable Cox regression model. Additionally, we analyzed the MRI features on BCR (biochemical recurrence) in low/intermediate risk patients. Results: A total of 177 participants with a follow-up exceeding 6 months post-RARP were included. The 1-year, 2-year, and 4-year risks of BCR after radical prostatectomy were 5%, 13%, and 21%, respectively. The non-parametric approach for the survival analysis showed that adverse MRI features such as macroscopic ECE on MRI (mECE+), capsular disruption, high tumor capsular contact length (TCCL), GG ≥ 4, positive surgical margins (PSM), and pECE+ on pathology were risk factors for BCR. In low/intermediate-risk patients (pECE− and GG &lt; 4), the presence of adverse MRI features has been shown to increase the risk of BCR. Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of incorporating predictive MRI features for detecting extracapsular extension pre-surgery in influencing early outcomes and clinical decision making; mECE+, TCCL, capsular disruption, and GG ≥ 4 based on pre-surgical biopsy were independent prognostic factors for early BCR. The presence of adverse features on MRI can assist in identifying low/intermediate-risk patients who will benefit from closer monitoring.

Transitioning from Da Vinci Si to Xi: assessing surgical outcomes at a high-volume robotic center.

In the emerging field of robotics, only few studies investigated the transition between different robotic platforms in terms of surgical outcomes. We aimed at assessing surgical outcomes of patients receiving robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) at a high-volume robotic center during the transition from Si to Xi Da Vinci surgical systems. We analyzed data of 1884 patients undergoing RARP (n = 1437, 76%) and RAPN (n = 447, 24%) at OLV hospital (Aalst, Belgium) between 2011 and 2021. For both procedures, we assessed operative time, estimated blood loss, length of stay, and positive surgical margins. For RARP, we investigated length of catheterization and PSA persistence after surgery, whereas warm ischemia time, clampless surgery, and acute kidney injury (AKI) were assessed for RAPN. Multivariable analyses (MVA) investigated the association between robotic platform (Si vs. Xi) and surgical outcomes after adjustment for patient- and tumor-related factors. A total of 975 (68%) and 462 (32%) patients underwent RARP performed with the Si vs. Xi surgical system, respectively. Baseline characteristics did not differ between the groups. On MVA, we did not find evidence of a difference between the groups with respect to operative time (estimate: 1.07) or estimated blood loss (estimate: 32.39; both p > 0.05). Median (interquartile range [IQR]) length of stay was 6 (3, 6) and 4 (3, 5) days in the Si vs. Xi group, respectively (p < 0.0001). On MVA, men treated with the Xi vs. Si robot had lower odds of PSM (Odds ratio [OR]: 0.58; p = 0.014). A total of 184 (41%) and 263 (59%) patients received RAPN with the Si and Xi robotic system, respectively. Baseline characteristics, including demographics, functional data, and tumor-related features did not differ between the groups. On MVA, operative time was longer in the Xi vs. Si group (estimate: 30.54; p = 0.006). Patients treated with the Xi vs. Si system had higher probability of undergoing a clampless procedure (OR: 2.56; p = 0.001), whereas the risk of AKI did not differ between the groups (OR: 1.25; p = 0.4). On MVA, patients operated with the Xi robot had shorter length of stay as compared to the Si group (estimate: -0.86; p = 0.003), whereas we did not find evidence of an association between robotic system and PSM (OR: 1.55; p = 0.3). We found that the Xi robot allowed for improvements in peri-operative outcomes as compared to the Si platform, with lower rate of positive margins for RARP and higher rate of off-clamp procedures for RAPN. Hospital stay was also shorter for patients operated with the Xi vs. Si robot, especially after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. Awaiting future investigations-in particular, cost analyses-these results have important implications for patients, surgeons, and healthcare policymakers.

The Impact of Retro-apical Urethral Dissection Approach Technique on Positive Surgical Margins in Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: A Study in Thailand

Objective: Among the various postoperative outcomes following robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP), positive surgical margins (PSMs) are a significant prognostic factor associated with biochemical recurrence (BCR). Many surgical techniques are available for RARP; however, the technique proposed in this study may improve surgical outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of post-operative PSMs in patients diagnosed with clinically localized prostate cancer at Siriraj Hospital using the retro-apical urethral dissection approach with a 30-degree-lens flip-up technique. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 2,114 consecutive patients who underwent RARP with the conventional technique was conducted using Siriraj Hospital’s database, from January 2007 to June 2022. Propensity score matching was employed to select a group of 284 men from the total cohort of 2,114 patients who underwent conventional radical prostatectomy (Group 1) for comparison against another group of 284 patients who underwent the retro-apical dissection technique (Group 2). The incidence of PSMs was then evaluated in each group. Results: Of the 568 patients, PSMs were observed in 219 patients. The overall incidence of PSMs decreased from 128 cases (45.1%) in Group 1 to 91 cases (32.0%) in Group 2 (p-value &lt;0.01). Similar results were seen in the subgroup of patients with pT2 staging who had PSMs (52 cases vs 24 cases, p-value &lt;0.01). PSMs occurred mostly at the apex with a total of 112 cases (52.1%). Conclusion: The retro-apical urethral dissection approach with a 30-degree-lens flip-up technique is associated with a lower risk of overall PSMs and the trend of apical PSMs, indicating its clinical significance.

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy using the avatera system™: a prospective pilot study.

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is a minimally invasive, safe procedure preferred in the management of localized prostate cancer. In this study, we present our initial experience with the avatera™ system (avateramedical GmbH, Jena, Germany) in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. A total of fourteen patients underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy using this newly introduced system in our department from June 2022 to October 2022. The primary endpoints of the study were the time and the successful completion of the operation, the hemoglobin drop and the presence of complications. The pathologic tumor stage and the presence of positive surgical margins were also recorded. Follow-up of the patients for the functional outcomes over a period of 3 months took place. The completion of all the surgeries was successful. The median draping and docking times were 9.5 minutes (7-13) and 10 minutes (5-40), respectively. The median console time was 103.5 minutes (90-121). No conversion to laparoscopic or open prostatectomy was necessary. The median hemoglobin drop was 1.95 g/dL (0.3-2.7), while positive surgical margins were present in two patients postoperatively. No major complications or need for transfusion were noticed. Six months after the procedure, 78.6% of the participants were continent while 77.7% of the nerve-sparing patients reported erections adequate for intercourse. All the operations were completed successfully without major complications or significant blood loss. The functional outcomes were acceptable according to the literature. Based on the early outcomes, robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with the avatera™ system (avateramedical GmbH) could be considered feasible, safe, and efficient.

Neuroendocrine Tumor of The Appendix: Retrospective 7266 analysis of Appendectomy Patients in a single center

Objective: We aim to identify appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) seen after acute appendicitis and investigate their incidence in patients with laparoscopic or open appendectomy surgery. Here we have shaped the characteristic features of the tumor according to the 2010 classification rating of The World Health Organization (WHO) (surgical margin, invasion, grading, TNM stages) and also explored the disease-free survival in these patients. Material and Methods: This is the medical record of the patient with 7266 appendectomy retrospectively evaluated, and with these examples in histopathological analysis, a total of 43 patients were diagnosed with appendicitis NETs and included in the study. Age, gender, prediction of the surgical team during the operation, location of the tumor, WHO grade, depth of invasion, positive surgical margin, tumor size, TNM stage, and postoperative survival of these patients were analyzed retrospectively. Results: In this study, the incidence of appendiceal (NETs) was found to be 0.59% among 7,266 patients. Out of the 42 patients with appendiceal NETs, 27 were female and 16 were male. The mean age of the patients was 33.65 years (range: 11–78). The diagnosis was aided by clinical examination, ultrasound, and abdominal computerized tomography (CT) imaging. Most patients were initially diagnosed with appendicitis, and surgical interventions, including laparoscopic and conventional appendectomy, were performed. The pathological analysis confirmed appendicitis with NETs, classified according to the WHO 2010 recommendation. The majority of patients had well-differentiated NETs (G1 or G2). Surgical resection achieved negative radial margins, and no pathological signs were detected during follow-up colonoscopies. At a median follow-up of 70.2 months, all patients remained disease-free and alive. Conclusion: Appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors are rare but distinct entities that require a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis and management. Surgical resection is the primary treatment, with systemic therapies reserved for advanced cases. The prognosis is generally favorable, with better outcomes seen in well-differentiated tumors. Long-term follow-up is crucial. Further research is needed to improve understanding and optimize treatment strategies for these tumors.

Analysis of the efficacy and factors influencing survival of adjuvant radiotherapy for stage II-III biliary tract carcinoma

BackgroundTo determine the efficacy of adjuvant radiotherapy for stage II–III biliary tract carcinoma.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the data of 37 patients who underwent radical resection of biliary tract carcinomas at the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University between 2016 and 2020. We analyzed survival differences between patients who did (n = 17) and did not (n = 20) receive postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy by using Kaplan–Meier analysis. The log-rank test and Cox univariate analysis were used. The Cox proportional risk regression model was used for the multifactorial analysis of factors influencing prognosis.ResultsThe median survival time (28.9 vs. 14.5 months) and the 1-year (82.40% vs. 55.0%) and 2-year survival rates (58.8% vs. 25.0%) were significantly higher among patients who received adjuvant radiotherapy than among those who did not (χ2 = 6.381, p = 0.012). Multifactorial analysis showed that pathological tumor type (p = 0.004), disease stage (p = 0.021), and adjuvant radiotherapy (p = 0.001) were independent prognostic factors in biliary tract carcinoma. Subgroup analyses showed that compared to no radiotherapy, adjuvant radiotherapy significantly improved median survival time in patients with stage III disease (21.6 vs. 12.7 months; p = 0.017), positive margins (28.9 vs. 10.5 months; p = 0.012), and T3 or T4 tumors (26.8 vs. 16.8 months; p = 0.037).ConclusionAdjuvant radiotherapy significantly improved the survival of patients with biliary tract carcinoma, and is recommended especially for patients with stage III disease, positive surgical margins, or ≥ T3.

Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in Renal Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review.

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) has been shown to achieve excellent oncological outcomes with a low rate of complications in patients with prostate cancer. However, data on RARP in renal transplant recipients (RT) are dispersed. A literature search was conducted through April 2023 using PubMed/Medline, Embase and Web of Science databases. The primary aim was to evaluate the safety, oncologic and clinical outcomes of RARP in RT recipients. The secondary aim was to identify surgical technique modifications required to avoid iatrogenic damage to the transplanted kidney. A total of 18 studies comprising 186 patients met the inclusion criteria. Age at the time of treatment ranged 43-79 years. Biopsy results showed a high prevalence of low- and intermediate-risk disease. Operative time ranged between 108.3 and 400 mins, while estimated blood loss ranged from 30 to 630 mL. Length of hospital stay ranged from 3 to 6 days whereas duration of catheterization was between 5 and 18 days. Perioperative complication rate was 17.1%. Overall positive surgical margin rate was 24.19%, while biochemical recurrence was observed in 10.21% (19/186 patients). Modifications to the standard surgical technique were described in 13/18 studies. Modifications in port placement were described in 7/13 studies and performed in 19/88 (21.6%) patients. Surgical technique for the development of the Retzius space was reported in 13/18 studies. Data on lymphadenectomy were reported in 15/18 studies. Bilateral lymphadenectomy was described in 3/18 studies and performed in 4/89 (4.5%) patients; contralateral lymphadenectomy was reported in 7/18 studies and performed in 41/125 (32.8%) patients. RARP in RTRs can be considered relatively safe and feasible. Oncological results yielded significantly worse outcomes in terms of PSM and BCR rate compared to the data available in the published studies, with an overall complication rate highly variable among the studies included. On the other hand, low graft damage during the procedure was observed. Main criticisms came from different tumor screening protocols and scarce information about lymphadenectomy techniques and outcomes among the included studies.

Analysis of risk factors for positive surgical margin after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with and without neoadjuvant hormonal therapy.

Positive surgical margins (PSM) is not only an independent risk factor for recurrence, metastasis, and prognosis, but also an important indicator of adjuvant therapy for prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP). At present, there are few reports analyzing risk factors of PSM in laparoscopic RP (LRP), especially for those PCa cases who accepted neoadjuvant hormonal therapy (NHT). Hence, the aim of the current study was to explore risk factors for PSM after LRP in PCa patients with and without NHT. The clinicopathological data of patients who underwent LRP from January 2012 to July 2020 was retrospectively analyzed. Risk factors for PSM after LRP in NHT and non-NHT groups were respectively explored. The overall PSM rate was 33.3% (90/270), PSM rate was 39.3% (64/163) in patients without NHT and 24.3% (26/107) in those with NHT. The apex was the most common location of PSM in non-NHT group (68.8%, 44/64), while the fundus was the most common location of PSM in NHT group (57.7%, 15/26). Multiple logistic regression revealed that body mass index (BMI), PSA, ISUP grade after LRP, pathological stage T (pT) and pathological lymph node status (pN) were independent factors affecting the PSM for patients without NHT (OR=1.160, 95%CI:1.034-1.301, p=0.011; OR=3.385, 95%CI:1.386-8.268, p=0.007; OR=3.541, 95%CI:1.008-12.444, p=0.049; OR=4.577, 95%CI:2.163-9.686, p<0.001; OR=3.572, 95%CI:1.124-11.347, p=0.031), while pT, pN, and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) were independent risk factors affecting PSM for patients with NHT (OR=18.434, 95%CI:4.976-68.297, p<0.001; OR=7.181, 95%CI:2.089-24.689, p=0.002; OR=3.545, 95%CI:1.109-11.327, p=0.033). The apex was the most common location in NHT group, and BMI, PSA, ISUP after LRP, pT and pN were independent risk factors affecting PSM for NHT patients; while the fundus was the most common location in non-NHT group, and pT, pN, and LVI were independent risk factors affecting PSM for non-NHT patients.

Predictors of disease recurrence in high-risk non-metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients post-surgical resection A single-center, retrospective study.

Approximately 20-40% of kidney cancer patients treated for localized disease experience post-surgical recurrence. Several prognostic models exist to help clinicians determine the risk of distant recurrence, but these models vary in criteria and endpoints. We aimed to examine the recurrence rate and clinicopathologic factors as predictors of recurrence in high-risk renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients. We conducted a single-center, retrospective chart review of pT3 RCC patients who underwent a nephrectomy between January 2000 and December 2015. Patients registered in clinical trials for adjuvant therapy and those with fewer than three years of followup were excluded. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and univariate and multivariate Cox regression were performed to identify the rate and predictors of disease recurrence. Eighty-eight pT3 RCC patients were included, and 39 patients had recurrence with a median of 23.5 months (range 1.6-127.5). Nine patients had disease recurrence beyond 58 months. Kaplan-Meier log-rank tests identified patients with negative surgical margins and low Fuhrman nuclear grades had greater recurrence-free survival. Univariate Cox regression revealed positive surgical margins, high Fuhrman nuclear grade, and large tumor sizes were significant predictors. In the multivariate Cox regression model, high Fuhrman nuclear grade and positive surgical margins were significant predictors of recurrence. Disease recurrence occurred in 44% of pT3-staged patients. High Fuhrman nuclear grade and positive surgical margins were associated with time to recurrence. Physicians should use prognostic models to facilitate conversations about disease recurrence and continue to monitor high-risk patients beyond the recommended five-year followup period. We recommend monitoring pT3 resected patients for up to 10 years post-surgery.

An MRI-based grading system for preoperative risk estimation of positive surgical margin after radical prostatectomy

ObjectiveTo construct a simplified grading system based on MRI features to predict positive surgical margin (PSM) after radical prostatectomy (RP).MethodsPatients who had undergone prostate MRI followed by RP between January 2017 and January 2021 were retrospectively enrolled as the derivation group, and those between February 2021 and November 2022 were enrolled as the validation group. One radiologist evaluated tumor-related MRI features, including the capsule contact length (CCL) of lesions, frank extraprostatic extension (EPE), apex abutting, etc. Binary logistic regression and decision tree analysis were used to select risk features for PSM. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity of different systems were calculated. The interreader agreement of the scoring systems was evaluated using the kappa statistic.ResultsThere were 29.8% (42/141) and 36.4% (32/88) of patients who had PSM in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. The first grading system was proposed (mrPSM1) using two imaging features, namely, CCL ≥ 20 mm and apex abutting, and then updated by adding frank EPE (mrPSM2). In the derivation group, the AUC was 0.705 for mrPSM1 and 0.713 for mrPSM2. In the validation group, our grading systems showed comparable AUC with Park et al.’s model (0.672–0.686 vs. 0.646, p > 0.05) and significantly higher specificity (0.732–0.750 vs. 0.411, p < 0.001). The kappa value was 0.764 for mrPSM1 and 0.776 for mrPSM2. Decision curve analysis showed a higher net benefit for mrPSM2.ConclusionThe proposed grading systems based on MRI could benefit the risk stratification of PSM and are easily interpretable.Critical relevance statementThe proposed mrPSM grading systems for preoperative prediction of surgical margin status after radical prostatectomy are simplified compared to a previous model and show high specificity for identifying the risk of positive surgical margin, which might benefit the management of prostate cancer.Key points• CCL ≥ 20 mm, apex abutting, and EPE were important MRI features for PSM.• Our proposed MRI-based grading systems showed the possibility to predict PSM with high specificity.• The MRI-based grading systems might facilitate a structured risk evaluation of PSM.Graphical

Primary Angiosarcoma of the Breast: A 20-Year Single-Institution Experience in China

Background. Primary angiosarcoma of the breast (PAS) is a rare aggressive tumor with no standardized treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of all primary angiosarcoma of the breast obtained from a single center and the features peculiar to Chinese patients. Methods. The medical records at Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital were retrospectively searched to identify all cases of PAS treated in 2000–2019. Results. Sixteen cases of PAS were identified, and most involved the left breast. Forty percent of young patients had a history of progressive tumor enlargement with localized pain and skin color changes. The diagnostic accuracy rate was 66.7% for MRI, 75% for core-needle aspiration, and 58.3% for intraoperative fast frozen pathology. The most common surgery was modified radical mastectomy (n = 9, 56.25%). All positive margins involved the pectoralis major muscle, and these tumors’ mean size was 8.2 cm. All cases were CD34 positive, and the Ki-67 index was ≥30% in 37.5%. Median local or distant recurrence-free survival was 57.6 months for low-to-moderate-grade tumors and 23.5 months for high-grade tumors. Seventy-five percent of the patients were treated with chemotherapy. The average tumor size in patients with relapse-free survival longer than 3 years was 2.2 cm. Conclusion. Young patients may have larger and softer breast tumors with skin color changes. MRI and core-needle biopsy should be performed preoperatively. A positive surgical margin at pectoralis major should be noted. Breast prosthesis may be a better reconstruction option. Adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy should be considered for large tumors with a high Ki-67 index or high-grade tumors.