Risk Factors For Anastomotic Leakage Research Articles

Smoking cessation for less than 10 years remains a risk factor of anastomotic leakage in mid-to-low rectal cancer patients undergoing sphincter-preserving surgery

Although cigarette smoking is a well-known risk factor for anastomotic leakage during rectal surgery, the proper duration of smoking cessation that can decrease anastomotic leakage in patients undergoing sphincter-preserving surgery is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the optimal duration of smoking cessation that can reduce this complication. Between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2012, we enrolled 1246 consecutive patients who underwent curative-intent sphincter-preserving surgery without preventive stoma at the Division of Colorectal Surgery of a tertiary referral center in Taiwan. Questionnaires were used to record their pre-surgical smoking status. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal cut-off duration of smoking cessation. Multivariate analysis was used to verify the effect of cigarette cessation on anastomotic leakage. The ROC curve showed a cut-off value of 10.5years of cessation duration. Therefore, the former-smoker group was further divided using a cessation duration of 10years. The overall anastomotic leakage rate was 5.29%. However, the anastomotic leakage rate in current smokers (9.3%) and in those who quit for < 10years (12.9%) was significantly higher than that in non-smokers (3.3%) and those who quit for ≥ 10years (4.5%). On multivariate analysis, current smokers (p = 0.022), former smokers with < 10years of smoking cessation (OR 2.725; p = 0.029), male sex (p = 0.015), and low rectal cancer (p < 0.001) were all independently related to the development of anastomotic leakage. Smoking cessation for < 10years remains a risk factor for anastomotic leakage in patients with mid-to-low rectal cancer undergoing sphincter-preserving surgery.

Comparison of surgical outcomes for colostomy closure performed by acute care surgeons versus a dedicated colorectal surgery service

Despite colostomy closure being a common procedure, it remains highly morbid. Previous literature suggests that complication rates, including surgical site infections, intra-abdominal abscess, and anastomotic failures, reach as high as 50%. With the creation of a dedicated colorectal service, colostomy reversals have been largely migrated from the acute care surgery services. This study analyzes the differences in outcomes in colostomy closures performed between colorectal surgeons and acute care surgeons. We retrospectively analyzed our experience with 127 colostomy closures performed in our hospital system by acute care surgeons and colorectal surgeons from 2016 through 2020. Demographic data, operative data, and outcomes such as abscess formation, anastomotic leak, and readmission were analyzed. Multivariate regression analysis was performed for intraabdominal abscesses and anastomotic leaks. In total, 71 colostomy closures were performed by colorectal surgeons (56%) and 56 by acute care surgeons (43%). The majority of colostomy reversals were after Hartmann's procedure for perforated diverticulitis. No differences in demographics were identified, except for a shorter interval to closure in the acute care surgeons group (10.0 vs 7.2 months; P= .049). Two (3.6%) acute care surgeon patients required colorectal surgeon consultation during the definitive repair. Regression analysis identified body mass index (odds ratio 2.43; P= .001), male gender (odds ratio -2.39; P= .18), and colorectal surgeons (odds ratio -2.28; P= .025) as significant risk factors for anastomotic leak. Analysis of the current series identified female gender and increased body mass index as higher risk, while procedures performed by colorectal surgeons were at decreased risk for anastomotic leak. Our study identified colostomy reversals performed by a dedicated colorectal service decreased the rate of anastomotic leak.

Risk Factors for Anastomotic Leakage Following Total or Subtotal Colectomy

Abstract Introduction A higher rate of anastomotic leakage (AL) is reported after ileosigmoid anastomosis (ISA) or ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) in total or subtotal colectomy (TSC) compared with colonic or colorectal anastomosis. The main aim of the present study was to assess potential risk factors for AL after ISA or IRA and to investigate determinants of morbidity. Methods We identified 180 consecutive patients in a prospective referral, single center database, in which 83 of the patients underwent TSC with ISA or IRA. Data regarding the clinical characteristics, surgical treatment, and outcome were assessed to determine their association with the cumulative incidence of AL and surgical morbidity. Results Ileosigmoid anastomosis was performed in 51 of the patients (61.5%) and IRA in 32 patients (38.6%). The cumulative incidence of AL was 15.6% (13 of 83 patients). A higher AL rate was found in patients under 50 years-old (p = 0.038), in the elective-laparoscopic approach subgroup (p = 0.049), and patients in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) subgroup (p = 0.009). Furthermore, 14 patients (16.9%) had morbidity classified as Clavien-Dindo ≥ IIIA. Discussion A relatively high incidence of AL after TSC was observed in a relatively safe surgical procedure. Our findings suggest that the risk of AL may be higher in IBD patients. According to our results, identifying risk factors prior to surgery may improve short-term outcomes.

Risk Factors for Anastomotic Leakage in Cases of Colorectal Perforation

Risk Factors for Anastomotic Leakage in Cases of Colorectal Perforation

Evaluation of abdominal aortic calcification by plain CT predicts anastomotic leakage in laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer.

Anastomotic leakage is one of the most severe and critical complications of laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer. However, definitive preoperative predictors of anastomotic leakage remain elusive. With the ageing of society, the number of colorectal cancer patients with arteriosclerotic disease in Japan is increasing. This study was performed to evaluate the correlation between preoperative arteriosclerosis and anastomotic leakage. In total, 98 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer with reconstruction using the double-stapling technique without diversion of the stoma were enrolled in the study. Preoperative assessment of arteriosclerotic disease was performed by abdominal computed tomography. The calcification volume percentage of the aorta between the level of the celiac artery root and aortic bifurcation was calculated using ZIOstation2 software, and the relationship between arteriosclerosis and anastomotic leakage was analysed. Among 98 cases, anastomotic leakage was observed in 16 (16.3%). The median calcification volume percentage (range) was 2.35% (0-40.3%). Age, male sex, hypertension, dissection number, estimated glomerular filtration rate and tumour location were correlated with anastomotic leakage on statistical analysis. Statistical analysis showed that calcification volume percentage was one of the robust risk factors for anastomotic leakage (odds ratio: 1.09, 95% confidence interval: 1.03-1.17, P<0.01). Calcification of the abdominal aorta may be a promising predictor of AL after laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer reconstruction using the double-stapling technique.

Updates of Risk Factors for Anastomotic Leakage after Colorectal Surgery.

Anastomotic leakage is a potentially severe complication occurring after colorectal surgery and can lead to increased morbidity and mortality, permanent stoma formation, and cancer recurrence. Multiple risk factors for anastomotic leak have been identified, and these can allow for better prevention and an earlier diagnosis of this significant complication. There are nonmodifiable factors such as male gender, comorbidities and distance of tumor from anal verge, and modifiable risk factors, including smoking and alcohol consumption, obesity, preoperative radiotherapy and preoperative use of steroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Perioperative blood transfusion was shown to be an important risk factor for anastomotic failure. Recent studies on the laparoscopic approach in colorectal surgery found no statistical difference in anastomotic leakage rate compared with open surgery. A diverting stoma at the time of primary surgery does not appear to reduce the leak rate but may reduce its clinical consequences and the need for additional surgery if anastomotic leakage does occur. It is still debatable if preoperative bowel preparation should be used, especially for left colon and rectal resections, but studies have shown similar incidence of postoperative leak rate.

Quantitative perfusion assessment of gastric conduit with indocyanine green dye to predict anastomotic leak after esophagectomy

Impaired gastric conduit perfusion is a risk factor for anastomotic leak after esophagectomy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of intraoperative quantitative assessment of gastric conduit perfusion with indocyanine green fluorescence angiography as a predictor for cervical esophagogastric anastomotic leak after esophagectomy. Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography using the SPY Elite system was performed in patients undergoing a transhiatal or McKeown esophagectomy from July 2015 through December 2020. Ingress (dye uptake) and Egress (dye exit) at two anatomic landmarks (the tip of a conduit and 5cm from the tip) were assessed. The collected data in the leak group and no leak group were compared by univariate and multivariable analyses. Of 304 patients who were evaluated, 70 patients developed anastomotic leak (23.0%). There was no significant difference in patients' demographic between the groups. Ingress Index, which represents a proportion of blood inflow, at both the tip and 5cm of the conduit was significantly lower in the leak group (17.9 vs. 25.4% [P = 0.011] and 35.9 vs. 44.6% [P = 0.019], respectively). Ingress Time, which represents an estimated time of blood inflow, at 5cm of the conduit was significantly higher in the leak group (69.9 vs. 57.1seconds, P = 0.006). Multivariable analysis suggested that these three variables can be used to predict future leak. Variables of gastric conduit perfusion correlated with the incidence of cervical esophagogastric anastomotic leak. Intraoperative measurement of gastric conduit perfusion can be predictive for anastomotic leak following esophagectomy.

Anastomotic Leaks following Esophagectomy for Esophageal and Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer: The Key Is the Multidisciplinary Management

Introduction: Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy is associated with high mortality and impaired quality of life. Aim: The objective of this work was to determine the effectiveness of management of esophageal anastomotic leakage (EAL) after esophagectomy for esophageal and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. Methods: Patients submitted to esophagectomy for esophageal and GEJ cancer at a tertiary oncology hospital between 2014 and 2019 (n = 119) were retrospectively reviewed and EAL risk factors and its management outcomes determined. Results: Older age and nodal disease were identified as independent risk factors for anastomotic leak (adjusted OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00–1.13, and adjusted OR 4.89, 95% CI 1.09–21.8). Patients with EAL spent more days in the intensive care unit (ICU; median 14 vs. 4 days) and had higher 30-day mortality (15 vs. 2%) and higher in-hospital mortality (35 vs. 4%). The first treatment option was surgical in 13 patients, endoscopic in 10, and conservative in 3. No significant differences were noticeable between these patients, but sepsis and large leakages were tendentially managed by surgery. At follow-up, 3 patients in the surgery group (23%) and 9 in the endoscopic group (90%) were discharged under an oral diet (p = 0.001). The in-hospital mortality rate was 38% in the surgical group, 33% in the conservative group, and 10% in endoscopic group (p = 0.132). In patients with EAL, the presence of septic shock at leak diagnosis was the only predictor of mortality (p = 0.004). ICU length-of-stay was non-significantly lower in the endoscopic therapy group (median 4 days, vs. 16 days in the surgical group, p = 0.212). Conclusion: Risk factors for EAL may help change pre-procedural optimization. The results of this study suggest including an endoscopic approach for EAL.

Risk factors for anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer (RALAR study): A nationwide retrospective study of the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology Colorectal Cancer Network Collaborative Group.

AimAnastomotic leakage after restorative surgery for rectal cancer shows high morbidity and related mortality. Identification of risk factors could change operative planning, with indications for stoma construction. This retrospective multicentre study aims to assess the anastomotic leak rate, identify the independent risk factors and develop a clinical prediction model to calculate the probability of leakage.MethodsThe study used data from 24 Italian referral centres of the Colorectal Cancer Network of the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology. Patients were classified into two groups, AL (anastomotic leak) or NoAL (no anastomotic leak). The effect of patient‐, disease‐, treatment‐ and postoperative outcome‐related factors on anastomotic leak after univariable and multivariable analysis was measured.ResultsA total of 5398 patients were included, 552 in group AL and 4846 in group NoAL. The overall incidence of leaks was 10.2%, with a mean time interval of 6.8 days. The 30‐day leak‐related mortality was 2.6%. Sex, body mass index, tumour location, type of approach, number of cartridges employed, weight loss, clinical T stage and combined multiorgan resection were identified as independent risk factors. The stoma did not reduce the leak rate but significantly decreased leak severity and reoperation rate. A nomogram with a risk score (RALAR score) was developed to predict anastomotic leak risk at the end of resection.ConclusionsWhile a defunctioning stoma did not affect the leak risk, it significantly reduced its severity. Surgeons should recognize independent risk factors for leaks at the end of rectal resection and could calculate a risk score to select high‐risk patients eligible for protective stoma construction.

Surgical Technique and Considerations about Transanal Transection and Single-Stapled (TTSS) Anastomosis: The Search for a Perfect Anastomosis

AbstractThe evaluation of preventive measures and risk factors for anastomotic leakage has been a constant concern among colorectal surgeons. In this context, the description of a new way to perform a colorectal, coloanal or ileoanal anastomosis, known as transanal transection and single-stapled (TTSS) anastomosis, deserves an appreciation of its qualities, and a discussion about its properties and technical details. In the present paper, the authors review the most recent efforts aiming to reduce anastomotic dehiscence, and describe the TTSS technique in a patient submitted to laparoscopic total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis. Surgical perception raises important advantages such as distal rectal transection under visualization, elimination of double-stapling lines (with cost-effectiveness and potential protection against suture dehiscence), elimination of dog ears, and the opportunity to be accomplished via a transanal approach after open, laparoscopic, or robotic colorectal resections. Future studies to confirm these supposed advantages are needed.

Impact of Body Mass Index on Major Complications, Multiple Complications, In-hospital Mortality, and Failure to Rescue After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer: A Nationwide Inpatient Database Study in Japan.

To examine the association of BMI with mortality and related outcomes after oncologic esophagectomy. Previous studies showed that high BMI was a risk factor for anastomotic leakage and low BMI was a risk factor for respiratory complications after esophagectomy. However, the association between BMI and in-hospital mortality after oncologic esophagectomy remains unclear. Data for patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between July 2010 and March 2019 were extracted from a Japanese nationwide inpatient database. Multivariate regression analyses and restricted cubic spline analyses were used to investigate the associations between BMI and short-term outcomes, adjusting for potential confounders. Among 39,406 eligible patients, in-hospital mortality, major complications, and multiple complications (≥2 major complications) occurred in 1069 (2.7%), 14,824 (37.6%), and 3621 (9.2%), respectively. Compared with normal weight (18.5-22.9 kg/m 2 ), severe underweight (<16.0 kg/m 2 ), mild/moderate underweight (16.0-18.4 kg/m 2 ), and obese (≥27.5 kg/m 2 )were significantly associated with higher in-hospital mortality [odds ratio 2.20 (95% confidence interval 1.65-2.94), 1.25 (1.01-1.49), and 1.48 (1.05-2.09), respectively]. BMI showed U-shaped dose-response associations with mortality, major complications, and multiple complications. BMI also showed a reverse J-shaped association with failure to rescue (death after major complications). Both high BMI and low BMI were associated with mortality, major complications and multiple complications after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Patients with low BMI were more likely to die once a major complication occurred. The present results can assist with risk stratification in patients undergoing oncologic esophagectomy.

Body composition in relation to postoperative anastomotic leakage and overall survival in patients with esophageal cancer

BackgroundBody composition was reported to be related to the prognosis of patients with cancer. This study aimed to investigate the influence of preoperative body composition on anastomotic leakage and overall survival in patients with esophageal cancer. MethodsIn this retrospective study, 93 patients with esophageal cancers were evaluated. Skeletal muscle area, intermuscular adipose tissue, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and subcutaneous adipose tissue were measured on computed tomography images at the level of the third lumbar vertebra. Subsequently, each body composition index was also calculated by dividing the body composition by the square of the height. The cut-off values of body compositions were defined using X-tile software (version 3.6.1; Yale University, New Haven, CTA). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the risk factors of anastomotic leakage. Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the risk factors of overall survival. ResultsVAT and visceral fat index (VFI) were higher in patients with anastomotic fistula than in those without anastomotic fistula, but none of them were independent risk factors. Patients with higher body mass index (BMI), higher VFI, and higher subcutaneous fat index (SFI) had better overall survival. By multivariate analysis, SFI >27.6 cm2/m2 was still significantly associated with overall survival. ConclusionPatients with higher VAT and VFI were prone to have an anastomotic leakage. Lower BMI, VFI, and SFI were associated with a reduction in overall survival.

Risk Factors for Anastomotic Leak, Consideration for Proximal Diversion, and Appropriate Use of Drains.

Anastomotic leaks are a major source of morbidity after colorectal surgery. There is a myriad of risk factors that may contribute to anastomotic leaks. These risk factors can be categorized as modifiable, nonmodifiable, and intraoperative factors. Identification of these risk factors allows for preoperative optimization that may minimize the risk of anastomotic leak. Knowledge of such high-risk features may also affect intraoperative decision-making regarding the creation of an anastomosis, consideration for proximal diversion, or placement of a drain. A thorough understanding of the interplay between risk factors, indications for proximal diversion, and utility of drain placement is imperative for colorectal surgeons.

Pre-Operative Risk Factors for Anastomotic Leak after Bowel Resection for Endometriosis

Study Objective Determine the preoperative risk factors for anastomotic leak after bowel resection during non-emergent endometriosis related surgery. Design Retrospective population level case-control study. Setting Analysis of American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) dataset. Patients or Participants Patients undergoing a bowel resection for endometriosis related surgery from 2014-2019 at a NSQIP participating site. International Classification of Diseases codes (ICD 9/10) were utilized to identify bowel resection cases with a primary surgical indication for endometriosis. Interventions Evaluation of patient demographics, perioperative management strategies and surgical technique that were associated with the occurrence of an anastomotic leak following bowel resection for endometriosis. Measurements and Main Results 289 bowel resection cases (non-emergent, benign) for endometriosis were identified. Anastomotic leak occurred in 9 cases (3.11%). There were no baseline patient demographics, perioperative management strategies (mechanical bowel preparation, preoperative oral antibiotics) or differences in surgical technique (laparoscopic vs open) that demonstrated a statistically significant association with an anastomotic leak. Multivariable logistic analysis identified that an increased preoperative albumin level was associated with a reduced risk of anastomotic leak with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.11 (95% CI 0.01-0.95). Conclusion The majority of population level data for anastomotic leak after bowel resection has included mainly data involving surgery for cancer. Data on complications after bowel resection for endometriosis has primarily been published form single site, single surgeon case series. This study using multicenter national data identified decreased preoperative albumin level as a risk factor for anastomotic leak after bowel resection for endometriosis. Further prospective studies are warranted to identify possible optimization strategies before bowel resection for endometriosis, with a particular focus on nutritional status atop perioperative management strategies and surgical techniques. Determine the preoperative risk factors for anastomotic leak after bowel resection during non-emergent endometriosis related surgery. Retrospective population level case-control study. Analysis of American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) dataset. Patients undergoing a bowel resection for endometriosis related surgery from 2014-2019 at a NSQIP participating site. International Classification of Diseases codes (ICD 9/10) were utilized to identify bowel resection cases with a primary surgical indication for endometriosis. Evaluation of patient demographics, perioperative management strategies and surgical technique that were associated with the occurrence of an anastomotic leak following bowel resection for endometriosis. 289 bowel resection cases (non-emergent, benign) for endometriosis were identified. Anastomotic leak occurred in 9 cases (3.11%). There were no baseline patient demographics, perioperative management strategies (mechanical bowel preparation, preoperative oral antibiotics) or differences in surgical technique (laparoscopic vs open) that demonstrated a statistically significant association with an anastomotic leak. Multivariable logistic analysis identified that an increased preoperative albumin level was associated with a reduced risk of anastomotic leak with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.11 (95% CI 0.01-0.95). The majority of population level data for anastomotic leak after bowel resection has included mainly data involving surgery for cancer. Data on complications after bowel resection for endometriosis has primarily been published form single site, single surgeon case series. This study using multicenter national data identified decreased preoperative albumin level as a risk factor for anastomotic leak after bowel resection for endometriosis. Further prospective studies are warranted to identify possible optimization strategies before bowel resection for endometriosis, with a particular focus on nutritional status atop perioperative management strategies and surgical techniques.

Trends in risk factors of anastomotic leakage after colorectal cancer surgery (2011-2019): A Dutch population-based study.

AimAnastomotic leakage (AL) after colon cancer (CC) and rectal cancer (RC) surgery often requires reintervention. Prevalence and morbidity may change over time with evolutions in treatment strategies and changes in patient characteristics. This nationwide study aimed to evaluate changes in the incidence, risk factors and mortality from AL during the past nine years.MethodsData of CC and RC resections with primary anastomosis were extracted from the Dutch Colorectal Audit (2011–2019). AL was registered if requiring reintervention. Three consecutive cohorts were compared using logistic regression analysis.ResultsIncidence of AL after CC surgery decreased from 6.6% in 2011–2013 to 4.8% in 2017–2019 and increased from 8.6% to 11.9% after RC surgery. In 2011–2013, male sex, ASA ≥3, (y)pT3‐4, neoadjuvant therapy, emergency surgery and multivisceral resection were identified as risk factors for AL after CC surgery. In 2017–2019, only male sex and ASA ≥3 were risk factors for AL. For RC patients, male sex and neoadjuvant therapy were a risk factor for AL in 2011–2013. In 2017–2019, transanal approach was also a risk factor for AL. Postoperative mortality rate after AL was 12% (CC) and 2% (RC) in 2017–2019, without significant changes over time.ConclusionContradictory trends in incidence and mortality for AL were observed among CC and RC surgery with changing risk factors over the past 9 years. High mortality after AL is only observed after CC surgery and remains unchanged. Continued efforts should be made to improve early detection and treatment of AL for these patients.

Risk factors for anatomotic leakage after laparoscopic intracorporeal colorectal anastomosis with a double stapling technique

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to identify the risk factors for anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic (intracorporeal) colorectal anastomosis with a double stapling technique at University Medical Center (UMC), Ho Chi Minh City. Patients and Methods: Retrospective study. Between 2008 and 2014, a total of 227 patients underwent laparoscopic rectal resection including anterior and low anterior resection. We identified risk factors for anastomotic leakage after using double stapling technique in laparoscopic rectal resection by univariate analysis. Results: There were 227 patients enrolled in study, male accounted for 51%, median age was 67. The location rate of a tumor above the anterior peritoneal reflection was 55.5%, stage III accounted for 91.6%. Anastomotic leakage rate was 4.8%. Anastomotic leakage rate of tumors located above anterior peritoneal reflection (Ra) was higher than those below anterior peritoneal reflection (Rb) (p=0.03). Other factors such as tumor size, stage, neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy, protective ileostomy and number of stapler firings were not significantly associated with anastomotic leakage risk. Conclusion: Anastomotic leakage rate after laparoscopic (intracorporeal) colorectal anastomosis with a double stapling technique was 4.8%. Tumor location was the risk factor of anastomotic leakage. Anastomotic leakage rate of tumors located above anterior peritoneal reflection was higher than those below, accounting for 7.9% and 1%,respectively. Keywords: Laparoscopic rectal resection using double stapling technique, anastomotic leakage, risk factor.

Risk Factors of Anastomotic Leakage After Esophagectomy With Intrathoracic Anastomosis.

Purpose: Anastomotic leakage is one of the most common complications of esophagectomy, it serves as one of the main causes of postoperative death of esophageal cancer. It is of clinical significance to try to discover the risk factors that cause anastomotic leakage.Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 1,257 consecutive esophageal cancer patients who underwent esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis from January 2010 to December 2015 at a high volume cancer center. Multivariate Logistic Regression analysis, Spearman rank correlation analysis, Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test were performed to identify the risk factors to the occurrence of anastomotic leakage and the length of hospital stay.Results: Intrathoracic anastomotic leakage occurred in 98 patients (7.8%). Older patients were more likely to develop anastomotic leakage. Patients with diabetes had a higher leakage rate. Intrathoracic anastomotic leakage, old age as well as comorbidities were associated with longer hospital stay.Conclusion: Our study suggested that old age and diabetes were risk factors to intrathoracic anastomotic leakage. In-hospital stay would be lengthened by intrathoracic anastomotic leakage, old age and comorbidities.

663 QUANTITATIVE PERFUSION ASSESSMENT TO PREDICT ANASTOMOTIC LEAK AFTER ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Impaired gastric conduit perfusion is a risk factor for anastomotic leak after esophagectomy. Most studies evaluating conduit perfusion have been qualitative with limited impact on post-operative care. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of intraoperative quantitative assessment of gastric conduit perfusion with indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography as a predictor for cervical esophagogastric anastomotic (CEGA) leak after esophagectomy. Methods ICG fluorescence angiography using the SPY elite® (Stryker, MI, USA) system was performed in patients who had undergone a transhiatal or McKeown esophagectomy CEGA from July 2015 through December 2020. Fluorescence angiography assessed Ingress (dye uptake) and Egress (dye exit). Ingress Index, Ingress Time, Egress Index, and Egress Time at two anatomic landmarks (tip of the conduit, and 5 cm from tip) were calculated from the measured curve of fluorescence (Figure). The collected data between the leak (L) group and the no-leak (NL) group were compared by both univariate and multivariable analyses to analyze risk factors potentially associated with CEGA leak. Results 304 patients were evaluated. There was no significant difference in patients' demographic and post-operative complications between the groups (L n = 73; NL n = 231), except for anastomotic stricture (42.5 vs 9.1%, p &amp;lt; 0.01). 5 cm and Tip Ingress Index were significantly lower in L (35.0 vs 45.1% and 17.4 vs 25.7%, p &amp;lt; 0.01). 5 cm Ingress Time was significantly higher in L (70.6 vs 56.8 sec, p &amp;lt; 0.01). On multivariable analysis, these variables retained statistical significance, suggesting that these three variables can be used to predict future leak. Conclusion This study revealed that gastric conduit perfusion correlates with the incidence of CEGA leak. Intraoperative measurement of gastric conduit perfusion may be predictive for CEGA leak following esophagectomy. These variables can be easily collected intraoperatively with the SPY study and used to make clinical decisions which may avert CEGA leak.

Dislocation of the gastric conduit reconstructed via the posterior mediastinal route is a significant risk factor for anastomotic disorder after McKeown esophagectomy.

BackgroundAnastomotic disorder of the reconstructed gastric conduit is a life‐threating morbidity after thoracic esophagectomy. Although there are various reasons for anastomotic disorder, the present study focused on dislocation of the gastric conduit (DGC).MethodsThe study cohort comprised 149 patients who underwent transthoracic esophagectomy. The relationships between DGC and peri‐ and postoperative morbidities were analyzed retrospectively. Data were analyzed to determine whether body mass index (BMI) and extension of the gastric conduit were related to DGC. Uni‐ and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with anastomotic disorder.ResultsDGC was significantly related to anastomotic leakage (P < .001), anastomotic stricture (P = .018), and mediastinal abscess/empyema (P = .031). Compared with the DGC‐negative group, the DGC‐positive group had a significantly larger mean preoperative BMI (23.01 ± 3.26 kg/m2 vs. 21.22 ± 3.13 kg/m2, P = .001) and mean maximum cross‐sectional area of the gastric conduit (1024.75 ± 550.43 mm2 vs. 619.46 ± 263.70 mm2, P < .001). Multivariate analysis revealed that DGC was an independent risk factor for anastomotic leakage (odds ratio: 4.840, 95% confidence interval: 1.770‐13.30, P < .001). Body weight recovery tended to be better in the DGC‐negative group than in the DGC‐positive group, although this intergroup difference was not significant.ConclusionDGC reconstructed via the posterior mediastinal route is a significant cause of critical morbidities related to anastomosis. In particular, care is required when performing gastric conduit reconstruction via the posterior mediastinal route in patients with a high BMI.

Risk stratification of anastomotic leakage using eGFR and FIB-4 index in patients undergoing esophageal cancer surgery

Renal insufficiency and liver cirrhosis are identified as independent risk factors for anastomotic leakage (AL) after esophagectomy. However, research evaluating the incidence of AL using quantitative data to measure renal function and liver fibrosis remain to be limited. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate postoperative AL after esophagectomy using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index. In total, 184 patients who underwent esophagectomy were included in this study; then, they were divided into the non-AL group (n = 161) and AL group (n = 23), after which their background data and intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were compared. In addition, risk factors for AL were evaluated using a logistic regression model. Preoperative body mass index of ≥21.5kg/m2, hemoglobin A1c level of ≥7.3%, FIB-4 index of ≥1.44, and eGFR of <59ml/min/1.73m2 were found to be significantly frequent in the AL group compared with the non-AL group. Multivariate analysis revealed FIB-4 index of ≥1.44 (p = 0.013; OR, 3.780; 95% CI, 1.320-10.800) and eGFR of <59ml/min/1.73m2 (p = 0.018; OR, 3.110; 95% CI, 1.220-8.020) as the independent risk factors for AL. In addition, we stratified the patients into three groups based on the incidence of AL as follows: low risk (5.5%, low FIB-4 index), intermediate risk (13.0%, high FIB-4 index and eGFR), and high risk (37.5%, high FIB-4 index and low eGFR). Preoperative eGFR and FIB-4 index were found to be useful markers to predict AL after esophagectomy.