Surgery For Malignant Bowel Obstruction Research Articles

To operate or not to operate?: Preoperative factors associated with unsuccessful palliation following surgery for malignant bowel obstruction in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer (1232)

To operate or not to operate?: Preoperative factors associated with unsuccessful palliation following surgery for malignant bowel obstruction in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer (1232)

Outcomes and long-term follow-up by treatment type for patients with advanced-stage ovarian cancer managed at a tertiary cancer center: A Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Team Ovary study

ObjectiveTo assess long-term outcomes of patients with advanced-stage ovarian cancer by treatment type. MethodsPatients with newly diagnosed stage III-IV ovarian cancer who underwent primary treatment at our tertiary cancer center from 01/01/2015–12/31/2015 were included. We reviewed electronic medical records for clinicopathological, treatment, and survival characteristics. ResultsOf 153 patients, 88 (58%) had stage III and 65 (42%) stage IV disease. Median follow-up was 65.8 months (range, 3.6–75.3). Eighty-nine patients (58%) underwent primary debulking surgery (PDS), 50 (33%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval debulking surgery (IDS), and 14 (9%) received chemotherapy alone, without surgery (NSx). Median PFS to first recurrence was 26.2 months (range, 20.1–36.2), 13.5 months (range, 12–15.1), and 4.2 months (range, 1.1–5.8) in the PDS, IDS, and NSx groups, respectively (P < .001). At first recurrence/progression, 80 patients (72.7%) were treated with chemotherapy, 28 (25.5%) underwent secondary cytoreductive surgery (CRS) followed by chemotherapy, and 2 (1.8%) received no treatment. Seven patients (4.6%) underwent palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction. Overall, 62.7% received 1–3 lines of chemotherapy. The 5-year OS rates were 53.2% (95% CI: 44.7%–61%) for the entire cohort, 71.5% (95% CI: 60.2%–80%) for the PDS group, 35.2% (95% CI: 22.2–48.5%) for the IDS group, and 7.9% (95% CI: 0.5%–29.9%) for the NSx group. ConclusionThe longitudinal treatment modalities and outcomes of patients with advanced ovarian cancer described here can be useful for patient counseling, long-term planning, and future comparison studies.

Which preoperative immunonutritional index best predicts postoperative mortality after palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction in patients with late-stage cancer? A single-center study in Japan comparing the modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and the controlling nutritional status (CONUT).

To compare the utility of preoperative immunonutritional parameter measures for predicting postoperative mortality following palliative surgery (PS) for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) in patients with late-stage cancer. The subjects of this retrospective study were 83 late-stage cancer patients with MBO who underwent PS between January, 2005 and December, 2018, at a single institution in Japan. We compared the modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) for predicting postoperative mortality following PS in these patients. The most prevalent cancer in the patients who underwent PS was colorectal cancer (54.2%), followed by gastric cancer (24.1%). Postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo classification grade ≥ 2 developed in 32 (38.6%) patients and stoma-related complications developed in 26 (31.3%) patients. There were 15 (18.1%) patients with 60-day mortality, 22 (26.5%) with 90-day mortality, and 4 (4.8%) with 30-day mortality. Multivariable analysis identified only mGPS as being associated with 60-day mortality (odds ratio, 9.387; 95% confidence interval, 0.001-4.478; p = 0.049). The overall survival of patients with a mGPS score of 2 was significantly worse than that of those with a mGPS score of < 2 (p = 0.013). These results suggest that the mGPS is a good predictor not only of 60-day mortality, but also of the overall survival of patients with late-stage cancer and MBO.

Racial Disparities in Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction.

Operative management of patients with malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) may provide effective palliation, but is associated with substantial risks. This study aimed to analyze racial and ethnic differences in surgical outcomes for patients with MBO. This retrospective study, using National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) registry data from 2010 to 2019, compared differences in outcomes by race and ethnicity for 2762 patients undergoing surgery for MBO. Multivariable logistic regression controlled for relevant covariates. Black patients (n = 407) had higher rates of preoperative comorbidity and were more likely than White patients (n = 2081) to have major complications (28.5% vs 21.8%; p = 0.0031), overall complications (47.4% vs 40.4%; p = 0.0087), a longer median hospital stay (12 days; interquartile range [IQR, 8-19 days] vs 10 days [IQR, 7-17 days]; p = 0.0007), and unplanned readmission (17.1% vs 12.9%; p = 0.0266). Black patients had a similarmortality rateto that of White patients and were less frequently discharged to home (67.6% vs 73.0%; p = 0.0315). Differences in morbidity between Black patients and White patients persisted after controlling for potentially confounding variables. Hispanic patients had lower mortality than White patients (6.3% vs 13.1%; p = 0.0130) and a longer hospital stay (12 days [IQR, 8-18 days] vs 10 days [IQR, 7-17 days]; p = 0.0313). Outcomes did not differ between Asian patients and White patients. This study demonstrated significant disparities for Black patients undergoing surgery for MBO. Understanding and addressing what drives these differences, including systemic inequalities such as access to care and racial biases, is essential to theachievement of more equitable, higher-quality patient care.

ASO Visual Abstract: Racial Disparities in Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction

ASO Visual Abstract: Racial Disparities in Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction

QOL assessment after palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction caused by peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer: a prospective multicenter observational study.

Patients with peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer have poor oral intake caused by malignant bowel obstruction (MBO). Palliative surgery has often been undertaken to improve quality of life (QOL), but few prospective studies on palliative surgery in this patient population have been published. We prospectively investigated the significance of palliative surgery using patient-reported QOL measures. Patients underwent palliative surgery by small intestine/colon resection or small intestine/colon bypass or ileostomy/colostomy for MBO. The primary endpoint was change in QOL assessed at baseline, 14days, 1month, and 3months following palliative surgery using the Euro QoL Five Dimensions (EQ-5D™) questionnaire and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire gastric cancer module (QLQ-STO22). Secondary endpoints were postoperative improvement in oral intake and surgical complications. Between April 2013 and March 2018, 63 patients were enrolled from 14 institutions. The mean EQ-5D™ utility index baseline score of 0.6 remained consistent. Gastric-specific symptoms mostly showed statistically significant improvement from baseline. Forty-two patients (67%) were able to eat solid food 2weeks after palliative surgery and 36 patients (57%) tolerated it for 3months. The rate of overall morbidity of ≥ grade III according to the Clavien-Dindo classification was 16% (10 patients) and the 30-day postoperative mortality rate was 3.2% (2 patients). In patients with MBO caused by peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer, palliative surgery did not improve QOL while improving solid food intake, with an acceptable postoperative morbidity and mortality rate.

Результаты профилактики гнойно-септических осложнений при оперативном лечении больных пожилого возраста с субкомпенсированной кишечной непроходимостью опухолевой этиологии

Результаты профилактики гнойно-септических осложнений при оперативном лечении больных пожилого возраста с субкомпенсированной кишечной непроходимостью опухолевой этиологии

Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in Patients who Underwent Palliative Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction due to Peritoneal Dissemination

Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in Patients who Underwent Palliative Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction due to Peritoneal Dissemination

Short-term outcomes and prognosis of palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction caused by peritoneal metastasis of colorectal cancer

Objective: To explore the short-term efficacy and prognosis of palliative surgical treatment for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) caused by peritoneal metastasis of colorectal cancer (mCRC). Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. The inclusion criteria for patients were as follows: (1) primary colorectal cancer; (2) massive peritoneal metastasis; (3)obstructive site located below Treitz ligament by imaging; (4) obstruction refractory to conservative treatment; (5) estimated rese survival time more than 2 months; (6) patients and their families had strong willingness for operation; (7) surgical treatment included stoma/bypass and debulking surgery. In accordance with the above criteria, clinicopathological data of 46 patients undergoing palliative surgery at Peking University Gastrointestinal Cancer Center, Unit III from January 2016 to October 2018 were retrospectively collected. Postoperative symptomatic relief rate, morbidity of complication within 30 days, complication classification (Clavien-Dindo classification), mortality and survival after operation were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate survival and Cox regression analysis was used to identify prognostic factors. Results: Among 46 patients, 30 were male and 16 were female with median age of 63 (19-87) years; 23 patients received stoma/bypass surgery (stoma/bypass group), and 23 cases received tumor debulking surgery (debulking group). The overall symptom relief rate was 76.1% (35/46), while symptom relief rate in the debulking group was 91.3% (21/23), which was significantly higher than 60.9% (14/23) in the stoma/bypass group (χ(2)=4.301, P=0.038). Postoperative complications occurred in 25 patients. The complication rate was 52.2% (12/23) in the debulking group and 56.5% (13/23) in the stoma/bypass group, without statistically significant difference (χ(2)=0.088, P=0.767). Morbidity of complication beyond grade III was 8.7% (2/23) and 13.0% (3/23) in the debulking group and stoma/bypass group respectively, without statistically significant difference (χ(2)=0.224, P=0.636). Four patients died within 30 days after operation, 2 (8.7%) in each group. Twenty-four patients underwent 1-8 cycles of chemotherapy ± targeting therapy (regimens: CapeOX ± Bevacizumab, FOLFOX/FOLFIRI ± Bevacizumab/Cetuximab), including 10 cases in the stoma/bypass group and 14 cases in the debulking group. Two patients of debulking group received postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy (50.6 Gy/22 f, with concurrent oral capecitabine). Till the last follow up of April 2019, 34 patients died (34/46, 73.9%) with a median overall survival time of 6.4 months, and the 6-month and 1-year survival rate was 54.5% and 29.2% respectively. The median survival time in the debulking group was significantly longer than that in the stoma/bypass group (11.5 months vs. 5.2 months, χ(2)=5.117, P=0.024). The median survival time of the 35 patients with symptomatic relief after operation was significant longer than that of 11 patients without relief (7.1 months vs 5.1 months, χ(2)=3.844, P=0.050). Multivariate analysis showed stoma/bypass surgery (HR=2.917, 95%CI:1.357-6.269, P=0.006) and greater omental metastasis (HR=4.060, 95%CI:1.419-11.617, P=0.009) were independent risk factors associated with prognosis of patients with MBO caused by peritoneal mCRC. Conclusions: For patients of MBO caused by peritoneal mCRC, tumor debulking surgery may achieve higher symptom relief rate and prolong survival. Greater omental metastasis indicates poor prognosis.

Comparative study between colonic metallic stent and anal tube decompression for Japanese patients with left-sided malignant large bowel obstruction

BackgroundSurgical management of malignant bowel obstruction carries with high morbidity and mortality. Placement of a trans-anal decompression tube (TDT) has traditionally been used for malignant bowel obstruction as a bridge to surgery. Recently, colonic metallic stent (CMS) as a bridge to surgery for malignant bowel obstruction, particularly left-sided malignant large bowel obstruction (LMLBO) caused by colorectal cancer, has been reported to be both a safe and feasible option. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the clinical effects of CMS for LMLBO as a bridge to surgery compared to TDT.MethodsBetween January 2000 and December 2015, we retrospectively evaluated outcomes of 59 patients with LMLBO. We compared the outcomes of 26 patients with CMS for LMLBO between 2013 and 2015 (CMS group) with those of 33 patients managed with TDT between 2003 and 2011 (TDT group) by the historical study. LMLBO was defined as a large bowel obstruction due to a colorectal cancer that was diagnosed by computed tomography and required emergent decompression.ResultsAll patients in the CMS group were successfully decompressed (p = 0.03) and could initiate oral intake after the procedure (p < 0.01). Outcomes in the CMS group were superior to the TDT group in the following areas: duration of tube placement (p < 0.01), surgical approach (p < 0.01), operation time (p < 0.01), number of resected lymph nodes (p < 0.001), and rate of curative resection (p < 0.01). However, no significant differences were found in the overall postoperative complication rate (p = 0.151), surgical site infection rate (p = 0.685), hospital length of stay (p = 0.502), and the need for permanent ostomy (p = 0.745). The 3-year overall survival rate of patients in the CMS and TDT groups was 73.0% and 80.9%, respectively, and this was not significant (p = 0.423).ConclusionsTreatment with CMS for patients with LMLBO as a bridge to surgery is safe and demonstrated higher rates of resumption of solid food intake and temporary discharge prior to elective surgery compared to TDT. Oncological outcomes during mid-term were equivalent.

Preoperative factors associated with unsuccessful palliation following surgery for malignant bowel obstruction in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer

Preoperative factors associated with unsuccessful palliation following surgery for malignant bowel obstruction in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer

A laparoscopic approach is associated with a decreased incidence of SSI in patients undergoing palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction

BackgroundSeveral authors have reported on the utility of a laparoscopic approach for the palliation of malignant bowel obstruction (MBO); however, the advantages of laparoscopic surgery for MBO have not yet been confirmed. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent palliative surgery for MBO between 2007 and 2015. Laparoscopic procedures have been performed when technically possible since 2014. Successful palliation was defined as the ability to tolerate solid food (TSF) for at least 2 weeks. ResultsTwenty-two patients underwent laparoscopic palliative surgery, and 171 patients underwent conventional open palliative surgery to relieve the symptoms of MBO. Laparoscopic palliative surgery was performed for patients with MBO due to colorectal cancer (n = 12), uterine cancer (n = 3), and other types of cancers (including gastric, prostate, and renal cancer). The following laparoscopic procedures were performed: stoma placement (n = 18), palliative resection (n = 3) and bypass (n = 2). The median operative time was 100 min and the median operative blood loss was 9 ml. The laparoscopic palliative operation allowed 91% (20/22) of the patients to consume a solid diet for more than 2 weeks, and be discharged from hospital. There were no significant differences between laparoscopic surgery and open surgery with regard to the ability to TSF or the postoperative mortality rate. The postoperative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo Grade ≥ II) rates in the laparoscopic and open surgery groups were 14% and 32%, respectively. Laparoscopic surgery led to a significantly lower rate of postoperative surgical site infection (SSI) in comparison to open surgery (4.5% vs 32%; P = 0.0053). ConclusionA laparoscopic approach in palliative surgery for MBO was safe and feasible, and was associated with a lower incidence of SSIs. By minimizing the postoperative morbidity rate, the laparoscopic approach may provide significant benefits to patients with MBO who have a limited life expectancy.

Surgery for the resolution of symptoms in malignant bowel obstruction in advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer.

This is an update of the original Cochrane review published in Issue 4, 2000. Intestinal obstruction commonly occurs in progressive advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancers. Management of these patients is difficult due to the patients' deteriorating mobility and function (performance status), the lack of further chemotherapeutic options, and the high mortality and morbidity associated with palliative surgery. There are marked variations in clinical practice concerning surgery in these patients between different countries, gynaecological oncology units and general hospitals, as well as referral patterns from oncologists under whom these patients are often admitted. To assess the efficacy of surgery for intestinal obstruction due to advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer. We searched the following databases for the original review in 2000 and again for this update in June 2015: CENTRAL (2015, Issue 6); MEDLINE (OVID June week 1 2015); and EMBASE (OVID week 24, 2015).We also searched relevant journals, bibliographic databases, conference proceedings, reference lists, grey literature and the world wide web for the original review in 2000; we also used personal contact. This searching of other resources yielded very few additional studies. The Cochrane Pain, Palliative and Supportive Care Review Group no longer routinely handsearch journals. For these reasons, we did not repeat the searching of other resources for the June 2015 update. As the review concentrates on the 'best evidence' available for the role of surgery in malignant bowel obstruction in known advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer we kept the inclusion criteria broad (including both prospective and retrospective studies) so as to include all studies relevant to the question. We sought published trials reporting on the effects of surgery for resolving symptoms in malignant bowel obstruction for adult patients with known advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer. We used data extraction forms to collect data from the studies included in the review. Two review authors extracted the data independently to reduce error. Owing to concerns about the risk of bias we decided not to conduct a meta-analysis of data and we have presented a narrative description of the study results. We planned to resolve disagreements by discussion with the third review author. In total we have identified 43 studies examining 4265 participants. The original review included 938 patients from 25 studies. The updated search identified an additional 18 studies with a combined total of 3327 participants between 1997 and June 2015. The results of these studies did not change the conclusions of the original review.No firm conclusions can be drawn from the many retrospective case series so the role of surgery in malignant bowel obstruction remains controversial. Clinical resolution varies from 26.7% to over 68%, though it is often unclear how this is defined. Despite being an inadequate proxy for symptom resolution or quality of life, the ability to feed orally was a popular outcome measure, with success rates ranging from 30% to 100%. Rates of re-obstruction varied, ranging from 0% to 63%, though time to re-obstruction was often not included. Postoperative morbidity and mortality also varied widely, although again the definition of both of these surgical outcomes differed between many of the papers. There were no data available for quality of life. The reporting of adverse effects was variable and this has been described where available. Where discussed, surgical procedures varied considerably and outcomes were not reported by specific intervention. Using the 'Risk of bias' assessment tool, most included studies were at high risk of bias for most domains. The role of surgery in malignant bowel obstruction needs careful evaluation, using validated outcome measures of symptom control and quality of life scores. Further information could include re-obstruction rates together with the morbidity associated with the various surgical procedures.Currently, bowel obstruction is managed empirically and there are marked variations in clinical practice by different units. In order to compare outcomes in malignant bowel obstruction, there needs to be a greater degree of standardisation of management.Since the last version of this review none of the new included studies have provided additional information to change the conclusions.

Endoscopic stent placement in the management of malignant colonic obstruction: Experiences from two centers.

Intestinal obstruction due to colorectal tumors requires immediate surgical decompression. Endoscopic stent placement for acute malignant colonic obstruction is gaining widespread acceptance as an alternative to emergency surgery. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the success and complication rates of endoscopic stenting for malignant colonic obstruction. Patients with acute malignant colonic obstruction who underwent endoscopic stenting between 2011-2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Data included demographic features, localization of obstruction, endoscopic stenting indications, rate of technical and clinical success, complications, morbidity and mortality. Endoscopic stent was successfully placed in 77 out of 82 procedures (93.9%). A colostomy was placed in five cases in which endoscopic stent could not be inserted. There were complications in seven patients with technically successful stents (9.0%). These included three stent migrations, one perforation, and rectal hemorrhage in three patients. There were no stent-related deaths. The mortality rate of emergency surgery for malignant bowel obstruction is relatively high. The use of colonic stents can avoid surgery in patients who are not suitable for emergency surgery and may allow adequate time for preoperative preparation, counseling and staging for those who are suitable for further intervention. We believe that self-expandable metallic stent placement is a safe, effective, and minimal invasive alternative treatment method for malignant colonic obstruction.

A Case of Spondylitis Associated with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus following Sepsis Management after Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction

A Case of Spondylitis Associated with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus following Sepsis Management after Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction

Palliative Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction From Carcinomatosis

Care of patients with malignant bowel obstruction caused by peritoneal metastases may present an ethical dilemma for surgeons when nonoperative management fails. To characterize outcomes of palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction from peritoneal carcinomatosis to guide decision making about surgery and postoperative interventions for patients with terminal illness. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Knowledge, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature Plus, and Google Scholar and performed manual searches of selected journals from inception to August 30, 2012, with no filters, limits, or language restrictions. We used database-specific combinations of the terms intestinal obstruction, malignant, surgery or surgical, and palliat*. We included studies reporting outcomes after palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction from peritoneal carcinomatosis from any primary malignant neoplasm and excluded case studies, curative surgery, isolated percutaneous procedures, stenting for intraluminal lesions, and studies in which benign and malignant obstructions could not be distinguished. We assessed quality with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We screened 2347 unique articles, selected 108 articles for full-text review, and included 17 studies. Surgery was able to palliate obstructive symptoms for 32% to 100% of patients, enable resumption of a diet for 45% to 75% of patients, and facilitate discharge to home in 34% to 87% of patients. Mortality was high (6%-32%), and serious complications were common (7%-44%). Frequent reobstructions (6%-47%), readmissions (38%-74%), and reoperations (2%-15%) occurred. Survival was limited (median, 26-273 days), and hospitalization for surgery consumed a substantial portion of the patient's remaining life (11%-61%). Although palliative surgery can benefit patients, it comes at the cost of high mortality and substantial hospitalization relative to the patient's remaining survival time. Preoperatively, surgeons should present realistic goals and limitations of surgery. For patients choosing surgery, clarifying preferences for aggressive postoperative interventions preoperatively is critical given the high complication rate and limited survival after surgery for malignant bowel obstruction.

Outcomes of palliative bowel surgery for malignant bowel obstruction in patients with gynecological malignancy

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients with a gynecological malignancy who received palliative care with and without surgical procedures for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) and to explore prognostic factors to aid the selection of patients who would benefit from palliative surgery. Medical records of patients with MBO due to a gynecological malignancy treated at our institute between 2005 and 2010 were reviewed. Successful palliation following surgery was defined as the ability to tolerate solid food for at least 60 days. Clinical variables were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Survival was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. A total of 53 cases were identified; 20 had bowel surgery for MBO as a palliative procedure and 33 did not. Colostomy was performed in 11 (55%) of 20 patients and ileostomy was performed in 7 (35%). The postoperative morbidity was 35% and mortality within 30 days was 5%. Successful palliation following surgery was achieved in 14 (70%) of 20 cases with a median period of 146 days (range, 61-294). Survival following the diagnosis of MBO was longer in cases with surgery than those without (median survival time, 146 versus 69 days; P<0.0001). Although age, presence of ascites, laboratory values and types of prior anticancer therapy were not significantly different, a longer interval from last anticancer therapy to diagnosis of MBO was observed in patients who underwent surgery compared with those who did not (median, 57 versus 30 days; P<0.05), as well as superior performance status. Among the patients with surgery, the interval was also longer in patients with successful palliation compared with those without (median, 83 versus 32 days; P<0.05). The palliative benefit of surgery for MBO in selected patients with gynecological malignancy was observed. The interval from last anticancer therapy to diagnosis of MBO may serve as a prognostic factor when considering surgical intervention.

Surgery as a Bridge to Palliative Chemotherapy in Patients with Malignant Bowel Obstruction from Colorectal Cancer

Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is a feature of the clinical course of 10-28% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and is associated with a poor prognosis. Recent advancements in palliative chemotherapy regimens have prolonged survival in patients with stage IV CRC. Few reports exist that describe outcomes in patients who have had surgery for MBO and subsequent chemotherapy as part of their treatment. The objective of this study was to review surgical outcomes in patients with MBO for CRC and to evaluate the extent to which surgery can serve as a bridge to palliative chemotherapy. Patients who presented with MBO and had surgical treatment were identified from a prospectively kept database at a single tertiary care center between 09/99 and 08/04. Charts were retrospectively reviewed and clinical and outcomes data were abstracted. Forty-seven patients were identified who had surgery as part of the treatment for MBO from CRC. Operations included resections, bypasses and stoma creation. Overall, 80% of patients were able to tolerate solid food post-operatively and return home. The median survival for the entire cohort was 3.5 months. Seven patients died within 30 days of surgery. Of the remainder, 24 patients were palliated with surgery alone and 16 patients ultimately received palliative chemotherapy. Survival in the final cohort was significantly prolonged (P < 0.001). Surgery can adequately palliate a substantial proportion of patients with MBO from CRC with acceptable morbidity and mortality. In addition, in a subset of patients it can facilitate palliative chemotherapy that is associated with improved overall survival.

Quality of life with malignant bowel obstruction: provider assessed health state utilities

8260 Background: Bowel obstruction in patients with advanced malignancy represents a difficult management issue. The optimal role of surgery for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) remains undefined, and data on quality of life (QOL) are sparse. Health state utilities are a quantitative measure of preferences and represent the relative QOL for potential health states. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of eliciting rating scale (RS) values and standard gamble (SG) utilities for health states associated with MBO. Methods: A paper-based SG was developed to assess the health-related QOL associated with MBO. Five representative scenarios were presented, describing various levels of abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue; effects on diet and bowel function; restriction on daily activities; relief of symptoms; and other treatment-related outcomes (i.e., surgical complications). Respondents were asked to rank the scenarios from best to worse, to rate each scenario from 0 (worst health condition imaginable) to 100 (best health condition imaginable), and to perform the SG exercise. In all cases there was a diagnosis of advanced malignancy, although the patient’s prognosis was not specified. Results: Ten health care professionals participated in this pilot study. Respondents varied in their rankings of the five clinical scenarios, but all identified the same scenario as the best one, and 9 identified the same scenario as the worst one. The best scenario had an average RS value of 81 and average SG utility of 0.98. The scenario identified as the worst by the majority of respondents had an average RS value of 29, and an average SG utility of 0.63. For intermediate scenarios, RS values varied from 56 to 67, and SG utilities varied from 0.86 to 0.91. Seven of the 10 respondents gave RS values and SG utilities that were consistent with their explicit rank ordering of the scenarios. Conclusions: Utility assessment by health care providers of MBO-related health states using SG is feasible. Development of QOL measures in the treatment of MBO can inform decision-analytic models of MBO treatment strategies and lead to the improvement of the decision-making process for patients. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Factors affecting successful palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction due to peritoneal dissemination from colorectal cancer.

Nonresectable colorectal cancer often causes malignant intestinal obstruction due to peritoneal dissemination. However, no previous report has specifically investigated which patients, with peritoneal dissemination from colorectal cancer, would actually benefit from palliative surgery. This study defines the selection criteria for patients who are likely to benefit from palliative surgery. Twenty-one patients underwent palliative surgery for malignant bowel obstruction due to peritoneal dissemination from colorectal cancer. In all cases, the advanced and nonresectable nature of the tumor was confirmed at laparotomy. Clinical factors such as age, gender, serum level of carcinoembryonic antigen, amount of ascites, location of the primary cancer, surgical procedure, and postoperative chemotherapy were analyzed for prognostic significance in symptom-free and overall survival using the Kaplan-Meier product limit method and the log-rank test. All the postoperative courses were uneventful. Obstruction recurred after a median symptom-free interval of 61 days in the group with less than 100 ml of ascites, whereas it recurred after 9 days in the group with more than 100 ml of ascites. Symptom-free survival rates in patients who manifested ascites were significantly lower than in those without ascites (P = 0.0321, log-rank method). The symptom-free and overall survival rates in patients who underwent postoperative chemotherapy were significantly higher (P = 0.0225 and 0.0003). Palliative surgery can be performed effectively for patients without ascites. For patients who do not meet this criterion, a non-surgical procedure may be preferable.