Search PubMed⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “Resectable”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 757 records · Page 42Linked to original sources

Relationship between amount of lung resected and outcome after lung volume reduction surgery.

BACKGROUND: Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is being actively investigated for palliative treatment of severe emphysema. Considerable focus is directed toward patient selection and outcomes of LVRS. However, there is little information available regarding surgical methods to guide optimal extent of resection. We hypothesized that acute improvement and long-term survival after bilateral staple LVRS would be related to the extent of tissue resected. METHODS: The relationship between acute improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity was examined as a function of the total grams of lung tissue resected in 237 patients who underwent bilateral staple LVRS by a single group of surgeons. Overall survival was assessed based on extent of resection by quartiles of tissue weight resected using Kaplan-Meier survival methods. RESULTS: Improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity correlated with extent of tissue resected (p < 0.01), although there was considerable variability to individual response (r = 0.3). In contrast, there was no apparent relationship between the amount of tissue resected and overall postoperative survival (p = 0.7). CONCLUSIONS: There is a correlation between the amount of tissue resected and improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity after bilateral staple LVRS, with generally greater postoperative improvement after larger volume resections. However, there does not appear to be greater long-term survival with larger volume resections despite greater improvement in spirometry. This study suggests that factors other than improvement in spirometric variables may govern optimal LVRS resection volumes and long-term outcome. Future studies will clearly be needed in this important area of LVRS emphysema research.

Adult↗

[Toward zero mortality in liver resection. Presentation of 200 consecutive cases].

INTRODUCTION: Liver resection (LR) morbidity and mortality rates have dropped in recent decades. Mortality is now below 5% and morbidity is less than 30%. Our objective was to present a series of 200 LRs without mortality and to analyze the factors that may be related to complications. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Between January 1996 and October 2003, 200 LRs were performed in 177 patients. The most common indication was liver metastases in 123 patients (61.5%), primary malignant liver tumors in 27 patients (13.5%), bile duct tumors in 27 patients (13.5%) and benign disease in 23 patients (11.5%). Fifty-one percent of the resections were performed under hemihepatic vascular control and 49% were resections of central segments, segmentary and atypical resections. We studied the association between morbidity and age, sex, previous comorbidity, liver status, indication for surgery, number of resections, major and minor resections, resection extended to other organs, type of vascular occlusion, transfusion requirements, operating time, length of hospital stay and experience of the surgical team. RESULTS: There was no postoperative mortality. The morbidity rate was 17.5% (35 patients) and the most common complications were biliary (8%). Morbidity was related to transfusion (transfused patients presented more complications) (P < .001). Transfusion was greater in major resections, the first 100 resections and prolonged operations. Among the segmentary resections the Pringle maneuver reduced transfusion requirements but this difference was not statistically significant. Morbidity decreased in the second 100 resections, without significant differences. CONCLUSION: LRs can be performed with low mortality and morbidity. Biliary complications and blood transfusion should be avoided whenever possible.

Bile Duct Neoplasms↗

Risk analysis and long-term survival in patients undergoing extended resection of locally advanced lung cancer.

Although locally advanced lung cancer frequently necessitates extended resections to preserve a chance for cure, a higher morbidity is associated with extended resections. It is not known whether the increased morbidity is of relevance for the long-term outcome. It also remains unclear whether exclusion of certain patients according to their risk factors can diminish mortality in these patients. This study therefore investigated whether certain risk factors predispose patients undergoing extended pulmonary resections to increased morbidity or mortality. It also assessed the long-term survival. The cases of 126 consecutive patients with locally advanced lung cancer (stage T3 or T4) were prospectively documented. Seventy-five percent of the patients required an extended resection and 25% a nonextended resection. Extended resections were associated with a significantly increased overall morbidity (p < 0.002). However, mortality, severe complications, or multiple complications were not significantly increased after extended resections. No risk factor predisposed to an increased mortality. Risk factors that were associated with particular postoperative complications were pathologic ergonometry (p < 0.002), a positive cardiac score (p < 0.003), coronary artery disease (p = 0.021), and an increased pulmonary risk score (p < 0.05). Overall 3-year survival was 31%. Patients undergoing extended resections for stage T3 or T4 tumors with no residual tumor (70% of the patients) showed a 3-year survival of 33%. We conclude that postoperative mortality cannot be reduced by excluding patients on the basis of particular risk factors from operations that require extended resections. If a patient is considered to be eligible to undergo pulmonary resection, he or she can be considered to be eligible to undergo extended pulmonary resection. Because prognosis is dismal in nonresected locally advanced lung cancer, we recommend an aggressive surgical approach.

Adult↗

Transurethral resection of the prostate versus transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate: a blinded, prospective comparative study with 1-year followup.

PURPOSE: Transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate has been increasingly used as a surgical adjunct in the management of men with lower urinary tract symptoms. In this prospective study we compare the safety and efficacy of transurethral resection of the prostate and electrovaporization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared 32 consecutive men (mean age 68.9 years) with lower urinary tract symptoms treated by transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate to a cohort of 32 men (mean age 72.8 years) treated by transurethral resection of the prostate. Parameters of evaluation included American Urological Association symptom score, peak urinary flow rate, adverse events, including serial changes in serum hematocrit and sodium, operative time, postoperative catheterization time, hospitalization time and days lost from work. The data were analyzed by an investigator who was blinded to which procedure was performed. RESULTS: A total of 61 patients were evaluable for followup at 1 year. None required retreatment. At 1 year symptom score decreased 12.8 (66% of patients) and 12.2 (67%) and peak urinary flow increased 9.7 ml. per second (135%) and 11.3 ml. per second (136%) for electrovaporization and resection, respectively, (p <0.001). Operative time was significantly longer with electrovaporization than with resection (47.6 +/- 17.6 versus 34.6 +/- 11.2 minutes, p <0.003). Catheterization time (67.4 +/- 13.6 versus 12.9 +/- 4.6 hours), hospitalization time (2.6 +/- 0.9 versus 1.3 +/- 0.5 days) and days lost from work (18.4 +/- 7.6 versus 6.7 +/- 2.1) were significantly greater for resection than electrovaporization, respectively. There were no major complications in the electrovaporization group while in the resection group 1 patient required transfusion (5 units) and in 1 a clinical transurethral resection syndrome developed. Potency and retrograde ejaculation were normal in 18 of 18 patients (100%) and 13 of 17 (76%) after resection and 19 of 20 (95%) and 17 of 20 (85%) after electrovaporization. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that transurethral resection and transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate are effective in reducing lower urinary tract symptoms with similar preservation of sexual function. Both significantly improve peak urinary flow, although resection to a greater degree. Postoperative morbidity, catheterization time, hospitalization time and days lost from work were significantly less, and operative time was significantly longer with electrovaporization. Further studies are underway to determine the long-term durability of response of transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate relative to transurethral resection.

Aged↗

[Twenty nine shoulder reconstructions after resection of the proximal humerus for neoplasm with mean 7-year follow-up].

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Techniques available for shoulder reconstruction after resection of a tumor of the proximal humerus include scapulohumeral arthrodesis, humerus prosthesis with or without an allograft, inverted prostheses, and massive allografts. The purpose of this study was to review clinical and radiological outcomes in a series of 29 patients (20 men and 9 women) who underwent resection-reconstruction of the proximal humerus and to establish from these cases a decision making algorithm for therapeutic indications as a function of tumor invasion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The tumors were 20 chondrosarcomas, five osteosarcomas, two Ewing sarcomas and one malignant hemangiopericytoma. In 17 patients epiphyso-metaphyseal or epiphyso-metaphyso-diaphyseal resection was performed with preservation of the abductor muscles (type S34A or S345A according to the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society classification). For 12 patients epiphyso-metaphyseal or epiphyso-metaphyso-diaphyseal resection was performed without preservation of the abductor muscles (type S34B or S345B). Reconstruction was achieved using a centromedullary cemented nail in one patient, scapulohumeral arthrodesis in three, a massive humerus prosthesis in 15, and composite humerus prosthesis in three and an inverted prosthesis in seven. The functional score of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) and standard x-rays were used to assess outcome. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 85 months (range 16-300). The mean MSTS score was 88% for inverted prostheses, 76% for composite prostheses, 72.6% for massive prostheses, 75% for scapulohumeral arthrodeses, 67% for massive prostheses, and 80% for cemented centromendullary nail. Five patients died from their malignant disease and one from another cause. Four patients are alive but with active disease after a mean follow-up of 108 months and 19 patients (65.5%) are alive and free of locoregional recurrence or metastasis after a mean 83.5 months. We had 28 complications. Glenohumeral instability was the most frequent (11 cases). DISCUSSION: Resection of the upper portion of the humerus should be performed to achieve cancerologically satisfactory tumor resection and enable shoulder resection, if possible, with preservation of a viable and functional abductor system. The functional outcome after such reconstruction depends on the type of bony resection, but also on the sacrifice of the rotator cuff and the deltoid muscle. In light of our experience and results in the literature, we advocate, despite the small number of cases for the different reconstructions, the following decision-making algorithm after resection of the proximal humerus without joint invasion: when the resection removes the rotator cuff and the deltoid (or the axillary nerve), there are two options: scapulohumeral arthrodesis or massive humerus prosthesis for patients who do not desire a complex therapy with a long postoperative period; when the resection preserves the rotator cuff and/or the deltoid muscle, reconstruction can be achieved with a composite (inverted or not) prosthesis with suture of the cuff tendons. We prefer the inverted composite prosthesis; if the deltoid muscle can be preserved but not the rotator cuff, the composite inverted prosthesis appears to be the most logical solution, but scapulohumeral arthrodesis can be proposed in selected cases.

Adolescent↗

Incidence of epithelial dysplasia after partial gastric resection.

Because of the higher risk of cancer in the gastric stump, an increased incidence of pre-cancerous conditions should be exspected also in the resected stomach. Therefore, a combined endoscopic and bioptic study was performed in order to investigate the incidence of dysplasias in the gastric stump after resection for benign conditions. Among 101 patients with gastric resection, 2 cases were excluded from this study because of preceeding gastric cancer and one because of cancer of the gastric stump. In 43 of the remaining 98 patients, a Billroth-I-resection (gastroduodenostomy) had been carried out. In the remaining 55 patients with a Billroth-II-resection (gastroenterostomy) 9 had an additional enteroanastomosis of Braun whereas in the residual 46 patients this enteroanastomosis was lacking. This distinction was made because of a facultative or obligatory bile reflux. The average age of the B-I-group was 68 years, of the B-II-group with enteroanastomosis 69 years, and the B-II-group without enteroanastomosis 62 years. A non-operated group matched for age served as control group. Biopsy particles from the anastomotic region were gained by endoscopy and cut in step sections. The classification of dysplasias (degree I-III) followed the criteria given by Nagayo as modified by Grundmann. Inflammatory reactive changes were separated from these. A few changes could not be classified definitely and were listed as unclassified dysplasia. While dysplastic changes of low degree were quite numerous in every group, the dysplasias of higher degree were only found in a small number of cases. In the 46 cases with B-II-resection without Braun's enteroanastomosis, there were 5 dysplasia II and 3 dysplasia II. In the 9 cases with B-II-resection and with Braun's enteroanastomosis, there was 1 dysplasia I and no dysplasia III. In the 43 patient with B-I-resection only 2 dysplasia II and no dysplasia III were found. In the control group of 98 patients matched for age there were only 5 cases with dysplasia I and 1 case with dysplasia III. Patients with higher degrees of dysplasia showed a higher age and a longer interval after operation. There was also a correlation between higher degrees of dysplasia and severe atrophic changes in the mucosa. Correlating the degree of dysplasia with the reason for gastric resection, most of the dysplastic changes occurred in patients resected for gastric ulcer, whereas cases resected for duodenal ulcer showed only 2 dysplasias I. The discussion refers to the few data about dysplasia of the gastric stump available from the literature. Atrophic and increased regenerative changes obviously play a role in the pathogenesis of these dysplastic changes. As a causative factor the role of bile reflux is discussed. A further diagnostic and therapeutic regimen for the different forms of dysplasia is proposed.

Aged↗

External and intraoperative radiotherapy for resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer: analysis of survival rates and complications.

PURPOSE: Clinical results of intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) and/or external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for both resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer were analyzed. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Between 1980 and 1995, 332 patients with pancreatic cancer were treated with surgery and/or radiation therapy (RT). Of the 332 patients, 157 patients were treated with surgical resection of pancreatic tumor, and the remaining 175 patients had unresectable pancreatic tumors. Among the 157 patients with resected pancreatic cancer, 62 patients were not treated with RT, while 40 patients were treated with EBRT alone (mean RT dose; 46.3 Gy) and 55 patients with IORT (25.2 Gy) +/- EBRT (44.0 Gy). On the other hand, among the 175 patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer, 58 patients were not treated with RT, 46 patients were treated with EBRT alone (39.2 Gy), and the remaining 71 patients with IORT (29.3 Gy) +/- EBRT (41.2 Gy). RESULTS: For 87 patients with curative resection, the median survival times (MSTs) of the no-RT, the EBRT, and the IORT +/- EBRT groups were 10.4, 13.0, and 15.5 months, respectively, without significant difference. For 70 patients with noncurative resection, the MSTs of the no-RT, the EBRT, and the IORT +/- EBRT groups were 5.3, 8.7, and 6.5 months, respectively. When the EBRT and the IORT +/- EBRT groups were combined, the survival rate was significantly higher than that of the no RT group for noncuratively resected pancreatic cancers (log rank test; p = 0.028). The 2-year survival probability of the IORT +/- EBRT group (16%) was higher than that of the EBRT group (0%). For unresectable pancreatic cancer, the MSTs of 52 patients without distant metastases were 6.7 months for palliative surgery alone, 7.6 months for EBRT alone, and 8.2 months for IORT +/- EBRT. The survival curve of the IORT +/- EBRT group was significantly better than that of the no-RT group (p < 0.05), and the difference between the IORT +/- EBRT and the EBRT alone groups was marginally significant (p = 0.056). In addition, the 2-year survival probability for the IORT +/- EBRT group was 14%, while no 2-year survival was observed in the no RT or the EBRT groups. Multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazards model revealed that tumor size, stage (Stages 1, 2 vs. Stages 3, 4), and curability of resection were significant variables for resectable pancreatic cancer, while distant metastases and performance of IORT were significant variables for unresectable pancreatic cancer. The dose of EBRT was a marginally significant factor for both resectable and unresectable tumors (both p = 0.06). In terms of complications, ulcers of gastrointestinal tract were noted in 14% of the 126 patients treated with IORT. CONCLUSION: Although prolongation of the MST by IORT was not remarkable, long survivals (>2 years) were obtained by IORT +/- EBRT for noncuratively resected and unresectable pancreatic cancer. IORT combined with EBRT is indicated for noncurative resected or unresectable pancreatic cancer without distant metastases.

Adult↗

Benefits of adjuvant radiotherapy after radical resection of locally advanced main hepatic duct carcinoma.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to determine the benefits of adjuvant radiotherapy after radical resection of locally advanced main hepatic duct carcinoma (Klatskin tumor). METHODS AND MATERIALS: We conducted a retrospective review of 63 patients who underwent surgical resection of Stage IVA Klatskin tumor. Of the 63 patients, 47 had microscopic tumor residue (RT1). Twenty-eight of the 47 patients with RT1 were treated by adjuvant radiotherapy and the remaining 19 patients were treated exclusively by surgical resection. Seventeen of the 28 patients with RT1 were treated by both intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) and postoperative radiotherapy (PORT); of the remaining 11 patients with RT1, 6 underwent resection and IORT, and 5 underwent resection and PORT. RESULTS: The major complication and 30-day operative death rates were significantly lower in the radiation group (9.5% and 0.0%, respectively) than in the resection alone group (28.5% and 9.5%, respectively). Of the eight 5-year survivors with RT1, 6 had adjuvant radiotherapy and the remaining 2 had resection alone. Adjuvant radiotherapy for patients with RT1 yielded significantly (p = 0.0141) higher 5-year survival rates (33.9%) than in the resection alone group (13.5 %). The best 5-year survival rate (39.2 %) was found in patients who underwent a combination of IORT and PORT after resection. The local-regional control rate was significantly higher in the adjuvant radiation group than in the resection alone group (79.2% vs. 31.2%). CONCLUSION: Our data clearly suggest the improved prognosis of patients with locally advanced Klatskin tumor by integrated adjuvant radiotherapy with IORT and PORT to complete gross tumor resection with acceptable treatment mortality and morbidity.

Adult↗

Is there a role for incomplete resection in the management of retroperitoneal liposarcomas?

Complete surgical resection is the most effective modality for the treatment of retroperitoneal sarcomas. Previous studies of all types of retroperitoneal sarcomas have not shown a survival benefit of incomplete resection over no resection. Because death often occurs as a result of local progression in retroperitoneal liposarcomas (RPLS), it is possible that incomplete resection may be beneficial in this histologic type. In this study we have sought to determine the clinical outcomes in patients with incompletely resected and unresected RPLS with the aim of defining patients who may benefit from palliative resection. From a prospective clinical database 55 patients with incompletely resected (n = 43) or unresected (n = 12) RPLS were identified between 1982 and 1999. Statistical analyses were performed using the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier estimates with disease-specific survival as the primary end point. Variables studied included age, gender, recurrent versus primary disease, tumor grade, and tumor size. The patient population consisted of 34 men and 21 women with a mean age of 61 +/- 14 (SD) years. The median time to death was 10 months (range 1 to 83 months) with a median followup of 12 months (range 1 to 60 months) for survivors. Partial resection was an independent factor for increased survival as compared with exploration or biopsy only (median survival 26 versus 4 months, p < 0.0001). Of patients who received incomplete resections, locally recurrent presentation (n = 19) versus primary disease (n = 24) was a negative prognostic variable (median survival 17 versus 46 months, p = 0.009). Successful palliation of symptoms was achieved in 24 of 32 patients (75%) with preoperative symptoms. In select patients with unresectable RPLS, incomplete surgical resection can provide prolongation in survival and successful symptom palliation. Most likely to benefit are those patients presenting with primary tumors, suggesting that surgical resection should be attempted in the majority of patients.

Female↗

Simultaneous liver and colorectal resections are safe for synchronous colorectal liver metastasis.

BACKGROUND: The optimal surgical strategy for the treatment of synchronous resectable colorectal liver metastasis has not been defined. The aims of this study were to review our experience with synchronous colorectal metastasis and to define the safety of simultaneous versus staged resection of the colon and liver. STUDY DESIGN: From September 1984 through November 2001, 240 patients were treated surgically for primary adenocarcinoma of the large bowel and synchronous hepatic metastasis. Clinicopathologic, operative, and perioperative data were reviewed to evaluate selection criteria, operative methods, and perioperative outcomes. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-four patients underwent simultaneous resection of a colorectal primary and hepatic metastasis in a single operation (Group I), and 106 patients underwent staged operations (Group II). Simultaneous resections tend to be performed for right colon primaries (p < 0.001), smaller (p < 0.01) and fewer (p < 0.001) liver metastases, and less extensive liver resection (p < 0.001). Complications were less common in the simultaneous resection group, with 65 patients (49%) sustaining 142 complications, compared with 71 patients (67%) sustaining 197 complications for both hospitalizations in the staged resection group (p < 0.003). Patients having simultaneous resection required fewer days in the hospital (median 10 days versus 18 days, p = 0.001). Perioperative mortality was similar (simultaneous, n = 3; staged, n = 3). CONCLUSIONS: Simultaneous colon and liver resection is safe and efficient in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastasis. By avoiding a second laparotomy, the overall complication rate is reduced, with no change in operative mortality. Given its reduced morbidity, shorter treatment time, and similar cancer outcomes, simultaneous resection should be considered a safe option in patients with resectable synchronous colorectal metastasis.

Adenocarcinoma↗

En bloc resection for locally advanced cancer of the pancreas: is it worthwhile?

The benefit of radical surgical resection of contiguously involved structures for locally advanced pancreatic cancer is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine patient outcome after extended pancreatic resection for locally advanced tumors and to determine if any subset of extended resection affected outcome. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 116 patients with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, who underwent extirpative pancreatic surgery between 1987 and 2000. Of the 116 patients, 37 (32%) required resection of surrounding structures (group I), and 79 patients (68%) underwent standard pancreatic resections (group II). In all cases, all macroscopic disease was excised. In group I a total of 46 contiguously involved structures were resected: vascular in 25 patients (54%), mesocolon in 16 (35%) (colic vessels in 3, colon in 13), adrenal in three (7%), liver in one (2%), stomach in one (2%) (for a tumor in the tail of the pancreas), and multiple structures in four. Excision of regional blood vessels included the superior mesenteric vein and/or portal vein in 16, hepatic artery in five, and celiac axis in four. No differences between groups I and II were detected for any of the following parameters: age, sex, history of previous operation, estimated blood loss, or hospital stay. For the entire cohort the morbidity and mortality were 38% and 1.7%, respectively, and these rates were similar in the two groups. Adjuvant therapy was administered to more than 90% of patients in both groups. However, patients in group I were more likely to have received neoadjuvant therapy (76% vs. 42%, P = 0.001). Total pancreatectomy and distal pancreatectomy were more often performed in group I (P = 0.005). Additionally, the median operative time was longer (8.5 hours compared to 6.9 hours (P = 0.0004)). Both groups had similar rates of microscopically positive margins and involved lymph nodes, as well as total number of lymph nodes removed. The median survival was 26 months for patients in group I and 16 months for patients in group II (P = 0.08). The median disease-free survival for groups I and II was 16 months and 14 months, respectively (P = 0.88). In comparing patients in group I, who underwent vascular resection vs. mesocolon (colon or middle colic vessels) resection, the median survival was 26 months and 19 months, respectively (P = 0.12). We were unable to detect a difference in outcome for patients with locally advanced cancers requiring extended pancreatic resections compared to patients with standard resections. En bloc resection of involved surrounding structures, to completely extirpate all macroscopic disease, may be of benefit in selected patients with locally advanced disease, particularly when combined with preoperative chemoradiation therapy.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Preoperative chemoradiation for marginally resectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreas.

Only 10% to 20% of patients with pancreatic cancer are considered candidates for curative resection at the time of diagnosis. We postulated that preoperative chemoradiation therapy might promote tumor regression, eradicate nodal metastases, and allow for definitive surgical resection in marginally resectable patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a preoperative chemoradiation therapy regimen on tumor response, resectability, and local control among patients with marginally resectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreas and to report potential treatment-related toxicity. Patients with marginally resectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreas (defined as portal vein, superior mesenteric vein, or artery involvement) were eligible for this protocol. Patients received 50.4 to 56 Gy in 1.8 to 2.0 Gy/day fractions with concurrent protracted venous infusion of 5-fluorouracil (250 mg/m2/day). Reevaluation for surgical resection occurred 4 to 6 weeks after therapy. Fifteen patients (9 men and 6 women) completed preoperative chemoradiation without interruption. One patient required a reduction in the dosage of 5-fluorouracil because of stomatitis. Acute toxicity from chemoradiation consisted of grade 1 or 2 nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomatitis, palmar and plantar erythrodysesthesia, and hematologic suppression. CA 19-9 levels declined in all nine of the patients with elevated pretreatment levels. Nine of the 15 patients underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy, and all had uninvolved surgical margins. Two of these patients had a complete pathologic response, and two had microscopic involvement of a single lymph node. With a median follow-up of 30 months, the median survival for resected patients was 30 months, whereas in the unresected group median survival was 8 months. Six of the nine patients who underwent resection remain alive and disease free with follow-up of 12, 30, 30, 34, 39, and 72 months, respectively. Preoperative chemoradiation therapy is well tolerated. It may downstage tumors, sterilize regional lymph nodes, and improve resectability in patients with marginally resectable pancreatic cancer. Greater patient accrual and longer follow-up are needed to more accurately assess its future role in therapy.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Small intestinal transit time and intraluminal pH in ileocecal resected patients with Crohn's disease.

The pH and transit times of the gut are important for the delivery of active drug from several tablets used in the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD). Many patients with CD undergo an ileocecal resection, which might influence small intestinal pH and transit time. The effect of ileocecal resection on these variables has not previously been studied. Intraluminal pH and transit time were measured in nine ileocecal-resected CD patients and 13 healthy volunteers using pH-sensitive radiocapsules. Small intestinal transit time (SITT) was significantly shorter in ileocecal-resected patients (5.2 hr, controls 8.0 hr). The pH levels of the small intestine were identical in patients and controls, whereas cecal pH was 0.9 pH units higher in resected CD patients. The time spent with pH higher than 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, and 7.0 was significantly shorter in patients than in controls. There was no correlation between the SITT and the length of resected ileum or between the SITT and the time elapsed since the resection. We conclude that ileocecal resection decreases the SITT and the time with pH higher than 5.5-7.0. The study indicates that this reduction of the SITT is mainly due to the resection of the ileocecal valve and is, to a certain extent, independent of the length of resected ileum. An ileocecal resection might therefore affect the delivery of active drug from tablets with pH-dependent delivery.

Adult↗

[Results of surgical treatment in ampullary and pancreatic carcinoma and its prognostic parameters after R0-resection].

INTRODUCTION: Resection is currently the only established reasonable therapeutic option with curative potential in pancreatic and ampullary carcinoma. The aim of the study was i) to analyze value and results of surgical therapy and ii) to detect the prognostic parameters, which determine significantly higher survival rates. METHODS: Two-hundred-twenty patients with pancreatic and ampullary carcinoma (mean age, 61.4 years; 104 females/116 males) underwent surgery. Histologic investigation revealed 19 carcinomas of the papilla of Vater and 201 ductal pancreatic carcinomas. In 126 patients, stage IV a or b tumors were found, in addition, stage I (n =26), II (n = 17) and III (n = 51). Survival-rate was determined according to the method by Kaplan/Meier. Survival was compared using log-rank test. Association of several or multiple parameters with survival was tested using Cox model. RESULTS: Hundred-ten patients underwent tumor resection with primary curative intention (50 %): 96 resections of the pancreatic head, 2 total pancreatectomies and 12 left resections of the pancreas. R0-resection was achieved in 94 patients (42.7 %), whereas intervention was classified R1 in 10 and R2 in 6 cases. In addition, 60 palliative interventions (28 gastroenterostomies, 17 biliodigestive anastomoses, 15 anastomoses at both sites) and 50 explorative laparotomies were performed. In 42.3 % of patients, postoperative complications were found, but only 12/220 individuals died (overall letality, 5.4 %). Postoperative letality of curative pancreatic resections was 3.6 % (palliative intervention, 6.7 %; explorative laparotomy, 8.8 %). Five-year survival-rate of carcinoma of the papilla of Vater and pancreatic carcinoma was 73.3 % and 16.2 %, respectively (median survival time was 66.0 and 14.0 months, respectively). Taken together all other interventions, median survival time ranged between 4.0 (palliative intervention) to 10.0 months (R1-resection). No patient survived 5 years. Therefore, the most relevant prognostic factor was R0-resection. In addition, prognosis after successful R0-resection is determined significantly by tumor site, stage of the tumor (according to UICC), T- and N-category. CONCLUSION: Resection of pancreatic and ampullary carcinoma according to oncological criteria with tumor-free margins can be considered a treatment option with curative intention and potential. Despite relative high postoperative morbidity, only a low mortality rate was observed. The 5-year survival-rate of 16.2 % in ductal pancreatic carcinoma underlines the demand for the development of effective multimodal therapeutic concepts. Interventions with primary palliative intention or resections with microscopically or macroscopically detectable tumor residual in situ lead to no significant or only marginal prolongation of survival time. Such interventions in patients with pancreatic carcinoma are no reasonable treatment alternative. They are of value only for treatment of tumor-associated complications and problems.

Adult↗

[Resection of combined or sequential lung and liver metastases of colorectal cancer: indication for everyone?].

UNLABELLED: Successful sequential resection of isolated hepatic and pulmonary metastases of colorectal cancer (crc) has been reported, however long-term results of large series are lacking. Therefore, we retrospectively analysed data of patients in whom sequential hepatic and pulmonary resection for metastases was performed. PATIENTS AND METHOD: From the records of our hospital we identified 25 patients (19.5 % of all patients operated for hepatic or 33 % for lung metastases due to crc) with colorectal cancer who had pulmonary and hepatic resection for metastatic disease between 1991 and 2002. 11 of these had primary colonic cancer and 14 rectal cancer. None of the patients died perioperatively. Long-term results were correlated with the staging of the primary tumour, the number of metastases, disease free interval between primary tumour operation and occurrence of metastatic disease. RESULTS: Five-year survival rate was 33.5 % following the resection of the first metastasis. Three year survival after resection of the second metastasis was 39 %. The disease free interval was 20 months (mean). Long-term results were clearly influenced by the disease free interval: < 1 year (n = 6) median 50 months after resection of the crc; > 1 year median 90 months (n = 19). Further on R0 resection was important for long-term survival: Median survival was 32.5 (+/- 4.1) months following resection of the second metastasis but only 9.9 months after R > 0 resection. CONCLUSION: These results confirm that sequential resection of hepatic and pulmonary metastases can be performed with curative intention provided a systemic spread of the disease is excluded. The surgeon's opinion of resectability should be obtained in patients with such metastases before the patient is scheduled for palliative conservative treatment.

Aged↗

Segmental resection and wedge excision of the portal or superior mesenteric vein during pancreatoduodenectomy.

BACKGROUND: Resection of the portal/superior mesenteric vein (PV/SMV) during pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is disputed. Although morbidity and mortality are acceptable, survival is limited after PV/SMV resection. In this study, we evaluate the effect of PV/SMV resection. METHODS: Between 1992 and 1998, there were 215 consecutive patients who underwent PD for malignant disease. Thirty-four patients underwent a PV/SMV resection. Resection was only performed when minimal venous ingrowth was found perioperatively. Surgical techniques, perioperative parameters, and survival were analyzed. RESULTS: The percentage of PV/SMV resections was 16%. Extensive (segment) resections were performed in 6 patients. The median blood loss was 1.8 L and resection margins were microscopically tumor free in 41% of the patients. The median hospital stay was 15 days, and mortality was 0%. Median survival after PV/SMV resection for pancreatic adenocarcinoma was 14 months. CONCLUSIONS: Limited PV/SMV resection for perioperatively encountered minimal venous ingrowth during PD can be performed safely without increased morbidity and mortality but also results in a high frequency of tumor-positive resection margins.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Does increased crypt cell proliferation impair cholesterol absorption after proximal gut resection?

BACKGROUND: The effects of proximal small-bowel resection on absorption and synthesis of cholesterol are unclear. METHODS: To study cholesterol absorption and synthesis after proximal gut resections of variable length, plasma plant sterols, cholestanol, and cholesterol precursors were measured 1 and 2 months after 50% and 75% proximal small-bowel resection or transection. To examine the effect of increased crypt cell proliferation and brush border development on cholesterol absorption, the results were related to the mucosal morphology, crypt cell proliferation, and disaccharidase activities of the remaining small bowel. RESULTS: Campesterol levels in proportion to cholesterol decreased markedly more, and those of cholestanol markedly less, than would be expected simply due to the amount of proximal small intestine removed, whereas sitosterol proportions decreased in proportion to the length of gut resection. Campesterol proportions markedly (P = 0.06) increased between 1 and 2 months after 50% resection but remained unchanged after 75% resection. Crypt cell proliferation was only increased in the 75% resection group (P < 0.05). The longer the proximal gut resection, the lower was the mucosal enzyme activity. Both resection groups showed increased plasma cholesterol precursor proportions and crypt depth (P < 0.05), whereas villus height remained unchanged. After massive proximal resection campesterol and sitosterol proportions were inversely related to crypt cell proliferation (r = -0.86-0.83, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Increased crypt cell proliferation activated by massive proximal gut resection may act as a previously unrecognized factor in aggravating cholesterol malabsorption and retarding its recovery during the early postoperative period. These findings warrant further investigation.

Animals↗

Long-term outcome after intestinal resection for Crohn's disease.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the need for intestinal repeat resection for recurrence of Crohn's disease in patients observed for more than 20 years after the first resection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data were gathered retrospectively from the medical records of 53 (28 F) consecutive patients with Crohn's disease from May 1954 to December 2002. Median age at first intestinal resection was 24.5 (range 13-65) years, and median observation time thereafter was 26.5 (20.1-48.6) years. Disease location and behaviour were defined according to the Vienna classification. RESULTS: The 53 patients had an average 2.7 and a median 2 intestinal resections. Out of 144 intestinal resections (77.1%) 111 were performed during the first three operations; no alterations in distribution of ileal, ileocolic and colic resections were found. From the first to the third operation there was an increase in penetrating disease from 15% to 39% (p=0.046) concomitant with a decrease in stricturing disease from 72% to 44% (p=0.048) of the patients. There was also a corresponding decrease in ileocolic disease from 45% to 5% (p=0.003) and a tendency towards an increase in ileal disease from 38% to 67%. One patient died (1.8%) from rectosigmoid perforation after the third resectional operation. Six patients needed reoperation (11.3%) for ileus, anastomotic bleeding, rectosigmoidal perforation and abdominal pain. Thirty-four patients (64.2%) needed intestinal repeat resection (median 8.3 years) during 25.3 years after the first repeat resection. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates a diminution of Crohn's disease activity with time, as demonstrated by no need for intestinal repeat resection more than 25 years after the first resection.

Adolescent↗