Showing papers in "Journal of Surgical Oncology in 2019"
TL;DR: The prevalence, causes, and consequences of financial toxicity, with an emphasis on strategies to anticipate and reduce its burden, are summarized.
Abstract: Financial toxicity is the adverse impact of a cancer diagnosis on a patient's financial well-being resulting from direct or indirect costs. Potential consequences of financial toxicity include material loss, psychological distress, and/or maladaptive coping strategies. This review will summarize the prevalence, causes, and consequences of financial toxicity, with an emphasis on strategies to anticipate and reduce its burden. Improvement will require multilevel, coordinated efforts between stakeholders including patients, providers, health systems, payers, manufacturers, and policymakers.
173 citations
TL;DR: A multidisciplinary approach for comprehensive care of amputees with concurrent targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) at the time of amputation is described.
Abstract: Background We describe a multidisciplinary approach for comprehensive care of amputees with concurrent targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) at the time of amputation. Methods Our TMR cohort was compared to a cross-sectional sample of unselected oncologic amputees not treated at our institution (N = 58). Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (NRS, PROMIS) were used to assess postamputation pain. Results Thirty-one patients underwent amputation with concurrent TMR during the study; 27 patients completed pain surveys; 15 had greater than 1 year follow-up (mean follow-up 14.7 months). Neuroma symptoms occurred significantly less frequently and with less intensity among the TMR cohort. Mean differences for PROMIS pain intensity, behavior, and interference for phantom limb pain (PLP) were 5.855 (95%CI 1.159-10.55; P = .015), 5.896 (95%CI 0.492-11.30; P = .033), and 7.435 (95%CI 1.797-13.07; P = .011) respectively, with lower scores for TMR cohort. For residual limb pain, PROMIS pain intensity, behavior, and interference mean differences were 5.477 (95%CI 0.528-10.42; P = .031), 6.195 (95%CI 0.705-11.69; P = .028), and 6.816 (95%CI 1.438-12.2; P = .014), respectively. Fifty-six percent took opioids before amputation compared to 22% at 1 year postoperatively. Conclusions Multidisciplinary care of amputees including concurrent amputation and TMR, multimodal postoperative pain management, amputee-centered rehabilitation, and peer support demonstrates reduced incidence and severity of neuroma and PLP.
68 citations
TL;DR: The impact of sidedness, RAS, BRAF, HER‐2, and other immune biomarkers on metastatic colorectal cancer treatment selection and sequencing in both the palliative and curative intent settings is reviewed.
Abstract: The treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer has evolved over the last two decades with the FDA approval of several cytotoxic, biological, and targeted agents. In this paper, we review the impact of sidedness, RAS, BRAF, HER-2, and other immune biomarkers on metastatic colorectal cancer treatment selection and sequencing in both the palliative and curative intent settings.
47 citations
TL;DR: Current evidence supporting use of two‐stage hepatectomy is reviewed, which consists of preoperative chemotherapy, portal vein embolization, and planned first and second liver resections for bilateral CLM.
Abstract: Colorectal liver metastases (CLM) are not always resectable at the time of diagnosis. An insufficient future liver remnant is a factor excluding patients from curative intent resection. To deal with this issue, two-stage hepatectomy was introduced approximately 20 years ago. It is a sequential treatment strategy for bilateral CLM, which consists of preoperative chemotherapy, portal vein embolization, and planned first and second liver resections. This study reviews current evidence supporting use of two-stage hepatectomy.
43 citations
TL;DR: The current study sought to define the impact of lymph node metastasis relative to tumor size on tumor recurrence after curative resection for nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF‐pNETs) ≤2 cm.
Abstract: BACKGROUND The current study sought to define the impact of lymph node metastasis (LNM) relative to tumor size on tumor recurrence after curative resection for nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-pNETs) ≤2 cm. METHODS Patients who underwent curative resection for ≤2-cm NF-pNETs were identified from a multi-institutional database. Risk factors associated with tumor recurrence as well as LNM were identified. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) was compared among patients with or without LNM. RESULTS A total of 392 ≤2-cm NF-pNETs patients were identified. Among the 328 patients who had lymph node dissection and evaluation, 42 (12.8%) patients had LNM. LNM was associated with tumor recurrence (hazard ratio, 3.06; P = .026) after surgery. RFS was worse among LNM vs no LNM patients (5-year RFS, 81.7% vs 94.1%; P = .019). Patients with tumors measuring 1.5-2 cm had a two-fold increase in the incidence of LNM vs patients with tumors <1.5 cm (17.9% vs 8.7%, odds ratio, 2.59; P = .022), as well as a higher risk of advanced tumor grade and higher Ki-67 levels (both P < .01). After curative resection, a total of 14 (8.0%) patients with a tumor of 1.5-2 cm and 10 (4.5%) patients with tumor <1.5 cm developed tumor recurrence. CONCLUSION Surgical resection with lymphadenectomy should be considered for patients with NF-pNETs ≥1.5-2.0 cm.
42 citations
TL;DR: Vascular invasion, in particular extramural venous invasion (EMVI), is a pathologic characteristic that has been extensively studied in rectal cancer but rarely in colon cancer.
Abstract: Background and Objectives:
Vascular invasion, in particular extramural venous invasion (EMVI), is a pathologic characteristic that has been extensively studied in rectal cancer but rarely in colon cancer. This study aims to evaluate its prognostic role in stage II-III colon cancer.
42 citations
TL;DR: Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States and 25% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, with the most common sites being the liver, lung, and peritoneum.
Abstract: Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. While screening methods strive to improve rates of early stage detection, 25% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, with the most common sites being the liver, lung, and peritoneum. While once perceived as hopeless, the last two decades have seen substantial strides in the medical, surgical, and regional therapies to treat metastatic disease offering significant improvements in survival.
40 citations
TL;DR: Options for durable symptom management include indwelling catheters, peritoneal ports,Peritoneovenous shunts, intraperitoneal (i.p.) catumaxomab, and hyperthermic i.p. chemotherapy.
Abstract: Malignant ascites (MA) carries a poor prognosis. It can have a significant impact on quality of life (QOL), with increasing abdominal distention, pain, and dyspnea. Diuretics typically do not work well for MA. Paracentesis is effective in providing temporary symptom relief but requires frequent repeat procedures. Options for durable symptom management include indwelling catheters, peritoneal ports, peritoneovenous shunts, intraperitoneal (i.p.) catumaxomab, and hyperthermic i.p. chemotherapy. These interventions do not necessarily improve overall survival but may improve QOL.
40 citations
TL;DR: This longitudinal study aimed to determine differences in incidence, prognosis, and treatment in stage‐matched PAC patients in a longitudinal study.
Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Periampullary adenocarcinoma (PAC) is stratified anatomically: ampullary adenocarcinoma (AA), distal cholangiocarcinoma (DCC), duodenal adenocarcinoma (DA), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We aimed to determine differences in incidence, prognosis, and treatment in stage-matched PAC patients in a longitudinal study. METHODS PAC patients were identified in The National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2012. Clinicopathological variables were compared between subtypes. Covariate-adjusted treatment use and OS were compared. RESULTS The 116 705 patients with PAC were identified: 1320 (9%) AA, 3732 (3%) DCC, 7142 (6%) DA, and 95 511 (82%) PDAC. DA, DCC, and PDAC were associated with worse survival compared with AA (hazard ratio [HR], 1.10; 95% CI, 1.1-1.1; HR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.4-1.6, and HR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.8-1.9). Among resected patients, DA was associated with improved survival compared with AA (HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.67-0.75); DCC and PDAC were associated with worse survival (HR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.31-1.53 and HR, 2.041; 95% CI, 1.07-2.12). Resected AA, PDAC, and DA, but not DCC, demonstrated significantly improved survival over the studied period. While all patients had increased adjuvant therapy (AT) receipt over time (P < 0.001), only patients with PDAC had increased neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) receipt ( P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Resected PDAC, AA, and DA were associated with clinically significant improved survival over time, mirroring a concurrent associated increased receipt of AT.
39 citations
TL;DR: LSR was safe and feasible for patients with synchronous CRLM and should be considered in well‐selected patients, and short‐ and long‐term outcomes were comparable for patients undergoing LSR and open synchronous resection.
Abstract: While colorectal and hepatic resections are commonly performed through a laparoscopic approach, the safety and feasibility of total laparoscopic synchronous resections (LSR) of colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) have not been established. In this systematic review, short- and long-term outcomes were comparable for patients undergoing LSR and open synchronous resection. LSR was safe and feasible for patients with synchronous CRLM and should be considered in well-selected patients.
39 citations
TL;DR: Technical aspects of lymphoscintigraphy, interpretation of the lymphoscinigraphy findings, staging, and its clinical application are reviewed.
Abstract: Appropriate diagnosis, staging and a further selection of the best treatment are fundamental for the management of patients with extremity lymphedema. Several clinical and imaging tools have been described for these purposes. Lymphoscintigraphy is still considered the gold standard imaging modality for diagnosing lymphedema. However, protocol variability and poor image resolution can make the interpretation challenging. Here, we reviewed technical aspects of lymphoscintigraphy, interpretation of the lymphoscintigraphy findings, staging, and its clinical application.
TL;DR: The disease control and complications of the treatment of sacrococcygeal chordoma from four tertiary cancer centers with emphasis on the effects of radiotherapy in surgically treated patients is reviewed.
Abstract: BACKGROUND We reviewed the disease control and complications of the treatment of sacrococcygeal chordoma from four tertiary cancer centers with emphasis on the effects of radiotherapy in surgically treated patients. METHODS A total of 193 patients with primary sacrococcygeal chordoma from 1990 to 2015 were reviewed. There were 124 males, with a mean age of 59 ± 15 years and a mean follow-up of 7 ± 4 years. Eighty-nine patients received radiotherapy with a mean total dose of 61.8 ± 10.9 Gy. RESULTS The 10-year disease-free and disease-specific survival was 58% and 72%, respectively. Radiation was not associated with local recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59-2.17; P = 0.71), metastases (HR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.45-1.91; P = 0.85) or disease-specific survival (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.46-2.00; P = 0.91). Higher doses (≥70 Gy; HR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.20-1.32; P = 0.17) may be associated with reduced local recurrence. Radiotherapy was associated with wound complications (HR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.64-4.82;, P < 0.001) and sacral stress fractures (HR, 4.73; 95% CI, 1.88-14.38; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this multicenter review, radiotherapy was not associated with tumor outcome but associated with complications. The routine use of radiotherapy with en-bloc resection of sacrococcygeal chordomas should be reconsidered in favor of a selective, individualized approach with a radiation dose of ≥70 Gy.
TL;DR: The objective of this study was to identify risk factors for clinically‐relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF) that are routinely available in the preoperative setting.
Abstract: BACKGROUND Pancreatic fistula remains common, with limited ability to risk stratify patients preoperatively. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors for clinically-relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) that are routinely available in the preoperative setting. METHODS Preoperatively available variables for all pancreaticoduodenectomies from 2014-2017 were examined using a national clinical registry. The cohort was separated into risk factor identification and internal validation subgroups. RESULTS Among 15 033 pancreaticoduodenectomies, the CR-POPF rate was 16.7%. CR-POPF was more likely in patients that were male (odds ratio [OR], 1.51), obese (body mass index [BMI] > 30, OR, 1.97), had minimal preoperative weight loss (OR, 1.25), had a nondilated pancreatic duct (OR, 1.81), did not have diabetes, (OR, 1.80), did not receive neoadjuvant therapy (OR, 1.78), had no evidence of biliary obstruction (OR, 1.18), or had nonadenocarcinoma pathology (OR, 1.96; all P < 0.01). Patients with three or fewer risk factors had a CR-POPF rate of 7.1%, while those with six or more risk factors had a CR-POPF rate of 26.3% (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Preoperative CR-POPF risk evaluation could be a useful tool in patient counseling and surgical planning, and risk may allow for more well-informed decisions regarding perioperative management, including enhanced recovery protocols and use of somatostatin analogs.
TL;DR: A new handheld, cordless, and lightweight magnetic probe for SPIO detection is developed using superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles for sentinel lymph node biopsy.
Abstract: Background Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a standard staging procedure for early axillary lymph node-negative breast cancer. As an alternative to the currently used radioactive tracers for sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection during the surgical procedure, a number of studies have shown promising results using superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles. Here, we developed a new handheld, cordless, and lightweight magnetic probe for SPIO detection. Methods Resovist (SPIO nanoparticles) were detected by the newly developed handheld probe, and the SLN detection rate was compared to that of the standard radioisotope (RI) method using radioactive colloids (99m Tc) and a blue dye (indigo carmine). This was a multicenter prospective clinical trial that included 220 patients with breast cancer scheduled for sentinel node biopsy after a clinical diagnosis of negative axillary lymph node from three facilities in Japan. Results Of the 210 patients analyzed, SLN was detected in 94.8% (199/210 cases, 90% confidence interval [CI]) with our magnetic method and in 98.1% (206/210 cases, 90% CI) with the RI method. The magnetic method exceeded the threshold identification rate of 90%. Conclusion This was the first clinical study to use a novel handheld magnetometer to detect SLN, which we demonstrate to be not inferior to the RI method.
TL;DR: The aim of this study is to show how the combination of double vascularized lymph node transfers and a modified radical reduction with preservation of perforators can accomplish both of these treatment goals.
Abstract: BACKGROUND Treatment of advanced lymphedema requires not only restoration of physiological lymph drainage, but also excision of fibrotic tissue and excess skin. The aim of this study is to show how the combination of double vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNTs) and a modified radical reduction with preservation of perforators (RRPP) can accomplish both of these treatment goals. METHODS Between 2010 and 2016, 16 patients (15 female and one male) with extremity lymphedema underwent a combined double gastroepiploic VLNTs and modified RRPP. Demographics, outcomes including circumference reduction rates, preoperative and postoperative lymphoscintigraphy, complications, and responses to the Lymphedema Quality of Life (LYMQOL) questionnaire were analyzed. RESULTS All flaps survived. The mean follow-up period was 14.2 months (range, 12-19). The mean circumference reduction rate was 74.5% ± 6.9% for the upper limb and 68.0% ± 4.2% for the lower limb. There were no major complications. Minor complications, including numbness and hyperesthesia, were treated conservatively. LYMQOL showed a 2.7-fold quality-of-life improvement (P < 0.01). Postoperative lymphoscintigraphy showed improved lymphatic drainage in all cases. CONCLUSION Combined double VLNTs and modified RRPP safely and effectively improves lymphatic drainage, reduces fibrotic tissue and excess skin, decreases episodes of infections, and improves patients' quality of life in the advanced stages of lymphedema.
TL;DR: Current indications for adjuvant therapy, which currently includes a heterogenous group of stages III and IV patients with melanoma, are reviewed and the evidence for selecting the most appropriate treatment regimen for the individual patient is discussed.
Abstract: There has been a rapid increase in adjuvant therapies approved for treatment following surgical resection of stages III/IV melanoma. We review current indications for adjuvant therapy, which currently includes a heterogenous group of stages III and IV patients with melanoma. We describe several pivotal clinical trials of systemic immune therapies, targeted immune therapies, and adjuvant vaccine strategies. Finally, we discuss the evidence for selecting the most appropriate treatment regimen(s) for the individual patient.
TL;DR: Desmoid tumors are rare locally invasive, benign neoplasms that develop along aponeurotic structures and current treatment is complicated by associated morbidity and high recurrence rates.
Abstract: Background Desmoid tumors are rare locally invasive, benign neoplasms that develop along aponeurotic structures. Current treatment is complicated by associated morbidity and high recurrence rates. Methods A retrospective, single-institution review identified 23 patients (age: 16-77) with extra-abdominal desmoid tumors who received CT-guided percutaneous cryoablation as either a first-line (61%) or salvage (39%) treatment in 30 sessions between 2014 and 2018. Median maximal lesion diameter was 69 mm (range: 11-209). Intent was curative in 52% and palliative in 48%. Contrast-enhanced cross-sectional imaging was obtained before and after treatment in addition to routine clinical follow-up. Results Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median follow-up was 15.4 months (3.5-43.4). Symptomatic improvement was demonstrated in 89% of patients. At 12 months, the average change in viable volume was -80% (range -100% to + 10%) and response by modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST) was CR 36%, PR 36%, and SD 28% No rapid postablation growth or track seeding was observed. Four patients underwent repeat cryoablation for either residual or recurrent disease. Two patients sustained a major procedural complication consisting of significant neuropraxia. Conclusion Cryoablation for desmoid tumors demonstrates a high degree of symptom improvement and local tumor control on early follow-up imaging with relatively low morbidity.
TL;DR: A significant proportion of patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery receive a temporary ileostomy because of its benefits in case of anastomotic dehiscence, and the best timing for closure remains unclear.
Abstract: Background and objectives A significant proportion of patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery receive a temporary ileostomy because of its benefits in case of anastomotic dehiscence. However, the best timing for closure remains unclear. Methods Early closure (EC; 30 days after creation) and standard closure (SC; 90 days after creation) of ileostomy were compared in a single-center randomized controlled trial conducted at National Cancer Institute (Vilnius, Lithuania). Patients with a temporary ileostomy who underwent rectal cancer surgery and did not have anastomotic leakage or other serious complications were randomized to early or standard ileostomy closure groups. Thirty days postoperative morbidity following ileostomy closure was the primary outcome of the study. Results The trial was prematurely terminated due to the safety reason after 86 patients were randomized to EC (43 patients) and SC (43 patients) groups. The overall 30 days postoperative morbidity rate was dramatically higher in the EC group (27.9% vs 7.9%; P = 0.024). Moreover, severe complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥3) were present only after EC of ileostomy in five (11.6%) patients. Conculsion Early closure of ileostomy at 30 days after radical rectal resection is not safe and should not be performed.
TL;DR: The objective of the current study was to define the impact of albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI) grade on short‐ as well as long‐term outcomes among patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).
Abstract: Background: The objective of the current study was to define the impact of albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade on short- as well as long-term outcomes among patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Methods: Patients who underwent hepatectomy for ICC between 1990 and 2016 were identified using an international multi-institutional database. Clinicopathologic factors including ALBI score were assessed using bivariate and multivariable analyses, as well as standard survival analyses. Results: Among 706 patients, 453 (64.2%) patients had ALBI grade 1, 231 (32.7%) ALBI grade 2, and 22 (3.1%) had ALBI grade 3. After adjusting for all competing factors, patients with ALBI grade 2/3 had higher odds of a prolonged length-of-stay (>10 days, odds ratio [OR] = 2.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.47-3.80), perioperative transfusion (OR = 2.15, 95% CI:1.45-3.18) and 90-day mortality (OR = 2.50, 95% CI:1.16-5.38). Median and 5-year overall survival (OS) for the entire cohort was 41.5 months (IQR:15.7-107.8) and 39.8%, respectively. Of note, median OS incrementally worsened with increased ALBI grade: grade 1, 49.6 months (IQR:18.3-NR) vs grade 2, 29.6 months (IQR:12.6-98.4) vs grade 3, 16.9 months (IQR:6.5-32.4; P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, higher ALBI grade remained associated with higher hazards of death (grade 2/3: hazard ratio = 1.36, 95% CI:1.04-1.78). Conclusion: The ALBI score was associated with both short- and long-term outcomes following resection for ICC and could prove a useful surrogate marker to identify patients at risk for adverse outcomes.
TL;DR: The objective of this study was to evaluate the survival benefit of neoadjuvant therapy vs upfront surgery for patients with non‐metastatic PDAC.
Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Conclusive evidence in favor of neoadjuvant therapy for those with non-metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still lacking. The objective of this study was to evaluate the survival benefit of neoadjuvant therapy vs upfront surgery for patients with non-metastatic PDAC. METHODS The study involved 565 patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy or upfront surgery as the primary treatment for PDAC. Propensity score matching was performed between the neoadjuvant therapy group (NAT group) and the upfront surgery group (UFS group) using 20 clinical variables at diagnosis. Overall survival and surgical pathology were compared between the two treatment groups on an intent-to-treat basis. RESULTS In the matched cohort, the NAT group (n = 91) had a longer median overall survival than the UFS group (n = 91) (23.1 months vs 18.5 months, P = .043). The rate of patients undergoing surgical resection was lower in the NAT group (58% vs 80%, P = .001). Regarding surgical pathology, the NAT group had smaller tumor size (2.8 cm vs 4.0 cm, P = .001), lower incidence of positive surgical margins (8% vs 30%, P < .002), and less lymph node metastasis (45% vs 78%, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS The strategy of neoadjuvant therapy before surgical resection appears to offer pathologic effect and survival benefit for the patients presenting with non-metastatic PDAC.
TL;DR: The most likely hypothesis of its etiology is an immune-mediated regression of the primary after metastasis has occurred as discussed by the authors, and patients with MUP appear to have equivalent or better outcomes compared with patients with known primaries of a similar stage.
Abstract: Formally described in the 1960s, melanoma of unknown primary (MUP) is characterized by the finding of metastatic melanoma within the lymph nodes, subcutaneous tissues, and other distant sites without an evident primary lesion. The most likely hypothesis of its etiology is an immune-mediated regression of the primary after metastasis has occurred. In addition, patients with MUP appear to have equivalent or better outcomes compared with patients with known primaries of a similar stage.
TL;DR: The objectives of this study were to define the incidence of DGE and identify risk factors for DGE in patients without pancreatic fistula or other intra‐abdominal infections.
Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) occurs commonly following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), but the rate of DGE in the absence of other intra-abdominal complications is poorly understood. The objectives of this study were to define the incidence of DGE and identify risk factors for DGE in patients without pancreatic fistula or other intra-abdominal infections. METHODS Retrospective cohort study utilizing the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program pancreatectomy variables to identify patients with DGE following PD without evidence of fistula or intra-abdominal infection. Multivariable models were developed to assess preoperative, intraoperative, and technical factors associated with DGE. RESULTS The rate of DGE was 11.7% in 10502 cases without pancreatic fistula or intra-abdominal infection. Patients were more likely to develop DGE if age ≥75 (odds ratio [OR], 1.22; P = 0.003), male (OR, 1.29; P < 0.001), underwent pylorus-sparing PD (OR, 1.27; P = 0.004), or had a prolonged operative time (OR, 1.38 if greater than seven vs less than 5 hours; P = 0.005). Factors not associated with DGE included BMI, pathologic indication, and surgical approach. CONCLUSION The incidence of DGE after PD is notable even in patients without other abdominal complications. Identification of patients at increased risk for DGE may aid patient counseling as well as decisions regarding surgical technique, enteral feeding access, and enhanced-recovery pathways.
TL;DR: The purpose of this study was to compare the Kadish, tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM), and Dulguerov's modified TNM staging in order to determine the impact of the stage on primary surgical treatment selection, margin status, and survival.
Abstract: BACKGROUND Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor. The purpose of this study was to compare the Kadish, tumor-node-metastasis (TNM), and Dulguerov's modified TNM staging in order to determine the impact of the stage on primary surgical treatment selection, margin status, and survival. METHODS The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was used to identify patients diagnosed with ENB between 2004 to 2015. Patients were excluded based on the ability to properly stage their disease as well as the availability of treatment data. RESULTS Eight-hundred eighty-three patients had sufficient data for analysis. On multivariate analysis, age and government insurance were associated with primary surgical treatment, whereas tumor stage, gender, race, hospital type and volume, and comorbidity score were not. Age, charlson-deyo comorbidity (CDCC) score, hospital volume, and nodal status were found to be predictors of survival. Multivariate-analysis controlling for stage failed to demonstrate clear survival differences between staging in both TNM and Kadish systems. T-stage and the presence of regional nodal metastasis were associated with an increased risk of positive margins on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION Although primary surgical management and positive margins can be predicted by certain patient and tumor factors, clinical staging systems for ENB poorly predict prognosis over a 10-year horizon.
TL;DR: A lymphedema prevention surgery (LPS) paradigm for patients undergoing axillary lymphadenectomy (ALND) was developed to protect against LE through enhanced lymphatic visualization during axillary reverse mapping (ARM) and refinement in decision making during lymphaticovenous bypass (LVB).
Abstract: Background A lymphedema (LE) prevention surgery (LPS) paradigm for patients undergoing axillary lymphadenectomy (ALND) was developed to protect against LE through enhanced lymphatic visualization during axillary reverse mapping (ARM) and refinement in decision making during lymphaticovenous bypass (LVB). Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospective database was performed evaluating patients with breast cancer who underwent ALND, ARM, and LVB from September 2016 to December 2018. Patient and tumor characteristics, oncologic and reconstructive operative details, complications and LE development were analyzed. Results LPS was completed in 58 patients with a mean age of 51.7 years. An average of 14 lymph nodes (LN) were removed during ALND. An average of 2.1 blue lymphatic channels were visualized with an average of 1.4 LVBs performed per patient. End to end anastomosis was performed in 37 patients and a multiple lymphatic intussusception technique in 21. Patency was confirmed 96.5% of patients. Adjuvant radiation was administered to 89% of patients. Two patients developed LE with a median follow-up of 11.8 months. Conclusion We report on our experience using a unique LPS technique. Refinements in ARM and a systematic approach to LVB allows for maximal preservation of lymphatic continuity, identification of transected lymphatics, and reestablishment of upper extremity lymphatic drainage pathways.
TL;DR: Several inflammation markers were found to have a prognostic value in cancer and the significance of preoperative white cell ratios in determining gastrointestinal stromal tumors outcome was investigated.
Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Several inflammation markers were found to have a prognostic value in cancer. We investigated the significance of preoperative white cell ratios in determining gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) outcome. METHODS Clinicopathological features of patients who underwent surgery for GIST were reviewed. The following peripheral blood inflammation markers were calculated: neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-white blood cell ratio (NWR), lymphocyte-white cell ratio (LWR), monocyte-white cell ratio (MWR), and platelet-white cell ratio (PWR). RESULTS We analyzed 127 patients. Three- and five-year disease-free survival (DFS) were 89.7% and 86.9%, respectively. The univariate analysis selected tumor diameter (P = 0.003), gastric location ( P = 0.024), cell type ( P = 0.024), mitosis ( P < 0.001), MLR ( P = 0.014), NLR ( P = 0.016), and PLR ( P = 0.001) as the factors associated to DFS. The independent prognostic factors for DFS were mitosis ( P = 0.001), NLR ( P = 0.015), MLR ( P = 0.015), and PLR ( P = 0.031), with MLR showing the highest statistical significance and hazard ratio (HR) value. MLR, NLR, and PLR were the only prognostic factors in the subgroup of patients with moderate to high Miettinen's risk class. A high value of MLR was associated with reduced DFS. CONCLUSION MLR, NLR, and PLR are independent prognostic factors for DFS in GISTs. We first demonstrated the role of MLR as a predictor of recurrence in GIST. Its inclusion into clinical management may improve the recurrence estimation.
TL;DR: The clinical relevance and general applicability of the 8th American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM gastric cancer staging system vs the 7th version have not been examined using datasets from both the East and West.
Abstract: Background The clinical relevance and general applicability of the 8th American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM gastric cancer staging system vs the 7th version have not been examined using datasets from both the East and West. Methods Patients (n = 29 984) treated for gastric adenocarcinoma at two high-volume centers (Severance Hospital [SH] and Gangnam Severance Hospital [GSH]) in Korea and data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were retrospectively analyzed. Survival curves, the performance of tumor staging, and the homogeneity of modified subgroups were compared. Results Minute changes were noted in the stage IIB subgroup; most changes were noted in stage III. Applying the 8th staging system facilitated better prediction of survival than applying the 7th version for SH data according to the log-rank test, C-index, and AIC (8444.5 vs 9263.8, 0.796 vs 0.798, and 104152 vs 103909, respectively). Its performance was also superior for GSH and SEER data. In a subgroup analysis of stages IIB to IIIC in SH, GSH, and SEER data, the 8th staging system showed similar or more homogeneous survival for each sub-classification than the 7th version. Conclusion Compared with the 7th gastric cancer staging system, the newer version more accurately predicted prognosis and stratified subgroups more homogeneously.
Xi'an Jiaotong University1, Johns Hopkins University2, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University3, Emory University4, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital5, University of Virginia6, Stanford University7, Beaujon Hospital8, University of Ottawa9, Erasmus University Rotterdam10, Yokohama City University11, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center12
TL;DR: The impact of MiVI on long‐term survival of patients undergoing curative‐intent resection for ICC is investigated to find out if it is associated with biological behavior or not.
Abstract: Background Microvascular invasion (MiVI) is a histological feature of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) that may be associated with biological behavior. We sought to investigate the impact of MiVI on long-term survival of patients undergoing curative-intent resection for ICC. Methods A total of 1089 patients undergoing curative-intent resection for ICC were identified. Data on clinicopathological characteristics, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared among patients with no vascular invasion (NoVI), MiVI, and macrovascular invasion (MaVI). Results A total of 249 (22.9%) patients had MiVI, while 149 (13.7%) patients had MaVI (±MiVI). MiVI was associated with higher incidence of perineural, biliary and adjacent organ invasion, and satellite lesions (all P 18 months) prognosis. Conclusions Roughly 1 out of 5 patients with resected ICC had MiVI. MiVI was associated with advanced tumor characteristics and a higher risk of tumor recurrence.
TL;DR: This review evaluates protein, gene, and multiplexed marker panels that may contribute to better risk assessment and improved management of patients with cutaneous melanoma.
Abstract: New therapeutic modalities for melanoma promise benefit in selected individuals. Efficacy appears greater in patients with lower tumor burden, suggesting an important role for risk-stratified surveillance. Robust predictive markers might permit optimization of agent to patient, while low-risk prognostic markers might guide more conservative management. This review evaluates protein, gene, and multiplexed marker panels that may contribute to better risk assessment and improved management of patients with cutaneous melanoma.
TL;DR: Sarcopenia is highly prevalent in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies, including gastric cancer, but there is a lack of adequate data from Western populations.
Abstract: INTRODUCTION Sarcopenia is highly prevalent in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies, including gastric cancer, but there is a lack of adequate data from Western populations. METHODS Computed tomography scans of 138 Caucasian patients subject to stomach resections due to gastric adenocarcinoma between 2012 and 2015 were reviewed to evaluate the impact of sarcopenia. The definition of sarcopenia was based on the lumbar skeletal muscle index (SMI) using cut-off values formulated by the international consensus definitions of sarcopenia (SMI <52.4 cm2 /m2 for men and <38.5 cm2 /m2 for women). RESULTS Sixty (43%) of 138 patients were sarcopenic. Sarcopenia was associated with postoperative morbidity (43% vs 23%; P = .011), major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥3a; 36% vs 21%; P = .035), and reoperations (23% vs 9%; P = .020). Patients with sarcopenia also had prolonged postoperative hospital stay (8.0 vs 6.5 days; P = .010). The overall median survival of patients with sarcopenia was significantly lower than those with normal skeletal muscles (11.0 vs 36.7 months; P = .005) and sarcopenia remained an independent prognostic factor with an odds ratio of 1.94 (95% confidence interval, 1.08 to 3.48; P = .026). CONCLUSION Sarcopenia, defined by SMI, is associated with an increased risk of postoperative morbidity and impaired long-term survival.
TL;DR: Utilisation of the one‐step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) molecular biology method for the detection of the metastatic involvement of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in endometrial cancer patients is described.
Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Utilisation of the one-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) molecular biology method for the detection of the metastatic involvement of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in endometrial cancer (EC) patients. A comparison with histopathological ultrastaging and a description of the clinical consequences. METHODS Surgically treated EC patients underwent detection of SLNs. Nodes greater than 5 mm were cut into sections 2-mm thick parallel to the short axis of the node. Odd sections were examined according to the OSNA method, while even ones according to an appropriate ultrastaging protocol. Nodes less than or equal to 5 mm were cut into halves along the longitudinal axis with one half examined according to the OSNA method and the other half by ultrastaging. RESULTS Fifty-eight patients were included and 135 SLNs were acquired. Both ultrastaging and OSNA agreed on 116 results. According to the OSNA method, 20.69% more patients were classified into International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage III. When comparing the results of the OSNA method to the conclusions of ultrastaging as a reference method, sensitivity of 90.9%, specificity of 85.5% and concordance of 85.9% were attained. CONCLUSIONS The results of the OSNA method showed a higher frequency of detection of micrometastases and included 20.69% more patients into FIGO stage III.