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The Annals of thoracic surgery 02/2013; 95(2):772-3. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Energy-based tissue fusion technology is being increasingly used for vascular division in numerous intra-abdominal applications. Very few data, however, are available regarding the application of this technology in the chest during anatomic lung resection. In the present review, we evaluated the use of energy-based fusion and lung sealants during anatomic lung resection.
We performed a review of case series and published studies to evaluate the use of energy-based coagulative fusion technology and lung sealants during anatomic lung resection. We then used energy-based coagulative fusion technology during anatomic lung resection (segmentectomy or lobectomy) in 316 cases from 2008 to 2011. Two energy applications were applied to the arterial and venous branches before vessel division.
In the first 12 cases, we used a device with a small curved jaw (range, 3.3-4.7 mm). Two partial venous dehiscences were noted and controlled intraoperatively. For the remaining cases, we used a larger jaw (6 mm × 22 mm) with no arterial or venous dehiscence occurring (vessels ranged from 0.4 to 1.2 cm). Autologous or synthetic tissue sealants applied to the parenchymal staple lines might reduce the severity and duration of perioperative air leaks. Suture line buttressing with pericardial or absorbable biosynthetic polyester strips might reduce the severity of air leaks in patients with severe emphysema undergoing anatomic lung resection or lung volume reduction surgery.
The bipolar tissue fusion system provides a safe and effective technique for the division of the pulmonary arterial and venous branches during anatomic lung resection. Surgical sealants and buttressing adjuncts might reduce perioperative air leak potential.
The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery 09/2012; 144(3):S48-51. · 3.41 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: INTODUCTION: In an effort to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with open esophagectomy, a minimally invasive approach to esophagectomy was introduced at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) in 1996. The objective of this article is to discuss the optimization and refinement of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) techniques over the 15-year experience at UPMC. We also reviewed the literature on technical improvements in MIE.
Literature highlights for MIE and related meta-analyses comparing open esophagectomy and MIE were reviewed. The rationale and outcomes of techniques refinements were discussed in detail.
Most meta-analyses and systematic reviews confirm the feasibility and safety of MIE and suggest similar oncologic outcomes as compared with open esophagectomy. Since 1996, over 1,000 minimally invasive esophagectomies have been performed at UPMC. We have made several refinements to the MIE procedure that we believe significantly improved our surgical outcomes. It included adjustment of width of the gastric conduit, application of omental flap, and conversion from minimally invasive, three-hole esophagectomy to minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy.
MIE became a mainstay in the surgical treatment of esophageal cancer at UPMC. The technical improvements detailed above make the UPMC approach to MIE a feasible, safe, and efficient procedure.
Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery 07/2012; 16(9):1768-74. · 2.83 Impact Factor
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James D Luketich,
Arjun Pennathur,
Omar Awais,
Ryan M Levy,
Samuel Keeley,
Manisha Shende,
Neil A Christie,
Benny Weksler,
Rodney J Landreneau,
Ghulam Abbas, Matthew J Schuchert,
Katie S Nason
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ABSTRACT: Esophagectomy is a complex operation and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In an attempt to lower morbidity, we have adopted a minimally invasive approach to esophagectomy.
Our primary objective was to evaluate the outcomes of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in a large group of patients. Our secondary objective was to compare the modified McKeown minimally invasive approach (videothoracoscopic surgery, laparoscopy, neck anastomosis [MIE-neck]) with our current approach, a modified Ivor Lewis approach (laparoscopy, videothoracoscopic surgery, chest anastomosis [MIE-chest]).
We reviewed 1033 consecutive patients undergoing MIE. Elective operation was performed on 1011 patients; 22 patients with nonelective operations were excluded. Patients were stratified by surgical approach and perioperative outcomes analyzed. The primary endpoint studied was 30-day mortality.
The MIE-neck was performed in 481 (48%) and MIE-Ivor Lewis in 530 (52%). Patients undergoing MIE-Ivor Lewis were operated in the current era. The median number of lymph nodes resected was 21. The operative mortality was 1.68%. Median length of stay (8 days) and ICU stay (2 days) were similar between the 2 approaches. Mortality rate was 0.9%, and recurrent nerve injury was less frequent in the Ivor Lewis MIE group (P < 0.001).
MIE in our center resulted in acceptable lymph node resection, postoperative outcomes, and low mortality using either an MIE-neck or an MIE-chest approach. The MIE Ivor Lewis approach was associated with reduced recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and mortality of 0.9% and is now our preferred approach. Minimally invasive esophagectomy can be performed safely, with good results in an experienced center.
Annals of surgery 06/2012; 256(1):95-103. · 7.90 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Anatomic segmentectomy is a versatile sublobar resection approach that can be both diagnostic and therapeutic in the setting of the indeterminate pulmonary nodule (IPN), metastasectomy, as well as small, peripheral cancers. We analyzed the clinical indications and perioperative outcomes after anatomic segmentectomy and explored its utility in the diagnosis and treatment of IPNs and small stage IA lung cancers.
This study is a retrospective review of 785 consecutive patients undergoing anatomic segmentectomy from 2002 to 2010. Primary outcome variables include perioperative course, morbidity, mortality, recurrence patterns, and survival.
Surgical indications included IPN (62.4%), known lung cancer (27.6%), suspected metastasis (4.1%), bullous disease (3.7%), or other (2.2%). Video-assisted thoracic surgery was employed in 468 (59.6%) and open thoracotomy in 317 (40.4%) patients. Median length of stay was 6 days. Overall complication rate was 34.9%. Thirty-day mortality was 1.1%. Among 490 patients with an IPN, 381 (77.7%) were found to have lung cancer, 41 (8.4%) metastatic cancer, and 68 (13.9%) benign disease. Among patients with pathologic stage IA lung cancer, there was no difference in recurrence rates (14.5% vs 13.9%) or 5-year freedom from recurrence estimates (78% in each group, p=0.738) when comparing segmentectomy and lobectomy.
Anatomic segmentectomy provides acceptable morbidity and mortality when approaching the IPN. Cancer is identified in 86% of lesions. Complete surgical resection can be achieved with generous parenchymal margins and thorough nodal staging for small, peripheral stage IA non-small cell lung cancer. The use of anatomic segmentectomy should be considered in this era of competing image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to peripheral lung pathology.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 04/2012; 93(6):1780-5; discussion 1786-7. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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Matthew J Schuchert,
André P Souza,
Ghulam Abbas,
Arjun Pennathur,
Katie S Nason,
Robert Jack,
Zachary D Horne,
James R Landreneau,
Marco Santana,
David O Wilson,
James D Luketich,
Rodney J Landreneau
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ABSTRACT: We present the perioperative outcomes of patients undergoing an anterior "extended Chamberlain" minithoracotomy as an alternative approach to a hemi-clamshell sternotomy or extended lateral thoracotomy for safe and reliable access to the pulmonary hilum and subsequent anatomic pulmonary resection.
This study is a retrospective review of 162 patients undergoing anatomic lung resection through a mini anterior thoracotomy from 2002 to 2010. An 8-cm anterior thoracotomy was performed with the patient in a supine position, entering the chest through the second intercostal space. The pectoralis muscle fibers were split with preservation of the mammary artery medially and the thoracoacromial neurovascular bundle laterally. Primary outcome variables included hospital course, complications, and mortality rate.
The mean age was 63.9 (range, 20 to 85 years); female to male ratio was 71:91. Neoadjuvant therapy was used in 49 (30.2%) patients. Proposed resections were successful in 161 of 162 (99%) patients. Conversion to hemi-clamshell was required in 1 patient for vascular control. Complications occurred in 48 (29.6%) patients. Three (1.9%) perioperative deaths (2 pneumonectomies [6.3%], 1 lobectomy [1.0%]) occurred. Median length of stay was 8 days.
The "extended Chamberlain" mini anterior thoracotomy provides direct and expeditious, less-invasive access to the pulmonary hilum. This approach preserves muscle function and avoids partial sternotomy or extended lateral thoracotomy, and their associated incisional-related morbidity.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 03/2012; 93(5):1641-5; discussion 1646. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Chylothorax is a rare but potentially lethal complication of esophagectomy. This study evaluated the rate of postesophagectomy chylothorax, identified associated risk factors, and compared postoperative outcomes in patients with and without chylothorax.
We reviewed 892 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy (1997 to 2008). Preoperative, operative, and postoperative details, including adverse outcomes and mortality, were analyzed.
Postesophagectomy chylothorax occurred in 34 patients (3.8%). Chylothorax was significantly associated with 30-day major complications (85% vs 46%; p<0.001), including an increased likelihood of sepsis (p=0.001), pneumonia (p=0.009), reintubation (p=0.002) or reoperation (p<0.001), and death (17.7% vs 3.9%, p<0.001). Median length of stay was 17 vs 8 days (p=0.005). Median time to chylothorax diagnosis was 5 days. Thoracic duct ligation was performed in 21 (62%) at a median 13 days after esophagectomy. Two patients required repeat duct ligation for persistent chylothorax. Squamous cell cancer histology (9 of 34; 26%) was an independent predictor of postoperative chylothorax (odds ratio, 4.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.39 to 12.6). Odds of chylothorax were 36 times greater with average daily chest tube output exceeding 400 mL in the first 6 postoperative days (odds ratio, 35.9; 95% confidence interval, 8.2 to 157.8).
Postoperative chylothorax is associated with significant postoperative morbidity and mortality. Patients with squamous cell cancer may be at increased risk. In addition, average daily chest tube output exceeding 400 mL in the early postoperative period should prompt fluid analysis for chylothorax to facilitate early diagnosis and consideration of thoracic duct ligation.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 03/2012; 93(3):897-903; discussion 903-4. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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Matthew J Schuchert,
Omar Awais,
Ghulam Abbas,
Zachary D Horne,
Katie S Nason,
Arjun Pennathur,
André P Souza,
Jill M Siegfried,
David O Wilson,
James D Luketich,
Rodney J Landreneau
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ABSTRACT: Anatomic segmentectomy has been proposed as a reasonable alternative to lobectomy in the management of small early-stage non-small cell lung cancers. We reviewed our outcomes with anatomic segmentectomy versus lobectomy for stages IA and IB non-small cell lung cancer stratified by age and stage.
We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively-collected data analyzing outcomes after anatomic segmentectomy (n=305) for stage IA (n=187) or IB (n=118) NSCLC from 1999 to 2010. Lobectomy was performed in 594 patients for stage IA (n=290) and IB (n=304) disease during the same period. Surgical approach was stratified by stage and by the following age groups: less than 70, 70 to 79, and 80 or greater. Primary outcome variables included complications, mortality, recurrence patterns, and survival. Mean follow-up was 37 months.
Segmentectomy was associated with reduced complications (43.6% vs 58.7%) and mortality (0% vs 7.8%) in patients greater than 80 years old, without a difference in recurrence rates. There was no difference in complications or mortality in the younger age groups. Freedom from recurrence was similar between segmentectomy and lobectomy for stage IA tumors across all age groups. A reduced recurrence-free survival was seen with segmentectomy for stage IB tumors, especially with visceral pleural invasion (median 22.7 vs 29.6 months), p=0.048).
Segmentectomy appears to be a reasonable approach for early-stage NSCLC in patients 80 years of age or greater due to reduced morbidity and mortality with equivalent freedom from recurrence. Although equivalent survival was seen in all age groups for stage IA, these data further support the use of lobectomy for resection of stage IB tumors.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 03/2012; 93(3):929-35; discussion 935-6. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Anatomic segmentectomy may achieve results comparable to lobectomy for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. The 7th edition of the AJCC Cancer Staging Handbook stratified the previous T1 tumor designation into T1a and T1b subsets, which still define stage 1A node-negative non-small cell lung cancer. We are left to hypothesize whether this classification may aid in directing the extent of surgical resection. We retrospectively reviewed our anatomic segmentectomy and lobectomy management of stage 1A non-small cell lung cancer to determine differences in survival and local recurrence rates based on the new stratification.
We performed a retrospective review of 429 patients undergoing resection of pathologically confirmed stage 1A non-small cell lung cancer via lobectomy or anatomic segmentectomy. Primary outcome variables included mortality, recurrence, and survival. Recurrence-free and cancer-specific survivals were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.
Patients undergoing segmentectomy were older than patients undergoing lobectomy (mean age 69.2 vs 66.8 years, P < .006). The mean preoperative forced expiratory volume in 1 second was significantly lower in the segmentectomy group than in the lobectomy group (71.8% vs 81.1%, P = .02). Mortality was similar after segmentectomy (1.1%) and lobectomy (1.2%). There was no difference in mortality, recurrence rates (14.0% vs 14.7%, P = 1.00), or 5-year cancer-specific survival (T1a: 90% vs 91%, P = .984; T1b: 82% vs 78%, P = .892) when comparing segmentectomy and lobectomy for pathologic stage 1A non-small cell lung cancer, when stratified by T stage.
Anatomic segmentectomy may achieve equivalent recurrence and survival compared with lobectomy for patients with stage 1A non-small cell lung cancer. Prospective studies will be necessary to delineate the potential merits of anatomic segmentectomy in this setting.
The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery 12/2011; 143(2):390-7. · 3.41 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: We have tested PJ34, a potent inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), against various lung cancer cell lines (Calu-6, A549, and H460) and normal human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs). While using WST1 dye assay, lung cancer cells exhibited LD(50) values of approximately 30 μM PJ34 (72-hr assay). Molecular data showed that the effect of PJ34-induced apoptosis on lung cancer cells occurs via a caspase-dependent pathway. The present study has clearly shown that (a) PARP inhibitor can independently kill tumor cells, (b) caspase-3 has modest influence on PARP-inhibitor-mediated cancer-specific toxicity, and (c) a pan-caspase inhibitor decreases the apoptotic effect of PJ34.
Cancer Investigation 11/2011; 29(9):608-16. · 1.85 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Collis gastroplasty is an important component of laparoscopic giant paraesophageal hernia (GPEH) repair in patients with persistent shortened esophagus after aggressive laparoscopic mobilization. Concerns remain, however, regarding symptomatic outcomes compared with fundoplication alone. This study assessed the impact of Collis gastroplasty on quality of life after laparoscopic GPEH repair.
We performed 795 nonemergent laparoscopic GPEH repairs with fundoplication (with Collis, n = 454; fundoplication alone, n = 341). Radiographic follow-up and symptom assessment were obtained a median 22 months and 20 months, respectively, after fundoplication alone and 36 and 33 months, respectively, after Collis (p < 0.001). Radiographic recurrence, reoperation for recurrent hernia or intolerable symptoms, overall symptom improvement, and quality of life were examined.
Compared with fundoplication alone, Collis patients had significantly larger GPEH (p = 0.027) and fewer comorbidities (p = 0.002). Radiographic recurrences were similar (p = 0.353). Symptom improvement was significant for both (p < 0.001), although Collis was associated with better pain resolution (p < 0.001) and less gas bloat (p = 0.003). Quality of life was good to excellent in 88% (90% Collis versus 86% fundoplication alone, p = 0.17).
Symptomatic outcomes after laparoscopic fundoplication with Collis gastroplasty are excellent and comparable with those of fundoplication alone. These results confirm that utilization of Collis gastroplasty, based on intraoperative assessment for shortened esophagus, is not detrimental to the overall outcome or quality of life associated with the laparoscopic approach to GPEH. Collis gastroplasty is recommended as an important procedure in the surgeon's armamentarium for laparoscopic repair of GPEH.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 09/2011; 92(5):1854-60; discussion 1860-1. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: With an increase in the performance of laparoscopic antireflux procedures, more patients with a failed primary antireflux operation are being referred to thoracic surgeons for complex redo procedures. The objective of this study was to evaluate our results of redo antireflux surgery.
We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent redo surgery for failed fundoplication. The primary endpoint was failure of the redo operation; other endpoints included gastroesophageal reflux disease-health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after redo fundoplication.
A total of 275 patients (median age, 52 years; range, 17 to 88 years; men 82, women 193) underwent redo antireflux surgery. The most common pattern of failure of the initial operation was transmediastinal migration-recurrent hernia in 177 patients (64%). Redo surgery included Nissen fundoplication in 200 (73%), Collis gastroplasty in 119 (43%), and partial fundoplication in 41 (15%). There was no perioperative mortality. At a median follow-up of 39.6 months, 31 patients (11.2%) had a failure of the redo surgery, requiring reoperation. The two-year estimated probability of freedom from failure was 93% (95% confidence interval 89% to 96%). The HRQOL scores, available for 186 patients, were excellent to satisfactory in 85.5%, and poor in 14.5%.
Redo antireflux surgery can be performed safely in experienced centers with outcomes that are similar to published open results. Complete takedown and reestablishment of the normal anatomy, recognition of a short esophagus, and proper placement of the wrap are essential components of the procedure. Thoracic surgeons with significant laparoscopic and open esophageal surgical experience can perform minimally invasive, complex redo esophageal antireflux procedures safely with good results.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 07/2011; 92(3):1083-9; discussion 1089-90. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Screening for esophageal adenocarcinoma has focused on identifying Barrett esophagus (BE) in patients with severe, long-standing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Unfortunately, 95% of patients who develop esophageal adenocarcinoma are unaware of the presence of BE before their cancer diagnosis, which means they never had been selected for screening. One possible explanation is that no correlation exists between the severity of GERD symptoms and cancer risk. We hypothesize that severe GERD symptoms are not associated with an increase in the prevalence of BE, dysplasia, or cancer in patients undergoing primary endoscopic screening.
Cross-sectional study.
University hospital.
A total of 769 patients with GERD.
Primary screening endoscopy performed from November 1, 2004, through June 7, 2007.
Symptom severity, proton pump inhibitor therapy, and esophageal adenocarcinogenesis (ie, BE, dysplasia, or cancer).
Endoscopy revealed adenocarcinogenesis in 122 patients. An increasing number of severe GERD symptoms correlated positively with endoscopic findings of esophagitis (odds ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.09). Conversely, an increasing number of severe GERD symptoms were associated with decreased odds of adenocarcinogenesis (odds ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.89-0.98). Patients taking proton pump inhibitors were 61.3% and 81.5% more likely to have adenocarcinogenesis if they reported no severe typical or atypical GERD symptoms, respectively, compared with patients taking proton pump inhibitors, who reported that all symptoms were severe.
Medically treated patients with mild or absent GERD symptoms have significantly higher odds of adenocarcinogenesis compared with medically treated patients with severe GERD symptoms. This finding may explain the failure of the current screening paradigm in which the threshold for primary endoscopic examination is based on symptom severity.
Archives of surgery (Chicago, Ill.: 1960) 07/2011; 146(7):851-8. · 4.32 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The recent initiation of screening protocols and greater utilization of computed tomography has led to an increasing proportion of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients presenting with subcentimeter stage IA tumors. The aim of this study was to compare the oncologic outcomes of lobectomy, segmentectomy, and wedge resection in patients with NSCLC tumors 1 cm or less in diameter.
Data were extracted from medical records of patients undergoing surgical resection for stage IA NSCLC and a pathologically confirmed tumor diameter measuring 1 cm or less. Primary oncologic outcomes were disease recurrence and disease-free survival. Statistical comparisons were performed using Fisher's exact test and unpaired t test. Kaplan-Meier curves were compared using the log rank test. Significance was defined as a two-tailed p value less than 0.05.
A total of 107 patients underwent complete (R0) surgical resection for stage IA NSCLC 1 cm or less in diameter (lobectomy, 32; segmentectomy, 40; wedge, 35). Age, sex distribution, tumor size, and histology were similar between groups. There was 1 perioperative mortality in the lobectomy group (3%). At a mean follow-up of 42.5 months, overall disease recurrence was equivalent, occurring in 3 lobectomy patients (9%), 4 segmentectomy patients (10%), and 3 wedge resection patients (9%; p=0.99). Estimated 5-year disease-free survival was comparable among cohorts (lobectomy, 87%; segmentectomy, 89%; wedge, 89%; p>0.402).
Sublobar resections are associated with oncologic outcomes that are comparable to those of lobectomy for subcentimeter stage IA NSCLC, suggesting that they may be appropriate surgical interventions in this patient cohort. The validity of these observations needs to be assessed in a prospective setting.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 06/2011; 91(6):1681-7; discussion 1687-8. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have been found to increase survival in many forms of cancer, including, endometrial, bile ductal, colonic, esophageal, and urothelial cancers, as well as melanoma and follicular lymphoma. The relevance of TILs in the prognosis of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), however, still remains controversial. We compared the outcomes of stage 1A NSCLC with and without tumor infiltrating lymphocytes to evaluate the effects of TILs on recurrence and survival patterns.
From 2000 to 2009, 273 anatomic segmentectomies and lobectomies were performed on stage 1A NSCLC. Patients were stratified into TIL- and TIL+ cohorts based on pathologic evaluation. Further investigation was conducted on the effects of TILs in patients with and without angiolymphatic invasion. Variables analyzed include overall survival, recurrence-free survival, and type of recurrence.
Overall 5-y survival was not affected by TIL status (65% versus 60%, P = 0.469). Five-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) was significantly increased in the TIL+ group versus the TIL- group (87% versus 73%, P = 0.011), most significantly in women (P = 0.016). The presence of angiolymphatic invasion (ALI) was associated with decreased 5-y RFS versus patients without ALI (61% versus 85%, P < 0.001). Interestingly, in the ALI negative group, TIL+ patients experienced a significantly increased 5-y recurrence-free survival versus TIL- patients (93% versus 80%, P = 0.036).
High levels of intratumoral TILs are associated with improved recurrence-free survival in stage 1A NSCLC patients as well as a reduced likelihood of systemic recurrence. When angiolymphatic invasion is not present, the beneficial effects of TILs become even more profound.
Journal of Surgical Research 04/2011; 171(1):1-5. · 2.25 Impact Factor
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Matthew J Schuchert,
Lana Schumacher,
Arman Kilic,
John Close,
James R Landreneau,
Arjun Pennathur,
Omar Awais,
Samuel A Yousem,
David O Wilson,
James D Luketich,
Rodney J Landreneau
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ABSTRACT: In the current study, we analyze the impact of pathologic variables (angiolymphatic invasion, visceral pleural invasion, and tumor inflammation) upon survival outcomes after segmentectomy or lobectomy for stage I non-small cell lung cancer.
A retrospective review was made of 524 patients undergoing resection of stage I non-small cell lung cancer through either lobectomy (n = 285) or anatomic segmentectomy (n = 239). Primary outcome variables include recurrence-free and overall survival. Statistical comparisons were performed with the t test and Fisher's exact test. Recurrence-free and overall survival was estimated utilizing the Kaplan-Maier method, with statistical significance being assessed by the log rank test.
The incidence of angiolymphatic invasion, visceral pleural invasion, and degree of tumor inflammation, as well as morbidity, mortality, and length of stay were similar between segmentectomy and lobectomy. The presence of angiolymphatic invasion or visceral pleural invasion was associated with a significant decrease in recurrence-free survival (p < 0.01) and overall survival (p < 0.01). There was a trend for decreased recurrence with increasing tumor inflammation (mild versus severe, p = 0.066). There was no difference in rates of local recurrence (5.6% versus 7.9%, p = 0.59) or survival (p = 0.455) between segmentectomy and lobectomy, respectively.
Angiolymphatic and visceral pleural invasion appear to be strong adverse prognostic factors after anatomic resection by segmentectomy or lobectomy for stage I non-small cell lung cancer. Overall survival is not affected by the extent of anatomical surgical resection. These data may have implications regarding the role of adjuvant systemic therapy after surgical resection for tumors with these pathologic characteristics.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 04/2011; 91(4):1059-65; discussion 1065. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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Arjun Pennathur,
Irfan Qureshi, Matthew J Schuchert,
Rajeev Dhupar,
Peter F Ferson,
William E Gooding,
Neil A Christie,
Sebastien Gilbert,
Manisha Shende,
Omar Awais,
Joel S Greenberger,
Rodney J Landreneau,
James D Luketich
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ABSTRACT: The minimally invasive, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical (VATS) approach to resection of the thymus is frequently practiced for benign disease; however, a VATS approach for thymoma remains controversial. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of VATS thymectomy for the treatment of early-stage thymoma and to compare the outcomes with those after open resection.
A retrospective review of 40 patients who underwent surgical resection of early-stage thymoma during a 12-year period was conducted. Data on patient characteristics, morbidity, recurrence, and survival were collected. The primary endpoint studied was overall survival.
Of the 40 patients, 14 underwent thymectomy for stage I and 26 for stage II thymoma; 19 were men and 21 were women (median age, 64 years; range, 35-86 years). Open thymectomy was performed in 22 patients, and VATS was performed in 18. The operative mortality rate was 0%. The tumor stage and number of patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy were comparable in both surgical groups. The median length of hospital stay was shorter in the VATS group (3 days) than in the open group (5 days) (P = .0001). The median follow-up was 36 months. No significant differences were found in the estimated recurrence-free and overall 5-year survival rates (83%-100%) between the 2 groups.
VATS of early-stage thymoma appears safe and feasible and was associated with a shorter hospital stay. The oncologic outcomes were comparable in the open and VATS groups during intermediate-term follow-up. Additional follow-up is required to evaluate the long-term results of thoracoscopic thymectomy for early-stage thymoma.
The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery 03/2011; 141(3):694-701. · 3.41 Impact Factor
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Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 01/2011; 23(1):78-80.
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Matthew J Schuchert,
Prasad S Adusumilli,
Chris C Cook,
Christos Colovos,
Arman Kilic,
Katie S Nason,
Joshua P Landreneau,
Thomas Zikos,
Robert Jack,
James D Luketich,
Rodney J Landreneau
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ABSTRACT: Kyphoscoliosis is seen in approximately 1.4-15% of the octogenarian population of the US. We hypothesized that patients with kyphoscoliosis are affected with a reduced intra-abdominal volume and progressive laxity of the diaphragmatic hiatal sling musculature leading to an increased risk of hiatal hernia formation and progression over time.
We retrospectively reviewed the clinical history and roentgenographic data of 320 paraesophageal hernia patients from 2003 to 2007. The prevalence of kyphoscoliosis among this patient cohort and the outcomes of surgical management were compared to paraesophageal hernia patients without kyphoscoliosis.
Ninety-three of the 320 patients (29.1%) were found to have significant K/S (mean age 74; 83% female). Laparoscopic repair of paraesophageal hernia with fundoplication was performed in 91% of these patients. There was one death (1.1%; aspiration pneumonia) and 17.2% major postoperative morbidity. Mean length of hospital stay was 8 days (median = 4; range 2-71). Prolonged stays were related mainly to marginal pulmonary status. Kyphoscoliosis was associated with increased peri-operative pulmonary morbidity (16.1%) compared to patients without kyphoscoliosis (7.0%, p = 0.02).
Kyphoscoliosis may contribute to the development and progression of paraesophageal hernias. Surgeons approaching paraesophageal hernia repair should be aware of the increased pulmonary morbidity and the postoperative care required in managing these patients.
Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery 01/2011; 15(1):23-8. · 2.83 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Preservation of esophageal and gastric function is a hallmark principle in ensuring optimal surgical outcomes after gastric fundoplication. In this study, we evaluated the impact of fundoplication on esophageal transit and gastric emptying using scintigraphy studies and related these functional findings to symptomatic outcomes.
A total of 106 consecutive patients (37 women, 69 men) with both preoperative and 6-month postoperative nuclear scintigraphy studies undergoing partial (Toupet) fundoplication at a single institution were analyzed. Primary variables included alterations in esophageal transit and gastric emptying times after fundoplication (1 = rapid; 2 = normal; 3 = mild delay; 4 = severe delay). Symptomatic variables included heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia, pulmonary symptoms, and bloating.
Mean age was 57.2 years. Symptomatic improvement was achieved in 91.5% of patients. Significant reduction of all symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation, pulmonary symptoms, and dysphagia) was noted after fundoplication, except gas bloating (4.7 vs. 20.8%). There were no significant differences in preoperative and postoperative esophageal transit (2.53 vs. 2.52) and gastric emptying (2.13 vs. 2.06) scores after fundoplication. Interestingly, 17% of esophageal transit times and 18% of gastric emptying times improved after fundoplication. However, worsening scores were seen in 16 and 12%, respectively. There was no significant postoperative dysphagia, even in patients with impaired transit times.
Nuclear scintigraphic assessment of esophageal transit and gastric emptying are valuable, user-friendly tools to identify and avoid functional motility problems in the setting of fundoplication. These studies seem to be a reasonable alternative to manometry in assessing esophageal function before surgery in this setting. Postoperative symptoms may be related to objective changes in esophageal transit or gastric emptying. The causes may be iatrogenic in nature or related to vagal denervation with associated changes in esophagogastric compliance. Awareness of these physiologic changes may prompt further technical precautions at the time of surgery to avoid vagal injury and also may facilitate postoperative medical management.
Surgical Endoscopy 12/2010; 24(12):3119-26. · 4.01 Impact Factor
