Long-term significance of an anastomotic leak in patients undergoing an ultra-low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

Background: Australia has one of the highest rates of colorectal cancer worldwide. Despite technological advances in colorectal surgery, anastomotic leaks (ALs) continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality. Ultra-low anterior resections (ULARs) carry the highest prevalence of AL.

Anal squamous cell carcinoma: are we improving outcomes?

Background: Anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare malignancy. The purpose of this study was to review a single institution's experience.

Methods: All patients with anal SCC from St John of God Subiaco Hospital database were identified over a 10-year period (2006-2016).

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer: how important is tumour regression?

Background: Pathological complete response following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer is associated with reduced local recurrence and improved long-term outcome. However, the prognostic value of a partial response, or of tumour regression in patients with metastatic disease, is less clear.

Methods: We present a single-centre cohort study of 205 patients with stage II-IV rectal cancer treated with surgery and neoadjuvant CRT between 2006 and 2013.

Outcomes in patients undergoing urgent colorectal surgery.

Background: Urgent surgery for acute intestinal presentations is generally associated with worse outcomes than elective procedures. This study assessed the outcomes of patients undergoing urgent colorectal surgery.

Methods: Patients were identified from a prospective database.

Anastomotic leaks in colorectal surgery.

Background: Anastomotic leaks are a serious complication of bowel surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the rate and severity, and identify risk factors for leaks in patients undergoing bowel anastomoses.

Methods: Prospective evaluation was performed on patients undergoing bowel surgery within a colorectal surgical unit.