Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: Selective Use of Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer.

Background: Locally advanced rectal cancer has high cure rates with trimodal therapy. Studies sparing neoadjuvant chemoradiation in selected patients show comparable outcomes.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the cost-effectiveness of selective use of neoadjuvant chemoradiation in this population.

Factors predicting reclassification of variants of unknown significance.

Unlabelled: Genetic variants of unknown significance (VUS) are an increasingly common result of genetic testing. VUS present dilemmas for treatment and surveillance. Family history may play a role in VUS reclassification over time.

Robotic Colorectal Surgery Learning Curve and Case Complexity.

Purpose: To understand the role of case complexity in the learning curve for robotic colorectal surgery.

Materials And Methods: Sixty-two patients who underwent robot-assisted colorectal surgery were retrospectively reviewed. Each case was assigned a category of complexity ranging from I to IV.

What happens after a failed LIFT for anal fistula?

Background: Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) was developed to treat transsphincteric anal fistulas. The aftermath of a failed LIFT has not been well documented.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of LIFT procedure for transsphincteric anal fistula between March 2012 and September 2016.

Risk of late bleeding following hemorrhoidal banding in patients on antithrombotic prophylaxis.

Background: The risk of bleeding following rubber band ligation of internal hemorrhoids is 1%-2%. This risk may be increased in patients taking antithrombotic therapy. The goal of the current study was to find a safer approach to banding without increasing the risk of bleeding.

Response to preoperative chemoradiation in stage II and III rectal cancer.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a complete pathologic response after neoadjuvant therapy in rectal cancer patients improves disease control and survival.

Methods: The study reviewed Stage II and III rectal cancer patients treated with preoperative chemoradiation and resected for cure. Complete pathologic response was defined as no cancer in the resected specimen.