A model of primary culture of colorectal cancer and liver metastasis to predict chemosensitivity.

Background: Prediction of chemosensitivity is a major goal of modern oncology. The aim of this study was to establish a simple and effective model of primary culture of colorectal cancer fragments and to test whether it allows prediction of chemosensitivity.

Methods: Colorectal cancer fragments (primary tumors or liver metastases) of 94 consecutive and previously untreated patients were obtained, prepared, and cultured in polyHEMA.

Total laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis: prospective series of 82 patients.

Background: Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the recommended procedure for ulcerative colitis and profuse familial adenomatous polyposis. The aims of this study were to report a consecutive series of 82 unselected patients who undergone a total laparoscopic IPAA with a special focus on the postoperative morbidity and 1-year functional results.

Methods: Between 2002 and 2008, 82 consecutive patients undergoing IPAA under a total laparoscopic approach were enrolled.