Anastomotic leak after colorectal resection for cancer is a challenging clinical problem. The postoperative quality of life in these situations is significantly impaired. We prospectively analyzed the effect of placing a self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) at the level of the leak, with or without proximal diverting ileostomy, in 22 patients with symptomatic anastomotic leakage after colorectal resection. The stents were placed successfully in all 22 patients. An proximal ileostomy was created in 15 patients under general anesthesia. The anastomotic leak healed, without evidence of residual stricture or major incontinence, in 19 patients (86 %). In 3 patients, the leak did not heal; in 2 patients with recurrent rectovaginal fistula, the size of the leak decreased significantly, allowing successful flap transposition; and only 1 patient required a permanent stoma. SEMS placement is a valid adjunct to the treatment of patients with symptomatic anastomotic leakage after colorectal resection.
Low-dose CT colonography compares favorably with colonoscopy for detection of colorectal polyps 6 mm in diameter or larger, with markedly decreased performance for detection of polyps 5 mm in diameter or smaller.
IntroductionGanglioneuromas are rare benign peripheral neuroblastic tumors characterized by hyperplasia of ganglion cells, nerve fibers, and supporting cells. They are not usually localized in the colon.Case presentationA 61-year-old Caucasian man was admitted to our department for colon cancer screening. A colonoscopy revealed a lipoma of 5cm in diameter, two micropolyps of less than 1cm, and one sessile polyp of 0.6cm in diameter. The polyps were removed with hot biopsy forceps. A histological examination revealed two hyperplastic polyps and one ganglioneuroma polyp. A follow-up colonoscopy showed no signs of recurrence after 16 months.ConclusionsAlthough a few cases of lipomas associated with ganglioneuromatous syndrome have been reported, the association of an intestinal lipoma with an isolated ganglioneuroma polyp has not been described. The implications of this association are unknown.
Self-expandable metal stents represent a valid alternative to balloon dilatation to treat patients with benign symptomatic anastomotic stricture after colorectal resection for cancer.
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