Abstract Perinatal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the fetus, neonate, and the health of the pregnant woman. Diagnosis, treatment, and the search for elimination of these diseases are a priority in Latin America and the Caribbean. This document represents the second delivery by a group of experts in the region inside the Latin-American Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SLIPE), presenting a up-to-date look into the management of congenital infectious diseases and give a tool to detect possible strategic sceneries and a change in the management of congenital infections in our region.

Resumen Las infecciones perinatales son una causa de morbilidad, tanto fetal como neonatal, y que compromete la salud de la mujer embarazada, por lo que su diagnóstico, tratamiento, e intento de eliminación son una prioridad en América Latina y el Caribe. Este documento representa la segunda entrega realizada por expertos en la región dentro de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Infectología Pediátrica (SLIPE), brindando una mirada actualizada en el manejo de las infecciones congénitas y entrega herramientas para detectar posibles momentos estratégicos de intervención y cambio en el manejo de las infecciones congénitas.

Introduction: Esophageal cancer is the sixth leading cause of death by cancer worldwide. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a technique that allows en bloc resection of early lesions of the digestive tract. It has curative potential in selected patients and potential benefits over esophagectomy for the treatment of esophageal cancer (EC). Aim: To report the results of ESD for EC in a high-volume center in Chile. Materials and Method: Retrospective descriptive study of patients who underwent ESD for EC at our center. Results: A total of 10 patients were treated with ESD for EC between 2010 and 2020. Eighty percent were male patients, the average age was 72 years (63-84). En bloc resection was achieved in all cases and there were no complications or mortality. All of the dissections were classified as R0 and 90% met curative standards. The mean follow-up was 38 months (3.5-123). Overall survival was 90%. Cancer-specific survival was 100% and recurrence-free survival was 100%. Discussion: The rate of morbidity and mortality of esophagectomy is high. ESD would be a safer technique, which allows R0 resections and eventually curation in selected patients with EC limited to the mucosa or submucosa. Conclusion: This is the first report of ESD for the treatment of EC in our country, it shows excellent oncologic results and safety of the procedure, comparable to those reported in the larger series published to date.

Resumen Introducción: El cáncer de esófago (CE) constituye la sexta causa de muerte por cáncer en el mundo. La disección endoscópica submucosa (DES) es una técnica que permite la resección en bloque de lesiones del tubo digestivo. Tiene rol curativo en pacientes seleccionados y potenciales ventajas sobre la esofagectomía. Objetivo: Describir los resultados perioperatorios y oncológicos de la DES como tratamiento del CE en nuestro centro. Materiales y Método: Estudio retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a DES por CE entre los años 2010-2020. Resultados: Diez pacientes fueron tratados con DES por CE entre los años 2010 y 2020. El 80% eran hombres y la edad promedio fue de 72 años (63-84). La resección en bloque fue lograda en todos los casos y no se presentó morbimortalidad perioperatoria. Todas las disecciones fueron R0 y el 90% cumplió con estándares de curación. El seguimiento promedio fue de 38 meses (3,5-123). La sobrevida global fue de 90%. La sobrevida específica por cáncer y libre de recurrencia fue de 100%. Discusión: La morbimortalidad asociada a la esofagectomía es alta. La DES sería una alternativa más segura, que permite lograr un R0 y eventualmente la curación en pacientes seleccionados con CE limitado a la mucosa o submucosa. Conclusión: La presente constituye la primera serie reportada de pacientes con cáncer esofágico sometidos a DES en nuestro país. Muestra excelentes resultados oncológicos y seguridad del procedimiento, comparables a las grandes series descritas en la literatura internacional.

Background: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) allows en-bloc resection of early gastro-intestinal neoplasms (EGIN) with healing potential. Aim: To describe the results of patients treated with ESD for EGIN by our team. Patients and Methods: Descriptive study of patients with EGIN who underwent ESD with curative intention between January 2008 and March 2020. Results: One hundred thirty-two ESD were performed in 127 patients. 77% were gastric lesions, 14% colorectal, 8% esophageal and 1% duodenal. En-bloc resection was achieved in 98.4% of ESDs. Eighty eight percent of patients met curative standards. Overall, cancer-specific, and recurrence-free survival were 95%, 100% and 98% respectively. Conclusions: ESD allows en-bloc resections with curative potential in selected patients, but with a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality and less impact on quality of life. Our results suggest the feasibility to perform ESD in our country with results comparable to those reported in the literature.

Introduction: Esophagectomy presents a high postoperative morbidity. However, the definitions used are variable. A multinational group (esophagectomy complications consensus group; ECCG) proposed standardized definitions. Aim: To evaluate postoperative complications in esophagectomy according to the definitions proposed by the ECCG. Materials and Method: We conducted a retrospective cohort study, based on a prospective database. Patients undergoing esophagectomy for cancer between 1996 and 2018 at one center were included. The definitions of postoperative complications according to the ECCG were applied. Results: We included 215 patients (64% men, age 67 [31-82] years). Sixty-four percent had some comorbidity. There was a predominance of squamous carcinoma with 68%. The most frequent tumor location was the lower third of the esophagus (48%). An open approach was used in 74% and minimally invasive in 26%. Total postoperative morbidity was 67%. The most frequent complications were respiratory complications, which reached 27%. The leakage of the esophagogastric anastomosis reached 25%, 24% were type II (did not require surgical reoperation). There was a vocal cord paresis in 7%, all were classified as type I (did not require specific therapy). A chylous fistula was presented in 2%, in 1% they were treated with parenteral nutrition (type II) and in 1% a reoperation was performed (type III). Conclusion: Esophagectomy is associated with a high morbidity. The main complications are respiratory and gastrointestinal. The use of consensus definitions allows standardization and grading of complications.

Resumen Introducción: La esofagectomía presenta una alta morbilidad postoperatoria. Sin embargo, las definiciones de las complicaciones son variables. Un grupo multinacional (esophagectomy complications consensus group; ECCG) propuso definiciones estandarizadas. Objetivo: Evaluar las complicaciones postoperatorias en esofagectomía según las definiciones propuestas por el ECCG. Materiales y Método: Realizamos un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo, a partir de una base de datos prospectiva. Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a una esofagectomía por cáncer entre 1996 y 2018 en un centro. Se aplicaron las definiciones de las complicaciones postoperatorias según el ECCG. Resultados: Se incluyeron 215 pacientes (Hombres 64%; edad 67 [31-82] años). Un 64% presentaban alguna comorbilidad. Existió un predominio de carcinoma escamoso con un 68%. La ubicación tumoral más frecuente fue el tercio inferior del esófago (48%). Se utilizó un abordaje abierto en 74% y mínimamente invasivo en 26%. La morbilidad postoperatoria total fue de 67%. Las complicaciones más frecuentes fueron las respiratorias alcanzando un 27%. En total, un 25% de los pacientes presentó una filtración de la anastomosis esofagogástrica, de las cuales un 24% fueron tipo II (no requirieron una reintervención quirúrgica). Se produjo una paresia de cuerda vocal en 7%, todas tipo I (no requirieron terapia específica). Se presentó una fístula quilosa en 2%, en 1% se trataron con nutrición parenteral (tipo II) y en 1% se realizó una reintervención (tipo III). Conclusión: La esofagectomía se asocia a una alta morbilidad. Las principales complicaciones son las respiratorias y las gastrointestinales. La utilización de las definiciones de consenso permite una estandarización y graduación de las complicaciones.

The aim is to update the current knowledge in hereditary gastric cancer, especially the current indications for genetic testing and its clinical management. In 5-10% of gastric cancers there is a familiar pattern. Hereditary cancers, unlike sporadic cancers, are associated with germline mutations in a specific gene. In hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC), mutations have been identified in specific genes associated with the disease (CDH1 y CTNNA1). The clinical syndrome of HDGC is associated with the appearance at an early age, typically around 40 years, of multiple foci of diffuse gastric cancer (GC), frequently with signet ring cells and the appearance of lobular type breast cancer. Twenty to fifty percent of patients who meet the clinical criteria for HDGC have a mutation in the CDH1 gene. The presence of a mutation confers a risk of diffuse CG of 67-70% for men and 56-83% for women; and a 42% risk of breast cancer throughout the life of the patient. The main current indications for genetic counseling and study are the presence of 2 or more relatives with CG, one confirmed diffuse, regardless of age; and individuals with CG less than 40 years of age, without previous family history. A multidisciplinary team is key and the main management alternatives are endoscopic follow-up and prophylactic gastrectomy. Just as there has been progress in defining the best clinical management of these patients, this pathology also represents an area of important research interest.

Resumen El objetivo de esta revisión es realizar una actualización de los conocimientos actuales en cáncer gástrico hereditario, especialmente enfocado a que pacientes tienen indicación de estudio genético y su manejo clínico. En un 5-10% de los cánceres gástricos existe un patrón familiar. Los cánceres hereditarios, a diferencia de los esporádicos, se asocian a mutaciones germinales en un gen específico. En cáncer gástrico hereditario difuso (HDGC), se han identificado mutaciones en genes específicos asociados a la enfermedad (CDH1 y CTNNA1). El síndrome clínico de HDGC se asocia a la aparición a temprana edad, típicamente alrededor de los 40 años de múltiples focos de cáncer gástrico (CG) de tipo difuso, frecuentemente con células en anillo de sello y la aparición de cáncer de mama de tipo lobulillar. De los pacientes que cumplen los criterios clínicos de HDGC, el 20-50% presenta una mutación del gen CDH1. La presencia de una mutación confiere un riesgo de aparición de CG difuso de 67-70% para hombres y de 56-83% para mujeres; y un riesgo de 42% de cáncer de mama a lo largo de la vida del paciente. Se consideran actualmente como indicaciones para asesoría y estudio genético; la presencia de 2 o más familiares con CG, uno confirmado difuso, independiente de la edad; y en segundo lugar individuos con CG menores de 40 años de edad, sin historia familiar previa. Dentro del manejo de es estos pacientes es clave un equipo multidisciplinario y las principales alternativas de manejo son el seguimiento endoscópico y la gastrectomía profiláctica. Así como se ha avanzado en definir el mejor manejo clínico de estos pacientes, esta patología también representa una área de importante interés en investigación.

RESUMO Racional: A gastrectomia laparoscópica tem numerosas vantagens perioperatórias, mas a sobrevivência em longo prazo após este procedimento tem sido menos estudada. Objetivo: Comparar resultados de sobrevivência, oncológica e perioperatória entre a gastrectomia completamente laparoscópica vs. aberta para câncer gástrico precoce. Método: Este estudo foi retrospectivo e os principais resultados foram a sobrevivência global e específica de cinco anos, contagem de linfonodos e taxa de ressecção R0. Resultado secundário foi a morbidade pós-operatória. Resultados: Foram incluídos 116 pacientes (59% homens, idade 68 anos, comorbidades 73%, IMC 25) que foram submetidos a 50 gastrectomias laparoscópicas e 66 gastrectomias abertas. As características demográficas, a localização do tumor, o tipo de operação, a extensão da dissecção dos linfonodos e do estágio não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos. A taxa geral de complicações foi semelhante em ambos os grupos (40% vs. 28%, p=ns) e complicações classificadas Clavien 2 (36% vs. 18%, p=0,03), respiratórias (9% vs. 0%, p=0,03) e as da parede abdominal (12% vs. 0%, p=0,009) foram significativamente menores após a gastrectomia laparoscópica. A contagem de linfonodos (21 contra 23, p=ns) e a taxa de ressecção R0 (100% vs. 96%; p=ns) não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos. A sobrevida global de cinco anos (84% vs. 87%, p=0,31) e a sobrevida específica (93% vs. 98%, p=0,20) não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos de gastrectomia laparoscópica e aberta. Conclusão: Estes resultados suportam resultados oncológicos similares e sobrevida em longo prazo para pacientes com câncer gástrico precoce após gastrectomia laparoscópica e gastrectomia aberta. Além disso, a abordagem laparoscópica está associada com morbidade menos grave e menor ocorrência de complicações respiratórias e da parede abdominal.

ABSTRACT Background: Laparoscopic gastrectomy has numerous perioperative advantages, but the long-term survival of patients after this procedure has been less studied. Aim: To compare survival, oncologic and perioperative outcomes between completely laparoscopic vs. open gastrectomy for early gastric cancer. Methods: This study was retrospective, and our main outcomes were the overall and disease-specific 5-year survival, lymph node count and R0 resection rate. Our secondary outcome was postoperative morbidity. Results: Were included 116 patients (59% men, age 68 years, comorbidities 73%, BMI 25) who underwent 50 laparoscopic gastrectomies and 66 open gastrectomies. The demographic characteristics, tumour location, type of surgery, extent of lymph node dissection and stage did not significantly differ between groups. The overall complication rate was similar in both groups (40% vs. 28%, p=ns), and complications graded at least Clavien 2 (36% vs. 18%, p=0.03), respiratory (9% vs. 0%, p=0.03) and wound-abdominal wall complications (12% vs. 0%, p=0.009) were significantly lower after laparoscopic gastrectomy. The lymph node count (21 vs. 23 nodes; p=ns) and R0 resection rate (100% vs. 96%; p=ns) did not significantly differ between groups. The 5-year overall survival (84% vs. 87%, p=0.31) and disease-specific survival (93% vs. 98%, p=0.20) did not significantly differ between the laparoscopic and open gastrectomy groups. Conclusion: The results of this study support similar oncologic outcome and long-term survival for patients with early gastric cancer after laparoscopic gastrectomy and open gastrectomy. In addition, the laparoscopic approach is associated with less severe morbidity and a lower occurrence of respiratory and wound-abdominal wall complications.

RESUMO Raciona l: A gastrectomia é o tratamento principal para o câncer de junção esofagogástrica (EGJ) e Siewert tipo II-III. Ela está associada à morbidade significativa. As taxas de morbidade total variam entre os diferentes estudos e poucos avaliaram a morbidade pós-operatória de acordo com a gravidade da complicação. Objetivo: Identificar os preditores de morbidade pós-operatória grave. Métodos: Este foi um estudo de coorte retrospectivo de um banco de dados prospectivo. Foram incluídos pacientes tratados com gastrectomia para câncer gástrico ou EGJ em um único centro. A morbidade severa foi definida como escore de Clavien-Dindo ≥3. Análise multivariada foi realizada para identificar preditores de morbidade grave. Resultados: Duzentos e oitenta e nove gastrectomias foram realizadas (67% homens, mediana de idade: 65 anos). A localização do tumor foi EGJ em 14%, o terço superior do estômago em 30%, o terço médio em 26% e o terço inferior em 28%. Em 196 (67%), foi realizada gastrectomia total com dissecção de linfonodos D2 em 85%. Duzentos e onze pacientes (79%) foram submetidos à gastrectomia aberta. O estado T foi T1 em 23% e T3/T4 em 68%. A mortalidade pós-operatória foi de 2,4% e a taxa de morbidade foi de 41%. A morbidade severa foi de 11% e foi representada principalmente por fístula esofagojejunal (2,4%), fístula duodenal (2,1%) e complicações respiratórias (2%). Na análise multivariada, a localização do EGJ e os tumores T3/T4 foram associados com maior morbidade pós-operatória grave. Conclusão: Morbidade pós-operatória severa após gastrectomia foi de 11%. A localização do tumor na junção esofagogástrica e o estado T3/T4 são fatores de risco para a morbidade pós-operatória grave.

ABSTRACT Background: Gastrectomy is the main treatment for gastric and Siewert type II-III esophagogastric junction (EGJ) cancer. This surgery is associated with significant morbidity. Total morbidity rates vary across different studies and few have evaluated postoperative morbidity according to complication severity. Aim: To identify the predictors of severe postoperative morbidity. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study from a prospective database. We included patients treated with gastrectomy for gastric or EGJ cancers between January 2012 and December 2016 at a single center. Severe morbidity was defined as Clavien-Dindo score ≥3. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors of severe morbidity. Results: Two hundred and eighty-nine gastrectomies were performed (67% males, median age: 65 years). Tumor location was EGJ in 14%, upper third of the stomach in 30%, middle third in 26%, and lower third in 28%. In 196 (67%), a total gastrectomy was performed with a D2 lymph node dissection in 85%. Two hundred and eleven patients (79%) underwent an open gastrectomy. T status was T1 in 23% and T3/T4 in 68%. Postoperative mortality was 2.4% and morbidity rate was 41%. Severe morbidity was 11% and was mainly represented by esophagojejunostomy leak (2.4%), duodenal stump leak (2.1%), and respiratory complications (2%). On multivariate analysis, EGJ location and T3/T4 tumors were associated with a higher rate of severe postoperative morbidity. Conclusion: Severe postoperative morbidity after gastrectomy was 11%. Esophagogastric junction tumor location and T3/T4 status are risk factors for severe postoperative morbidity.

Introduction Signet-ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) of the stomach is a histopathological type that has less response to chemotherapy and worse prognosis in patients with advanced gastric cancer, than other types of gastric carcinomas. Diagnostic value of the presence of signet-ring cells (SRC) in the endoscopic biopsy for the diagnosis of SRCC of the stomach, are unknown. Objectives To calculate the diagnostic values of the presence of SRC in endoscopic biopsy for the diagnosis of SRCC of the stomach in a definitive surgical specimen biopsy. Materials and Methods Retrospective diagnostic test study to determine the value of the presence of SRC in the endoscopic biopsy for the diagnosis of SRCC of the stomach in the surgical specimen biopsy. Inclusion criteria: Patients who underwent gastric surgery between 1996-2016. We calculated positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratio (LR+ and LR−) of the presence of SRC in the endoscopic biopsy that predicts the diagnosis of SRCC of the stomach in the definitive biopsy. Confidence intervals (CI) of 95% were defined. Results The diagnostic values of the presence of SRC in endoscopic biopsy to diagnose SRCC of the stomach in the surgical specimen biopsy were: PPV of 56.1% (95% CI, 47.8-64.1%), NPV of 91.3% (95% CI, 89-93.1%), sensitivity of 55.7% (95% CI, 47.4-63.7%), specificity of 91.4% (95% CI, 89.1-93.3%), LR+ of 6.5 (95% CI, 4.9-8.6) and LR- of 0.48 (95% CI, 0.4-0.6), a positive post-test probability of 56.1% (95% CI, 47.8-64.1%), and a negative post-test probability of 8.7% (95% CI, 6.9-11%). Conclusions The presence of SRC in the endoscopic biopsy is not sufficient to diagnose SRCC of the stomach. The absence of SRC in the endoscopic biopsy has a high negative predictive value.

Resumen Introducción El carcinoma gástrico de células en anillo de sello (CGCAS) es un tipo histopatológico, que tiene menor respuesta a la quimioterapia (QT) y un peor pronóstico en los pacientes con cáncer gástrico (CG) avanzado. Se desconoce los valores diagnósticos de la presencia de células en anillo de sello (CAS) en la biopsia endoscópica, para el diagnóstico de CGCAS. Objetivo Determinar los valores diagnósticos de la presencia de CAS en la biopsia endoscópica para el diagnóstico de CGCAS en la biopsia de la pieza operatoria. Material y Método Estudio retrospectivo de pruebas diagnósticas. Se incluyeron los pacientes con CG operados en forma consecutiva entre 1996-2016. Se calculó los valores diagnósticos de la presencia de CAS en la biopsia endoscópica para el diagnóstico de CGCAS en la biopsia definitiva. Se utilizaron intervalos de confianza (IC) del 95%. Resultados Se incluyeron 851 pacientes. Un 16,3% tuvieron CAS en la biopsia endoscópica y la prevalencia de CGCAS fue de 16,4%. Los valores diagnósticos de la presencia de CAS de la biopsia endoscópica para el diagnóstico de CGCAS fueron: Valor predictivo positivo (VPP) de 56,1% (IC 95%, 47,8-64,1%); Valor predictivo negativo (VPN) de 91,3% (IC 95%, 89-93,1%); sensibilidad de 55,7% (IC 95%, 47,4-63,7%); especificidad de 91,4% (IC 95%, 89,1%-93,3%); Likelihood ratio (LR) positivo de 6,5 (IC 95%, 4,9-8,6); LR negativo de 0,48 (IC 95%, 0,4-0,6); probabilidad post-test positivo fue de 56,1% (IC 95%, 47,8-64,1%) y probabilidad post-test negativo fue de 8,7% (IC 95%, 6,9-11%). Conclusiones La presencia de CAS en la biopsia endoscópica es insuficiente para el diagnóstico de un CGCAS. La ausencia de CAS en la biopsia endoscópica tiene un alto valor predictivo negativo.

Introduction Surgical treatment of esophageal cancer is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The minimally invasive approach has been introduced with the aim of reducing postoperative morbidity. Aim To describe the surgical technique and the results of transthoracic minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in semiprone position. Material and Methods Descriptive cohort study. Patients with an elective MIE for cancer were included between April 2013 and May 2017. Demographic, perioperative, pathology and survival variables were recorded. Results We included 33 patients (24 men, age 69 years, 91% with comorbidities). The predominant location of the tumor was in the middle and lower thirds of the esophagus (90%). Fifteen (45%) patients received neoadjuvant treatment. There were no cases of conversion to thoracotomy. The reconstruction was performed with stomach in 93%. Cervical anastomosis was performed in 66% and thoracic anastomosis in 30%. The operative time was 420 (330-570) minutes and bleeding 200 (20-700) cc. The 90-day mortality rate was 0%. Overall morbidity was 78%, there was a 15% occurrence of pneumonia and 9% required a reoperation. The hospital stay was 23 (11-81) days. The histology was squamous carcinoma in 51% and adenocarcinoma in 45%. Margins were RO at 87%. The lymph node count reached 30 (9-45) lymph nodes. Overall 2-year survival is 68%. Conclusion The preliminary results of this technique are favorable, without any case of postoperative mortality. The oncological results demonstrate a high percentage of RO surgery and adequate lymph node count.

Resumen Introducción El tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer esofágico se asocia a una alta morbimortalidad. El abordaje mínimamente invasivo se ha introducido con el objetivo de disminuir la morbilidad postoperatoria. Objetivo Describir la técnica y los resultados de la esofagectomía mínimamente invasiva (EMI) transtorácica en posición semiprono. Métodos Estudio de cohorte descriptivo. Se incluyeron pacientes con una EMI electiva por cáncer entre abril de 2013 y mayo de 2017. Se registraron variables demográficas, perioperatorias, anatomía patológica y la sobrevida. Resultados Incluimos 33 pacientes (24 hombres, edad 69 años, 91% con comorbilidades). La ubicación predominante del tumor fue en los tercios medio e inferior del esófago (90%). Quince (45%) pacientes recibieron neoadyuvancia. No existieron casos de conversión a toracotomías. La reconstrucción se realizó con estómago en un 93%. Se realizó anastomosis cervical en 66% y torácica en 30%. El tiempo operatorio fue de 420 (330-570) minutos y el sangrado de 200 (20-700) cc. La mortalidad a 90 días fue de 0%. La morbilidad global fue de 78%, se registró un 15% de neumonía y un 9% requirió una reoperación. La estadía hospitalaria fue de 23 (11-81) días. La histología fue carcinoma escamoso en 51% y adenocarcinoma en 45%. Los márgenes fueron RO en 87%. El recuento ganglionar alcanzó 30 (9-45) ganglios. La sobrevida global a 2 años es 68%. Conclusión Los resultados preliminares de esta técnica son favorables; sin ningún caso de mortalidad postoperatoria. Los resultados oncológicos demuestran un alto porcentaje de cirugía RO y adecuado recuento ganglionar.

Abstract Introduction: Achalasia is the most common primary motor disorder of the esophagus. The current standard of treatment is laparoscopic Heller's myotomy. Recently the development of advanced endoscopic techniques has allowed the positioning of the POEM (per-oral endoscopic myotomy) technique as a new therapeutic alternative with promising results. Objective: To present our clinical experience in POEM, with description of the technique used, peri-operative results and short-term follow-up in the development of this therapeutic alternative. Materials and methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of data obtained prospectively from 15 patients undergoing POEM in three clinical centers in our country. Preoperative demographic variables, intraoperative detail, and operative morbidity and mortality were collected. Clinical follow-up was performed with controls recording Eckardt score and presence of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Results: Between August 2015 and November 2016, 15 POEM were performed, six of these patients were women, average age was 49 years. The average operative time was 110 min, we did not have any perioperative morbimortality. Hospital stay was 2.8 days. Follow-up was between 1 and 15 months, Eckardt's preoperative and postoperative score was on average 10.5 and 0.4 points, respectively. Three patients had gastroesophageal reflux symptoms at the time of follow-up. Conclusion: Our results support the effectiveness and security of POEM in short-term follow up. Further monitoring is required to determine the definitive role of this technique.

Resumen Introducción: La acalasia es el trastorno motor primario más frecuente del esófago. El estándar de tratamiento actual es la miotomía de Heller laparoscópica. En los últimos años, el desarrollo de técnicas endoscópicas avanzadas ha permitido el posicionamiento de la técnica POEM (del inglés: per-oral endoscopic myotomy) como una nueva alternativa terapéutica con resultados promisorios. Objetivo: Presentar nuestra experiencia clínica, con descripción de la técnica utilizada, resultados perioperatorios y seguimiento a corto plazo en el desarrollo de esta alternativa terapéutica. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de datos obtenidos en forma prospectiva de 15 pacientes intervenidos mediante POEM en 3 hospitales docentes asociados. Se recopilaron variables demográficas preoperatorias, detalle del intraoperatorio y registro de morbimortalidad operatoria. Se realizó un seguimiento clínico dirigido registrando el puntaje de Eckardt y la presencia de síntomas de reflujo gastroesofágico. Resultados: Entre agosto de 2015 y noviembre de 2016 se realizaron 15 POEM. Seis de estos pacientes eran mujeres, y la edad promedio fue de 49 años. El tiempo operatorio promedio fue de 110 min; no hubo morbimortalidad operatoria. La estadía hospitalaria promedio fue de 2,8 días. El seguimiento fue de entre 1 y 15 meses. El puntaje de Eckardt promedio en el preoperatorio y en el postoperatorio fue de 10,5 y 0,4 puntos, respectivamente. Tres pacientes presentaban síntomas de reflujo gastroesofágico al momento del seguimiento. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos en nuestra serie apoyan la efectividad y seguridad del POEM a corto plazo. Se requiere de un seguimiento mayor para determinar el rol definitivo de esta técnica.

Introduction: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is nowadays the standard treatment for a subgroup of early gastric cancer with low risk of lymph node metastasis. This procedure has the advantage of achieving a higher percentage of negative margins and of allowing resections of larger tumors compared with the endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) method, being less invasive compared with surgery. Aim: To analyze the postoperative outcomes, histology and overall survival of patients undergoing ESD in our center. Methods: Descriptive study. Data were collected from clinical records of patients undergoing ESD from January 2008 to June 2012. Results: 15 patients (8 males and 7 females, median age 70 years (45-88)) were included. The tumor was located at upper, middle and lower third in 2, 5 and 8 patients, respectively. Median tumor size was 13.5 mm (6-21). Most tumors were classified as type IIc. Among postoperative complications, there was 1 gastric bleeding and 3 gastric perforations. Hospital stay was 3 days (1-23). There was no mortality. There was one case of submucosal invasion. Negative margins were achieved in 86.7%. There was one deep and one lateral positive margin, managed by surgery and re-ESD, respectively. At 16 months (7-61) of median follow-up, overall survival was 100%. Tumor recurrence was observed in one patient at 51 months, was treated by surgery. Conclusion: ESD is a feasible technique in the minimally invasive management of early gastric cancer, allowing a high percentage of negative margins.

Introducción: La disección endoscópica de la submucosa (DES) es actualmente el tratamiento estándar en pacientes con cáncer gástrico incipiente y bajo riesgo de metástasis ganglionares, con la ventaja de obtener un mayor porcentaje de márgenes negativos que en la mucosectomía y ser menos invasivo que la cirugía. Objetivo: Analizar los resultados inmediatos, anatomía patológica y sobrevida alejada de los pacientes sometidos a DES en nuestro centro. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo. Revisión de los registros clínicos de pacientes con lesiones gástricas incipientes sometidos a DES entre enero de 2008 y junio de 2012. Resultados: Serie compuesta por 15 pacientes, 8 de sexo masculino. Mediana de edad 70 años (45-88). Ubicación tumoral: tercio superior en 2, tercio medio en 5 y tercio inferior en 8. La mediana de tamaño tumoral fue 13,5 mm (6-21). La mayoría fueron lesiones IIc. Dentro de las complicaciones postoperatorias, hubo 1 hemorragia digestiva tratada por endoscopia y 3 perforaciones gástricas tratadas quirúrgicamente (gastrorrafia). Mediana de hospitalización, 3 días (1-23). No se registró mortalidad post-procedimiento. Se obtuvieron bordes negativos en un 86,7% de los casos. Un paciente presentó margen profundo positivo, tratado mediante gastrectomía subtotal y otro presentó positividad en un margen lateral, manejado con una nueva DES. Mediana de seguimiento 16 meses (7-61), sin fallecidos por patología tumoral. Hubo 1 recurrencia tumoral (51 meses), tratada quirúrgicamente. Conclusión: La DES representa una alternativa en el manejo de las lesiones gástricas incipientes, permitiendo un alto porcentaje de márgenes negativos.

Background: The laparoscopic approach for the treatment of gastric tumors has many advantages. Aim: To evaluate the results of a laparoscopic gastrectomy program developed in a public hospital. Patients and Methods: Retrospective review of epidemiological, perioperative and follow-up data of patients who were treated with a laparoscopic gastrectomy due to gastric tumors between 2006 and 2013. A totally laparoscopic technique was used for all cases. Complications were evaluated according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Results: Fifty one patients, aged 65 (36-85) years, underwent a laparoscopic gastrectomy. In 22 patients a total gastrectomy was performed. Conversion rate to open surgery was 8%. Operative time was 330 (90-500) min and bleeding was 200 (20-500) ml. Median hospital stay was 7 (3-37) days. Postoperative morbidity was present in 17 (33%) patients, 3 (6%) patients had complications grade 3 or higher and one patient died (1.9%). Tumor pathology was adenocarcinoma in 39 patients. A complete resection was achieved in 97%. Twenty nine patients (74%) with gastric adenocarcinoma had early gastric cancer and 84% of patients were in stage one. Median lymph node count was 24. Median follow-up was 26 (1-91) months. There was no cancer related mortality among patients subjected to a curative resection. Overall survival for patients with adenocarcinoma was 92% at 3 years. Conclusions: This study supports the feasibility and safety of a laparoscopic gastrectomy program in a public hospital; with low morbidity, adequate lymph node dissection and long-term survival. This approach must be considered an option for selected patients with gastric cancer.

Introduction: Perforated marginal ulcer is a serious event that usually requires reoperation and is associated with morbidity and mortality. Characterization and management of these patients is still debated. Objective: To describe a series of patients subjected to a laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGBP) that evolved with a perforated marginal ulcer. Material and Methods: Records of patients undergoing a LGBP the last 10 years and evolved with a perforated marginal ulcer were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical features, treatment and perioperative morbidity and mortality were analyzed. Results: During this period 2,095 patients were subjected to a LGBP, 12 of them presented a perforated marginal ulcer, corresponding to 10 women and 2 men. Mean age was 39 (21-60) and mean body mass index at the time of initial surgery was 34 (29.3 to 38.6). Ten patients were smoker at the moment of perforation. The occurrence of this happened at a mean of 27 months (range 3-54, median 23.5) after surgery. Eleven cases had a surgical resolution, with a laparoscopic approach in 9 of them and laparotomy on 2. In all cases, a perforated ulcer in the jejunal side of the gastro-jejunal anastomosis was found. There was no mortality or morbidity associated with surgery. Conclusions: In our experience the occurrence of perforated marginal ulcer after a LGBP develops in a small percentage of patients. The laparoscopic approach is of choice, presenting a low morbidity and mortality. Smoking was present in most patients.

Introducción: La perforación de una úlcera marginal es un evento grave que suele requerir una reoperación y se asocia a morbimortalidad. El manejo de estos pacientes es debatido y complejo. Objetivo: Describir una serie de pacientes operados de bypass gástrico laparoscópico (BPGLP) que evolucionaron con una úlcera marginal perforada. Material y Método: Se revisaron retrospectivamente las fichas de pacientes operados de BPGL los últimos 10 años y que evolucionaron con una úlcera marginal perforada. Se analizaron las características clínicas, de tratamiento y morbimortalidad perioperatoria. Resultados: Durante este período se operaron 2.095 pacientes de BPGLP, 12 de los cuales presentaron una úlcera marginal perforada, correspondientes a 10 mujeres y 2 hombres. El promedio de edad fue 39 años (21-60) y el índice de masa corporal (IMC) promedio al momento de la primera cirugía fue 34 (29,3-38,6). Diez pacientes tenían hábito tabáquico activo al momento de la perforación. La ocurrencia de esta sucedió en promedio a los 27 meses (rango 3-54, mediana 23,5) de la cirugía. En 11 casos la resolución fue quirúrgica, mediante abordaje laparoscópico en 9 y laparotomía en 2. En todos los casos se encontró una úlcera perforada en la vertiente yeyunal de la gastro-yeyuno anastomosis. No hubo mortalidad ni morbilidad asociada a la cirugía. Conclusiones: En nuestra experiencia la ocurrencia de úlcera marginal perforada post BPGLP se desarrolla en un bajo porcentaje de pacientes. El abordaje laparoscópico es de elección, presentando una baja morbimortalidad. El hábito tabáquico estuvo presente en la mayoría de los pacientes.

The peritoneal cavity is the main site of gastric cancer recurrence after curative surgery. When this recurrence occurs, patients may experience bowel obstruction, dehydration and multiple hospital admissions. The therapeutic options that may decrease the rate of peritoneal recurrence and increase five years survival are intraoperative hyperthermic chemotherapy, extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage and routine bursectomy. We herein review the oncological results of curative surgery for gastric cancer, its failure patterns and the risk factors for peritoneal recurrence. We also review the studies aiming to prevent peritoneal carcinomatosis.

La recurrencia peritoneal en el cáncer gástrico avanzado, luego de una cirugía con intención curativa es un problema que debe ser considerado una prioridad en nuestro país, debido a la alta proporción de pacientes con compromiso de la serosa gástrica al momento del diagnóstico, siendo el peritoneo el principal sitio de recurrencia luego de una cirugía con intención curativa en este grupo. Luego de la recurrencia peritoneal, los pacientes presentan un deterioro importante de la calidad de vida, principalmente por episodios de obstrucción intestinal, deshidratación y rehospitalizaciones. Se han realizado múltiples estudios en el extranjero de potenciales medidas que se pueden realizar durante la cirugía inicial con intención curativa que previenen la recurrencia. Algunas de estas medidas han disminuido la recurrencia peritoneal y aumentado la sobrevida a 5 años, como son la quimioterapia hipertérmica intraoperatoria, el lavado peritoneal extensivo y la bursectomía rutinaria, en pacientes seleccionados. El objetivo de la presente revisión es mostrar los resultados oncológicos de la cirugía curativa, los patrones de falla luego de una cirugía curativa, los factores de riesgo para una recurrencia peritoneal y los estudios que se han realizado en relación a la prevención de la carcinomatosis peritoneal.