Published online Jun 28, 2018. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i24.2628
Peer-review started: March 13, 2018
First decision: March 30, 2018
Revised: April 5, 2018
Accepted: June 2, 2018
Article in press: June 2, 2018
Published online: June 28, 2018
Processing time: 104 Days and 16.2 Hours
Gastric cancer is the fourth most common cancer worldwide and the third most frequent cause of death from cancer. At present, the choice of gastrointestinal reconstruction after distal gastrectomy (DG) for gastric cancer remains controversial. Uncut Roux-en-Y (U-RY) reconstruction is an improvement of the Roux-en-Y (RY) reconstruction, which is a promising method that may replace the previous type of anastomosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of U-RY vs RY reconstruction after DG for gastric cancer.
A method of digestive tract reconstruction called “U-RY anastomosis” was first proposed in 1988. It has been a research hotspot for years since then. Some surgeons consider U-RY reconstruction superior to RY reconstruction, while others do not. Therefore, its use remains controversial.
This novel meta-analysis compared U-RY and RY reconstruction after DG for gastric cancer. It compared U-RY and RY reconstruction in terms of perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications, and postoperative nutritional status.
A literature search was conducted to identify studies comparing U-RY with RY after DG for gastric cancer. Using either fixed- or random-effects models, pooled odds ratios or weighted mean difference with 95% confidence interval was calculated. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3 software.
Some clinical advantages were provided by U-RY reconstruction, such as shorter operative time and lowered incidence of reflux gastritis/esophagitis, delayed gastric emptying, and Roux stasis syndrome.
The present study showed that U-RY reconstruction after DG for gastric cancer was secure and feasible, providing a guideline for clinical practice. However, high-quality RCTs in multiple centers are still needed for further confirmation.
U-RY anastomosis maintained mesenteric continuity and ensured good perfusion of the anastomotic site. It could reduce the formation of anastomotic stenosis.