Our Summary

This research paper discusses a case study where a technique known as thermography (TG) was used to evaluate blood flow in a patient’s colon during surgery. The patient was a 43-year-old man undergoing surgery for colon cancer. Normally, a dye called indocyanine green (ICG) is used to help surgeons see the blood flow. However, this dye stays in the tissue for a while, which can complicate situations where doctors need to reassess blood flow quickly during surgery.

In this case, the surgeons used TG, which measures temperature, to identify areas of the colon where blood was and wasn’t flowing. They found that TG was able to show them this information even after they had removed more of the patient’s colon.

The surgery was successful and there were no complications afterwards. The researchers concluded that while more studies are needed, TG could be a useful tool in surgeries because it can show blood flow without the need for a dye, and it is inexpensive and easy to use.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of using thermography (TG) during sigmoidectomy?
  2. How does thermography (TG) compare to the traditional method of using indocyanine green (ICG) dye in assessing blood flow during surgery?
  3. Are there any drawbacks or complications associated with the use of thermography (TG) in surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sigmoidectomy is to discuss with their surgeon the possibility of using thermography (TG) during the surgery to evaluate blood flow in the colon. TG can help surgeons identify areas of the colon where blood flow is compromised, which can potentially improve surgical outcomes. It is important to have an open conversation with your healthcare team about all available options and technologies that may benefit your specific case.

Suitable For

Sigmoidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all of the sigmoid colon, which is the lower part of the large intestine. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with certain medical conditions or complications involving the sigmoid colon.

Patients who may be recommended sigmoidectomy include those with:

  • Colon cancer: Sigmoidectomy may be recommended for patients with cancer in the sigmoid colon to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue.
  • Diverticulitis: Sigmoidectomy may be recommended for patients with severe or recurrent diverticulitis, which is inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon.
  • Colonic inertia: Sigmoidectomy may be recommended for patients with colonic inertia, a condition where the colon does not function properly and causes chronic constipation.
  • Volvulus: Sigmoidectomy may be recommended for patients with volvulus, a twisting of the sigmoid colon that can lead to bowel obstruction.
  • Chronic inflammatory conditions: Sigmoidectomy may be recommended for patients with chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease that affect the sigmoid colon.

Overall, sigmoidectomy is typically recommended for patients with conditions that are not responsive to conservative treatments or that pose a risk of complications if left untreated. The decision to undergo sigmoidectomy is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and overall health.

Timeline

Before sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient undergoes various diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy and imaging studies to confirm the need for surgery.
  • Patient meets with surgeon to discuss the procedure, risks, and benefits.
  • Patient may need to follow a specific diet or take medications to prepare for surgery.
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient is admitted to the hospital.
  • Sigmoidectomy is performed to remove a portion of the sigmoid colon.
  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications.

After sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient is monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure proper healing.
  • Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.
  • Patient is instructed on how to care for the surgical incision and manage any potential side effects.
  • Patient is advised on dietary changes and activity restrictions to promote healing.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor recovery and discuss any concerns.
  • Patient may undergo further treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy depending on the stage of cancer.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a sigmoidectomy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with sigmoidectomy?
  3. How long will the recovery process be and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a special diet after the surgery?
  5. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  6. What are the chances of the cancer returning after the sigmoidectomy?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of sigmoidectomy?
  8. Will I need any additional tests or procedures before the surgery?
  9. How many sigmoidectomies have you performed and what is your success rate?
  10. Can you explain the use of thermography in evaluating blood flow during sigmoidectomy and how it differs from traditional methods using dyes like indocyanine green?

Reference

Authors: Kako T, Kimura M, Nomura R, Uehara S, Uematsu H, Nakaya S, Maeda Y, Tsuboi K, Harata K, Takiguchi S. Journal: Surg Case Rep. 2023 Sep 25;9(1):170. doi: 10.1186/s40792-023-01752-2. PMID: 37747603