Surgical approach to splenic flexure adenocarcinoma of the colon: Less is more?

Introduction: Due to the watershed vasculature and lymphatic drainage of splenic flexure (SF) neoplasms, and their exclusion from large clinical trials, optimal management remains debated. This study evaluated extent of resection and surgical approach for SF adenocarcinoma and their respective outcomes. Methods: Adults with stage I-III splenic flexure adenocarcinoma were identified in the National Cancer Database (2004–2020) and categorized by surgical management. Results: Of 7412 patients, 4264 (58%) underwent extended colectomy (EC). The cohorts were overall similar, though more patients with stage I disease were managed with segmental colectomy (SC) (24% vs. 20%, p < 0.01). Those undergoing EC had longer hospital stays (LOS) and greater odds of readmission. Use of robotic-assisted surgery was higher in SC (9% vs. 7%, p < 0.01) and increased from 1% in 2010 to 24% in 2020. This approach was independently associated with a shorter LOS than open surgery. Despite a higher number of lymph nodes examined (median 18 vs. 16), EC and SC had similar nodal (both 37%, p = 0.95) and margin involvement (both 4%, p = 0.39). Five-year survival after EC and SC was similar (75% vs. 76%, p = 0.6). Patients undergoing robotic surgery had significantly lower odds of positive surgical margins and experienced an improved prognosis. Conclusions: EC and SC were performed at similar rates for SF adenocarcinoma, while the use of robotic surgery increased over time. Neither extent of resection nor surgical approach significantly impacted oncologic outcomes. These data indicate that surgical decision-making should be balanced between tumor- and patient-specific considerations, morbidity of extended colectomy, and surgeon preference. Synopsis: In a national cohort of splenic flexure cancers, segmental and extended colectomy were associated with comparable rates of negative margins, nodal involvement, and survival. Robotic assist increased over time without impacting oncologic outcomes. Surgical procedure and approach should thus be tailored to clinical condition and surgeon preference.