Microbiome and Colorectal Cancer Recurrence

Anastomotic leak is associated with higher rates of tumor recurrence after colorectal cancer surgery. However, the mechanisms responsible remain unknown. The aim of this study is to identify associations between the peritoneal microbiome and recurrence in colorectal cancer patients with postoperative anastomotic leak. This is a single-center retrospective study of patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery complicated with anastomotic leak between 2004 and 2012. Samples of peritoneal fluid were collected either through percutaneous drainage or reoperation, and microbiome was analyzed using whole genome shotgun. Oncological outcomes are registered. Associations between peritoneal microbiome and tumor recurrence are investigated.