Effect of surgical stress on endogenous morphine and cytokine levels in the plasma after laparoscopoic or open cholecystectomy

Background: Endogenous morphine in the brain leads to various biological responses after surgery. The aim of this study was to determine whether morphine levels in the plasma would be enhanced by open laparotomy rather than by laparoscopic procedures. Methods: We compared 19 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with five patients who underwent resection of the gallbladder by open laparotomy. Morphine levels in the plasma were measured by an electrochemical detection system. Results: Postoperative endogenous morphine levels were higher with open laparotomy than with the laparoscopic technique (three h after surgery: open, 200 ± 52.6 fmol/ml vs laparoscopy, 17.6 ± 3.7, p < 0.01). This morphine elevation accounted for higher levels of cytokine, greater pain scores, and longer duration of fasting in open laparotomized patients than in laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients. Stress hormone levels in the plasma were also higher with open laparotomy than with laparoscopy. Conclusion: Morphine synthesis was enhanced by open laparotomy, resulting in greater biological response postoperatively than that seen with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Received: 21 October 1998/Accepted: 3 April 1999     

Increased tumor establishment and growth after open vs laparoscopic bowel resection in mice

Background: Surgery can suppress immune function and facilitate tumor growth. Several studies have demonstrated better preservation of immune function following laparoscopic procedures. Our laboratory has also shown that tumors are more easily established and grow larger after sham laparotomy than after pneumoperitoneum in mice. The purpose of this study was to determine if the previously reported differences in tumor establishment and growth would persist in the setting of an intraabdominal manipulation. Methods: Syngeneic mice received intradermal injections of tumor cells and underwent either an open or laparoscopic cecal resection. In study 1, the incidence of tumor development was observed after a low dose inoculum; whereas in study 2, tumor mass was compared on postoperative day 12 after a high-dose inoculum. Results: In study 1, tumors were established in 5% of control mice, 30% of laparoscopy mice, and 83% of open surgery mice (p < 0.01 for all comparisons). In study 2, open surgery group tumors were 1.5 times as large as laparoscopy group tumors (p < 0.01), which were 1.5 times as large as control group tumors (p < 0.02). Conclusion: We conclude that tumors are more easily established and grow larger after open laparoscopic bowel resection in mice. Received: 27 October 1997/Accepted: 19 January 1998     

Laparoscopic gastro- and hepaticojejunostomy for palliation of pancreatic cancer

Background: Most patients presenting with pancreatic cancer are irresectable at the time the diagnosis is made. Therefore, they are in need of palliative treatment that can guarantee minimal morbidity, mortality, and hospital stay. To address this need, we designed a study to test the feasibility of laparoscopic gastroenterostomy and hepaticojejunostomy and to compare their results with those achieved with open techniques. Methods: We performed a case control study of a new concept in laparoscopic palliation based on the findings of preoperative imaging and diagnostic laparoscopy. Laparoscopic side-to-side gastroenterostomy and end-to-side hepaticojejunostomy (Roux-en-Y) were done in irresectable cases. Of 14 patients who underwent laparoscopic palliation, three had a laparoscopic double bypass, seven had a gastroenterostomy, and four underwent staging laparoscopy only. The results were compared with a population of 14 matched patients who had conventional palliative procedures. Results: Postoperative morbidity was 7% vs 43% for laparoscopic and open palliation, respectively (p < 0.05). There were no mortalities in the laparoscopic group, as compared to 29% in the group who had open bypass surgery (p < 0.05). Postoperative hospital stay averaged 9 days in the laparoscopic group and 21 days in the open group (p < 0.06). Operating time tended to be shorter in the laparoscopic group (p < 0.25). Morphine derivatives were necessary for a significantly shorter period after laparoscopic surgery (p < 0.03). Conclusions: Our preliminary experience strongly suggests that laparoscopic palliation can reduce the three major drawbacks of open bypass surgery—i.e., high morbidity, high mortality, and long hospital stay. Received: 24 February 1999/Accepted: 13 May 1999     

Efficacy of routine laparoscopy for the acute abdomen

Background: Laparoscopic surgery of selected acute abdominal conditions has been shown to be highly effective. Therefore, we investigated the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic efficacy of routine laparoscopic surgery for the acute abdomen. Methods: After appropriate investigations, patients with acute abdomen, with or without a specific diagnosis, were offered the options of either laparoscopic or open surgery. Postoperatively, we analyzed the outcome measures of diagnostic accuracy, complications, and operating time of laparoscopy. The hospital stays for our patients were compared to case-matched controls. Results: The accuracy of laparoscopic diagnosis is the same as laparotomy. The 62% of our patients who were managed totally laparoscopically required shorter hospitalization than the case-matched controls treated by open operation. Morbidity was not increased by laparoscopy in patients who required conversion to open operation. The additional cost of laparoscopy appeared modest. Conclusions: Routine laparoscopy for the acute abdomen is safe and accurate. Patients eligible for laparoscopic treatment also require less hospitalization time. Received: 3 April 1997/Accepted: 9 June 1997     

Postoperative complications of laparoscopic-assisted colectomy

Background: This study was performed to prospectively assess the complications of 118 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic assisted colorectal resections. Methods: The variables included were: indication for surgery, type of resection, duration of operation, duration of postoperative ileus, length of hospital stay, port-site recurrence, and complications in relation to the laparoscopic technique. Results: 118 Laparoscopic-assisted procedures were performed between July 1992 and October 1995. Surgical indications were: 106 patients for colonic malignancy, six for diverticulitis, two for Crohn's disease, two for benign polyps, one for endometriosis, and one for ischemic colitis. Fifteen patients required conversion to open techniques for completion of the operations (12.7%). The mean operating time was 168.8 min. The amount of operative blood loss was 98 ml. The mean time for passing flatus was 36 ± 16 h. Mean postoperative stay was 5.4 (range 3–13) days. Eight patients (6.8%) sustained complications: four unrelated to laparoscopy (three wound infection, one anastomotic leak); and four complications related to the laparoscopic approach: one small-bowel obstruction, one trocar injury, one rotation of the anastomosis, and one misdiagnosed synchronous adenocarcinoma. Conclusions: We suggest that with the development of improved technical devices and more experience, the indications for laparoscopic colectomy should continue to expand. The low incidence of infectious complications suggests an important role for the laparoscopic approach to colorectal surgery. Received: 25 March 1996/Accepted: 8 July 1996     

Laparoscopic treatment of lymphocele after kidney transplantation

Background: Laparoscopic treatment of pelvic lymphocele secondary to kidney transplant has gained popularity in the last few years, although lesions of the urinary tract (ureter, renal pelvis, and bladder) have been reported frequently. To evaluate the result of this treatment and the associated risk of urinary tract lesions, we reviewed our experience and reports in the medical literature on open and laparoscopic surgery. Methods: From 1991 to 1999, we laparoscopically treated 12 patients (7 men and 5 women; median age, 43 years; range, 17–59 years) with symptomatic pelvic lymphocele causing a deterioration of renal function because of compression on the ureter in 10 of the 12 patients and lymphocele compression of the iliac vein in the other 2 patients. In nine patients, the lymphocele wall was opened and sutured to the peritoneum to keep the window open. In two patients, an omentoplasty was performed, and in the remaining patient, both techniques were used. All patients were followed up clinically with ultrasound and biochemistry for a median period of 33 months (range, 1–96 months). Using Medline, we reviewed the medical literature from 1980 to 1998 and collected 252 cases in which operations had been performed to drain an internal lymphocele secondary to kidney transplantation. Results: Laparoscopic treatment was successful in 11 of the 12 patients. One patient was converted to open surgery because of a lesion in the transplanted ureter. One patient needed repeat laparoscopy 24 hours after the operation because of bleeding from the peritoneal window. The median duration of the operation was 120 min (range, 70–200 min), and the median postoperative hospital stay was 5 days (range, 2–12 days). None of the patients needed to discontinue oral cyclosporine assumption. The serum creatinine level dropped significantly after surgery (p < 0.05). No symptomatic recurrences were observed. Of the 252 patients found in the medical literature, in 129 the procedure was performed with open surgery and in 123 laparoscopically (our 12 patients included). The prevalence of iatrogenic lesions to the urinary tract increased threefold with the use of laparoscopic surgery (from 1.6% in open surgery to 7% in laparoscopy). The recurrence rate of symptomatic lymphocele, however, decreased from 15% to 4%. Conclusions: Laparoscopic drainage of posttransplantation lymphocele is a relatively simple method for treating this complication, although it bears the burden of an increased incidence of urinary tract lesions, as confirmed by a review of the literature. The major advantage of the laparoscopic approach is the absence of postoperative ileus with the opportunity to continue the enteral immunosuppressive regimen and a lower recurrence rate. These data suggest that laparoscopic lymphocele treatment might be considered the therapy of choice, provided the iatrogenic lesions of the urinary tract diminish as more experience with this technique is gained. Received: 1 March 1999/Accepted: 1 July 1999     

Mechanisms and avoidance of esophageal perforation by anesthesia personnel during laparoscopic foregut surgery

Background: This study retrospectively assesses the mechanisms of 13 esophageal or gastric injuries resulting from dilator or nasogastric tube placement during laparoscopic foregut surgery and is intended to assist in determining methods of prevention. Methods: Information regarding esophageal or gastric injury during laparoscopic foregut surgery was obtained from six experienced laparoscopic surgeons. The specific mechanisms of injury were determined by discussion with the operating surgeon and review of the operative reports. Results: Eleven cases of esophageal or gastric perforation occurred during bougie insertion and two perforations occurred secondary to nasogastric tube placement during Nissen fundoplication or Heller myotomy. Five perforations required conversion to open operation for repair including two delayed thoracotomies. The 13 injuries occurred during the performance of 1,620 laparoscopic foregut operations for an overall incidence of 0.8%. Conclusion: Foregut injury resulting from esophagogastric intubation during laparoscopic surgery is more common than expected. Risk factors include esophageal anatomy, intrinsic pathologic changes of the esophagus, and inexperience. Prevention must focus on close communication between the surgeon and anethesiologist and safe techniques of dilator insertion.     

Peritoneal response to a septic challenge

Background: Laparoscopic surgery has a lower incidence of surgical infection than open surgery. Differential factors that may modify the bacterial biology and explain this finding to some extent include CO₂ atmosphere, less desiccation of intraabdominal structures, fewer temperature changes, and a better preserved peritoneal and systemic immune response. Previous data suggest that the immune response and acute phase response are better preserved after laparoscopy. Therefore, we designed a study to evaluate the early peritoneal response to sepsis in an experimental peritonitis model comparing open surgery with CO₂ and abdominal wall lift laparoscopy. Methods: The study subjects comprised 360 mice distributed into the following four groups: group 1, n= 72 (controls); group 2, n= 96 (open surgery), 2–3 cm laparotomy, with abdominal cavity exposed to the air for 30 min; group 3, n= 96, CO₂ laparoscopy (5 mmHg pneumoperitoneum) for 30 min; group 4, n= 96, wall lift laparoscopy for 30 min. Intraabdominal contamination in the four groups was induced with 1 ml of E. coli suspension (1 × 10⁴ CFU/ml) 10 min before abdomen closure. Peritoneal fluid and blood samples were obtained 1.5, 3, 24, and 72 h after surgery, and TNF, IL-1, and IL-6 were measured (via ELISA), as well as quantitative culture. Results: The number of CFU (colony-forming units) obtained in peritoneal fluid and positive blood culture rates were significantly lower in the laparoscopic groups than in the open group. IL-1 peritoneal levels were significantly lower after 24 h and 72 h in the laparoscopy groups. IL-6 levels decreased sharply in the laparoscopy groups at 24 h and 72 h. There were no differences between the two types of laparoscopy models (CO₂ and wall lift). Conclusions: Peritoneal response to sepsis is better preserved after laparoscopy than after open surgery. CO₂ does not seem to influence bacterial growth. According to these findings, laparoscopy entails less local trauma and better preserved intraabdominal conditions. Received: 29 June 1998/Accepted: 25 August 1998     

The role of staging laparoscopy for multimodal therapy of gastrointestinal cancer

Background: This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy and the therapeutic relevance of staging laparoscopy. Methods: Between June 1993 and February 1997 staging laparoscopy was performed in 389 patients with various neoplasms. Additionally, 144 selected patients of this group were examined with laparoscopic ultrasound using a semiflexible ultrasound probe (7.5 MHz). Results: Compared to conventional imaging methods, laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound improved the accuracy of staging in 158 of 389 patients (41%). Statistical subgroup analysis of 131 patients with gastric cancer showed that the accuracy of staging laparoscopy in the detection of distant metastases (68%) was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that of ultrasound (63%) or computed tomography (58%). In the whole group, laparoscopy alone disclosed intraabdominal tumor dissemination or nonresectable disease in 111 patients. Laparoscopic ultrasound displayed additional metastases—i.e., liver metastases (n = 9), M1 lymph nodes (n = 15), or nonresectable tumors (n = 6) in 30 patients. Although metastastic disease was suggested by preoperative imaging, benign lesions were found in five patients with laparoscopy and in a further 12 patients with ultrasonography. The findings of staging laparoscopy changed the treatment strategy in 45% of the patients. Conversion to open surgery was necessary in 5% of the cases, and complications related to laparoscopy occured in 4% of the patients. Conclusions: Laparoscopy with laparoscopic ultrasound improves the staging of gastrointestinal tumors and has a significant impact on a stage-adapted surgical therapy. Received: 3 April 1997/Accepted: 26 September 1997     

The use of diagnostic laparoscopy supported by laparoscopic ultrasonography in the assessment of pancreatic cancer

Background: Pancreatic resection with curative intent is possible in a select minority of patients with carcinomas of the pancreatic head. Diagnostic laparoscopy supported by laparoscopic ultrasonography combines the proven benefits of staging laparoscopy with high-resolution intraoperative ultrasound, thus allowing the surgeon to perform a detailed assessment of the pancreatic cancer. Methods: In a prospective study of 26 patients with obstructive jaundice from a carcinoma of the head of the pancreas, the curative resectability of tumors was assessed by ultrasound (26 cases), computerized tomography (26 cases), endoscopic ultrasound (16 cases), and a combination of diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound (26 cases). Results: The findings of ultrasound and computerized tomography were comparable: 50% of patients were excluded from curative resection. Endoscopic ultrasound provided precise information on the primary tumors. The accuracy of the combined diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound, when compared with ultrasound, computerized tomography, and endoscopic ultrasound, was better with respect to minute peritoneal or hepatic metastasis: 80.7% (or a further 30.7%) of patients did not qualify for curative resection. Conclusions: Diagnostic laparoscopy supported by laparoscopic ultrasonography enables detection of previously unsuspected metastases; thus, needless laparotomy can be avoided. It should therefore be considered the first step in any potentially curative surgical procedure. Received: 12 April 1997/Accepted 30 April 1998     

Laparoscopic treatment of colonic perforations related to colonoscopy

Background: Colonic perforations associated with colonoscopy are rare but major complications. Conservative treatment is less invasive than major surgery, but any case of failure leads to more extensive surgical procedures with a higher morbidity and mortality than the immediate operative repair. To reduce the invasiveness of major surgery and avoid the risk of failure, we introduced laparoscopic techniques to deal with iatrogenic colonic perforations. Methods: Each colonic perforation was identified by diagnostic laparoscopy. The perforation was then characterized by size and extent of thermal damage into one of three types, followed by type-dependent treatment (suture, tangential resection, segmental resection, or open procedure). Operative time, complications, clinical outcome, and patient satisfaction were recorded. Results: Seven patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy for colonic perforations. Laparoscopic treatment was performed on five patients (one simple closure by suture, three tangential resections, and one segmental resection). Two cases required open procedures. There was one intraoperative complication that necessitated conversion. There were no postoperative complications. All laparoscopically treated patients were satisfied with their clinical outcome and cosmetic results. Conclusions: Laparoscopic treatment seems to reduce the invasiveness and morbidity of major surgery. At the same time, it is more definitive than conservative treatment, so that we now prefer to use laparoscopic techniques to treat colonic perforations related to colonoscopy. Received: 25 February 1998/Accepted: 22 June 1998     

An ergonomic evaluation of surgeons' axial skeletal and upper extremity movements during laparoscopic and open surgery

BACKGROUND: Many surgeons have complained of fatigue and musculoskeletal pain after laparoscopic surgery. We evaluated differences in surgeons' axial skeletal and upper extremity movements during laparoscopic and open operations. METHODS: Five surgeons were videotaped performing 16 operations (8 laparoscopic and 8 open) to record their neck, trunk, shoulder, elbow, and wrist movements during the first hour of surgery. We also compared postprocedural complaints of pain, stiffness, or numbness between the two groups. RESULTS: Compared with surgeons performing open surgery, surgeons performing laparoscopic surgery exhibited less lateral neck flexion; less trunk flexion; more internal rotation of the shoulders; more elbow flexion; more wrist supination and wrist ulnar and radial deviation. There was a trend of more shoulder stiffness after laparoscopic operations than after open operations. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic surgery involves a more static posture of the neck and trunk, but more frequent awkward movements of the upper extremities than open surgery. Ergonomic changes in the operating room environment and instrument design could ease the physical stress imposed on surgeons during laparoscopic operations.     

Is laparoscopic sonography a reliable and sensitive procedure for staging colorectal cancer?

Background: Laparoscopic colectomy has developed rapidly with the explosion of technology. In most cases, laparoscopic resection is performed for colorectal cancer. Intraoperative staging during laparoscopic procedure is limited. Laparoscopic ultrasonography (LUS) represents the only real alternative to manual palpation during laparoscopic surgery. Methods: We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of LUS in comparison with preoperative staging and laparoscopy in 33 patients with colorectal cancer. Preoperative staging included abdominal US, CT, and endoscopic US (for rectal cancer). Laparoscopy and LUS were performed in all cases. Pre- and intraoperative staging were related to definitive histology. Staging was done according to the TNM classification. Results: LUS obtained good results in the evaluation of hepatic metastases, with a sensitivity of 100% versus 62.5% and 75% by preoperative diagnostic means and laparoscopy, respectively. Nodal metastases were diagnosed with a sensitivity of 94% versus 18% with preoperative staging and 6% with laparoscopy, but the method had a low specificity (53%). The therapeutic program was changed thanks to laparoscopy and LUS in 11 cases (33%). In four cases (12%), the planned therapeutic approach was changed after LUS alone. Conclusions: The results obtained in this study demonstrate that LUS is an accurate and highly sensitive procedure in staging colorectal cancer, providing a useful and reliable diagnostic tool complementary to laparoscopy. Received: 2 May 1997/Accepted: 11 February 1998     

Role of laparoscopic ultrasonography in intraoperative localization of pancreatic insulinoma

Background: A combination of digital palpation and ultrasonography plays an important role in locating insulinomas intraoperatively. Laparoscopic resection of insulinomas has been described recently, but experience in locating insulinomas during laparoscopy is lacking. Methods: From January 1998 to January 1999, three patients with pancreatic insulinomas underwent laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasonography aimed at intraoperative localization and potential resection. The role of laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasonography in locating insulinomas is evaluated. Results: Preoperative localization studies were routinely performed, and two patients had an occult tumor before laparoscopy. None of the tumors was detected by laparoscopic examination, but laparoscopic ultrasonography identified solitary tumors located at the body and tail of the pancreas. Conversion to laparotomy was performed in one patient as a planned procedure. One patient underwent laparoscopic enucleation, whereas the other had a laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. Conclusions: Laparoscopic ultrasonography seems to be sensitive in locating insulinomas at the body and tail of the pancreas. It optimizes and facilitates resection of insulinomas through a minimally invasive approach. Received: 8 March 1999/Accepted: 10 August 1999/Online publication: 7 September 2000     

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed by a single surgeon using a visual field tracking camera

Background: This report describes a visual field tracking camera for laparoscopic surgery that allows the visual field to be changed without moving the laparoscope. We also report on our early experience with this camera for single-surgeon laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: The visual field tracking camera has a tracking mechanism (composed of a zoom lens and a charge-coupled device [CCD] slide mechanism) built into the camera head. The 80° visual field observed with the laparoscope can be expanded using the zoom lens, and the field can be shifted by changing the size of the area being viewed by the CCD. This is accomplished by pushing a switch on the forceps or by verbal command. Cholecystectomy was carried out on 12 patients with gallstones using this camera. The operations were performed by either a single surgeon or two surgeons. Forceps held with a forceps holder were inserted through the right port to lift the fundus of the gallbladder. The single surgeon used the other two ports to resect the gallbladder by the two-handed technique. Results: In all cases, cholecystectomy was completed without any need to move the laparoscope at any point during the operation. Seven operations were performed by a single surgeon. Mainly for education purposes, five other operations were performed by a pair of surgeons. The mean time required for surgery was 76 ± 17 min. This time did not differ from that of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed during the same period on 22 patients by teams of three surgeons using conventional cameras. Conclusions: Using the visual field tracking camera, laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed without any need to touch the laparoscope. This camera allowed laparoscopic cholecystectomy to be performed by a single surgeon. Received: 30 April 1999/Accepted: 10 January 2000/Online publication: 4 August 2000     

Laparoscopic colorectal anastomosis: risk of postoperative leakage

Background: We report on a prospective observational multicenter study of more than 1,000 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal procedures. The aim of the current study was to investigate the safety of laparoscopic colorectal surgery as reflected by the anastomotic insufficiency rates in the various sections of the bowel, and to compare these rates with those of open colorectal surgery. Methods: The study was begun on August 1, 1995. Twenty-four centers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland participated in this prospective multicenter study. All patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery were included in the study. No selection criteria were applied, which means that every operation begun as a laparoscopic procedure was included. Data on patient demographics, surgical indications, surgical course, and patient outcome were recorded prospectively in a computer database. All data were rendered anonymous. Results: Between August 1995 and February 1998, the 24 participating centers treated 1,143 patients (male/female ratio, 1:1.36; mean age, 60.7 years). In all, 626 operations were performed for benign indications and 517 for cancer. Most procedures involved the sigmoid colon and rectum (80.9%). An anastomosis was performed in 83% of the operations. Most of the anastomoses were laparoscopically assisted using the stapling technique. We observed an overall leakage rate of 4.25% (colon 2.9%; rectum 12.7%), and surgical reintervention was required in 1% of the cases. The rate of conversion to open surgery was 5.6%. Intraoperative complications occurred in 5.9%, and reoperation was necessary in 4.1% of the cases. The overall morbidity rate was 22.3%, and the 30-day mortality rate was 1.57%. Conclusions: The feasibility and safety of the laparoscopic colorectal approach is demonstrated clearly. The current study shows that the laparoscopic or laparoscopically assisted approach to colorectal surgery is not associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leaks. Morbidity and mortality rates with this method approximate those seen with conventional colorectal surgery. Received: 24 August 1998/Accepted: 25 November 1998     

Measurement of urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase to assess renal ischemia during laparoscopic operations

Background: Oliguria during laparoscopy is a well-documented phenomenon of unknown etiology. Experimental evidence suggests that renal perfusion is reduced during pneumoperitoneum. N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), which is present in renal tubular cells, is released into the urine in response to tubular insults. In this study, urinary NAG was measured before and after procedures to assess for ischemic renal injury. Methods: A total of 31 patients underwent laparoscopic procedures while 28 patients had conventional surgery. Urine was obtained first at the time of preoperative Foley catheter placement and later during the recovery room stay. NAG levels were measured and indexed to urinary creatinine. Results: Operative time for the laparoscopy group was 105 min (range, 15–255); for the conventional group, it was 179 min (range, 75–385) (P < 0.05). No differences were noted between pre- and postoperative NAG levels or between the groups. There was no correlation between urinary NAG levels and operative time. Conclusion: Pneumoperitoneum is not associated with a change in the urinary concentration of NAG. This finding suggests that there is no significant renal tubular injury associated with laparoscopic surgery. Accepted: 8 April 1997     

Development of gallstone surgery in Germany

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the development and outcome of laparoscopic gallstone surgery in Germany in a nationwide representative survey. Methods: A written questionnaire, which included 111 structured items about diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, number of procedures, complications, and mortality, was sent to 449 randomly selected German surgeons (20% of the registered German general surgeons) annually from 1991 to 1994. Results: A total number of 72,455 operations for gallstone disease was reported. The frequency of laparoscopic cholecystectomies increased from 24.9% in 1991 to 65.3% in 1993. In 1994, 92% of the polled surgeons were using the laparoscopic approach as compared with 10% in 1991. The results demonstrated significantly lower morbidity (6% vs. 9%) and mortality figures (0.14–0.45%) than for the open procedure. The percentage of common bile duct (CBD) injuries was significantly higher for the laparoscopic group than for the open treatment group (0.7% vs. 0.4%). In 1993 the data shows a significant decrease in surgical complications such as bleeding, CBD injuries, and relaparotomy rate for the laparoscopic procedures. No changes were seen in the mortality rate. Conclusions: These results show learning curves that project a positive trend in the overall risk incurred by laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Germany during the past few years. This can be seen as an effect of better training and experience. Obviously, CBD injuries and technical problems especially have passed their peak of incidence. Received: 24 October 1997/Accepted: 28 August 1998     

Selective use of diagnostic laparoscopy in patients with suspected appendicitis

Background: Diagnostic laparoscopy has been introduced as a new diagnostic tool for patients with acute appendicitis. We performed diagnostic laparoscopy when the clinical diagnosis of appendicitis was in doubt. The aims of this study were to evaluate this strategy and to analyze the efficacy of diagnostic laparoscopy in patients with suspected appendicitis. Patients and Methods: All patients referred to our hospital with suspected appendicitis during the period 1994–1997 were evaluated prospectively. The clinical diagnosis was determined by the surgeon or resident on call based on the patient's history, physical examination, and leukocyte count. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1: appendicitis not likely. These patients were observed for 24 h or discharged. When they showed signs of appendicitis in 24 h, they were transferred to either group 2 or 3; group 2: doubt concerning diagnosis. These patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy, and appendectomy was performed if indicated; group 3: In these patients the diagnosis appendicitis was felt to be certain. They were treated by primary appendectomy by an open procedure. In this study, 1,050 patients, 531 women (51%), 389 men (37%), and 130 children (12%) <11 yrs, were evaluated. Results: Altogether, 377 diagnostic laparoscopies were performed, leaving 109 healthy-looking appendices in place. This reduced the negative appendectomy rate from 25% to 14% in all surgically managed patients. The negative appendectomy rate for the women in group 2 was reduced from 49% to 14%, and for the men from 22% to 11%, so it also seemed worthwhile to perform diagnostic laparoscopy in men. Because the appendix sana was left in place in only three children, the benefit from laparoscopy is relatively small for children. In 48% of these patients a second diagnosis was obtained, most of them gynecologic in nature. There were no false-negative laparoscopies and no complications resulting from the laparoscopic procedure. Conclusions: Diagnostic laparoscopy is a safe procedure that reduced the appendix sana rate without increasing the total number of operations. It is a useful method for obtaining other, mostly gynecologic, diagnoses. To further reduce the appendix sana rate, better criteria for laparoscopic assessment of the appendix are needed. Received: 7 September 1999/Accepted: 21 February 2000/Online publication: 22 August 2000