The effect of laparoscopy on the movement of tumor cells and metastasis to surgical wounds

Background: A variety of mechanisms have been proposed to explain tumor growth in port sites following laparoscopic cancer surgery. We devised two experimental models to determine whether carbon dioxide (CO₂) insufflation during laparoscopic surgery influences the movement of tumor cells and leads to tumor implantation and growth in surgical wounds. Methods: Model 1: Viable adenocarcinoma cells were introduced into the upper abdomen of six syngeneic immune-competent rats during laparoscopy with CO₂ insufflation; the same procedure was followed for a further six rats during gasless laparoscopy. A length of plastic tubing introduced through the anterolateral aspect of the rats' left lower abdominal wall was used to vent the insufflation gas through the abdomen of a recipient rat for 30 min. After 21 days, the peritoneal cavity and surgical wounds of the recipient rat were examined for implanted tumor. Model 2: A suspension of radiolabeled adenocarcinoma cells was introduced into the upper abdomen of five rats during laparoscopy with CO₂ insufflation and an additional five rats during gasless laparoscopy. A length of plastic tubing introduced through the anterolateral aspect of the left lower abdominal flank was used to vent the insufflation gas through phosphate-buffered saline solution. After 30 min, the solution was counted for radioactivity. Results: Tumor growth occurred at the site of both the insufflation and venting ports in the second rat in five of the six rats from the group undergoing insufflation, but it was found in none of the gasless laparoscopy group (p= 0.015). In the second model, significant transfer of tumor cells to the vented gas occurred only in the rats undergoing laparoscopy with insufflation (median, 2.71% versus 0% of the introduced labeled cells; p= 0.008). Conclusions: Carbon dioxide insufflation results in tumor dissemination during laparoscopy, leading to port site metastasis. Gasless laparoscopy may prevent this problem. Received: 17 March 1997/Accepted: 6 June 1997     

Complications of surgical endoscopy

Background: This study examines the notion that gastrointestinal endoscopy performed by supervised surgical residents is safe. Methods: We reviewed all gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures performed by surgical residents with faculty supervision for complications and deaths occurring up to 30 days following the procedures. Results: The overall complication rate for 9,201 upper and lower endoscopy procedures was 1.4% and 0.42%, respectively. Overall mortality rate was 0.76% for upper endoscopy and 0.6% for lower endoscopy. No mortality was a direct result of a procedure-related complication. Intestinal perforation, drug overdose, bleeding, and aspiration were the most common procedure-related complications. Each resident completed an average of 75 upper endoscopies and 79 lower endoscopies during their training period. Conclusions: Gastrointestinal endoscopy can be performed safely by surgical residents with appropriate supervision. The higher morbidity and mortality of upper endoscopy are most likely related to the underlying disease rather than the procedure. Awareness of common complications and application of appropriate precautions and instruction are critical for minimizing complications. Received 25 March 1996/Accepted: 24 April 1996     

Combined endoscopic and surgical management of Mirizzi syndrome

Mirizzi syndrome is a form of obstructive jaundice caused by a stone impacted in the gallbladder neck or the cystic duct that impinges on the common hepatic duct with or without a cholecystocholedochal fistula. This syndrome is a rare complication of cholelithiasis that accounts for 0.1% of all patients with gallstone disease. Preoperative recognition is necessary to prevent injury to the common duct during surgery. We present a patient with a preoperative diagnosis of type I Mirizzi syndrome that was confirmed and drained by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC), followed by subtotal cholecystectomy. A review of the literature covering its clinical presentation, diagnosis, and surgical treatment is also presented. Received: 2 September 1998/Accepted: 9 November 1998     

A comparison of surgeons' posture during laparoscopic and open surgical procedures

Background: There is increasing recognition of surgeons' physical fatigue in the new ergonomic environment of laparoscopic surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine what the differences are in the movement of the surgeon's axial skeleton between laparoscopic and open operations. Methods: Surgeons' body positions were recorded on videotape during four laparoscopic (LAP) and six open (OP) operations. The percent of time the head and back were in a normal, bent, or twisted position as well as the number of changes in head and back position were tabulated using a computer program. A separate laboratory study was performed on four surgeons ``walking' a 0.5-inch polyethylene tubing forward and backward using laparoscopic and open techniques. The movements of the surgeons' head, trunk, and pelvis were measured using a three-camera kinematic system (Kin). The center of pressure was recorded using a floor-mounted forceplate (Fp). Results: In the operating room surgeons' head and back positions were more often straight in laparoscopic procedures and more often bent in open operations. The number of changes in back position per minute were significantly decreased when the laparoscopic-only part of surgery was analyzed. In the laboratory the subjects' head position was significantly (p= 0.02) more upright and the anteroposterior (AP) and rotational range of motion of the head was significantly reduced during laparoscopy. Subjects' CP was more anterior and there was a significant reduction in the AP range of motion of the CP during laparoscopy. Conclusions: Our study suggests that surgeons exhibit decreased mobility of the head and back and less anteroposterior weight shifting during laparoscopic manipulations despite a more upright posture. This more restricted posture during laparoscopic surgery may induce fatigue by limiting the natural changes in body posture that occur during open surgery. Received: 3 March 1996/Accepted: 2 July 1996     

Ultrasonography of the ureter after surgical trauma

Background: The purpose of the study was to discover whether ultrasonography can be used in diagnosing ureteral complications during surgery. Methods: The study consisted of an animal experiment with five pigs, that underwent laparotomy. The right ureter was electrocauterized and transsected, and the left ureter was ligated. The type and frequency of peristaltic waves and the diameter of the ureter were recorded by perioperative ultrasonography. Four patients with ureteral trauma during gynecologic surgery were also examined. Results: In the animal study six out of nine ureters dilated after the procedure. In seven ureters the contraction segment became smaller, and the lumen did not close properly during the peristaltic wave. The frequency of peristalsis diminished in all cases after ligation. Human ureters showed similar changes when examined 1.5–48 h after surgical trauma. Conclusions: Perioperative ultrasonography has great diagnostic potential as a method for noninvasive evaluation of ureteral conditions during both laparoscopy and laparotomy. Received: 16 June 1997/Accepted: 4 December 1997     

A Pragmatic Way to Treat Abdominal Deformities Based on Skin and Subcutaneous Excess

An objective classification for abdominoplasty based on subcutaneous and skin deformities is described. Type 0 patients are those who present excess fat with very little excess skin or without surplus skin, on which liposuction is indicated. Types I, II, and III are patients that demonstrate various degrees of excess skin and three basic patterns of skin resection are described. Type I patients present mild excess skin with a high umbilicus. Type II patients are those with mild excess skin and a well-positioned umbilicus, as well as patients with moderate excess skin. Type III patients present severely excessive skin. One hundred and eleven patients with abdominal deformity were reviewed and the incidence of each deformity was determined on this population. This study presents a practical classification that permits the plastic surgeon to critically evaluate which is the best option to correct abdominal deformities considering specific skin and subcutaneous deformities.     

Laparoscopic treatment of large paraesophageal hernias

Background: We set out to evaluate the results of the laparoscopic treatment of large paraesophageal hernias in 22 patients. Methods: Between 1993 and 1998, we operated on 22 consecutive patients. Preoperative assessment consisted of endoscopy, barium esophagogram, 24-h pH testing, manometry, and gastric emptying times. Results: In the first three patients, the sac was not excised and gastropexy was not performed. Because of recurrences, we decided to change the technique in an attempt to avoid further complications. During middle- to long-term follow-up, only three recurrences were seen in the subsequent 19 patients. There were no deaths in this series. Conclusions: Laparoscopic treatment of large paraesophageal hernias is feasible. Because recurrences may occur after successful laparoscopic treatment, both resection of the sac and some form of gastropexy are imperative. Received: 22 March 2000/Accepted: 30 April 2000/Online publication: 20 September 2000     

Laparoscopic management of a large ovarian cyst in the neonate

Laparotomy has become the preferred approach to the excision of large, complex abdominal cysts in the neonate. We describe a laparoscopic-assisted decapsulation of an antenatally diagnosed abdominal cyst that was noted on postnatal ultrasound scan to have a complex echo pattern. This limited procedure allows for accurate verification of the diagnosis, institution of appropriate therapy, and organ salvage. It represents a superior management option that obviates the significant complications associated with conservative management. Received: 6 June 1997/Accepted: 22 October 1997     

The use of intraoperative ultrasound in laparoscopic adrenal surgery

Background: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has been shown to be a safe and effective therapy for benign adrenal lesions. We review our experience with this procedure, including the use of laparoscopic ultrasound. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our experience with 36 patients who underwent resection of 42 adrenal glands. Data gathered included preoperative evaluation and diagnosis, operative time, blood loss, complications, and follow-up status. Laparoscopic ultrasound was used to guide dissection and characterize a variety of adrenal lesions. Results: Thirty-five of 36 patients underwent successful laparoscopic adrenalectomy. There was one conversion to the open procedure in a patient with bilateral adrenal metastases from an endometrial cancer. For the bilateral laparoscopic procedure, the operative time averaged 262 mins, blood loss was 160 cc, and hospital stay was 3.0 days. For unilateral cases, operative time averaged 193 min, blood loss was 108 cc, and hospitalization was 1.1 days. Six patients experienced perioperative complications, most of which were minor and transient. Laparoscopic ultrasound was useful to define anatomy and to identify the adrenal vein, especially on the left side. Conclusions: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the procedure of choice for benign adrenal disease. Laparoscopic ultrasound is useful to localize and aid in the dissection of the left adrenal vein. Received: 24 December 1998/Accepted: 12 February 1999     

The influence of surgical technique on clinical outcome of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

Background: During laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF), it is unclear whether the short gastric vessels (SGV) should be divided, the crura reapproximated, or the wrap sutured to the crus. Methods: Since first performing LNF, we have consistently utilized a <2.5-cm wrap performed over a >50 Fr dilator. Other technical details have varied, and these are reviewed in terms of early clinical outcome. Of 105 consecutive patients undergoing LNF, two were converted to open operation (2%). In the remaining 103 patients with ≥3-month follow-up (mean 17 months), the initial 46 (group 1; 45%, mean age ± SEM = 47 ± 2 years) had selective division of the SGV, crural closure, and wrap fixation. In this group, 32 patients (70%) underwent SGV division, 30 patients (65%) had crural closure (10 anteriorly/20 posteriorly), and 14 patients (30%) had the wrap sutured to the crus. During the subsequent 57 LNFs (group 2; 55%, 47 ± 2 years), all patients underwent SGV division, posterior crural closure, and suture of the wrap to the crus. Results: Clinical outcome at ≥3 months was compared between the two groups. The frequencies of mild reflux symptoms, meteorism, and persistent dysphagia were similar in the two groups. However, the incidences of slippage of the wrap into the chest and the need for secondary intervention (esophageal dilatation and/or laparoscopic reoperation) decreased significantly from 15% and 13% of patients in group 1, respectively, to no occurrences in group II. Chi-square analyses revealed that combinations of these technical variables were significantly related to the improved outcome in group II. Conclusion: Based on these data demonstrating improved clinical outcome, we recommend routine division of the SGV, posterior closure of the crura, and fixation of the wrap to the crus during LNF. Received: 28 March 1996/Accepted: 11 June 1996     

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     

The role of the endoscopic extraperitoneal approach in large inguinal scrotal hernias

The role of endoscopic extraperitoneal herniorrhaphy (EEPH) in the management of giant scrotal hernias has not been well defined, and the technical details relating to operations on such hernias have not been described. We present our experience with 17 patients undergoing repair of giant scrotal hernias. Foley catheter bladder decompression was routinely employed. The Retzius space was developed early in the procedure and hernia sac contents were reduced in all cases. The inferior epigastric vessels were likewise divided in all patients. The average operative time was 76 min and all patients were discharged home the same day. There have been no recurrences on follow-up. There was no mortality, and morbidity was limited to seroma formation in two patients. We conclude that with certain technical modifications, EEPH can be safely employed for the treatment of giant scrotal hernias. Received: 7 May 1996/Accepted: 12 July 1996     

Effects of moderate endurance exercise on calcium, parathyroid hormone, and markers of bone metabolism in young women

We investigated the short-term (1 hour–3 days) effects of a 45 minute run on calcium, parathyroid hormone, the carboxyterminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PICP), and the immunoactive carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen in serum (ICTP) in young females. Fourteen healthy young women, aged 25.2 ± 0.6 years (mean ± SEM) with regular menstruations, participated. The test was outdoor jogging for 45 minutes at an intensity of 50% of VO_{2 max}. Blood samples were collected 15 minutes before the test and 1, 24, and 72 hours after the test. The measured values were adjusted for changes in plasma volume. A significant decrease of ionized calcium was observed at 1 hour (P < 0.001) and 72 hours (P < 0.05) and a significant increase of parathyroid hormone (PTH) was noted 24 (P < 0.01) and 72 hours (P < 0.05) after the test. A significant decrease of PICP at 1 hour (P < 0.05) was followed by an increase after 24 (P < 0.01) and 72 hours (P < 0.001) and a significant increase in ICTP was noted at 24 and 72 hours (P < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was found between serum levels of PICP and ICTP (r = 0.55–0.84; P < 0.05) throughout the experiment. In conclusion, young females showed biochemical signs of increased bone collagen turnover and altered homeostasis of calcium and PTH after a single bout of moderate endurance exercise. Received: 19 October 1995 / Accepted: 14 June 1996     

Laparoscopic tension-free repair of large paraesophageal hernias

The paraesophageal hernia is an unusual disorder of the esophageal hiatus that may be associated with life-threatening mechanical problems. Elective repair is recommended at the time the condition is diagnosed, and open surgery can be accomplished with a low incidence of complications. The option of performing these repairs through a laparoscopic approach may further reduce morbidity and recovery time associated with surgical intervention. The purpose of this report was to review available options for laparoscopic repair and to present our experience with a tension-free technique for large paraesophageal hernias. Three patients with large diaphragmatic defects had laparoscopic repairs using an expanded polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) patch secured with intracorporeal suturing techniques. One of these patients also underwent laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication in conjunction with repair of the hernia. In the other two patients, the fundus was secured to the right diaphragmatic crus to reduce the potential for recurrence and minimize postoperative reflux symptoms. All patients underwent successful repair without perioperative complications and had excellent long-term results. Laparoscopic repair of paraesophageal hernias can be accomplished by a number of different reported techniques. The use of a tension-free repair with PTFE may be particularly suitable for large diaphragmatic defects. An antireflux operation may be added selectively depending on clinical circumstances.     

The effect of high-definition imaging on surgical task efficiency in minimally invasive surgery

Background: In 1995, when we first used a high-definition television (HDTV) video system during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Tuebingen, we were surprised by the excellence of the spatial impression achieved by an image with improved resolution. Although any improvement in vision systems entails a trade-off among cost, quality, and complexity, high-definition imaging may well become an essential part of 3-D video systems. The aim of this experimental study was to assess the impact of high definition on surgical task efficiency in minimally invasive surgery and to determine whether it is preferable to use a 3-D system or a 2-D system with perfect resolution and color—for instance, HDTV or the three-chip charge-coupled device (3CCD). Methods: We compared a 3-D video system with the vision through a stereoscopic rectoscope for transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM). Because its stereoscopic direct vision is not restricted to either shutter technology or video resolution, TEM optics represents the state of the art. For objective comparison, inanimate phantom models with suturing tasks were set up. The setups allowed the approach of parallel instruments as in TEM operations or via a laparoscopic approach, with oblique instruments coming laterally. Both types of procedure were carried out by highly experienced laparoscopic surgeons as well as those inexperienced in endoscopic surgery. These volunteers worked under 3-D video vision and/or TEM vision. Altogether, the model tasks were performed by 54 different persons. Results: The evaluation did not show a significant (p > 0.05) difference in performance time in all models, but there was a clear trend showing the benefit of a higher resolution. Conclusion: We found a tendency for both endoscopically inexperienced and experienced surgeons to benefit from the use of a system with improved resolution (direct vision) rather than a 3-D shutter video system. Received: 9 November 1998/Accepted: 19 April 1999     

Activity increase after extraction of alkaline phosphatase from human osteoblastic membranes by nonionic detergents: influence of age and sex

The solubilization of alkaline phosphatase (AP) from osteoblastic cell membranes obtained from human primary bone cell cultures was studied according to the age and sex of the donors (17 females, 11 males; age range: 2–77 years). Cell membranes were treated by non-ionic (n-octyl β-D-glucopyranoside, OG), ionic or zwitterionic detergents, then centrifuged. When OG was used almost all the AP was solubilized. AP activity in supernatant of solubilization was compared to the activity of the suspension before centrifugation. The activity ratio (AR) increased in function of age for subjects between 65 and 74. Neither total nor specific AP activities were influenced by age or sex. Electrophoresis studies showed that the AP released was a GPI (glycosyl phosphatidylinositol)-anchored protein, amphipatic form, with 140 kDa as apparent molecular mass. The activity change of AP in the presence of OG may result from age-related modifications either in the AP structure or in the constituents of the plasma membranes (proteins or phospholipids). Received: 26 August 1997 / Accepted: 1 July 1999     

Minimally invasive surgical staging for esophageal cancer

Background: The incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma is increasing in the United States, and the 5-year survival rate is dismal. Preliminary data suggest that conventional imaging is inaccurate in staging esophageal cancer and could limit accurate assessment of new treatments. The objective of this study was to compare minimally invasive surgical staging (MIS) with conventional imaging for staging esophageal cancer. Methods: Patients with potentially resectable esophageal cancer were eligible. Staging by conventional methods used computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest and abdomen, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), whereas MIS used laparoscopy and videothoracoscopy. Conventional staging results were compared to those from MIS. Results: In 53 patients, the following stages were assigned by CT scan and EUS: carcinoma in situ (CIS; n= 1), I (n= 1), II (n= 23), III (n= 20), IV (n= 8). In 17 patients (32.1%), MIS demonstrated inaccuracies in the conventional imaging, reassigning a lower stage in 10 patients and a more advanced stage in 7 patients. Conclusions: In 32.1% of patients with esophageal cancer, MIS changed the stage originally assigned by CT scan and EUS. Therefore, MIS should be applied to evaluate the accuracy of new noninvasive imaging methods and to assess new therapies for esophageal cancer. Received: 5 April 1999/Accepted: 15 March 2000/Online publication: 12 July 2000     

A new surgical strategy for cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and hypersplenism

Background: Hepatectomy for cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism is a high-risk operative procedure. We report herein a new strategy for high-risk patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Six cirrhotic patients with HCC and hypersplenism received a partial hepatectomy after first undergoing a laparoscopic splenectomy. We then compared the variables for these patients before splenectomy and before hepatectomy. Results: The platelet count and the white blood cell count were found to be significantly elevated before hepatectomy. The ammonia value decreased significantly before hepatectomy. The albumin value tended to be elevated before hepatectomy. Furthermore, the Child's classification of all patients improved significantly before hepatectomy. However, other variables—such as the indocyanine green dye excretion test at 15 min and the bilirubin value—did not change after splenectomy. For hepatectomy patients who first underwent a laparoscopic splenectomy, operation time ranged from 265 to 440 min (average time, 361 min), and blood loss ranged from 500 to 2,200 ml (median volume, 1,300 ml). Four of six patients did not require any blood transfusion; furthermore, no patient needed a platelet-rich plasma transfusion. All but one patient, who suffered postoperatively from an intractable duodenal ulcer, had an uneventful postoperative course. Conclusion: Partial hepatectomy after an initial laparoscopic splenectomy is a new and effective choice of treatment for cirrhotic patients with HCC and hypersplenism. Received: 1 May 1998/Accepted: 30 June 1999     

Laparoscopic repair of large hiatal hernia with polytetrafluoroethylene

Background: Several studies have shown that large hiatal hernias are associated with a high recurrence rate. Despite the problem of recurrence, the technique of hiatal herniorrhaphy has not changed appreciably since its inception. In this 3-year study we have evaluated laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair in individuals with a hernia defect greater than 8 cm in diameter. Methods: A series of 35 patients with sliding or paraesophageal hiatal hernias was prospectively randomized to hiatal hernia repair with (n= 17) or without (n= 18) polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). All patients had an endoscopic and radiographic diagnosis of large hiatal hernia. Both repairs were performed by using interrupted stitches to approximate the crurae. In the group randomized to repair with prosthesis, PTFE mesh with a 3-cm ``keyhole' was positioned around the gastroesophageal junction with the esophagus through the keyhole. The PTFE was stapled to the diaphragm and crura with a hernia stapler. Results: Patients were followed with EGD and esophagogram at 3 months postoperatively, and with esophagogram every 6 months thereafter. Individuals with PTFE had a longer operation time, but the 2-day hospital stay was the same in both groups. The cost of the repair was $1050 ± $135 more in the group with the prosthesis. There were two complications (1 pneumonia, 1 urinary retention) in the group repaired with PTFE and one complication (pneumothorax) in the group without prosthesis. The group without PTFE was notable for three (16.7%) recurrences within the first 6 months of surgery. Conclusion: On the basis of these preliminary results it appears that repair with PTFE may confer an advantage, with lower rates of recurrence in patients with large hiatal hernia defects. Received: 1 May 1998/Accepted: 22 December 1998     

Combined endoscopic and surgical treatment for the polyposis of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Repeated laparotomy with extensive small bowel resectioning and eventual short-bowel syndrome is a major problem in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) patients. This problem is caused by gastrointestinal polyposis with intussusception. A combined surgical and endoscopic approach can assess the extent of the polyposis, and small polyps can be removed by snare polypectomy. This can avert multiple enterotomies and decrease bowel resection segments. We applied an intraoperative colonscope via the enterotomy route in an 20-year-old PJS woman, and successfully removed the other 10 polyps distributed in the whole small bowel. As part of an aggressive approach to the management of polyposis in PJS, complete polypectomy can provide a longer symptom-free interval and remove potentially premaligment polyps. Received: 9 September 1999/Accepted: 9 November 1999/Online publication: 22 August 2000