Long-term absorbable versus non-absorbable suture in laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure of internal ring for inguinal hernia in children

AimTo compare the results of using long-term absorbable (LTAS) versus non-absorbable suture (NAS) in laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure of internal ring (LPEC) for indirect inguinal hernia (IH) in childrenMethodsProspectively collected data from children undergoing LPEC for IH at our center were retrospectively reviewed to compare group A repaired with NAS (2.0 monofilament polypropylene or braided polytetrafluoroethilene) to group B repaired with LTAS 2.0 polydioxanone.Results481 patients with 499 IHs in group A were compared to 277 patients with 283 IHs in group B. There were no significant differences in terms of age, bodyweight and laterality of IH between the two groups. At a median follow up period of 30 months, the incidence of suture knot reaction (SKR) and hernia recurrence were 3.1% and 1.0% in group A vs. 0% and 6.4% in group B with p = 0.002 and p<0.001, respectively. Monofilament NAS was associated with a low rate of both recurrence and SKR.ConclusionsLPEC repair for pediatric IH using LTAS is associated with no SKR but a higher recurrence rate compared to NAS. Monofilament NAS such as Prolene could be a good choice in LPEC because of its low rate of both recurrence and SKR.     

Surgical and oncologic outcomes between laparoscopic and radical abdominal hysterectomy for IB1-IIA2 cervical cancer

ObjectiveTo compare sugrical and survival outcomes between laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) and radical abdominal hysterectomy (RAH).MethodsAll the patients with IB1-IIA2 cervical cancer who performed LRH or RAH in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center between 1/2016 and 12/2017 were retrospectively analyzed.ResultsThere were no significant differences between LRH and RAH groups except deep stromal invasion (35.2% vs 54.4%, p = 0.000), operating time (232.3 ± 61.9 min vs. 106.7 ± 36.2 min, p = 0.000), blood loss (169.5 ± 96.2 ml vs. 219.6 ± 149.3 ml, p = 0.000), and lymph node counts (21.1 ± 7.1 vs. 23.2 ± 8.7 min, p = 0.012). The LRH group displayed poorer disease-free survival (DFS) (5-year rate, 79.4% vs. 90.0%; p = 0.046) and overall survival (OS) (5-year rate, 74.7% vs. 90.0%; p = 0.026) compared to the RAH group. On multivariate analysis, LRH was an independent risk factor for DFS (hazard ratio, 0.377; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.227–0.625; p = 0.000) and OS (hazard ratio, 0.434; 95% CI, 0.254–0.740; p = 0.003).ConclusionsLRH affected the survival of cervical cancer patients with tumor size >2 cm (p < 0.05). Adjuvant therapy could not improve the prognosis of laparoscopic patients (p < 0.05).     

Comparison between single-incision and conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a prospective trial of the Club Coelio

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) and conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC).

Method

Patients’ inclusion criteria were uncomplicated gallstones, BMI ≤30, ASA score ≤2, and no past surgery in the upper abdomen. Five surgeons performed only SILC and seven only CLC. Data analyzed included operative time, morbidity, quality of life (QOL), cosmetic result, and global patient satisfaction. The last three parameters were evaluated 3 months after surgery. QOL was assessed with the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaire. Cosmetic result and patient satisfaction were rated using a 5-grade Likert scale.

Results

This study included 104 patients operated on between April and June 2010. A SILC was performed in 35 patients and a CLC in 69. The preoperative characteristics of the two groups were similar. Median operative time for SILC was higher than that for CLC: 55 versus 40 min (p < 0.001). Postoperative complications (0 vs. 2) and postoperative GIQLI scores (123 ± 13 vs. 121 ± 18) were not significantly different between groups. Cosmetic result and patient satisfaction were better for SILC than for CLC. The percentages of results rated as excellent were 68 versus 37 % (p < 0.006) and 80 versus 57 % (p < 0.039), respectively. For the whole group, multivariate statistical analysis revealed that postoperative GIQLI score and cosmetic result were independent predictive factors of patient satisfaction. The percentages of satisfaction rated as excellent were greater in patients who had a postoperative GIQLI score ≥130 (92 vs. 49 %, odds ratio [OR] = 4, p < 0.001) and in patients who had an excellent cosmetic result (82 vs. 47 %, OR = 7, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Compared to CLC, SILC is associated with a longer operative time, an equivalent morbidity and QOL, and a better cosmetic result. The improved aesthetic result also leads to a better global patient satisfaction.     

Predictive factors from videourodynamic study for delayed urinary continence after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

PurposeTo search for risk factors for delayed urinary continence after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP).Materials and methodsPatients who received LRP for localized prostate cancer between January 2011 and December 2013 were enrolled. All patients were evaluated with a detailed history, physical examination, and videourodynamic study (VUDS) prior to the operation. After surgery, they were followed up in the outpatient department at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. The clinical patient data and VUDS parameters were compared between subgroups of patients with and without stress urinary incontinence (SUI), urgency, or urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) according to their clinical symptoms 6 months after surgery.ResultsA total of 48 patients with a mean age of 72.1 ± 5.68 years were enrolled. Patients with SUI had a larger mean baseline total prostate volume (TPV) (61.42 ± 30.4 mL vs. 45.64 ± 19.98 mL, p = 0.04), higher cancer stage (47.6% vs. 18.5%, p = 0.031), and longer operation time (269.95 ± 52.17 minutes vs. 230.15 ± 48.77 minutes, p = 0.011) than those without SUI. Most baseline VUDS parameters were not significantly different between SUI and non-SUI subgroups except for full sensation (FS; p = 0.037) and the presence of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO; 52.4% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.038). Patients with urgency had a higher maximal flow rate (p = 0.046) than those without. Patients with postoperative UUI had a larger first sensation of filling (FSF; p = 0.035) than those without. Interestingly, baseline urodynamic detrusor overactivity (DO) and BOO did not have an impact on postoperative urgency or UUI. Multivariate analysis showed no parameters which predicted SUI, urgency, or UUI after radical prostatectomy.ConclusionPreoperative small bladder capacity at FS, large prostate, and BOO are predicting factors of SUI at 6 months after LRP. Baseline DO and BOO did not have an impact on postoperative urgency or UUI.     

Comparison of surgical outcomes for laparoscopic liver resection of large hepatocellular carcinomas: A retrospective observation from single-center experience

Background/purposeAlthough laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is a common surgical procedure for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), its suitability for large HCCs (≥5 cm) remains controversial. This study compared surgical outcomes of open hepatectomy with LLR for large HCCs.MethodsA total of 313 patients with HCC who underwent hepatectomy between January 2010 and June 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic data, short-term outcomes, and long-term survivals were analyzed.ResultsAmong patients with large HCCs (n = 122), the open group (n = 85) had larger tumor sizes (10.91 ± 4.72 vs. 7.45 ± 2.95 cm; p < 0.001) and more advanced stages (stages 3/4: 71.8% vs. 45.9%; p = 0.029) than the LLR group (n = 37), while LLR group achieved less blood loss (623.24 ± 841.75 mL vs. 1091.76 ± 1004.72 mL, p = 0.014) and shorter LOS (9.00 ± 5.13 d vs. 12.82 ± 8.51 d, p = 0.013). There were no significant differences in complication and mortality rates between groups. The 5-year overall and recurrence-free survival rates between the two groups were not significantly different (p = 0.408 and 0.644 respectively). The surgical outcomes showed equal benefit of the two operation types.ConclusionWith sufficient surgeon experience and appropriate patient selection, LLR is a feasible treatment choice for large HCCs.     

Transvaginal specimen extraction versus conventional minilaparotomy after laparoscopic anterior resection for colorectal cancer: mid-term results of a case-matched study

Background

Although the vagina is considered a viable route during laparoscopic surgery, a number of concerns have led to a need to demonstrate the safety of a transvaginal approach in colorectal surgery. However, the data for transvaginal access in left-sided colorectal cancer are extremely limited, and no study has compared the clinical outcomes with a conventional laparoscopic procedure.

Objective

We compared the clinical outcomes of totally laparoscopic anterior resection with transvaginal specimen extraction (TVSE) with those of the conventional laparoscopic approach with minilaparotomy (LAP) for anastomosis construction and specimen retrieval in left-sided colorectal cancer.

Methods

Fifty-eight patients underwent TVSE between October 2006 and July 2011 and were matched by age, surgery date, tumor location, and tumor stage with patients who underwent conventional LAP for left-sided colorectal cancer.

Results

Operative time was significantly longer in the TVSE group (149.3 ± 39.8 vs. 131.9 ± 41.4 min; p = 0.023). Patients in the TVSE group experienced less pain (pain score 4.9 ± 1.6 vs. 5.8 ± 1.9; p = 0.008), shorter time to passage of flatus (2.2 ± 1.1 vs. 2.7 ± 1.2 days; p = 0.026), and higher satisfaction with the cosmetic results (cosmetic score 8.0 ± 1.4 vs. 6.3 ± 1.5; p = 0.001). More endolinear staplers for rectal transection were used in the LAP group (1.2 ± 0.5 vs. 1.1 ± 0.2; p = 0.021). Overall morbidities were similar in both groups; however, three wound infections only occurred in the LAP group. After a median follow-up of 34.4 (range 11–60) months, no transvaginal access-site recurrence occurred. The 3-year disease-free survival was similar between groups (91.5 vs. 90.8 %; p = 0.746).

Conclusions

Transvaginal access after totally laparoscopic anterior resection is safe and feasible for left-sided colorectal cancer in selected patients with better short-term outcomes.     

Comparison between robotic-assisted and laparoscopic left hemi-hepatectomy

ObjectiveTo compare the safety and short-term outcomes between robotic-assisted and laparoscopic left hemi-hepatectomies in a single academic medical center.MethodsA cohort of 52 patients, who underwent robotic-assisted or laparoscopic left hemi-hepatectomies between April 2015 and January 2020 in Department of Pancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University was recruited into the study. Their clinicopathological features and short-term outcomes were analyzed retrospectively.ResultsThere were 25 robotic-assisted and 27 laparoscopic cases, with a median age of 55 years (34–77 years). There was one conversion to open in laparoscopic group. There were no significant differences in clinicopathological features between two groups, except robotic group had higher body mass index (23.9 vs. 22.0 kg/m², p = 0.047). Robotic-assisted and laparoscopic groups had similar operative time (300 vs. 310 min, p = 0.515), length of hospital stay (8 vs. 8 days, p = 0.981) and complication rates (4.0% vs. 14.8%, p = 0.395), but the former had less blood loss (100 vs. 200 ml, p < 0.001) and lower incidence of blood transfusion (0% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.023) in comparison with laparoscopic group. R0 resection was achieved for all patients with malignancies. There was no perioperative mortality in both groups. The cost of robotic group was higher than laparoscopic group (105,870 vs. 64,191 RMB yuan, p = 0.02).ConclusionThe robotic-assisted and laparoscopic approaches had similar safety and short-term outcomes in left hemi-hepatectomy, and the former can reduce operative blood loss and blood transfusion. However, the costs were higher in robotic group.     

Single incision versus standard multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Up-dated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials

Background and purposeWe aimed to compare single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) to the standard multiport technique (MLC) for clinically relevant outcomes in adults.MethodsSystematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of randomized trials.ResultsWe identified 30 trials (SILC N = 1209, MLC N = 1202) mostly of moderate to low quality. Operating time (30 trials): longer with SILC (WMD = 12.4 min, 95% CI 9.3, 15.5; p < 0.001), but difference reduced with experience – in 10 large trials (1321 patients) WMD = 5.9 (?1.3, 13.1; p = 0.105). Intra-operative blood loss (12 trials, 1201 patients): greater with SILC, but difference practically irrelevant (WMD = 1.29 mL, 0.24–2.35; p = 0.017). Procedure failure (27 trials, 2277 patients): more common with SILC (OR = 13.9, 4.34–44.7; p < 0.001), but overall infrequent (SILC pooled incidence 4.39%) and almost exclusively addition of a trocar. Post-operative pain (29 trials) and hospital stay (22 trials): no difference. Complications (30 trials): infrequent (SILC pooled incidence 5.35%) with no overall SILC vs. MLC difference. Incisional hernia (19 trials, 1676 patients): very rare (15 vs. 4 cases), but odds significantly higher with SILC (OR = 4.94, 1.26–19.4; p = 0.025). Cosmetic satisfaction (16 trials, 11 with data at 1–3 months): in 5 trials with non-blinded patients (N = 513) in favour of SILC (SMD = 1.83, 0.13, 3.52; p = 0.037), but in 6 trials with blinded patients (N = 719) difference small and insignificant (SMD = 0.42, ?1.12, 1.96; p = 0.548).DiscussionSILC outcomes largely depend on surgeon's skill, but regardless of it, when compared to MLC, SILC requires somewhat longer operating time, risk of incisional hernia is higher (but overall very low) and early cosmetic benefit is modest.ConclusionFrom the (in)convenience and safety standpoint, SILC is an acceptable alternative to MLC with a modest cosmetic benefit.     

Quality of life after open versus laparoscopic preperitoneal mesh repair for unilateral inguinal hernias

BackgroundBoth the open transinguinal preperitoneal repair (TIPP) and the laparoscopic total extraperitoneal mesh repair (TEP) show excellent outcomes. Direct comparative data between these 2 preperitoneal techniques is lacking. The aim of this study was to assess postoperative outcomes and quality of life (QoL) for these open and laparoscopic preperitoneal repair techniques.MethodsBetween 2014 and 2016, 204 male patients underwent unilateral inguinal hernia repair through TIPP (n = 135) or TEP (n = 69). Data recorded include demographic profile, preoperative and intraoperative variables, postoperative complications and postoperative quality of life. Two validated hernia-specific QoL questionnaires, the Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS) and the European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernias Quality of Life score (EuraHS QoL) were used to assess postoperative QoL.ResultsThe TIPP group consisted of 135 patients, the TEP group of 69 patients. The mean age of patients was significantly higher in TIPP (64.07 ± 17.10 years) than in TEP (59.0 ± 15.53 years) (p = 0.022). A total of 96 patients (47.1%) responded to our invitation for longterm follow-up: 58 in the TIPP group (43%) and 38 in the TEP group (55.1%). There was no difference in mean follow-up time between the surgical procedure and filling in the questionnaires: 37.4 ± 12.8 months for TIPP and 33.5 ± 11.3 months for TEP group (p = 0.13). No significant differences in quality of life were found between TIPP and TEP for all explored domains.ConclusionTIPP and TEP show equivalent results considering postoperative quality of life. Compared to existing literature on mesh repair for unilateral inguinal hernias, we may conclude that the preperitoneal location of the mesh probably is a more decisive factor for quality of life than the surgical approach used.     

Comparison of laparoscopic versus open liver tumor resection: a case-controlled study

Background  Although there are data in the literature about the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic liver resections, there are not many studies comparing laparoscopic versus open approaches in a case-matched design. The purpose of this study is to compare the perioperative outcome of laparoscopic versus open liver resections from a single institution. Methods  Thirty-one patients underwent laparoscopic liver resection between April 1997 and August 2007, with a prospective laparoscopic program started in April 2006 (n = 25). This group of patients was compared with 43 consecutive patients undergoing open resection who were matched by size of the lesion (5 cm or less for malignant and 8 cm or less for benign), anatomical location (segments 2, 3, 4b, 5, 6), and type of resection (wedge resection, segmentectomy, partial liver resection). Data were obtained from medical records as well as from a prospective database. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test and chi-square. All data are expressed as mean ± standard error on the mean (SEM). Results  Mean age in the laparoscopic group was 57.6 ± 2.7 years versus 61.9 ± 2.3 years in the open group (p = 0.2). There were more women in the laparoscopic group [74% females (n = 23) and 26% males (n = 8)] versus in the open group [40% females (n = 17) and 60% males (n = 26)] (p = 0.003). There were more patients with malignant lesions in the open group (73%) versus in the laparoscopic group (45%) (p = 0.01). Eight patients underwent partial and 23 patients segmental/wedge liver resection in the laparoscopic group versus 15 patients who underwent partial and 28 patients segmental/wedge liver resection in the open group (p = 0.7). Mean tumor size was 3.9 ± 0.4 cm in the laparoscopic group versus 4.2 ± 0.3 cm in the open group (p = 0.5). Ten (32%) out of 31 cases in the laparoscopic group were hand-assisted. Inflow occlusion was used in 1 case (3%) in the laparoscopic group versus 16 (37.2%) in the open group. Mean operating time was 201 ± 15 min for the laparoscopic group and 172 ± 12 min for the open group (p = 0.1). Mean estimated blood loss during the procedure was 122.5 ± 45.4 cc for the laparoscopic group and 299.6 ± 33.6 cc for the open group (p = 0.002). Surgical margin was similar for malignant cases in both groups. Mean hospital stay was 3.2 ± 1.0 days for the laparoscopic group and 6.8 ± 0.7 days for the open group (p = 0.004). The incidence of postoperative complications was 13% (n = 4) in the laparoscopic and 16% (n = 7) in the open group (p = 0.7). Conclusion  This study shows that, with a longer operative time, the laparoscopic approach, despite the learning curve, offers advantages regarding operative blood loss, postoperative analgesic requirement, time to regular diet, hospital stay, and overall cost compared with the open approach for minor liver resections. A part of this study was presented as a poster at the 2008 SAGES Meeting April 9-12, 2008 in Philadelphia, PA. An erratum to this article can be found at     

Enhancing recovery after minimally invasive surgery in children: A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis

ObjectiveEnhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) has been widely implemented after minimally invasive surgeries (MIS) in adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current evidence available on ERAS after MIS in children.MethodsUsing a defined search strategy (PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus), we performed a systematic review of the literature, searching for studies reporting on ERAS after MIS (thoracoscopy, laparoscopy, retroperitoneoscopy) in children (1975–2019). This study was registered with PROSPERO-international prospective register of systematic reviews. A meta-analysis was conducted using comparative studies for length of stay (LOS), complication rates, and readmission rates.ResultsOf 180 abstracts screened, 20 full-text articles were analyzed, and 9 were included in our systematic review (1 randomized controlled trial, 3 prospective, and 5 retrospective studies), involving a total number of 531 patients. ERAS has been applied to laparoscopy for digestive (n = 7 studies) or urologic surgeries (n = 1), as well as thoracoscopy (n = 1). Mean LOS was decreased in ERAS children compared to controls (6 studies, −1.12 days, 95%IC: −1.5 to −0.82, p < 0.00001). There was no difference in complication rates between ERAS children and control children (5 studies, 13% vs 14%, OR = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.49–1.44, p = 0.52). The 30-day readmission rate was decreased in ERAS children compared to controls (6 studies, 4% vs 10%, OR = 0.34, 95%CI: 0.18–0.66, p = 0.001).ConclusionsAlthough the evidence regarding ERAS in MIS is scarce, these protocols seem safe and effective, by decreasing LOS and 30-day readmission rate, without increasing post-operative complication rates.     

Laparoscopic versus ultrasound-guided visualization of transversus abdominis plane blocks

BackgroundUltrasound-guided (US) transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is commonly utilized as part of a multi-modal approach for postoperative pain management. This study seeks to determine whether laparoscopic-guided TAP blocks are as effective as US-guided TAP blocks among pediatric patients.MethodIn this prospective, randomized controlled trial, pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures were randomly assigned to one of two treatment arms: US-guided TAP block (US-arm) or laparoscopic-guided TAP block (LAP-arm). Primary outcome was PACU pain scores. Secondary outcomes included PACU opioid consumption, block completion time and block accuracy.ResultsTwenty-five patients were enrolled in each arm. In the LAP-arm, 59% of blocks were in the transversus abdominis plane compared to 74% of TAP blocks in the US-arm (p = 0.18). Blocks were completed faster in the LAP-arm (2.1 ± 1.9 vs. 7.9 ± 3.4 min, p<0.001). The average highest PACU pain score was 3.4 ± 3.1 for the LAP-arm and 4.3 ± 3.8 for the US-arm (p = 0.37). Overall PACU pain scores and opioid consumption were similar between the groups (1.2 ± 1.3 vs. 1.6 ± 1.6, p = 0.24; 2.2 ± 5.8 vs. 0.9 ± 1.4MME, p = 0.26).ConclusionLaparoscopic TAP blocks have equivalent efficacy in post-operative pain scores, narcotic use, and tissue plane accuracy as compared to US-guided TAP blocks. They are also completed faster and may result in less operating room and general anesthetic time for the pediatric patient.     

Influence of thoracic epidural analgesia on postoperative pain relief and ileus after laparoscopic colorectal resection

Background  Thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) provides superior analgesia with a lower incidence of postoperative ileus when compared with systemic opiate analgesia in open colorectal surgery. However, in laparoscopic colorectal surgery the role of TEA is not well defined. This prospective observational study investigates the influence of TEA in laparoscopic colorectal resections. Methods  All patients undergoing colorectal resection between November 2004 and February 2007 were assessed for inclusion into a prospective randomized trial investigating the influence of bisacodyl on postoperative ileus. All patients treated by laparoscopic resection from this collective were eligible for the present study. Primary endpoints were use of analgesics and visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores. Secondary endpoint concerned full gastrointestinal recovery, defined as the mean time to the occurrence of the following three events (GI-3): first flatus passed, first defecation, and first solid food tolerated. Results  75 patients underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection, 39 in the TEA group and 36 in the non-TEA group. Patients with TEA required significantly less analgesics (metamizol median 3.0 g [0–32 g] versus 13.8 g [0–28 g] (p < 0.001); opioids mean 12 mg [±2.8 mg standard error of mean, SEM] versus 103 mg [±18.2 mg SEM] (p < 0.001). VAS scores were significantly lower in the TEA group (overall mean 1.67 [± 0.2 SEM] versus 2.58 [±0.2 SEM]; p = 0.004). Mean time to gastrointestinal recovery (GI-3) was significantly shorter (2.96 [±0.2 SEM] days versus 3.81 [±0.3 SEM] days; p = 0.025). Analysis of the subgroup of patients with laparoscopically completed resections showed corresponding results. Conclusion  TEA provides a significant benefit in terms of less analgesic consumption, better postoperative pain relief, and faster recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resection.     

Does the laparoscopic treatment of paediatric hydroceles represent a better alternative to the traditional open repair technique? A retrospective study of 1332 surgeries performed at two centres in China

Purpose

To evaluate the safety, efficacy and merits of laparoscopic repair in children with hydroceles by comparing the outcomes of laparoscopic repair and the traditional open repair (OR) procedure. The outcomes of the following three laparoscopic percutaneous extra-peritoneal closure (LPEC) approaches were also compared: conventional two-port surgery, transumbilical single-site two-port surgery and single-port surgery.

Methods

We retrospectively compared the demographic, perioperative and follow-up data from the consecutive records obtained for 382 boys who underwent OR and 950 boys who underwent LPEC at two children’s medical centres in China. In the LPEC group, regardless of the hydrocele form, one of the three approaches with percutaneous aspiration was performed: conventional two-port surgery was performed in 387 cases, single-site two-port surgery was performed in 468 cases and single-port surgery was performed in 95 cases. The clinical data and complications were statistically analysed.

Results

Postoperative follow-up data were obtained for all the patients. The mean follow-up time was 36 months (24–48 months) in the OR group and 32.5 months (20–44 months) in the LPEC group. Significant differences in recurrence were not observed between the groups (five in the OR and 10 in the LPEC; P = 0.69). However, the operation time, postoperative hospital stay, incidence of scrotal oedema, incision infection and contralateral metachronous hernia or hydrocele were significantly higher in the OR group than those in the LPEC group (P < 0.01). Eighteen children (4.71%) had a negative exploration of the patent processus vaginalis (PPV) in the OR group. Fourteen children (1.47%) in the LPEC group had a closed internal ring and were converted to a scrotal procedure. Significant differences in the clinical data or complications were not observed between the two centres for the laparoscopic procedure (P > 0.05). Contralateral PPV (cPPV) was found in 18 patients in the single-port group (18.9%). Of the patients affected with cPPV, significant differences were observed between the single-port group and the two-port LPEC group (122 patients, 31.5%, P = 0.016) and the single-site two-port group (the 148 patients, 31.6%, P = 0.013). A contralateral metachronous hernia or hydrocele was found in zero, zero and two cases in these groups, respectively, and significant differences were observed (P < 0.01) between the single-site surgery and the other two laparoscopic approaches.

Conclusions

LPEC is safe, feasible and effective for treating hydroceles in children and has the same recurrence rate as OR. However, LPEC is superior in operation time, hospital stay, occurrence of scrotal oedema, incision infection and occurrence of metachronous hernia or hydrocele. The transumbilical single-site two-port procedure has the same cosmetic effect as the single-port LPEC. According to our experience, the two-port LPEC approach is better for diagnosing cPPV and reducing metachronous hernia or hydrocele than the single-port LPEC procedure.

     

Making common duct exploration common-balloon sphincteroplasty as an adjunct to transcystic laparoscopic common bile duct exploration for pediatric patients

BackgroundLaparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) at the time of cholecystectomy has well-established benefits for managing pediatric choledocholithiasis. However, providers increasingly favor ERCP pre-or-post laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ERCP+LC) due to perceived complexity of LCBDE. We refined a stepwise method employing wire-ready balloon dilation of the Sphincter of Oddi. This study compares outcomes of balloon sphincteroplasty (LCBDE+BSP) with standard transcystic LCBDE (LCBDE-STD) and ERCP+LC.MethodsWe performed a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients who underwent LCBDE-STD and LCBDE+BSP since 2018. A report of consecutive choledocholithiasis patients prior to 2018 yielded an ERCP+LC cohort. Age, operative time, complications, and length of stay (LOS) were compared across all groups. Success rate and fluoroscopy time were compared between LCBDE groups.Results44 patients were identified (14:LCBDE-STD; 15:LCBDE+BSP; 15:ERCP+LC) . There was no difference in patient age or BMI. Operative time was longer in the LCBDE+BSP group (p =< 0.05). ERCP+LC demonstrated increased LOS (4.36 ± 2.78 vs 1.31 ± 0.93; p =< 0.05) and complications compared to LCBDE groups including three stent placements and one stent migration. LCBDE+BSP had a higher success rate than LCBDE-STD (100% vs 78%; p = 0.06). The three patients who failed LCBDE-STD required postoperative ERCP. Average fluoroscopy time was not significantly impacted by addition of sphincteroplasty.ConclusionIncorporating LCBDE into standard management of pediatric choledocholithiasis reduces LOS and avoids additional invasive procedures regardless of the specific technique employed. This stepwise approach to wire-ready cholangiography with balloon sphincteroplasty is a viable method for LCBDE that utilizes techniques familiar to pediatric surgeons and provides definitive management under a single anesthetic.Level of evidenceLevel III.     

Inguinal hernia repair in children using single-incision laparoscopic-assisted percutaneous extraperitoneal closure

Background/PurposeThere are numerous techniques of minimally invasive surgery for pediatric inguinal hernia. However, laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC) is one of the most simple and reliable methods. Single-incision laparoscopic surgery has recently been developed to reduce the invasiveness of traditional laparoscopy. This study aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of the single-incision approach for LPEC.Materials and MethodsBetween June 2009 and March 2010, 117 conventional LPEC and 60 single-incision LPEC (SILPEC) procedures were performed. A laparoscope was placed through a transumbilical incision. A 3-mm grasping forceps was inserted in the lower abdomen in LPEC and through the same transumbilical incision with a different entrance in SILPEC. Using the LPEC needle, the hernia sac was closed extraperitoneally. We compared the short-term outcomes of 177 children operated on using either technique.ResultsVisualization and tissue manipulation were good in both methods. There were no complications or evidence of early recurrence. Cosmetically, SILPEC proved to be superior to LPEC because the scar resulting from surgical incision is hidden within the umbilicus.ConclusionSingle-incision LPEC proved to be as successful an operative procedure as LPEC and produced excellent cosmetic results. Single-incision LPEC for inguinal hernia in children is safe and feasible.     

Ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane block in pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery

ObjectiveTo assess safety and effectiveness of ultrasound-guided TAP block in children undergoing laparoscopic surgery for undescended testis.Subjects and methodsThis randomized controlled trial involved 108 children, 3–7 years old, randomly allocated into one of two equal groups; TAP Group and Control Group. All children received general anesthesia using propofol 1.5–2.5 mg/kg, atracurium 0.5 mg/kg and fentanyl 2 μg/kg. TAP Group received 0.5 ml/kg of ropivacaine 0.375% bilaterally under ultrasound guidance and control group received regular analgesics. Quality of analgesia was assessed using Children’s Hospital Eastern Ontario Pain Scale (CHEOPS) and Objective behavioral pain score (OPS). The primary outcome measures were hemodynamic parameters and degree of pain. Secondary outcome measures were intraoperative fentanyl requirement, postoperative rescue analgesia (time and dose), complications, hospital stay and degree of satisfaction of patients and their parents.ResultsTAP block group had significantly lower intraoperative fentanyl dose (p < 0.001), significantly longer time to first postoperative request of analgesic (p < 0.001), lower analgesic dose during the first postoperative 24 h (p < 0.001) and lower pain scores along the whole 24 postoperative hours. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate were within the clinically accepted range in the two groups. Parents’ satisfaction was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the TAP block group.ConclusionTAP block under ultrasound guidance was easy, safe, reliable and effective analgesic in children undergoing laparoscopic surgery for undescended testis.     

Initial experience of Chinese surgical robot “Micro Hand S″-assisted versus open and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: Short-term outcomes in a single center

BackgroundA Chinese surgical robot, Micro Hand S, was introduced for clinical use as a novel robotic platform. This study aimed to comprehensively compare the early experience of the Micro Hand S robot-assisted total mesorectal excision (TME) with conventional approaches.MethodsBetween May 2017 and April 2018, 99 consecutive patients who underwent open, laparoscopic and Micro Hand S robot-assisted TME (O-/L-/RTME) for rectal cancer were included. Clinical and pathological outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. Surgical success as the primary endpoint was defined as the absence of (i) conversion, (ii) incomplete TME, (iii) involved circumferential and distal resection margins (CRM/DRM), (iv) severe complications.ResultsThe rate of surgical success was similar (89.7 vs. 86.4 vs. 84.6%, p = 0.851) in the three groups and the respective incidences were as follows: conversion (not applicable, 4.5 vs. 2.3%, p = 1.000), incomplete TME (6.9 vs. 6.8 vs. 3.8%, p = 0.980), involved CRM/DRM (0 vs. 2.3 vs. 3.8%, p = 0.592), severe complications (3.4 vs. 4.5 vs. 7.7%, p = 0.844). Compared with open and laparoscopic surgery, the robotic surgery was associated with longer operative time, less blood loss, earlier first flatus time and liquid intake time, and shorter length of hospital stay (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThe Micro Hand S assisted TME is safe and feasible, showing comparable outcomes than conventional approaches, with superiority in blood loss, recovery of bowel function, length of hospital stay, but with increased operative time.     

Continuous adductor canal block following total knee arthroplasty provides a better analgesia compared to single shot: A prospective randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare single-shot adductor canal block and continuous infusion adductor canal block techniques in total knee arthroplasty patients.MethodsWe prospectively randomized 123 patients who were scheduled for unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty surgery into single shot (n = 60; mean age: 67.1 ± 6.9 years) and continuous (n = 63; mean age: 66.9 ± 6.8 years) adductor canal block groups. Postoperative visual analog scale pain scores, need for additional opioids and functional results as; timed up and go test, the 30-s chair stand test, 5 times sit-to-stand test, the 6-min walking test, the time to active straight leg raise, time to walking upstairs, maximal flexion at the time of discharge, duration of stay in hospital were compared between the two groups.ResultsPain scores were lower in the continuous adductor canal block group as compared to the single-shot adductor canal block group throughout the postoperative period (p = 0.001). Rescue analgesia was required for 6 (10%) patients in the single shot group and for 1 (1.59%) patient in the continuous group (p = 0.044). Patients in the continuous adductor canal block group displayed better functional results than the single-shot adductor canal block group with respect to active straight-leg rise time (25.52 ± 4.56 h vs 30.47 ± 8.07 h, p = 0.001), 6-min walking test (74.52 ± 29.38 m vs 62.18 ± 33.32 m, p = 0.035) and maximal knee flexion degree at discharge (104.92 ± 5.35° vs 98.5 ± 7.55°, p = 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups for other functional and ambulation scores.ConclusionPain control following total knee arthroplasty was found to be better in those patients treated with continuous adductor canal block as compared to those treated with single-shot adductor canal block. Patients treated with continuous adductor canal block also displayed better ambulation and functional recovery following total knee arthroplasty.Level of evidenceLevel I, Therapeutic Study.