Current experience and future directions of completely NOTES colorectal resection

Clinical implementation and widespread application of natural orifice translumenal surgery (NOTES) has been limited by the lack of specialized endoscopic equipment, which has prevented the ability to perform complex procedures including colorectal resections. Relative to other types of translumenal access, transanal NOTES using transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) provides a stable platform for endolumenal and direct translumenal access to the peritoneal cavity, and specifically to the colon and rectum. Completely NOTES transanal rectosigmoid resection using TEM, with or without transgastric endoscopic assistance, was demonstrated to be feasible and safe in a swine survival model. The same technique was successfully replicated in human cadavers using commercially available TEM, with endoscopic and laparoscopic instrumentation. This approach also permitted complete rectal mobilization with total mesorectal excision to be performed completely transanally. As in the swine model, transgastric and/or transanal endoscopic assistance extended the length of proximal colon mobilized and overcame some of the difficulties with TEM dissection including limited endoscopic visualization and maladapted instrumentation. This extensive laboratory experience with NOTES transanal rectosigmoid resection served as the basis for the first human NOTES transanal rectal cancer excision using TEM and laparoscopic assistance. Based on this early clinical experience, NOTES transanal approach using TEM holds significant promise as a safe and substantially less morbid alternative to conventional colorectal resection in the management of benign and malignant colorectal diseases. Careful patient selection and substantial improvement in NOTES instrumentation are critical to optimize this approach prior to widespread clinical application, and may ultimately permit completely NOTES transanal colorectal resection.     

Survival study of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery for rectosigmoid resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery with or without transgastric endoscopic assistance in a swine model

Background

The feasibility of transanal rectosigmoid resection with transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) was previously demonstrated in a swine nonsurvival model in which transgastric endoscopic assistance also was shown to extend the length of colon mobilized transanally.

Methods

A 2-week survival study evaluating transanal endoscopic rectosigmoid resection with stapled colorectal anastomosis was conducted with swine using the transanal approach alone (TEM group, n = 10) or a transanal approach combined with transgastric endoscopic assistance (TEM + TG group, n = 10). Gastrotomies were created using a needleknife and balloon dilation, then closed using prototype T-tags. Outcomes were evaluated and compared between the groups using Student’s t-test and Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Relative to the TEM group, the average length of rectosigmoid mobilized in the TEM + TG group was 15.6 versus 10.5 cm (p < 0.0005), the length of the resected specimen was 9 versus 6.2 cm (p < 0.0005), and the mean operative time was 254.5 versus 97.5 min (p < 0.0005). Intraoperatively, no organ injury or major bleeding was noted. Two T-tag misfires occurred during gastrotomy closure and four small staple line defects requiring transanal repair including one in the TEM group and three in the TEM + TG group (p = 0.2). Postoperatively, there was no mortality, and the animals gained an average of 3.4 lb. Two major complications (10%) were identified at necropsy in the TEM + TG group including an intraabdominal abscess and an abdominal wall hematoma related to T-tag misfire. Gastrotomy closure sites and colorectal anastomoses were all grossly healed, with adhesions noted in 60 and 70% and microabscesses in 50 and 20% of the gastrotomy sites and colorectal anastomoses, respectively.

Conclusions

Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) for rectosigmoid resection using TEM with or without transgastric endoscopic assistance is feasible and associated with low morbidity in a porcine survival model. Transgastric assistance significantly prolongs the operative time but extends the length of the rectosigmoid mobilized transanally, with a nonsignificant increase in complication rates related to gastrotomy creation.     

NOTES transanal rectal cancer resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery and laparoscopic assistance

Background  

The feasibility and safety of Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) transanal endoscopic rectosigmoid resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) was previously demonstrated in human cadavers and a porcine survival model. We report the first clinical case of a NOTES transanal resection for rectal cancer using TEM and laparoscopic assistance, performed by a team of surgeons from Barcelona and Boston with extensive experience with NOTES and minimally invasive approaches to colorectal diseases.     

Transanal rectosigmoid resection via natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) with total mesorectal excision in a large human cadaver series

Background

The authors’ group has previously described successful transanal rectosigmoid resection via natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) in both porcine and cadaveric models using the transanal endoscopic microsurgery platform. This report describes the largest cadaveric series to date as optimization of this approach for clinical application continues.

Methods

Between December 2008 and September 2011, NOTES transanal rectosigmoid resection with total mesorectal excision (TME) was successfully performed in 32 fresh human cadavers using transanal dissection alone (n = 19), with transgastric endoscopic assistance (n = 5), or with laparoscopic assistance (n = 8). The variables recorded were gender, body mass index (BMI), operative time, length of the mobilized specimen, integrity of the mesorectum and the resected specimen, and complications. Univariate statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Of the 32 cadavers, 22 were male with a mean BMI of 24 kg/m² (range 16.3–37 kg/m²). The mean operative time was 5.1 h (range 3–8 h), and the mean specimen length was 53 cm (range 15–91.5 cm). After the first five cadavers, specimen length significantly improved, and a trend toward decreased operative time was demonstrated. The mesorectum was intact in 100 % of the specimens. In nine cadavers, endoscopic dissection was complicated by organ injury. Evaluation by the operative approach demonstrated a significantly longer specimen with laparoscopic assistance (67.7 cm) than with transgastric assistance (45.4 cm) or transanal dissection alone (49.2 cm) (p = 0.013). Comparison of the technique used for inferior mesenteric pedicle division demonstrated both significantly decreased operative time (4.8 vs 6 h; p = 0.024) and increased specimen length (57.7 vs 39.6 cm; p = 0.025) when a stapler was used in lieu of a bipolar cautery device.

Conclusion

Transanal NOTES rectosigmoid resection with TME is feasible and demonstrates improvement in specimen length and operative time with experience. Transitioning to clinical application requires laparoscopic assistance to overcome limitations related to NOTES instrumentation, as well as procedural training with fresh human cadavers.     

Transanal specimen retrieval using the transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) system in minimally invasive colon resection

Back ground  

During laparoscopic colectomy, the specimen is retrieved through substantial incisions, which increase postoperative pain, wound infections, and incisional hernias [1–3]. In the era of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), incisionless transrectal approaches for colon resections have been investigated with promising results [4–6]. Transanal retrieval of the colonic specimen in laparoscopic colectomy has been described but not widely adopted [7–12], although it seems to be an appealing step towards NOTES colectomy. We have used the TEM rectoscope (Richard Wolf Medical Instruments Corporation, Vernon Hills, IL, USA) as a retrieval conduit, which facilitates transanal extraction of the specimen, and protects the rectal edge and anal sphincter during laparoscopic left colectomy.     

Endo-Laparoscopic Colectomy Without Mini-Laparotomy for Left-Sided Colonic Tumors

Background  In performing “traditional” laparoscopic colectomy for left-sided colonic tumors, specimen retrieval necessitates a mini-laparotomy which often is the cause of postoperative pain, wound infection, and other pain-related complications. Here we describe a new technique of endo-laparoscopic anterior resection without mini-laparotomy, where specimen retrieval and colorectal anastomosis can be safely achieved with the use of the transanal endoscopic operation (TEO) device set-up. Methods   This hybrid natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) technique involves insertion of the TEO device in the lower rectum and luminal extraction of the specimen via the device. The technique is applicable to patients with small tumors (4 cm or less) in the left-sided colon or upper rectum, where transanal construction of a stapled colorectal anastomosis is intended. Results  The technique was attempted in ten patients (male:female 4:6) with median age of 66 years (range: 55–81 years). Five patients suffered from rectosigmoid tumors, whereas four patients had lesions in the sigmoid colon and one had a lesion in the descending colon. The median operating time was 127.5 min (range: 105–170 min) and the median blood loss was 20 ml (range: 20–50 ml). The median hospital stay was 7 days (range: 4–18 days), while the median maximum pain score (visual analog score) was 2 (range: 2–3) during in-hospital stay in this small series. Conclusions  Our preliminary experience indicates this new technique of endo-laparoscopic colectomy is feasible for selected patients with left-sided colonic tumors. Complications related to mini-laparotomy can be abolished entirely with this hybrid approach.     

Human NOTES Cholecystectomy: Transgastric Hybrid Technique

Background  Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is an emerging field in minimally invasive surgery that is driving the development of new technology and techniques. There are several proposed benefits to the NOTES approach, including potentially decreased abdominal pain, wound infections, and hernia formation Ko and Kalloo (Chin J Dig Dis 7:67–70, 2006); Wagh et al. (Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 3(9):892–896, 2005); ASGE/SAGES Working Group on Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (Gastrointest Endosc 63(2):199–203, 2006); and Pearl and Ponsky (J GI Surg 12:1293–1300, 2008). Cholecystectomy has been one of the most commonly performed NOTES procedures to date, with the majority being performed through the transvaginal approach Marescaux et al. (Arch Surg 142:823–826, 2007); Zorron et al. (Surg Endosc 22:542–547, 2008); and Ramos et al. (Endoscopy 40:572–575, 2008). Transgastric approaches for cholecystectomy have been shown to be technically feasible in animal models and in several unpublished human patients Sumiyama et al. (Gastrointest Endosc 65(7):1028–1034, 2007). This video demonstrates the technique by which we perform transgastric NOTES hybrid cholecystectomy in human patients. Method  Patients with symptomatic gallstone disease are enrolled under an IRB approved protocol. A diagnostic EGD is performed to confirm normal anatomy. Peritoneal access is gained using a needle-knife cautery and balloon dilation under laparoscopic visualization. Dissection of the critical view of safety is performed endoscopically. The cystic duct and artery are clipped laparoscopically and the gallbladder is dissected off of the liver. The gastrotomy is closed intralumenally and over-sewed laparoscopically. The gallbladder is extracted out the mouth. Results  This technique was used to successfully perform four NOTES hybrid transgastric cholecystectomies without operative complications. Conclusions  NOTES hybrid transgastric cholecystectomy can be performed safely in human patients. This procedure is still technically challenging given the current instrumentation that is available. In order to perform a pure NOTES transgastric cholecystectomy, a safe blind access method, improved retraction, endoscopic hemostatic clips, and reliable closure methods need to be developed. Electronic supplementary material  The online version of this article (doi:) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users. Presented at SSAT/DDW, May 2008, San Diego, CA.     

A novel single-port technique for transanal rectosigmoid resection and colorectal anastomosis on an ex vivo experimental model

Background  

In the context of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), we developed a new set of rigid instruments according to the principles of transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM).These instruments are long, curved, and steerable by rotating two wheels near its handle. Our success in transvaginal cholecystectomy in human with these instruments motivated us to explore the feasibility of rectosigmoid resection through the anus.     

Can Gastric Irrigation Prevent Infection During NOTES Mesh Placement?

Background  Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) ventral hernia repair could avoid abdominal wall incisions. The infectious risk for mesh placement is of concern. We compared NOTES with laparoscopic mesh placement. Methods  Thirty-seven swine were randomized to abdominal wall polypropylene mesh placement via NOTES or laparoscopy or NOTES control. All animals received antibiotics and gastric irrigation; the laparoscopy group also received preoperative acid suppression. In the NOTES mesh group, the 2-cm² polypropylene mesh was placed using a transgastric transportation device and clipped to the anterior abdominal wall. The control animals underwent endoscopy (no gastrotomy) followed by laparoscopic mesh placement or NOTES only without mesh placement. Necropsy was performed at 14 days. Results  One NOTES mesh placement was incomplete (endoscope failure). All mesh animals survived to 14 days. At necropsy, significantly more mesh infections were noted in the NOTES mesh versus laparoscopy group (4:11 vs 0:14; p = 0.03). Gastric irrigation reduced the bacterial load significantly in all groups (p < 0.001). Infection was independent of gastric bacterial load. No difference between acid suppressed and non-suppressed animals was seen. Conclusion  The mesh placement via NOTES is technically feasible but has a high infection rate despite irrigation. Sterile conduits are needed to enable NOTES-type hernia repair with mesh. Presented at the 49th annual meeting of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, May 21, 2008, San Diego, CA.     

Complications after transanal endoscopic microsurgical resection correlate with location of rectal neoplasms

Purpose Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a technique that has found its place in routine practice due to its minimal invasive character and associated low morbidity. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of anatomical variables of rectal neoplasms as well as surgeon experience on postoperative complications in patients undergoing TEM at a tertiary care center. Methods Data from 288 patients undergoing TEM over a 16 year period were entered in a prospective data base. Anatomical data of rectal neoplasms, operative data, and early postoperative outcome were analyzed retrospectively. Results Overall surgical complications [OR 7.0 (1.5–45,5); p < 0.01] and bleeding [OR 222 (82 – 14316); p < 0.01] correlated with the localization of the neoplasm on the lateral wall of the rectum. Furthermore there was a trend for more surgical overall complications as well as bleeding in neoplasms with a diameter of >2 cm and neoplasms located >8 cm from the anal verge. Complications did not correlate with the number of TEM procedures performed. Conclusion TEM resection of neoplasms located on the lateral rectal wall have a higher risk of bleeding. The learning curve for transanal endoscopic microsurgery appears to be negligible in surgeons with experience in minimal invasive surgery.     

Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) applied totally to sigmoidectomy: an original technique with survival in a porcine model

Background  Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) continues to evolve. This study investigated the feasibility and outcome of performing localized sigmoidectomy in its entirety via NOTES. Methods  A survival study of five male minipigs (mean weight, 30 kg) was conducted. After anesthesia, a gastrotomy was created by a per os double-channel endoscope, and full peritoneoscopy was performed. A Berci needle then was inserted transparietally to allow maintenance and monitoring of the pneumoperitoneum. Using a transanal probe to facilitate intestinal retraction, the mesentery was dissected with instruments worked through the channels of the transgastric endoscope. The anvil of a circular stapler then was passed per anum into the colon above the point of intended transection. A penetrating transrectal trocar was placed to allow entry of a linear stapler into the peritoneum through a colotomy, and the sigmoid was cross-stapled proximally. The strut of the anvil then was snugged into a colotomy made at this staple line. The specimen was delivered via the anus by a “pull-through” technique. The distal sigmoidal margin was cross-stapled extracorporeally, ensuring that the colotomy was included within the specimen. Retrograde passage of the circular stapler head per anus allowed colocolonic reanastomosis by its mating with the anvil already in situ. The gastrotomy was closed with a previously validated prosthesis. Postoperatively, all the animals were recovered and monitored for well-being during convalescence. Endoscopy (gastroscopy and sigmoidoscopy), laparoscopy, and laparotomy were performed on postoperative day 14 as follow-up measures. Results  Each operation was satisfactorily completed. The mean operative time was 76 min (range, 44–95 min). All the animals prospered postoperatively. Follow-up examination showed full healing of all anastomoses and gastrotomy sites. There was no evidence of luminal stricturing, peritonitis, or intraabdominal sepsis in any animal. Conclusions  Using this experimental model, colonic resection and reanastomosis can be performed safely within the NOTES format. Presented at S032 NOTES Sigmoid Resection at SAGES, April 9–12, 2008.     

NOTES: cadaveric rendezvous hybrid small bowel resection

Background  Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is an emerging field in minimally invasive surgery that is driving the development of new technology and techniques [1–4]. Before NOTES gains widespread popularity, it must be proven to be a safe and efficacious technique [5]. There are several proposed benefits to the NOTES approach, including potentially decreased abdominal pain, wound infections, and hernia formation. Methods  Currently, most investigational NOTES procedures are performed using a single transgastric, transcolonic, or transvaginal access point to the abdomen. In order to provide greater range of motion and freedom of movement, a rendezvous procedure using simultaneous transgastric and transcolonic approaches was used to perform a small bowel resection. This video demonstrates a successful NOTES hybrid small bowel resection with the use of two laparoscopic ports in a cadaveric model. A powered stapling device attached to a flexible shaft is introduced transcolonically and facilitates division and re-anastamosis of the small bowel. A dual-channel operating endoscope introduced transgastrically allows for precise dissection and creation of enterotomies necessary for the small bowel resection. Conclusions  While technically challenging, NOTES hybrid small bowel resection can be accomplished with specially designed instrumentation utilizing the rendezvous technique. There are several technical limitations preventing this procedure from being completed in a pure NOTES fashion. A safe method of creating blind enterotomies will be needed to eliminate laparoscopic visualization of the enterotomy sites. Adequate endoscopic exposure and retraction of tissue is still difficult and currently requires percutaneous adjuncts. New closure devices will be needed for safe and reliable NOTES enterotomy closure. With the development of such instruments, this, as well as other NOTES procedures, will become more technically feasible. Electronic supplementary material  The online version of this article (doi:) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.     

Initial Experience with Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery: the Need for Understanding the Limitations

Introduction  

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is an alternative to transanal excision or radical surgery for benign and carefully selected malignant rectal tumors. Advantages over transanal excision include better visualization, access to more proximal lesions, higher likelihood of negative margins, and lower recurrence rates. Compared to radical resection, patients experience lower rates of morbidity and mortality but may have higher rates of local recurrence.     

Pure natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) nephrectomy using standard laparoscopic instruments in the porcine model

PURPOSE: Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) is an emerging technology that uses endoscopic instruments passed into the peritoneal cavity through hollow viscera to perform surgical procedures without the use of abdominal incisions. There are, however, limitations regarding the equipment available to simulate traditional surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of a pure NOTES nephrectomy by using standard laparoscopic instruments through a modified transvaginal trocar. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One 40-kg female swine underwent transgastric peritoneoscopy. Transgastric endoscopic visualization guided the introduction of a second transvaginal endoscope through a novel laparoscopic trocar/endoscopic overtube device. The retroflexed transgastric endoscope provided triangulated visualization as standard endoscopic instruments provided retraction, which allowed dissection of the kidney with standard laparoscopic instruments through our modified transvaginal trocar device. Each renal hilum, artery, vein, and ureter was dissected and divided with a transvaginal laparoscopic stapler. RESULTS: Transgastric and transvaginal NOTES accesses were easily achieved, and bilateral nephrectomies were performed. Completion of peritoneoscopy revealed complete hemostasis and identification of ligated ureters and hilar vessels. Total operative time was 40 and 20 minutes for the right and left kidney, respectively. One kidney was captured with a laparoscopic retrieval sac and removed intact through the vaginal defect. CONCLUSIONS: Pure NOTES nephrectomies are technically feasible in the porcine model by using standard laparoscopic instruments. Survival studies are necessary to determine the long-term complications and physiologic implications of NOTES nephrectomy. The development of innovative NOTES access trocars may allow for an increased armamentarium of NOTES instruments.     

Lymphatic Mapping and Sentinel Node Biopsy in the Colonic Mesentery by Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES)

Introduction  Although intraluminal and transluminal techniques can achieve localized resection of early-stage alimentary tumours, they do not designate the status of the filtering mesenteric lymph nodes. Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) may however effect sentinel node biopsy from within the peritoneum. Methods  A transgastric NOTES technique was utilized in six pigs. A conventional double-channel gastroscope created both the 12mm anterior gastrotomy and the pneumoperitoneum and enabled peritoneoscopy. The sigmoid colon was fully exposed by an intracolonic magnet under extracorporeal control. Colonoscopy facilitated submucosal injection of methylene blue dye (3 ml) at the apex of the sigmoid loop under direct transgastric vision. The mesocolon was searched for blue-stained lymph channels and nodes, the latter being resected and retrieved by the intraperitoneal endoscope. At procedure end, three pigs underwent immediate laparotomy for scrutiny of the operation site while three were survived for forensic laparotomy on postoperative day 14. Results  Each procedure was a technical success. Gastrotomy, pneumoperitoneum, peritoneoscopy and sigmoid exposure were promptly achieved (mean 9.2 min). Post-injection, blue lymphatics identifying specific nodes were immediately appreciable and these could be dissected cleanly and retrieved intact per oram. Mean lymphadenectomy time was 19 (range 12–32) min. All survival animals thrived during convalescence. At laparotomy, there was neither mesentery penetration, bowel ischemia nor mesenteric hematoma/hemorrhage in any pig and no residual blue stained nodes in those sacrificed early. Conclusion  Sentinel node biopsy can be performed without abdominal wall transgression. Thus potentially the oncological proprietary of local resectional techniques may be augmented while preserving their ideals and dividends. Electronic supplementary material  The online version of this article (doi:) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.     

Transanal hybrid colon resection: from laparoscopy to NOTES

Background

Reducing access size and trauma are important issues in natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). The combination of experience with laparoscopic colorectal surgery and transanal endoscopic microsurgery has helped in the use of the transanal approach as a realistic option of NOTES techniques to introduce transanal hybrid laparoscopic-assisted colon resection into clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical introduction of transanal hybrid colon resection in terms of feasibility and patient safety.

Methods

Patients with pelvic floor disorders, prolapse, and slow-transit constipation in whom a colon resection was indicated were recruited. Patients were followed prospectively with a postoperative well-being score, a pain score, and a quality-of-life score. All complications were prospectively documented. The essential change was the reduction of the number and size of ports by using the transanal route. A camera and two 5-mm ports for grasping forceps and delivering ultrasonic energy were the laparoscopic components. All tasks requiring a port diameter of >5 mm were applied via the transanal route, such as positioning of the proximal stapler anvil, application of linear stapling for resection, specimen retrieval, stapler anastomosis, and closing the bowel.

Results

Fifteen patients with benign colorectal disease underwent transanal hybrid colon resection, and 11 had additional rectopexy. All patients were women with a mean age of 61 (range, 28–86) years and a body mass index of 26 kg/m². One patient was converted to full laparoscopy. One complication—bleeding that required no reintervention—was recorded. The procedure lasted a mean of 131 (range, 55–184) min. The Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index was 96 before surgery and 117 after surgery.

Conclusions

From this initial experience, transanal hybrid colon resection seems a feasible and safe hybrid NOTES procedure that can be usefully introduced into clinical practice.     

Natural-orifice transgastric endoscopic peritoneoscopy in humans: Initial clinical trial

Background Natural-orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is a possible advancement for surgical interventions. We initiated a pilot study in humans to investigate feasibility and develop the techniques and technology necessary for NOTES. Reported herein is the first human clinical trial of NOTES, performing transoral transgastric diagnostic peritoneoscopy. Methods Patients were scheduled to undergo diagnostic laparoscopic evaluation of a pancreatic mass. The findings of traditional laparoscopy were recorded by anatomical abdominal quadrant. A second surgeon, blinded to the laparoscopic findings, performed transgastric peritoneoscopy. Diagnostic findings between the two methods were compared and operative times and clinical course were recorded. Definitive care was based on findings at diagnostic laparoscopy. Results Ten patients completed the protocol with an average age of 67.6 years. All patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy followed by successful transgastric access and diagnostic endoscopic peritoneoscopy. The average time of diagnostic laparoscopy was 12.3 minutes compared to 24.8 minutes for the transgastric route. Transgastric abdominal exploration corroborated the decision to proceed to open exploration made during traditional laparoscopic exploration in 9 of 10 patients. Peritoneal or liver biopsies were obtained in four patients by traditional laparoscopy and in one patient by the transgastric access route. Findings were confirmed by laparotomy in nine patients. Eight patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and two underwent palliative gastrojejunostomy and/or hepaticojejunostomy. Conclusions Transgastric diagnostic peritoneoscopy is safe and feasible. This study demonstrates the initial steps of NOTES in humans, providing a potential platform for incisionless surgery. Technical issues, including instrumentation, visualization, intra-abdominal manipulation, and gastric closure need further development.     

Transanal endoscopic surgery with conventional laparoscopy materials: is it feasible?

Introduction

Transanal endoscopic surgery with conventional laparotomy materials may be an alternative to transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) for the excision of rectal lesions susceptible to local resection.

Material and method

We prospectively analysed 27 patients included consecutively between 1999 and 2009, on whom a Transanal endoscopic operation (TEO) was performed by total resection of the rectal wall. All procedures were performed with a 40 mm rectoscope, initially designed by us and later with the Storz rectoscope, using conventional laparoscopic tools and material.

Results

We operated on 27 patients with a mean age of 69.4 years: 23 due to benign lesions and 4 malignant. The medium distance of the tumour to the anal margins was 8.2 cm (range 5-15) and a mean tumour diameter of 3.38 ± 1.2 cm. There were 4 postoperative complications, 3 due to bleeding and one case of perforation. The mean hospital stay was 6 ± 3.75 days. There was no perioperative mortality or recurrences..

Conclusion

Performing transanal endoscopic surgery with conventional laparoscopy material is feasible, with a reduction in costs and accessible to laparoscopy surgeons.     

Transgastric endoscopic peritoneoscopy does not require decontamination of the stomach in humans

Introduction  Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is a rapidly evolving field that provides endoscopic access to the peritoneum via a natural orifice. One important requirement of this technique is the need to minimize the risk of clinically significant peritoneal contamination. We report the bacterial load and contamination of the peritoneal cavity in ten patients who underwent diagnostic transgastric endoscopic peritoneoscopy. Methods  Patients participating in this trial were scheduled to undergo diagnostic laparoscopy for evaluation of presumed pancreatic cancer. Findings at diagnostic laparoscopy were compared with those of diagnostic transgastric endoscopic peritoneoscopy, using an orally placed gastroscope, blinding the endoscopist to the laparoscopic findings. We performed no gastric decontamination. Diagnostic findings, operative times, and clinical course were recorded. Gastroscope and peritoneal fluid aspirates were obtained prior to and after the gastrotomy. Each sample was sent for bacterial colony counts, culture, and identification of species. Results  Ten patients, with an average age of 63.7 years, have completed the protocol. All patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy followed by successful transgastric access and diagnostic peritoneoscopy. The average time for laparoscopy was 7.2 min, compared with 18 min for transgastric instrumentation. Bacterial sampling was obtained in all ten patients. The average number of colony-forming units (CFU) in the gastroscope aspirate was 132.1 CFU/ml, peritoneal aspirates prior to creation of a gastrotomy showed 160.4 CFU/ml, and peritoneal sampling after gastrotomy had an average of 642.1 CFU/ml. There was no contamination of the peritoneal cavity with species isolated from the gastroscope aspirate. No infectious complications or leaks were noted at 30-day follow-up. Conclusions  There was no clinically significant contamination of the peritoneal cavity from the gastroscope after transgastric endoscopic instrumentation in humans. Transgastric instrumentation does contaminate the abdominal cavity but, the pathogens do not mount a clinically significant response in terms of either the species or the bacterial load.