Is laparoscopic resection of colorectal polyps beneficial?

Background: We set out to compare the results of laparoscopic and open resections of colorectal polyps. Methods: Forty-five consecutive patients who underwent operation by a single surgeon for endoscopically irretrievable colonic polyps between April 1992 and March 1996 were classified into the following two groups: group I, laparoscopic procedures for colonic polyps (n= 23); and group II, open procedures for colonic polyps (n= 22). Results: No significant differences were seen between the groups relative to age [71.7 ± 10.7 versus 70.6 ± 13.7 years], gender [male:female = 10:13 versus 13:9], history of previous abdominal operation (eight of 23 [34.8%] versus 10 of 22 [45.5%]), type of pathology (villous: seven of 23 [30.4%] versus four of 22 [18.1%], tubulovillous: nine of 23 [39.1%] versus six of 22 [27.2%], tubular: three of 23 [13.0%] versus seven of 22 [31.8%]), size of polyps (2.6 ± 1.7 cm versus 2.7 ± 1.5 cm), or type of procedures (right hemicolectomy: 15 of 23 [65.2%] versus 11 of 22 [50%], sigmoid colectomy: five of 23 [21.7%] versus six of 22 [27.3%], left hemicolectomy: two of 23 [8.7%] versus two of 22 [9.1%]). There was no mortality and no difference in the incidence of postoperative complications (four of 23 [17.4%] versus seven of 22 [31.8%]), blood loss (167 cc versus 243 cc), number of retrieved lymph nodes (7.1 ± 5 versus 6.6 ± 4), incidence of carcinoma in polyps (two of 23 [13.0%] versus four of 22 [18.2%]), or medical cost ($22,840 versus $18,420), respectively, between the two groups. There were statistically significant differences in length of ileus (3.5 ± 1.0 days versus 5.5 ± 1.8 days), postoperative pain (2.3 ± 1.4 versus 3.7 ± 1.9 on postoperative day 1 [patient pain rating scale 1–10]), length of hospital stay (6.5 ± 2.0 days versus 9.4 ± 2.7 days), and return to normal activity (5.2 ± 4.2 weeks versus 9.3 ± 12.1 weeks) in group I compared to group II, respectively. However, patients in group II had a longer mean specimen length (18.5 ± 6.4 cm versus 29.1 ± 22.7 cm) and a shorter mean operative time (177.6 ± 52.7 min versus 143 ± 51.4 min) than patients in group I. Conclusions: Laparoscopic colectomy for colonic polyps has definite advantages over traditional open surgery, including less postoperative pain, earlier return of bowel function, and earlier return to normal activity. Conversely, its disadvantages include longer operative time and a shorter specimen. Received: 27 January 1997/Accepted: 2 February 1998     

Early experience with laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection

Background: Laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection (LAPR) has not been fully evaluated as a technique in the treatment of rectal and anal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the early experience with laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection at Washington University Medical Center. Methods: A prospective analysis was performed on the first 21 patients undergoing the procedure at Washington University Medical Center. Indications for surgery included rectal cancer (14 patients), anal squamous cell cancer (four patients), inflammatory bowel disease (two patients), and anal melanoma (one patient). Results: The procedure was converted to open procedure in four patients (19%). The mean (±SEM) operative time and blood loss for completed and converted LAPR were 239 ± 11 min and 424 ± 43 ml, respectively. Postoperative hematocrit dropped a mean of 8.3% ± 1.2% SEM; five patients required blood transfusion (24%). Wound complication occurred in four patients (19%; three perineal, one trocar site). Bowel function returned after a mean of 3 days, and mean postoperative hospital stay for the completed LAPR group was 5 days. Mild pain was experienced by 81% of patients (17/21) while 19% (4/21) noted moderate pain, usually of the perineal wound. The mean duration of patient-controlled analgesia use was 2 days. During the 1–44-month follow-up, six patients (29%) died from cancer (stage III or IV at operation) and only one patient developed local recurrence in the pelvis (5%). There were no trocar-site implants of cancer. Furthermore, there was no relationship between prior abdominal operations, the amount of blood loss, postoperative drop of hematocrit, or blood transfusion requirement and the length of hospitalization or complication rates. Conclusion: Laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection is a feasible alternative to the conventional open technique in both cancer and colitis patients. Received: 23 April 1996/Accepted: 8 July 1996     

Simultaneous laparoscopic biliary and retrocolic gastric bypass in patients with unresectable carcinoma of the pancreas

Background: A substantial number of patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer eventually develop biliary or gastric outlet obstruction. In some cases, they present initially with both complications. These conditions contribute markedly to their discomfort and certainly justify palliative intervention. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and safety of simultaneous laparoscopic biliary and gastric bypass in patients with unresectable carcinoma of the pancreas. Methods: Between August 1995 and July 1998, simultaneous laparoscopic biliary and retrocolic gastric bypass was performed successfully in 12 consecutive patients with unresectable carcinoma of the pancreas. There were eight men and four women. Their median age was 72 years (range, 50–82). In all patients, the indications for gastrointestinal bypass were gastric outlet obstruction and obstructive jaundice. The following parameters were evaluated for each patient: procedure-related morbidity and mortality, operative time, length of hospital stay, overall survival, and ability to sustain oral nutrition during the survival period. Results: All procedures were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 89 ± 29.56 min. There were no intraoperative complications. Postoperative morbidity consisted of wound infection in two patients and pneumonia in one patient. One patient died of multiorgan failure on postoperative day 2. The mean hospital stay was 6.4 ± 1.5 days (range, 5–17). The mean survival time until death from underlying disease was 85 ± 32.46 days (range, 31–260). None of the patients had recurrent jaundice, and all of them were able to maintain oral nutrition. Conclusion: Simultaneous laparoscopic biliary and retrocolic gastric bypass is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of biliary and gastroduodenal obstruction in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer. Received: 17 December 1998/Accepted: 13 May 1999     

Video-assisted thoracic surgery as a primary therapy for primary spontaneous pneumothorax

Background: Because blebs are confirmed in most of the patients undergoing thoracotomy, identification of blebs by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) can be proposed as a surgical indication in primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). If an apical bleb is identified, we treat the patient by video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Methods: From May 1995 to September 1997, 61 patients (21.9 ± 4.6 years) were seen for initial episodes of PSP. Only seven showed bullae on simple chest radiography. However, by HRCT, 48 had sizable blebs (>5 mm), and 45 were treated surgically by VATS. Results: The mean duration of chest tube use after surgery was 3.2 ± 1.9 days, and the mean hospital stay was 4.5 ± 1.9 days. Only one recurrence developed 5 weeks after VATS. Conclusions: Our protocol is effective in controlling an initial episode of PSP. It shortens the observation time before definitive surgical treatment, shortens the hospital stay, and decreases the likelihood of recurrence. Received: 25 June 1997/Accepted 18 February 1998     

Thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy for pain control in patients with unresectable carcinoma of the pancreas

Background: Intractable pain is the most distressing symptom in patients suffering from unresectable pancreatic carcinoma. Palliative interventions are justified to relieve the clinical symptoms with as little interference as possible in the quality of life. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy for pain control in patients with unresectable carcinoma of the pancreas. Methods: Between May 1995 and April 1998, 24 patients (14 men and 10 women) with a mean age of 65 years (range, 30–85) suffering from intractable pain due to unresectable carcinoma of the pancreas underwent 35 thoracoscopic splanchnicectomies. All patients were opiate-dependent and unable to perform normal daily activities. Subjective evaluation of pain was measured before and after the procedure by a visual analogue score. The following parameters were also evaluated: procedure-related morbidity and mortality, operative time, and length of hospital stay. Results: All procedures were completed thoracoscopically, and no intraoperative complications occurred. The mean operative time was 58 ± 22 min for unilateral left splanchnicectomy and 93.5 ± 15.6 min for bilateral splanchnicectomies. The median value of preoperative pain intensity reported by patients on a visual analogue score was 8.5 (range, 8–10). Postoperatively, pain was totally relieved in all patients, as measured by reduced analgesic use. However, four patients experienced intercostal pain after bilateral procedures, even though their abdominal pain had disappeared. Complete pain relief until death was achieved in 20 patients (84%). Morbidity consisted of persistent pleural effusion in one patient and residual pneumothorax in another. The mean hospital stay was 3 days (range, 2–5). Conclusions: We found thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy to be a safe and effective procedure of treating malignant intractable pancreatic pain. It eliminates the need for progressive doses of analgesics, with their side effects, and allows recovery of daily activity. The efficacy of this procedure is of major importance since life expectancy in these patients is very short. Received: 23 December 1999/Accepted: 6 January 2000/Online publication: 12 July 2000     

Laparoscopic vs conventional bowel resection in the rat

Background: The role of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of colorectal disease is still controversial. To assess the metabolic consequences of laparoscopic and open bowel surgery, we studied serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), an anabolic and mitogeneic peptide, in rats. Materials and methods: In experiment 1, the serum IGF-1 levels of 10 rats undergoing laparoscopic small bowel resections (group I) and 10 rats undergoing conventional small bowel resections (group II) were determined before surgery and on days 1, 2, and 7. Experiment 2 compared five rats that had CO₂ pneumoperitoneum (group III), five rats that underwent laparotomy (group IV), and five rats that received anesthesia only (group V). Differences in IGF-1 levels were tested with analysis of covariance. Results: In experiment 1, preoperative IGF-1 levels were similar in groups I and II (87.9 ± 6.1 nmol/L versus 90.5 ± 8.1 nmol/L). One day after surgery IGF-1 was 54.6 ± 10.5 in group I versus 41.6 ± 8.3 in group II (p= 0.006). Two days after surgery, IGF-1 was 79.4 ± 9.2 in group I versus 59.0 ± 10.5 in group II (p < 0.001). Seven days after both types of surgery, IGF-1 levels had returned to almost normal levels. In experiment 2, no significant differences were found between the rats with CO₂ pneumoperitoneum (group III) and those with laparotomy only (group IV). Rats that had anaesthesia only showed a significant decrease in IGF-1 levels between days 0 and 1 (p < 0.018). Conclusion: Our study indicates that laparoscopic bowel surgery is associated with a better postoperative anabolic state (i.e., less catabolism) than conventional surgery. This finding reflects a potential benefit of laparoscopy in bowel surgery. Received: 22 May 1996/Accepted: 10 July 1997     

Clinical and radiologic assessment of laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair

Background: Unlike sliding hiatal hernias, paraesophageal hiatal hernias (PEH) present a risk of catastrophic complications and should be repaired. To assess laparoscopic repair of PEH, we prospectively evaluated the outcome of 38 consecutive patients with type II (20 patients) or III (18 patients) PEH treated laparoscopically. Methods: With the use of 5 or 6 ports, laparoscopic PEH reduction and repair was attempted. One patient (3%) was converted to an open procedure. In the first 12 patients, the hiatus was closed using varying techniques including the placement of prothestic mesh in 6 patients, and the hernia sac was not routinely excised. In the next 25 patients, the hernia sac always was excised and the hiatus routinely sutured posteriorly to the esophagus. Twenty-nine patients also underwent either a Nissen (n= 27) or Toupet (n= 2) fundoplication, which is now performed routinely. Sutured anterior gastropexy was performed selectively in 10 of the first 20 patients, then routinely, using T-fasteners in the last 17 patients. Barium swallow studies were performed on all patients at 3 to 5 months postoperatively. Results: Mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM) age was 67 ± 2 year (range, 39–92 years; 11 men, 27 women), and the American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) score was 2.5 ± 0.1. The operating time was 195 ± 10 min: 244 ± 15 min in the first 12 patients and 170 ± 11 min in the last 25 patients (p < 0.001). There were three (8%) intraoperation complications, which were treated without sequelae, and four (11%) grade II postoperation morbidities. Median discharge was 3 days, and return to full activity was 14 days. Two patients (5%) died of cardiovascular disease after discharge. Barium swallow revealed 2/35 (6%) PEH recurrences (1 reoperated), 3 (9%) intrathoracic wraps, and 3 (9%) small sliding hiatal hernias. At follow-up of 1 year or more, 6/28 (21%) patients noted mild symptoms of reflux or bloating, but only 1 patient (4%) required medication for these symptoms. Conclusions: Laparoscopic PEH repair offers a reasonable alternative to traditional surgery, especially for high-risk patients. Rapid recovery is achieved with acceptable morbidity and early outcome. Barium x-rays revealed hiatal abnormalities in a significant fraction of patients, many of whom were asymptomatic. Longer follow-up will be required to determine the ideal strategy for management of these patients. Received: 4 April 1998/Accepted: 9 December 1998     

Laparoscopic splenectomy for ITP

Background: A comparison of safety, efficacy, and cost of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) vs open splenectomy (OS) for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) was performed. Methods: The records of 49 consecutive patients who underwent splenectomy for ITP (31 LS and 18 OS) at a large metropolitan teaching hospital between 3/91 and 8/95 were reviewed. Morbidity, mortality, hospital stay, operative time, blood loss, time to oral fluid intake, direct costs, and operating room (OR) costs were analyzed. Results: Age, sex, comorbidity, and spleen size were similar in both groups. LS was successful in 94% of patients in whom it was attempted. Operative times showed a learning curve for LS, with average times for the last ten cases (94 ± 35 min) significantly shorter than for the first ten (p= 0.01) and also shorter than for OS (103 ± 45 min). Postsurgical hospital stay was 2.9 ± 1.3 days for LS and 6.9 ± 3.0 days for OS (p < 0.001). Patients tolerated an oral diet 1.2 ± 0.5 days after LS and 3.2 + 0.7 days after OS (p < 0.001). Direct hospital cost was $5,509 ± 3,636 for LS and $9,031 ± 12,752 for OS. In the LS group, six patients (21%) had accessory spleens identified and removed, compared with two patients (11%) in the OS group. Platelet counts did not respond in two (7%) patients in the LS group, but no accessory spleens were identified by nuclear scan. One major complication occurred in the LS group. There were no cases of splenosis or mortality in either group. Conclusions: LS is a safe and effective treatment for ITP, with significantly shorter postoperative hospital stay than OS. Received: 26 March 1996/Accepted: 11 May 1996     

Microlaparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background: We set out to compare a prospective evaluation of microlaparoscopic cholesystectomy (MLC) using 5-mm ports for the scope and operating ports and two 2-mm ports for retracting to the historic results of standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SLC). Methods: Fifty-six consecutive patients were operated electively for symptomatic gallstones between June 1997 and July 1998. Demographics, history of prior abdominal surgery, operative time, resident level, need to convert, length of stay, and postoperative analgesia were recorded for each case. In all, 43 women and 13 men aged 21 to 89 (average, 51 years) underwent MLC. Average weight was 78 kg (range, 48–119) and average height was 163 cm. Results: Operative time for MLC was 72 ± 25 min (range, 35–140), somewhat less than the referenced standard of 79 ± 27 min (p= 0.1). The skin-to-trocar time (6 ± 2 vs 13 ± 77 min) and intraoperative cholangiogram time (9 ± 8 vs 11 ± 6 min) were significantly shorter (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) for MLC. Other partial times were not significantly different. PGY2 residents averaged 74 ± 21 min (range, 44–118) compared to 75 ± 27 min (range, 35–140) for PGY3 and 53 ± 5 (range, 43–59) for PGY5. Patient weight influenced time. Patients <65 kg averaged 56 ± 12 min; 66–80 kg, 72 ± 24 min; 81–95 kg, 78 ± 26 min; and >95 kg, 85 ± 22 min. Previous abdominal surgery did not affect operative time. Nine patients (16%) required conversion from 2- to 5-mm ports because of adhesions, wall thickening, or need for better retraction. Time in these patients was 95 ± 26 min vs 68 ± 21 min in other patients (p < 0.01). No patient was converted to an open procedure. Three patients (5%) had a positive cholangiogram and common bile duct exploration that required placement of an extra 5-mm trocar. Five patients (9%) required insertion of an additional 2-mm port. All patients received patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Morphine use was 0.21 ± 0.19 mg/kg (range, 0–0.8). Hospital stay was 1.31 days (range, 0.5–4). Subjective satisfaction was excellent because of smaller incisions. No additional morbidity was seen with MLC. Conclusion: MLC is a feasible and safe approach that provides similar times to SLC with better cosmesis, a less painful recovery, and possibly an earlier return to normal activity. Received: 16 February 1999/Accepted: 8 October 1999     

The use of ultrasound to differentiate rectus sheath hematoma from other acute abdominal disorders

Background: Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is a rare entity that can mimic an acute abdomen. Therefore, we designed a study to analyze the etiology, frequency, diagnosis using ultrasound, and treatment of RSH. Methods: A total of 1,257 patients admitted for abdominal ultrasound for acute abdominal pain or unclear acute abdominal disorders were evaluated. Results: In 23 (1.8%) patients, an RSH was diagnosed; three of them were not diagnosed preoperatively by ultrasound. Of 13 men and 10 women (mean age, 57 ± 23 years), 13 developed RSH after local trauma, three after severe coughing, two after defecation, and five spontaneously. Fifteen had nonsurgical therapy, and eight underwent surgery. The use of anticoagulants was accompanied by a larger diameter of the RSH (p < .012), and surgical therapy was more frequently required in these patients. In the surgically treated group, more intraabdominal free fluid could be detected by ultrasound (p < .0005), patients required less analgesics (p < .001), and the mean hospital stay was shorter (p < .001). Conclusions: RSH is a rare condition that is usually associated with abdominal trauma and/or anticoagulation therapy. Ultrasound is a good screening technique. Nonsurgical therapy is appropriate but leads to a greater need for analgesics. Surgery should be restricted to cases with a large hematoma or free intraabdominal rupture. Received: 29 June 1998/Accepted: 19 December 1998     

Is laparoscopic antireflux surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease in the elderly safe and effective?

Background: The elderly have prevalence rates and clinical features of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) similar to those in younger individuals, but the role of laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) in the elderly has not been clearly established. The purpose of this study was to determine if the results of LARS in the elderly are comparable with those in younger patients. Methods: All patients undergoing LARS for GERD at the Washington University Medical Center were entered prospectively into a computerized database. Between May 1992 and June 1998, 339 patients underwent LARS and were divided into two groups based on age: nonelderly (ages, 18–64 years; n= 303) and elderly (age, ≥65 years; n = 36). Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and statistical analysis was performed. Results: Elderly patients had a higher American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score (2.3 ± 1.5) and a longer hospital stay (2.1 ± 0.2 days) than the younger group (ASA, 1.9 ± 0.5; hospital stay, 1.6 ± 0.9 days; p < 0.001). Operation times averaged 154 ± 68 min in the elderly compared with 134 ± 49 min in the nonelderly (p= NS). Grade I complications occurred significantly more frequently in the elderly (13.9%) than in the nonelderly (2.6%), but the incidence of grade II complications was similar between the groups (elderly 2.8% vs nonelderly 2.7%). There were no grade III complications in either group, but there was one death in the nonelderly group. At follow-up ranging to 81 months (median, 27 months), the two groups had similar low incidences of heartburn and dysphagia. Anatomic failures of LARS developed in 19 nonelderly patients (6.2%) compared with 2 elderly patients (5.5%; p= NS). Conclusions: As shown in this study, LARS is safe and effective in elderly patients with GERD. Age older than 65 years should not be a contraindication to laparoscopic antireflux surgery in properly selected patients. Received: 3 March 1999/Accepted: 2 April 1999     

Laparoscopic closure of perforated duodenal ulcer

Background: Medical treatment of peptic ulcer is highly successful, and the eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) reduces ulcer recurrence. However, the incidence of perforated duodenal ulcer and its associated mortality have not been reduced by modern methods of therapy. Laparoscopic simple closure and omental plug by suturing, fibrin glue, and stapler have been successful. Methods: Over a 1-year period (1996–97), 21 patients with perforated duodenal ulcer were operated on in our hospital by laparoscopic simple closure and omental patch. The mean age was 36.4 ± 11.8 years (range, 18–61). Twenty patients were male (93.7%). The mean duration of pain was 9.1 ± 11.7 hs (range, 2–48). Three patients had a previous history of duodenal ulcer (14.3%), and another three (14.3%) patients had a history of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) intake. Erect chest radiograph showed that 19 patients had air under the diaphragm (90.5%). Sixteen patients (76.2%) had frank pus in the abdomen, and five patients had a minimal peritoneal reaction (23.8%). Results: The mean operative time was 71.6 ± 24.6 mins (range, 40–120), and the mean hospital stay was 5.2 ± 1.6 days (range, 3–9). The mean time to resume oral fluids was 3.1 ± 0.8 days (range, 2–4). Only one patient was reoperated due to leakage identified by gastrographin swallow. Conclusions: This procedure is safe and efficient; however, further study of its long-term effectiveness and comparability to existing therapy is still needed. Received: 28 May 1998/Accepted: 17 November 1998     

Endoscopic photodynamic therapy for obstructing esophageal cancer: 77 cases over a 2-year period

rid="id="<e5>Correspondence to:</e5> J. D. Luketich, 200 Lothrop Street, C-800, Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an alternative treatment option for the palliation of obstructive esophageal cancer. We report our experience with PDT for patients presenting with inoperable, obstructing, or bleeding esophageal cancer. Methods: Seventy-seven patients with inoperable, obstructing esophageal cancer were treated with PDT from November 1996 to July 1998. Photofrin (1.5–2.0 mg/kg) was administered, followed by endoscopic light treatment (630 nm red dye laser) at 48 h. Dysphagia score (1 for no dysphagia to 5 for complete obstruction), dysphagia-free interval, and patient survival were assessed. Results: Seventy-seven patients underwent 125 PDT courses. The mean dysphagia score at 4 weeks after PDT in 90.8% of the patients improved from 3.2 ± 0.7 to 1.9 ± 0.8 (p < 0.05). PDT adequately controlled bleeding in all six patients who had bleeding. The most common complications after the 125 PDT courses were esophageal stricture (4.8%), Candida esophagitis (3.2%), symptomatic pleural effusion (3.2%), and sunburn (10.0%). Twenty-nine patients (38%) required more than one PDT course, and seven patients required placement of an expandable metal stent for recurrent dysphagia. The mean dysphagia-free interval was 80.3 ± 58.2 days. The median survival was 5.9 months. Conclusions: Photodynamic therapy is a safe and effective treatment for the palliation of obstructing and bleeding esophagus cancer. Received: 8 May 1999/Accepted: 24 September 1999/Online publication: 15 May 2000     

Immediately recognizable benefits and drawbacks after laparoscopic colon resection for benign disease

Background: A prospective assessment of the impact of laparoscopic colon resection (LCR) was carried out in order to quantify immediately recognizable benefits and limitations of this approach. Methods: Elective LCR was attempted in 95 selected patients (mean age 64 years, range 39–81 years) presenting with benign disease of the colon. A completely intracorporeal approach was adopted. Results were compared with a control group of 90 patients who had previously undergone open colectomy (OC) by the same surgeons at the same institution. Results: There were no perioperative deaths. Intraoperative complications included difficult extraction of accidentally detached anvil (n= 1), air leak at colonoscopy (n= 2), and conversion to OC (n= 1). Operating time was significantly longer after LCR compared with OC (180 ± 10.3 vs 116 ± 97, p < 0.001). Passage of flatus (3.5 ± 1.2 days vs 4.4 ± 1.4, p < 0.5) and morbidity (4 vs 3, p= 0.48) were not significantly different in the two groups. Hospital stay was significantly shorter after LCR (5.2 ± 1.3 days vs 12.2 ± 1.9 days, p < 0.001). Theater and ward costs were, respectively, significantly increased ($ 2,829.6 ± 340 vs $ 1,422 ± 318, p < 0.001) and decreased ($ 2,600 ± 366 vs $ 6,022 ± 916, p < 0.001) in LCR patients compared with the OC group. There was no significant difference in total hospital costs ($ 10,929 ± 369 vs $ 9,944 ± 1,014). Conclusions: LCR does not appear to offer any immediately recognizable advantages. Received: 15 October 1996/Accepted: 13 December 1996     

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis

Background: The timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis remains controversial. Methods: One hundred ninety-four patients with acute cholecystitis were reviewed. The conversion rates for the various number of days of symptoms before surgery were analyzed. The conversion rate dramatically increased from 3.6% for those patients with 4 days of symptoms to 26% for those patients with 5 days of symptoms. The mean number of days of symptoms prior to surgery in those patients who underwent successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy was 4.1 as compared to 8.0 in those patients who required open cholecystectomy (p < 0.0001). Based on this data the patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of 109 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 4 days of onset of symptoms and group 2 consisted of 85 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy after more than 4 days following onset of symptoms. Results: The conversion rate from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy was 15%. The conversion rate for group 1 was 1.8% as compared to 31.7% for group 2 (p < 0.0001). Indications for conversion were inability to identify the anatomy secondary to inflammatory adhesions (68%), cholecystoduodenal fistula (18%), and bleeding (14%). The major complication rate for group 1 was 2.7% as compared to 13% for group 2 (p= 0.007). The mortality rate for all patients with attempted laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis was 1.5%. The average procedure time for group 1 was 100 ± 37 min vs 120 ± 55 min in group 2. The average number of postoperative hospital days in group 1 was 5.5 ± 2.7 days as compared to 10.8 ± 2.7 days in group 2. Conclusions: We advocate early laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 4 days of onset of symptoms to decrease major complications and conversion rates. This decreased conversion rate results in decreased length of procedure and hospital stay. Received: 28 March 1996/Accepted: 12 September 1996     

The clinical impact of warmed insufflation carbon dioxide gas for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background: Reports suggest that the insufflation of cold gas to produce a pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic surgery can lead to an intraoperative decrease in core body temperature and increased postoperative pain. Methods: In a randomized controlled trial with 20 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the effect of insufflation using carbon dioxide gas warmed to 37°C (group W) was compared with insufflation using room-temperature cold (21°C) gas (group C). Intraoperative body core and intra-abdominal temperatures were determined at the beginning and end of surgery. Postoperative pain intensity was evaluated using a visual analog scale and recording the consumption of analgesics. Results: There were no significant group-specific differences during the operation, neither in body temperature (group W: 36.1 ± 0.4°C vs group C: 35.7 ± 0.6°C) nor in intra-abdominal temperature (group W: 35.9 ± 0.3°C vs group C: 35.6 ± 0.6°C). Postoperatively, the two groups did not differ in pain susceptibility and need of analgesics. Conclusion: The use of carbon dioxide gas warmed to body temperature to produce a pneumoperitoneum during short-term laparoscopic surgery has no clinically important effect. Received: 13 August 1999/Accepted: 24 September 1999/Online publication: 9 August 2000     

Operative manometry and endoscopy during laparoscopic Heller myotomy

Background: We report our initial experience using operative esophageal manometry as an adjunct to endoscopy to determine the completeness of esophagogastric high-pressure zone (HPZ) obliteration during laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Methods: Between July 1997 and October 1998, we performed laparoscopic Heller myotomies in 20 patients (eight male, 12 female; median age, 41 years). Mean duration of symptoms was 3.2 ± 2.6 years (r= 0.5–11), and 45% of the patients had received prior dilation or toxin injection. A 16-channel esophageal manometry catheter was placed prior to anesthesia, with sites crossing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). An endoscope was passed intraoperatively to localize the squamocolumnar junction, and the myotomy was performed. While the translucency was imaged in the area of the incision, we determined the adequacy of myotomy by visual assessment of LES and gastric cardia opening in response to endoscopic air insufflation. Manometry was then performed to detect any potential residual high pressure at the myotomized esophagogastric junction (EGJ). If it was found, the locus of persistent pressure was identified by probing along the myotomy, and residual muscle fibers were cut to yield a minimum pressure at the EGJ. Results: A persistent HPZ was identified after the initial myotomy in 10 of 20 patients (50%). A Dor fundoplasty completed the operation. The mean operating time was 2.6 ± 0.5 h (median, 2.5; r= 2–3.5 h), and the mean hospital stay was 1.6 ± 1 days (median, 1, r= 1–5 days). The mean LES pressure was 2 ± 3 mmHg immediately postmyotomy (p < 0.001 compared with preoperative value). Of 20 patients, only two have reported recurrence of dysphagia (10%). One had a recurrent HPZ on manometry, and one developed esophagitis, which resolved with omeprazole. Conclusions: Our initial experience suggests that operative esophageal manometry is a useful adjunct to upper endoscopy during laparoscopic Heller myotomy, quantitatively assuring obliteration of the nonrelaxing LES and HPZ. Received: 1 March 1999/Accepted: 30 June 1999     

Postoperative complications of laparoscopic-assisted colectomy

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

Evaluating results of laparoscopic surgery for esophageal achalasia

Background: Extramucosal myotomy of the lower esophagus and cardia, combined with anterior fundoplication, is, in our opinion, the procedure of choice to treat stage I–III esophageal achalasia. Methods: After a successful experience with open surgery in over 280 patients, from January 1992 through February 1997, 61 patients underwent laparoscopic Heller-Dor for stage I–III achalasia. Conversion to laparotomy was done in three cases. All procedures were performed under intraoperative endoscopic control. Intraoperative complications were seven mucosal tears, which were sutured laparoscopically in five cases. The sole postoperative complication was bleeding from an acute gastric ulcer (conservative treatment). Results: Follow-up consisted of clinical and radiographic study 1 month after surgery, and endoscopy and manometry within 1 year. After a mean follow-up (F.U.) of 21 months (1–62), clinical results range from excellent to good in 98.2%. One patient (1.7%) complaining of recurrent dysphagia improved after endoscopic dilation. Esophageal diameter reduced from 52 to 27 mm. LES pressure reduced from 30.3 ± 12.4 to 10.7 ± 3.5 mmHg (basal) and from 14.8 ± 9.3 to 2.9 ± 2.1 mmHg (residual). Conclusions: Laparoscopic Heller-Dor operation is feasible, safe, and effective. Special care should be taken in patients with previous endoscopic dilations. Received: 3 April 1997/Accepted: 28 July 1997     

Production and systemic absorption of toxic byproducts of tissue combustion during laparoscopic surgery

Background: Among the potential hazards of laparoscopic surgery using electrocautery is the intraperitoneal release and subsequent absorption of byproducts of tissue combustion. In a porcine model of laparoscopic surgery with smoke production, our aims were to assess (1) the relationship between levels of intraperitoneal carbon monoxide (CO) and systemic carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and methemoglobin (MetHb), and (2) intraperitoneal concentrations of other noxious gases, including hydrogen cyanide (HCN), acrylonitrile (Acr), and benzene (Bzn). Methods: Seven pigs underwent laparoscopic resection of three hepatic wedges using monopolar electrocautery in a CO₂ pneumoperitoneum. Sequential arterial samples were drawn to measure [COHb] and [MetHb] perioperatively, while gaseous intraabdominal [CO], [HCN], [Acr], and [Bzn] were assayed intraoperatively. Results: The mean ± SEM duration of operation was 90 ± 2 min, and electrocautery was used for 68 ± 4 min. Intraabdominal [CO] rose from 0 to 814 ± 200 ppm (p < 0.01) while [COHb] increased from 2.9 ± 0.1% to 3.5 ± 0.1% (p < 0.001). Systemic [MetHb] remained unchanged intra- and postoperatively, ranging from 0.3 to 0.7%. Intraperitoneal [HCN] rose from 0 to 5.7 ± 0.7 ppm (p < 0.001). [Acr], however, did not change significantly from preoperative values, ranging from 0 to 1.6 ± 1.0 ppm, and [Bzn] was undetectable. Conclusions: Laparoscopic tissue combustion increases intraabdominal [CO] to ``hazardous' levels leading to minimal, yet significant, elevations of [COHb]. Systemic [MetHb] and intraabdominal [HCN], [Acr], and [Bzn] are not elevated to toxic levels. Production of intraperitoneal smoke during laparoscopic electrosurgery therefore may not pose a significant threat to the patient. Received: 3 April 1997/Accepted: 22 May 1997