Comparing over-the-scope clip versus endoloop and clips (KING closure) for access site closure: a randomized experimental study.

BACKGROUND: A safe technique is essential for successful access site closure in Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) and for closures of iatrogenic perforations. AIM: To compare an over-the-scope clip (OTSC) versus an endoloop + endoclips closure technique (KING closure). METHODS: 40 minipigs underwent NOTES peritoneoscopy with liver biopsy. Gastrotomies and rectotomies were closed with OTSC (n = 20; 10× stomach, 10× rectum) or KING closure (n = 20; 10× stomach, 10× rectum). The animals were euthanized 28 days after the procedure. The main outcome variables were technical feasibility, effectiveness, and healing. RESULTS: Stomach: All but one closure (KING) was successfully completed. The times of closure were similar between the techniques. At necropsy, all access sites were healed. In two animals (1× KING, 1× OTSC), an abscess, probably related to the closure technique, was found. Histologically, transmural healing with muscular bridging was observable in nine pigs for KING versus two pigs for OTSC closure (p = 0.003). Inflammation was present in three pigs for KING versus seven pigs for OTSC closure (p = 0.08). Rectum: All closures were successfully completed. The times of closure were similar between the techniques. At necropsy, all closure sites had healed. Transmural healing with muscular bridging was present in nine pigs for KING versus two pigs for OTSC closure (p = 0.003). Inflammation was present in two pigs for KING versus seven pigs for OTSC closure (p = 0.03). In one animal (OTSC), an enterocolic fistula developed in the proximity of the closure site. CONCLUSIONS: OTSC and KING closure are comparable closure techniques in terms of technical feasibility and effectiveness. KING closure provides a superior histological outcome compared with OTSC closure.

[Transrectal hybrid NOTES versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy--a randomized prospective study in a large laboratory animal]. / Transrektální hybridní NOTES versus laparoskopická cholecystektomie--randomizovaná prospektivní studie na velkém laboratorním zvíreti.

INTRODUCTION: NOTES (Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery) technique was developed to achieve less invasive surgery with the aim to lower frequency of postoperative complications. Cholecystectomy is one of the most frequent elective surgical procedures and is relevant for evaluation of NOTES. The aim of the experimental study was to compare hybrid transrectal and laparoscopic cholecystectomy regarding feasibility and inflammatory response. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 20 pigs weighing 26-56 kg were randomized to laparoscopic or NOTES group. Transrectal approach (15-18 cm from anal edge) was created by needle knife, followed by balloon dilatation and two-channel endoscope was introduced into the abdominal cavity. Cystic artery and duct were clipped and dissected. After extirpation of the gall bladder the colostomy was closed by occlusion loop-and-clip (King' closure) technique. In the laparoscopic group, cholecystectomy was performed by three-port access. Blood samples for evaluation of inflammatory response markers (leukocytes, CRP, interleukin 6) were taken 0, 2nd, 7th and 30th postoperative day, when the experiment ended and pig was euthanized. RESULTS: Two pigs were excluded (1 died early postoperatively for pneumonia, 1 for the rectal closure impossibility after it's laceration during of the gall bladder extirpation). Other pigs survived without complications. Procedure time was significantly longer in NOTES group (134 +/- 27 minutes versus 60 +/- 22 minutes, p < 0.05). White blood cells count and CRP level increased significantly in both groups 2nd and 7th postoperative day and then normalized. Differences between groups were not significant in any of the measured laboratory markers. Sectional finding of exudate and adhesions was comparable in both groups and all transrectal closures were healed. Small subhepatal abscess was found in one pig from NOTES group. CONCLUSION: Transrectal hybrid cholecystectomy is a safe and feasible method with comparable inflammatory responses and longer operating time compared to laparoscopy. A novel loop-and-clip technique was verified as a safe and simple rectal closure.