Long-term results and complications related to Crurasoft® mesh repair for paraesophageal hiatal hernias.

PURPOSE: The application of mesh-reinforced hiatal closure has resulted in a significant reduction in recurrence rates in comparison with primary suture repair. However, the use of meshes has not completely extended in all the cases of large paraesophageal hiatal hernias (LPHH) due to the complications related to them. The aim of this study is to present our long-term results and complications related to Crurasoft® mesh (Bard) for the treatment of LPHH. METHODS: From January 2004 to December 2014, 536 consecutive patients underwent open or laparoscopic fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease or LPHH at Ramón y Cajal University Hospital. Primary simple suture of the crura and additional reinforcement with a Crurasoft® mesh (Bard) was performed in 93 patients (17.35 %). Radiologic hiatal hernia recurrence and mesh-related complications were investigated. RESULTS: Of the 93 patients undergoing mesh repair, there were 28 male and 65 female with a mean age of 67.27 years (range 22-87 years). Laparoscopic surgery was attended in 88.2 % of the cases, and open surgery in the rest 11.8 %. Mean operative time was 167.05 min (range 90-370 min). Median postoperative stay was 4.79 days (range 1-41 days). Conversion rate was 8.53 % (7 patients). Intraoperative complications were described in 10.75 % (10 patients), but all of them, except in one case, could be managed laparoscopically. Overall postoperative complications rate was 28 %. Early postoperative complications occurred in 11 patients (12 %), respectively, for grades 2 (6 cases), 3b (1 case) and 5 (4 cases) according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Late postoperative complications occurred in 15 patients (16 %), respectively, for grades 1 (7 cases), 2 (2 cases), 3b (5 cases) and 5 (1 case) according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Thirty day-mortality rate was 4.3 %. Mortality rate specific associated with the mesh was 1 %. Reoperation rate was 5.4 %. After a median follow-up of 76.33 months (range 3-130 months), 8 patients (9 %) developed a recurrent hiatal hernia. Mesh was removed in three cases (3.22 %). CONCLUSIONS: In our experience, the recurrence rate in patients with a Crurasoft® (Bard) is acceptable. However, the rate of postoperative complications and mortality is excessive. The use of meshes in the hiatus keeps on being controversial due to the severe complications related to them. It would be advisable to compare our results in the non-mesh group in terms of recurrences and complications, to determine if meshes in the hiatus should be given in these patients due to its high rate of complications.

Trombosis venosa cerebral en una paciente puérpera con preeclampsia con datos de severidad / Cerebral venous thrombosis in a post-partum patient with preeclampsia with signs of severity

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: la trombosis venosa cerebral es infrecuente, pero con mayor incidencia durante la gestación y el puerperio. OBJETIVO: revisar la bibliografía más reciente y proponer una opción de tratamiento de la paciente con trombosis venosa cerebral durante el puerperio. CASO CLÍNICO: paciente de 30 años de edad, con antecedente de dos embarazos y dos cesáreas. En el séptimo día de puerperio tuvo edema de miembros inferiores, cifras tensionales elevadas, cefalea y alteraciones visuales. Con el tratamiento antihipertensivo con nifedipino y neuroprotección con sulfato de magnesio se logró el control de la hipertensión, aunque persistieron la cefalea y los síntomas de visión borrosa y diplopía. La resonancia magnética reportó: trombosis venosa de seno transverso lateral izquierdo. Con el tratamiento anticoagulante hubo disminución importante de los síntomas neurológicos. CONCLUSIONES: puesto que la preeclampsia y la eclampsia pueden ocultar los síntomas de la trombosis venosa cerebral, es importante tener siempre en mente ambos padecimientos para el diagnóstico y tratamiento oportuno de uno y otro.

Abstract BACKGROUND: cerebral venous thrombosis is infrequent, but with the highest incidence during pregnancy and puerperium. OBJECTIVE: to review the most recent bibliography and propose a treatment option for the patient with cerebral venous thrombosis during puerperium. CLINICAL CASE: a 30 year old patient with a history of two pregnancies and two Cesarean sections. On the seventh day of puerperium she presented edema of the lower limbs, high blood pressure, headache and visual disorders. Antihypertensive treatment with nifedipine and neuroprotection with magnesium sulfate, hypertension was controlled although the headache and blurry vision and double vision symptoms persisted. The MRI results reported: venous thrombosis of the left lateral transverse sinus. With anticoagulant treatment there was significant decrease of neurological symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: since preeclampsia and eclampsia can hide symptoms of cerebral venous thrombosis, it is important to always consider both conditions for the timely diagnosis and treatment of both.

An exploratory analysis of the epidemiology and surgical management of perforated diverticular disease over a two-year period at a Referral Centre in the Caribbean / Análisis exploratorio de la epidemiología y el tratamiento quirúrgico de la enfermedad diverticular perforada durante un período de dos años en un Centro de Remisión en el Caribe

OBJECTIVE: We present an exploratory analysis of data collected on perforated diverticular disease (PDD) in Barbados and suggest possible areas for further study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: All cases of perforated diverticular disease treated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Barbados, between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2006 were reviewed. The patient's age, gender, location of disease, Hinchey stage, operative procedure, rate of colostomy reversal, length of hospitalization, incidence of peri-operative morbidity and postoperative mortality were analysed using principal components analysis (PCA). RESULTS: Fourteen cases of PDD were treated at the QEH during this period. Six (43%) of the patients had perforated right-sided diverticulitis (PRSD). In the PCA, Dimensions 1 and 2 were the two dimensions examined, as they both had Eigenvalues over 1. Dimension 1 can be taken as an indicator of the intensity of the disease. On dimension 2, length of hospitalization had the highest component loading (0.875). The mean hospital stay was 10.6 days in PRSD, 9.5 in left-sided perforations with primary anastomosis, and 16.2 days for those with a Hartmann's procedure. The overall peri-operative morbidity was 28% and there was no mortality in the series. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study seems to show a relatively high incidence of PRSD in a predominantly Afro-Caribbean population. More research is needed to determine the exact aetiology of this disease. In our experience, primary anastomosis in carefully selected patients with either PRSD or perforated left-sided diverticulitis (PLSD) may result in shorter hospitalization.

OBJETIVO: Presentamos un análisis exploratorio de la enfermedad diverticular perforada (EDP) en Barbados, y sugerimos posibles áreas de análisis ulterior. SUJETOS Y MÉTODOS: Se revisaron todos los casos de enfermedad diverticular perforada tratados en el Hospital Queen Elizabeth (QEH) de Barbados, entre enero 1 de 2005 y diciembre 31 de 2006. Mediante el análisis de componentes principales (ACP), se analizaron los siguientes: edad del paciente, género, localización de la enfermedad, estadio de Hinchey, procedimiento operatorio, tasa de colostomía inversa, tiempo de hospitalización, incidencia de morbilidad perioperatoria, y mortalidad postoperatoria. RESULTADOS: Catorce casos de EDP fueron tratados en el HQE durante este período. Seis (43%) de los pacientes presentaban diverticulitis del lado derecho perforada (DLDP). En el ACP, las dimensiones 1 y 2 fueron las dos dimensiones examinadas, ya que ambas tenían valores propios por encima de 1. La dimensión 1 puede tomarse como indicador de la intensidad de la enfermedad. En la dimensión 2, el tiempo de hospitalización tuvo la carga de componente más alta (0.875). La estadía promedio en el hospital fue de 10.6 días en los casos de DLDP, 9.5 en las perforaciones del lado izquierdo con anastomosis primaria, y 16.2 días para aquellos con procedimiento de Hartmann. La morbilidad perioperatoria fue 28% y no hubo mortalidad en la serie. CONCLUSIÓN: Este estudio preliminar parece mostrar una incidencia relativamente alta de DLDP en una población predominantemente afro-caribeña. Se necesita más investigación a fin de determinar la etiología exacta de esta enfermedad. En nuestra experiencia, la anastomosis primaria en pacientes cuidadosamente seleccionados, que sufren de DLDP o padecen diverticulitis del lado izquierdo perforada (DLIP), puede tener por resultado una hospitalización más corta.

Results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a third-level university hospital after 17 years of experience.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to determine the results obtained with laparoscopic cholecystectomy at Ramón y Cajal Hospital after 17 years of experience, comparing current results with those at the beginning of the experience. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 1991 and December 2007, 3,933 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed at the "Ramón y Cajal Hospital"; 1,849 patients were operated on between 1991 and 2000, and 2,084 between 2001 and 2007. Patients studied included 69.8% of women and 30.2% of men, with a mean age of 56.95 years (range 9-94 years). In all, 54.68% of patients had a concomitant disease before surgery (hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, respiratory disease). Surgery was performed by a staff surgeon for 58.04% of cases, and by a resident in the remaining 41.96%. Surgical indications were cholelithiasis in 75.5%, pancreatitis in 13.3%, cholecystitis in 6.3%, choledocholithiasis in 3.05%, and others in 1.2% of cases. RESULTS: Mean hospital stay was 3.06 days. Conversion to open surgery was required for 8.3% of cases (331 patients). The major surgical complication rate was 2.34%, with the most frequent being hemoperitoneum (1%). Common bile duct injury occurred in thirteen cases (0.3%), 51 patients (1.3%) were soon re-operated, and 5 patients died (0.13%). When the results of both decades (1991-2000 vs. 2001-2007) were compared, we observed differences in the number of procedures performed by residents (31.7 vs. 51.1%, p = 0.00001), number of laparoscopic cholecystectomies for cholecystitis (4.9 vs. 7.53%, p = 0.001), conversion rate (5.46 vs. 11%, p = 0.000001), and mean hospital stay (2.43 vs. 3.7 days, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: These results should be interpreted with caution as this is a retrospective study with multiple uncontrolled variables (high number of surgeons and continuous learning curve). The lower conversion rate and mean hospital stay in the first decade of the learning curve are amazing, although this could be related to better patient selection and a lower number of cholecystites operated using a laparoscopic approach in the initial series. In general, these results are acceptable and concur with the rest of the literature.

Resultados de la colecistectomía laparoscópica en un hospital universitario de tercer nivel tras 17 años de experiencia / Results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a third-level university hospital after 17 years of experience

Objetivo: el objetivo del estudio es conocer los resultados obtenidos con la colecistectomía laparoscópica en el Hospital Ramón y Cajal en sus 17 años de experiencia, comparando los resultados actuales con los del inicio de la experiencia. Material y métodos: entre enero de 1991 y diciembre de 2007 se efectuaron en el Hospital Ramón y Cajal un total de 3.933 colecistectomías laparoscópicas. Fueron intervenidos 1.849 pacientes entre 1991-2000 y 2.084 entre 2001-2007. Un 69,8% eran mujeres y un 30,2% varones con una edad media de 56,95 años (rango 9-94 años). Un 54,68% de pacientes presentaban antecedentes personales de forma previa a la intervención (hipertensión, diabetes, cardiopatía isquémica, bronquitis...). La cirugía fue efectuada por un personal del staff en el 58,04% de los casos y por un residente de cirugía en el 41,96%. Las indicaciones quirúrgicas fueron colelitiasis 75,5%, pancreatitis 13,3%, colecistitis 6,3%, coledocolitiasis 3,05% y otros 1,2%. Resultados: la estancia media postoperatoria fue de 3,06 días. La tasa de conversión a cirugía abierta de 8,3% (331 pacientes) y la de complicaciones quirúrgicas mayores del 2,34%, siendo la más frecuente el hemoperitoneo (1%). Se produjeron 13 lesiones de la vía biliar durante la cirugía laparoscópica (0,3%), 51 pacientes (1,3%) fueron reintervenidos precozmente tras la cirugía (hemo-/coleperitoneo) y fallecieron un total de 5 pacientes (0,13%). Cuando comparamos los resultados entre ambas décadas (1991-2000 vs. 2001-2007), observamos que existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuanto al número de intervenciones realizadas por el residente (31,7 vs. 51,1%, p = 0,00001), el número de colecistitis abordadas por vía laparoscópica (4,9 vs. 7,53%, p = 0,001), la tasa de conversión (5,46 vs. 11%, p = 0,000001) y la estancia media postoperatoria (2,43 días vs. 3,7 días p = 0,001)...(AU)

Objective: the aim of the study is to determine the results obtained with laparoscopic cholecystectomy at Ramón y Cajal Hospital after 17 years of experience, comparing current results with those at the beginning of the experience. Material and methods: between 1991 and December 2007, 3,933 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed at the "Ramón y Cajal Hospital"; 1,849 patients were operated on between 1991 and 2000, and 2,084 between 2001 and 2007. Patients studied included 69.8% of women and 30.2% of men, with a mean age of 56.95 years (range 9-94 years). In all, 54.68% of patients had a concomitant disease before surgery (hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, respiratory disease...). Surgery was performed by a staff surgeon for 58.04% of cases, and by a resident in the remaining 41.96%. Surgical indications were cholelithiasis in 75.5%, pancreatitis in 13.3%, cholecystitis in 6.3%, choledocholithiasis in 3.05%, and others in 1.2% of cases. Results: mean hospital stay was 3.06 days. Conversion to open surgery was required for 8.3% of cases (331 patients). The major surgical complication rate was 2.34%, with the most frequent being hemoperitoneum (1%). Common bile duct injury occurred in thirteen cases (0.3%), 51 patients (1.3%) were soon re-operated, and 5 patients died (0.13%). When the results of both decades (1991-2000 vs. 2001-2007) were compared, we observed differences in the number of procedures performed by residents (31.7 vs. 51.1%, p = 0.00001), number of laparoscopic cholecystectomies for cholecystitis (4.9 vs. 7.53%, p = 0.001), conversion rate (5.46 vs. 11%, p = 0.000001), and mean hospital stay (2.43 vs. 3.7 days, p = 0.001)...(AU)

An exploratory analysis of the epidemiology and surgical management of perforated diverticular disease over a two-year period at a referral centre in the Caribbean.

OBJECTIVE: We present an exploratory analysis of data collected on perforated diverticular disease (PDD) in Barbados and suggest possible areas for further study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: All cases of perforated diverticular disease treated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Barbados, between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2006 were reviewed. The patient's age, gender location of disease, Hinchey stage, operative procedure, rate of colostomy reversal, length of hospitalization, incidence of peri-operative morbidity and postoperative mortality were analysed using principal components analysis (PCA). RESULTS: Fourteen cases of PDD were treated at the QEH during this period. Six (43%) of the patients had perforated right-sided diverticulitis (PRSD). In the PCA, Dimensions 1 and 2 were the two dimensions examined, as they both had Eigenvalues over 1. Dimension 1 can be taken as an indicator of the intensity of the disease. On dimension 2, length of hospitalization had the highest component loading (0.875). The mean hospital stay was 10.6 days in PRSD, 9.5 in left-sided perforations with primary anastomosis, and 16.2 days for those with a Hartmann's procedure. The overall peri-operative morbidity was 28% and there was no mortality in the series. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study seems to show a relatively high incidence of PRSD in a predominantly Afro-Caribbean population. More research is needed to determine the exact aetiology of this disease. In our experience, primary anastomosis in carefully selected patients with either PRSD or perforated left-sided diverticulitis (PLSD) may result in shorter hospitalization.

[Multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of rectal cancer: the benefits of neoadjuvant therapy]. / Abordaje multidisciplinar en el tratamiento del cáncer de recto: eficacia del tratamiento neoadyuvante.

OBJECTIVE: the aim of this study was to assess the impact of neoadjuvant treatment on rectal cancer following involvement of a multidisciplinary team (MDT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: between January 2000 and December 2005, 90 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma were evaluated by a MDT and operated on after receiving neoadjuvant treatment with radiochemotherapy (RTCT) -67% were men and 33% were women, with a mean age of 65.04 years (21-83 years). Surgery was low anterior resection in 50% and abdominoperineal amputation in 42.2%. RESULTS: the rate of complications associated with neoadjuvant treatment was 54.4%, with gastrointestinal complications being most frequent. However, this toxicity was tolerated by most patients. It was severe in two cases (2.2%), leading to chemotherapy discontinuation. A histological analysis of specimens showed a complete pathologic response in 10 cases (11.1%) and a partial response (downstaging of T) in 32 cases (35.6%), hence overall response to neoadjuvant treatment was 46.6%. Postoperative complications included anastomotic leakage in 8.3%, perineal wound complications in 34.2%, and urinary disease in 12.2%. The surgical mortality rate was 0%. Local recurrence occurred in 4.4%, and distant metastases were found in 22.2%. Both overall and disease-free survivals were 80 and 64%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: neoadjuvant treatment results in low local recurrence rates and optimal survival rates, with no increase in morbidity or mortality. A systematic evaluation by a MDT in the context of a clinical protocol offers better cure rates.

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours.

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNT) are infrequent epithelial neoplasms associated with a better outcome than pancreatic adenocarcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analysed our 22 years of experience in managing PNT. Forty-nine patients (27 women and 22 men) with a mean age of 49 years were studied. There were 28 insulinomas, eight glucagonomas, three gastrinomas, one VIPoma and one carcinoid. Eight patients presented with nonfunctional tumours. Enucleation was performed in 20 patients, distal pancreatectomy in 16, middle pancreatic resection in four, cephalic pancreatoduodenectomy in two and total pancreatoduodenectomy in one. In six patients, the tumour was not resected. RESULTS: Postoperative complication rate was 22%: six pancreatic fistulas, three intra-abdominal collections, one remnant pancreatitis and one pancreatic pseudocyst. There was no mortality. 39 cases showed benign histologic features and ten malignant ones. Symptomatic palliation was achieved in 94% of the cases. Five patients presented recurrences: three liver metastases and two pancreatic recurrences. Actuarial mean survival was 163 months and was longer in insulinomas, in those tumours completely resected and in tumours with benign histological features. CONCLUSION: Conservative surgery of the pancreas is preferred, but aggressive surgery is indicated when the primary tumour can be controlled. Despite of minimising pancreatic resection, there is a high complication rate, mainly pancreatic fistulas, though they can often be conservatively managed. Insulinomas are the PNT with better outcome; those completely resected also associate a better prognosis.

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNT) are infrequent epithelial neoplasms associated with a better outcome than pancreatic adenocarcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analysed our 22 years of experience in managing PNT. Forty-nine patients (27 women and 22 men) with a mean age of 49 years were studied. There were 28 insulinomas, eight glucagonomas, three gastrinomas, one VIPoma and one carcinoid. Eight patients presented with nonfunctional tumours. Enucleation was performed in 20 patients, distal pancreatectomy in 16, middle pancreatic resection in four, cephalic pancreatoduodenectomy in two and total pancreatoduodenectomy in one. In six patients, the tumour was not resected. RESULTS: Postoperative complication rate was 22%: six pancreatic fistulas, three intra-abdominal collections, one remnant pancreatitis and one pancreatic pseudocyst. There was no mortality. 39 cases showed benign histologic features and ten malignant ones. Symptomatic palliation was achieved in 94% of the cases. Five patients presented recurrences: three liver metastases and two pancreatic recurrences. Actuarial mean survival was 163 months and was longer in insulinomas, in those tumours completely resected and in tumours with benign histological features. CONCLUSION: Conservative surgery of the pancreas is preferred, but aggressive surgery is indicated when the primary tumour can be controlled. Despite of minimising pancreatic resection, there is a high complication rate, mainly pancreatic fistulas, though they can often be conservatively managed. Insulinomas are the PNT with better outcome; those completely resected also associate a better prognosis (AU)

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[Causes of conversion in laparoscopic surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease: an analysis of our experience]. / Causas de conversión en la cirugía laparoscópica de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico: análisis de nuestra experiencia.

BACKGROUND: since its introduction in 1991 laparoscopic antireflux surgery has gained great success and popularity among surgeons, and now it is the gold standard for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). AIM: to identify and evaluate the causes of conversion in the laparoscopic surgery of GERD and hiatus hernia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: since January 1993 to August 2007 606 laparoscopic antireflux procedures were performed in our hospital. There were 296 women and 310 men with a median age of 53.5 years. The main indication for surgery was evidence of intractable or recurrent GERD symptoms after adequate medical treatment with associated hiatal hernia. The preoperative workup included manometry, pH-metry, oral endoscopy, and barium swallow. The surgical technique was mainly the Nissen-Rossetti procedure. RESULTS: mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.7 days. The operation had to be converted to an open procedure in 43 cases (7%). Conversions were more frequent in the first decade of the learning curve (26 vs. 17, p < 0.016), and fewer among the group of experts in advanced laparoscopic surgery (15 vs. 28, p < 0.017). In 17 cases conversions were due to an intraoperative complication whereas in 26 cases a conversion was done because of technical difficulties. Esophageal perforation and pneumothorax rates were 0.8 and 1%, respectively, and mortality and morbidity rates were 0.1 and 12%. CONCLUSION: the rate of conversion is acceptable and significantly decreases with surgeon experience.

Abordaje multidisciplinar en el tratamiento del cáncer de recto: eficacia del tratamiento neoadyuvante / No disponible

Objetivo: evaluar el papel de la terapia neoadyuvante en eltratamiento del cáncer de recto en nuestro hospital, tras la implantaciónde un grupo multidisciplinar de trabajo (MDT).Material y métodos: desde enero de 2000 hasta diciembrede 2005 se ha evaluado en sesión clínica por el grupo MDT untotal de 90 pacientes diagnosticados de adenocarcinoma de rectoe intervenidos quirúrgicamente tras recibir tratamiento neoadyuvantecon radioquimioterapia (QMRT). La edad media fue de65,04 años (21-83 años), siendo un 67% varones y un 33% mujeres.Los procedimientos quirúrgicos realizados fueron fundamentalmenteresección anterior baja en un 50% y amputación abdominoperinealen un 42,2%.Resultados: la tasa de complicaciones asociada al uso del tratamientoneoadyuvante fue del 54,44%, siendo más frecuenteslas gastrointestinales. Sin embargo, esta toxicidad fue bien toleradaen la mayor parte de los casos, siendo grave y acarreando lasuspensión del tratamiento quimioterápico en 2 pacientes (2,2%).El análisis anatomopatológico de las piezas resecadas demostróuna respuesta completa en 10 casos (11,1%) y una respuesta parcial(disminución del parámetro T de la clasificación TNM) en 32casos (35,6%), con lo que la respuesta global del tratamiento neoadyuvantefue del 46,6%. Entre las complicaciones postoperatoriasse produjeron un 8,3% de dehiscencias anastomóticas, un34,2% de complicaciones de la herida perineal y un 12,2% decomplicaciones urinarias. La mortalidad quirúrgica fue del 0%. Latasa de recidiva pélvica fue del 4,4% y la sistémica del 22,2%. Lasupervivencia actuarial global y libre de enfermedad a los 5 añosfue del 80 y 64% respectivamente.Conclusión: el tratamiento QMRT neoadyuvante proporcionauna cifras bajas de recidiva pélvica junto con buenas tasas desupervivencia, no añadiendo una morbimortalidad importante alacto quirúrgico. La evaluación sistemática por un grupo MDT enel contexto de un protocolo clínico parece ofrecer al paciente mejoresoportunidades de curación

Objective: the aim of this study was to assess the impact ofneoadjuvant treatment on rectal cancer following involvement of amultidisciplinary team (MDT).Materials and methods: between January 2000 and December2005, 90 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma were evaluatedby a MDT and operated on after receiving neoadjuvant treatmentwith radiochemotherapy (RTCT) –67% were men and33% were women, with a mean age of 65.04 years (21-83 years).Surgery was low anterior resection in 50% and abdominoperinealamputation in 42.2%.Results: the rate of complications associated with neoadjuvanttreatment was 54.4%, with gastrointestinal complicationsbeing most frequent. However, this toxicity was tolerated by mostpatients. It was severe in two cases (2.2%), leading to chemotherapydiscontinuation. A histological analysis of specimens showeda complete pathologic response in 10 cases (11.1%) and a partialresponse (downstaging of T) in 32 cases (35.6%), hence overallresponse to neoadjuvant treatment was 46.6%. Postoperativecomplications included anastomotic leakage in 8.3%, perinealwound complications in 34.2%, and urinary disease in 12.2%.The surgical mortality rate was 0%. Local recurrence occurred in4.4%, and distant metastases were found in 22.2%. Both overalland disease-free survivals were 80 and 64%, respectively.Conclusions: neoadjuvant treatment results in low local recurrencerates and optimal survival rates, with no increase in morbidityor mortality. A systematic evaluation by a MDT in the contextof a clinical protocol offers better cure rates

Bronchoesophageal fistula in a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Bronchoesophageal fistula secondary to lymphoma is a very rare condition, usually associated with chemo-radiotherapy. We report a case of a patient with a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) who, after chemotherapy, developed an oesophago-tracheal fistula. Initially it was treated conservatively but due to the lack of response, a stent was inserted. After nearly one year without success, surgery was considered. Right thoracotomy oesophagectomy and closure of the tracheal defect with an intercostal muscle flap and pericardial patch was performed. This was followed by laparoscopic creation of a gastric tube, which was successfully anastomosed to the cervical oesophagus through a cervicotomy. Unlike oesophageal cancer, NHL can have a good prognosis, so curative treatment of the fistula can be considered. Conservative treatment must always be the first option, leaving stenting or surgery for when the problem persists.

Bronchoesophageal fistula in a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Bronchoesophageal fistula secondary to lymphoma is a very rare condition, usually associated with chemo-radiotherapy. We report a case of a patient with a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) who, after chemotherapy, developed an oesophago-tracheal fistula. Initially it was treated conservatively but due to the lack of response, a stent was inserted. After nearly one year without success, surgery was considered. Right thoracotomy oesophagectomy and closure of the tracheal defect with an intercostal muscle flap and pericardial patch was performed. This was followed by laparoscopic creation of a gastric tube, which was successfully anastomosed to the cervical oesophagus through a cervicotomy. Unlike oesophageal cancer, NHL can have a good prognosis, so curative treatment of the fistula can be considered. Conservative treatment must always be the first option, leaving stenting or surgery for when the problem persists (AU)

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Causas de conversión en la cirugía laparoscópica de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico: análisis de nuestra experiencia / No disponible

Introducción: desde su introducción en 1991, la cirugía antirreflujopor vía laparoscópica ha ido adquiriendo gran popularidadhasta convertirse en el procedimiento de elección de la enfermedadpor reflujo gastroesofágico.Objetivo: identificar y analizar de forma retrospectiva las causasde conversión del abordaje laparoscópico en la cirugía de laenfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico y de la hernia de hiato.Material y métodos: desde 1993 a agosto de 2007 se hanefectuado en nuestro centro 606 cirugías antirreflujo por vía laparoscópica,encontrando 296 mujeres y 310 varones con una edadmedia de 53,3 años. La indicación fundamental fue la existenciade un reflujo gastroesofágico resistente al tratamiento médico conhernia de hiato asociada. De forma preoperatoria se van a efectuarestudios manométricos y pH-métricos, endoscopia oral ytránsito esofagogastroduodenal. La técnica quirúrgica de elecciónfue mayoritariamente la funduplicatura tipo Nissen-Rossetti.Resultados: la estancia media postoperatoria fue de 2,7 días,realizándose conversión a cirugía abierta en 43 casos (7%). Lasconversiones fueron más frecuentes en la primera década de lacurva de aprendizaje (26 vs. 17 p < 0,016), y menores en el grupode cirujanos expertos en cirugía laparoscópica avanzada(15 vs. 28, p < 0,017). En 17 casos la conversión fue debida auna complicación intraoperatoria y en 26 casos a dificultades técnicas.Las tasas de perforación esofágica y de neumotórax fuerondel 0,8 y 1%, mientras que la tasa de mortalidad y morbilidad fuedel 0,1 y 12% respectivamente.Conclusión: la tasa de conversión está dentro de los límitesaceptables y ha disminuido con la experiencia

Background: since its introduction in 1991 laparoscopic antirefluxsurgery has gained great success and popularity amongsurgeons, and now it is the gold standard for the treatment of gastroesophagealreflux disease (GERD).Aim: to identify and evaluate the causes of conversion in thelaparoscopic surgery of GERD and hiatus hernia.Material and methods: since January 1993 to August 2007606 laparoscopic antireflux procedures were performed in ourhospital. There were 296 women and 310 men with a medianage of 53.5 years. The main indication for surgery was evidenceof intractable or recurrent GERD symptoms after adequate medicaltreatment with associated hiatal hernia. The preoperativeworkup included manometry, pH-metry, oral endoscopy, and bariumswallow. The surgical technique was mainly the Nissen-Rossettiprocedure.Results: mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.7 days. Theoperation had to be converted to an open procedure in 43 cases(7%). Conversions were more frequent in the first decade of thelearning curve (26 vs. 17, p < 0.016), and fewer among thegroup of experts in advanced laparoscopic surgery (15 vs. 28,p < 0.017). In 17 cases conversions were due to an intraoperativecomplication whereas in 26 cases a conversion was done becauseof technical difficulties. Esophageal perforation and pneumothoraxrates were 0.8 and 1%, respectively, and mortality andmorbidity rates were 0.1 and 12%.Conclusion: the rate of conversion is acceptable and significantlydecreases with surgeon experience

[Hepatic hydatidosis. Radical vs. conservative surgery: 22 years of experience]. / Hidatidosis hepática. Cirugía radical vs. no radical: 22 años de experiencia.

OBJECTIVES: the incidence of hepatic hydatidosis has remarkably decreased in the last years due to the preventive measures adopted to stop the transmission of the parasite. However, surgery carries on being the treatment of choice, although the surgical procedure is still a matter of controversy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results obtained with the treatment of this condition after two decades according to surgical procedure type. MATERIAL AND METHODS: from 1983 to 2005, 372 patients were operated on for hepatic hydatidic cyst in Hospital Ramón y Cajal. Radical surgery was performed for 162 (43.5%) and conservative surgery for 210 (56.5%). RESULTS: average postoperative hospital stay (8.65 vs. 14.9 days), morbidity (13.3 vs. 31.4%, p < 0.001), and mortality (0 vs. 3.8%, p < 0.01) were lower in the radical surgery group. Recurrence rate was 1.85% after radical surgery versus 11.9% in the conservative surgery group (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: radical surgery is associated with lower morbidity, mortality, postoperative hospital stay, and recurrence rates, and represents the treatment of choice for hepatic hydatidosis. However, its indication must depend on the patient characteristics, cyst anatomy, and surgical team experience.

Hidatidosis hepática. Cirugía radical vs. no radical: 22 años de experiencia / No disponible

Introducción: la incidencia de la hidatidosis hepática ha disminuidonotablemente en los últimos años gracias a las medidasde prevención adoptadas para interrumpir la transmisión del parásito.Con todo, la cirugía continúa siendo el tratamiento de elección,si bien su modalidad es todavía motivo de controversia.Objetivos: el objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar los resultadosobtenidos en el tratamiento de esta patología a lo largo de más dedos décadas, atendiendo a la modalidad quirúrgica empleada yafuese cirugía radical o no radical.Material y métodos: se analizaron un total de 372 pacientesintervenidos por quiste hepático hidatídico (QHH) entre 1983-2005 en el Hospital Ramón y Cajal. En162 se efectúa una cirugíaradical (43,5%) y en 210 una no radical (56,5%).Resultados: tanto la estancia media hospitalaria (8,65 días vs.14,9 días) como la morbilidad (13,3 vs. 31,4 %, p < 0,001) y lamortalidad (0 vs. 3,8%, p < 0,01) fueron menores en el grupo decirugía radical. La tasa de recidiva fue del 1,85% tras un abordajeradical frente al 11,9% en los abordajes no radicales (p < 0,0001).Conclusión: la cirugía radical se asocia con una menor morbimortalidad,menor estancia hospitalaria y menor recidiva, constituyendola técnica de elección en la hidatidosis hepática. Sin embargo,su aplicación debe atenerse a las características delpaciente, la anatomía del quiste y el grado de experiencia del equipoquirúrgico

Objectives: the incidence of hepatic hydatidosis has remarkablydecreased in the last years due to the preventive measuresadopted to stop the transmission of the parasite. However, surgerycarries on being the treatment of choice, although the surgical procedureis still a matter of controversy. The aim of the study was toevaluate the results obtained with the treatment of this conditionafter two decades according to surgical procedure type.Material and methods: from 1983 to 2005, 372 patientswere operated on for hepatic hydatidic cyst in Hospital Ramón yCajal. Radical surgery was performed for 162 (43.5%) and conservativesurgery for 210 (56.5%).Results: average postoperative hospital stay (8.65 vs. 14.9days), morbidity (13.3 vs. 31.4%, p < 0.001), and mortality (0 vs.3.8%, p < 0.01) were lower in the radical surgery group. Recurrencerate was 1.85% after radical surgery versus 11.9% in theconservative surgery group (p < 0.0001).Conclusion: radical surgery is associated with lower morbidity,mortality, postoperative hospital stay, and recurrence rates,and represents the treatment of choice for hepatic hydatidosis.However, its indication must depend on the patient characteristics,cyst anatomy, and surgical team experience

Littoral cell angioma of the spleen.

Littoral cell angiomas (LCAs) are rare splenic vascular neoplasms that arise from the cells lining the red pulp sinuses. The clinical course is benign and in most cases asymptomatic. However, as has been described in the literature, we have seen an association with malignant neoplasms and haematological disorders. The definitive diagnosis is made on histology and confirmed with immunohistochemistry. The use of percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) in preoperative diagnosis is controversial.

Littoral cell angioma of the spleen

Littoral cell angiomas (LCAs) are rare splenic vascular neoplasms that arise from the cells lining the red pulp sinuses. The clinical course is benign and in most cases asymptomatic. However, as has been described in the literature, we have seen an association with malignant neoplasms and haematological disorders. The definitive diagnosis is made on histology and confirmed with immunohistochemistry. The use of percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) in preoperative diagnosis is controversial (AU)