Robotic assisted vs open radical cystectomy: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

Several randomized control trials (RCTs) have been published comparing open (ORC) with robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). However, uncertainty persists regarding this issue, as evidences and recommendations on RARC are still lacking. In this systematic review and metaanalysis, we summarized evidence in this context. A literature search was conducted according to PRISMA criteria, using PubMed/Medline, Web Of Science and Embase, up to March 2024. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected. The primary endpoint was to investigate health-related quality of life (QoL) both at 3 and 6 months after surgery. Secondary endpoints include pathological and perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications and oncological outcomes. Furthermore, we conducted a cost evaluation based on the available evidence. Eight RCTs were included, encompassing 1024 patients (515 RARC versus 509 ORC). QoL appeared similar among the two groups both after 3 and 6 months. No significant differences in overall and major complications at 30 days (p = 0.11 and p > 0.9, respectively) and 90 days (p = 0.28 and p = 0.57, respectively) were observed, as well as in oncological, pathological and perioperative outcomes, excepting from operative time, which was longer in RARC (MD 92.34 min, 95% CI 83.83-100.84, p < 0.001) and transfusion rate, which was lower in RARC (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.30-0.61, p < 0.001). Both ORC and RARC are viable options for bladder cancer, having comparable complication rates and oncological outcomes. RARC provides transfusion rate advantages, however, it has longer operative time and higher costs. QoL outcomes appear similar between the two groups, both after 3 and 6 months.

Limitations of Transversus Abdominis Release (TAR)-Additional Bridging of the Posterior Layer And/Or Anterior Fascia Is the Preferred Solution in Our Clinical Routine If Primary Closure is Not Possible.

Background: By separating the abdominal wall, transversus abdominis release (TAR) permits reconstruction of the abdominal wall and the placement of large mesh for many types of hernias. However, in borderline cases, the mobility of the layers is inadequate, and additional bridging techniques may be required for tension-free closure. We now present our own data in this regard. Patients and Methods: In 2023, we performed transversus abdominis release on 50 patients as part of hernia repair. The procedures were carried out using open (n = 25), robotic (n = 24), and laparoscopic (n = 1) techniques. The hernia sac was always integrated into the anterior suture and, in the case of medial hernias, was used for linea alba reconstruction. Results: For medial hernias, open TAR was performed in 22 cases. Additional posterior bridging was performed in 7 of these cases. The ratio of mesh size in the TAR plane to the defect area (median in cm) was 1200cm2/177 cm2 = 6.8 in patients without bridging, and 1750cm2/452 cm2 = 3.8 in those with bridging. The duration of surgery (median in min) was 139 and 222 min and the hospital stay was 6 and 10 days, respectively. Robotic TAR was performed predominantly for lateral and parastomal hernias. These procedures took a median of 143 and 242 min, and the hospital stay was 2 and 3 days, respectively. For robotic repair, posterior bridging was performed in 3 cases. Discussion: Using the TAR technique, even complex hernias can be safely repaired. Additional posterior bridging provides a reliable separation of the posterior plane from the intestines. Therefore, the hernia sac is always available for anterior reconstruction of the linea alba. The technique can be implemented as an open or minimally invasive procedure.

Optimized Strategies for Managing Abdominal Hydatid Cysts and Their Complications.

Hepatic hydatid cysts are an example of a zoonosis with global distribution, but with endemic characteristics in certain geographic areas. Known since ancient times, this parasitic infection predominantly affecting the liver and lungs remains a challenge today in terms of diagnosis and the pharmacological, radiological, endoscopic, or surgical therapy. This study analyzed the complications associated with different procedures for treating hydatid cysts in 76 patients admitted to the County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Sibiu. Complications occurred in 18 patients (23.7%), with no significant correlation to age, gender, or residency (urban or rural). Patients undergoing open surgery exhibited the highest complication rate (61.1%) compared to those treated with other procedures. The most frequent complication was biliary duct rupture, occurring in 22.7% of cases. Our findings indicate that the presence of complications significantly prolongs hospitalization time [t df (75) = 12.14, p < 0.001]. Based on these findings, we conclude that the surgical approach for hydatid cysts should be meticulously tailored to each patient's specific circumstances to reduce the risk of complications and improve clinical outcomes.

Therapeutic Options in Hydatid Hepatic Cyst Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis of Three Surgical Approaches.

Hydatid disease is endemic in certain geographical areas where animal breeding is common, frequently challenging the medical services in these regions. Hydatid cysts most often affect the liver, with damage to other organs accounting for around one-third of the total cases. The alternative to interventional or pharmacological approaches is surgical treatment, available in variants such as laparoscopy, laparoscopy with special instruments for hydatid disease, or open surgery. This article aims to analyze the outcomes of these three types of surgical approaches, considering preoperative indications, operative techniques and efficiency, and immediate and long-term postoperative results. A total of 149 patients from two different surgical units were analyzed over a period of seven years. It was observed that males were more affected by this pathology (53.02%), with the majority of patients coming from rural areas (62.42%). The distribution by surgical procedure type showed that 50.34% were operated on using open surgery, 33.56% by means of a laparoscopic approach with the usual instruments, and 16.11% by means of a laparoscopic approach with special instruments. The laparoscopic procedure with special instruments presented a lower rate of conversion to open surgery compared to the usual laparoscopic approach (p = 0.014). The analysis of the average operative duration revealed statistically significant differences between the three types of surgical techniques (p < 0.05), noting that interventions with specialized instruments had the shortest duration, while open surgery had the longest operative time (72.5 ± 27.23 min vs. 154 ± 52.04 min). In terms of intraoperative complications, they were documented in 8.34% of cases for the group operated on with special instruments, in 12.24% of cases for the standard laparoscopy group, and in 16% of cases for the open surgery group. Maximal cystectomy was the preferred method for resolving these cysts using minimally invasive surgery (p < 0.001), while Lagrot pericystectomy was preferred in the open approach (p < 0.001). The most frequent postoperative complication was biliary fistula (24.16%), encountered in varying percentages across each technique but without significant statistical difference (p > 0.05). Open surgery was associated with a longer length of hospitalization compared to minimally invasive procedures (p < 0.05), a higher number of late postoperative complications (p = 0.002), and a significantly higher number of recurrences (p < 0.001) compared to the other two techniques. The present study highlights the effectiveness of minimally invasive surgery for hydatid cysts as a safe alternative with fewer complications and superior results compared to open surgery. Additionally, it provides a comparative analysis of these surgical approaches (special instruments, standard laparoscopy, and open surgery) to hydatid disease for the first time. Under the circumstances where pharmacological treatment is recommended as a supportive measure before and after procedures, and using medication alone as the primary treatment option shows only modest efficacy, there is a necessity to consider invasive treatment methods. Percutaneous procedures represent the least invasive form of treatment, yielding results comparable to surgery in terms of efficacy. However, their effectiveness is influenced by factors such as the cyst's stage of development, its location, and the challenges in achieving complete intra-procedural isolation. Laparoscopy, particularly when using specialized instruments tailored to the tactical and technical demands of managing hydatid disease, serves to address the limitations of percutaneous methods. Open surgery's role is increasingly restricted, primarily serving as a fallback option in laparoscopic procedures or in cases complicated by hydatid disease. In conclusion, despite the rising popularity of percutaneous methods, surgery remains a viable therapeutic option for treating hydatid disease. Minimally invasive surgical interventions are increasingly versatile and yield comparable outcomes, further solidifying the role of surgery in its management.

Laparoscopy is non-inferior to open surgery for rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic surgery has been endorsed by clinical guidelines for colon cancer, but not for rectal cancer on account of unapproved oncologic equivalence with open surgery. AIMS: We started this largest-to-date meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopy in the treatment of rectal cancer compared with open surgery. MATERIALS & METHODS: Both randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials comparing laparoscopic proctectomy and open surgery between January 1990 and March 2020 were searched in PubMed, Cochrane Library and Embase Databases (PROSPERO registration number CRD42020211718). The data of intraoperative, pathological, postoperative and survival outcomes were compared between two groups. RESULTS: Twenty RCTs and 93 NRCTs including 216,615 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with 48,888 patients received laparoscopic surgery and 167,727 patients underwent open surgery. Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic surgery group showed faster recovery, less complications and decreased mortality within 30 days. The positive rate of circumferential margin (RR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.72 to 0.85, p < 0.0001) and distal margin (RR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.66 to 0.85 p < 0.0001) was significantly reduced in the laparoscopic surgery group, but the completeness of total mesorectal excision showed no significant difference. The 3-year and 5-year local recurrence, disease-free survival and overall survival were all improved in the laparoscopic surgery group, while the distal recurrence did not differ significantly between the two approaches. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopy is non-inferior to open surgery for rectal cancer with respect to oncological outcomes and long-term survival. Moreover, laparoscopic surgery provides short-term advantages, including faster recovery and less complications.

Application value of laparoscopic surgery in elderly patients (≥ 75 years) with colorectal cancer and prognostic factors influencing 5-year overall survival.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the application value of laparoscopic surgery in elderly patients (≥ 75 years) with colorectal cancer, and to identify the prognostic factors influencing the long-term survival in this demographic, and to establish a predictive nomogram model. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 146 elderly (≥ 75 years old) colorectal cancer patients who underwent radical surgery in Baoji People's Hospital from August 2016 to February 2018, including 55 patients who underwent laparotomy and 91 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery. Survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences in prognosis were assessed using the Log-rank test. Prognostic impacts of various factors on 5-year survival were analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards model. Significant predictors identified in the Cox model were used to construct a nomogram for predicting survival, which was then validated for accuracy and clinical utility. RESULTS: Laparoscopic surgery was associated with shorter hospital stays (P = 0.022), although at a higher cost (P = 0.011). The laparoscopic group also had less intraoperative bleeding (P < 0.001), incision length (P < 0.001), time to first postoperative expectoration (P < 0.001), time to first postoperative feeding (P = 0.002), and time to postoperative peritoneal drainage (P = 0.003) compared to the open surgery group. Additionally, the rate of postoperative wound complications was also lower in the laparoscopic group (P = 0.014). There was no significant difference in the 5-year post-treatment survival between the two groups (P = 0.150). Multifactorial Cox regression analysis revealed that a history of diabetes mellitus (P = 0.037), vascular infiltration (P = 0.026), nerve bundle invasion (P = 0.001), and TNM stage (P = 0.001) were independent prognostic factors affecting the 5-year survival of patients with advanced colorectal cancer. The constructed nomogram showed high predictive accuracy for 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival, with AUC values of 0.91, 0.87, and 0.79, respectively. Calibration curves and decision curve analysis confirmed the model's clinical utility. Risk formula: History of diabetes mellitus * -0.696194503 + Vascular infiltration * -0.769736513 + Nerve bundle invasion * -1.1709777 + TNM staging * 1.201933691. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic surgery can reduce intraoperative trauma and accelerate postoperative recovery in elderly colorectal cancer patients (≥ 75 years) compared to open surgery. The developed nomogram model based on independent prognostic factors such as diabetes history, vascular infiltration, nerve bundle invasion, and TNM staging, facilitates tailored prognostic assessment, enhancing individual patient management.

Robotic versus open mini-incision living donor nephrectomy: Single centre experience.

BACKGROUND: Robotic surgery is associated with less tissue manipulation and earlier recovery with minimal incision. The aim of this study was to compare the short-term clinical outcomes between robotic-assisted donor nephrectomy (RDN) and open mini-incision donor nephrectomy (ODN). METHODS: From 2016 to 2019, 141 cases involving RDN were analysed. Patient outcomes were compared with those of 191 patients who underwent ODN from 2010 to 2015. Demographics, operation factors, perioperative outcomes, and complications were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The RDN group presented with less blood loss than the ODN group (p = 0.023). The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the RDN group than in the ODN group (p < 0.005). The overall rate of complications was low and there was no significant difference in complication rates between the groups. CONCLUSION: The robotic approach has benefits over the traditional open approach, including shorter length of hospital stay and reduced intraoperative blood loss.

Surgical removal of an inferior vena cava filter in the duodenum: A rare case report and literature review.

Background: Inferior vena cava filters are typically retrieved using endovascular procedures. However, in cases where complications related to the filter arise or when endovascular retrieval becomes challenging, open surgery could be considered. Case presentation: A 65-year-old woman underwent inferior vena cava filter placement surgery for progressive venous thrombosis embolism (VTE). Following an unsuccessful endovascular retrieval attempt at an external hospital two months later, she experienced abdominal pain and was transferred to our facility for further treatment. Examination revealed that she was encountered a complication where the inferior vena cava filter penetrated both the vena cava and the duodenum post-implantation. But fortunately, the patient's blood test results were within normal range. Ultimately, our institution successfully removed the filter through open surgery and the patient was discharged without any complications. Conclusions: This case, along with our literature review, illustrates the viability and safety of duodenal-penetrated filter removal via open surgery, resulting in favorable outcomes and a promising prognosis for the patient.

Robotic versus open and laparoscopic pelvic exenterations for pelvic cancer: a multicenter propensity-matched analysis in Japan.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic exenteration (PE) is the last resort for achieving a complete cure for pelvic cancer; however, it is burdensome for patients. Minimally invasive surgeries, including robot-assisted surgery, have been widely used to treat malignant tumors and have also recently been used in PE. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of robot-assisted PE (RPE) by comparing the outcomes of open PE (OPE) with those of conventional laparoscopic PE (LPE) for treating pelvic tumors. METHODS: Following the ethics committee approval, a multicenter retrospective analysis of patients who underwent pelvic exenteration between January 2012 and October 2022 was conducted. Data on patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and perioperative outcomes were collected. A 1:1 propensity score-matched analysis was performed to minimize group selection bias. RESULTS: In total, 261 patients met the study criteria, of whom 61 underwent RPE, 90 underwent OPE, and 110 underwent LPE. After propensity score matching, 50 pairs were created for RPE and OPE and 59 for RPE and LPE. RPE was associated with significantly less blood loss (RPE vs. OPE: 408 mL vs. 2385 ml, p < 0.001), lower transfusion rate (RPE vs. OPE: 32% vs. 82%, p < 0.001), and lower rate of complications over Clavien-Dindo grade II (RPE vs. OPE: 48% vs. 74%, p = 0.013; RPE vs. LPE: 48% vs. 76%, p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: This multicenter study suggests that RPE reduces blood loss and transfusion compared with OPE and has a lower rate of complications compared with OPE and LPE in patients with locally advanced and recurrent pelvic tumors.

Comparative outcomes of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery versus open surgery for bronchogenic cysts in adults: a retrospective cohort study.

Background: Open thoracotomy has been the traditional surgical approach for patients with bronchogenic cysts (BCs). This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) compared to open surgery for the treatment of BCs in adults. Methods: This single-institution, retrospective cohort study included 117 consecutive adult patients who underwent VATS (group A) or open surgery (group B) for BC resection between February 2019 and January 2023. Data regarding clinical history, operation duration, length of hospital stay, 30-day mortality, and recurrence during follow-up were collected and analyzed. Results: Of the total cohort, 103 (88.0%) patients underwent VATS, while 14 (12.0%) patients underwent open surgery. Patients' age in group B were much older than group A (P=0.014), and no significant differences in other demographic and baseline clinical characteristics were observed between the groups. The VATS group had shorter median operation duration (96 vs. 149.5 min, P<0.001) and shorter mean length of hospital stay (5.0±5.5 vs. 8.6±4.0 days, P<0.001). One death occurred in the open surgery group. During a median follow-up of 34 (interquartile range, 20.8-42.5) months, no instances of BC recurrence were observed in either group. Conclusions: Compared to open surgery, VATS is also a safe and efficacious approach for treating BCs in adults. What's more, VATS offered shorter operative times and hospital stays. Considering the minimally invasive, VATS may be a better choice in most patients with bronchial cysts.

Open Gastrostomy of a Gastric Leiomyoma Proximal to the Gastroesophageal Junction: A Case Report.

Gastric leiomyomas are benign, submucosal tumors found incidentally on unrelated imaging or during autopsy. The majority of leiomyomas are asymptomatic; however, patients can develop central ulcerations on the lesions leading to upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. A 75-year-old female, with a past medical history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and a cerebrovascular accident, presented with complaints of melena, near-syncope events, lightheadedness, weakness, and hematemesis. A computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen with contrast found a heterogeneous low-attenuation mass of 4×4×3 cm3 within the gastric fundus and near the gastroesophageal (GE) junction. After an open gastrostomy and excisional biopsy, the mass was identified as a leiomyoma. This case report reviews the presentation, diagnostic assessments, and treatment of a gastric leiomyoma in a complex location proximal to the gastroesophageal junction. Gastric leiomyomas should be considered as a differential diagnosis for patients presenting with an upper gastrointestinal bleed.

Open surgical treatment of basilar artery aneurysms in the interventional therapy era.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the effectiveness and evaluation of open surgical treatment of basilar artery aneurysms in the context of interventional therapy era, including surgical clipping and blood reconstruction, by retrospectively analyzing the clinical data of basilar artery aneurysms in our center. METHODS: Patients with basilar artery aneurysms who were treated at our center were retrospectively included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The basic clinical data, surgical approach, clinical follow-up and prognosis of the enrolled patients were analyzed in detail. In this study, the mRS score was applied to assess the neurological prognosis of the patients, and the relevant data were statistically analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS: A total of 104 eligible patients treated at our center from January 2010 to August 2023 were included in this study, of which 67 were treated by open surgery and 37 by bypass. For the 67 patients with open surgical clipping, the mean age was 60.0 (52.0, 65.0) years. The maximum diameter of the aneurysms ranged from 2.0 mm to 54.0 mm, with a mean of 13.9 (10.0, 19.0) mm. The mean follow-up time was 38 (20, 58) months. At the last follow-up, 61 (91.0%) completely obliterated aneurysms and 6 (9.0%) incompletely obliterated aneurysms were found. The prognosis was good in 59 (88.1%) patients and poor in 8 (11.9%). After surgical clipping, the difference between complete and incomplete postoperative aneurysm elimination was statistically significant between the favorable and poor prognosis groups (P < 0.001). For the 37 bypass group patients, the mean age was 52.0 (45.5, 59.0) years. The maximum diameter of the aneurysm ranged from 10.5 mm to 55.0 mm, with a mean of 28.55 ± 12.08 mm. Bypass combined with proximal occlusion was performed in 18 (48.6%) patients, and bypass only was performed in 19 (51.4%) patients. Clinical follow-up was 19.0 (10.5, 43.0) months. There were 19 (51.4%) patients with complete elimination of the aneurysm, 13 (35.1%) with incomplete elimination of the aneurysm, and 5 (13.5%) with aneurysm stabilization. The prognosis was good in 32 (86.5%) patients and poor in 5 (13.5%) patients. CONCLUSION: Treatment of basilar artery aneurysms is challenging. In the context of the rapidly evolving interventional therapy era, open surgery including surgical clipping and bypass is an ideal option for complex basilar artery aneurysms not amenable to intervention.

Primary Hydatid Cyst of the Pancreas: A Literature Review on a Rare and Challenging Occurrence of Echinococcosis.

Hydatid disease is caused by the Echinococcus tapeworm and is a zoonosis that endemically affects certain geographic areas with a high prevalence in animal husbandry. Due to globalization, the pathology can also be encountered beyond these preferred geographic areas. It predominantly affects the liver and lungs, with pancreatic localizations of hydatid cysts being rare and posing a challenge for differential diagnosis and surgical tactics. The present study aimed to provide a recent scoping of the literature on this type of localization, analyzing demographic data, therapeutic management, and postoperative outcomes. It was observed that females are more frequently affected in pancreatic hydatid localizations (p < 0.001), with the most common symptomatology represented by abdominal pain. The preferred localization was at the level of the pancreatic tail (32.5%), followed by cephalic localizations (25%). The preferred surgical approach was open surgery, with an observed preference for open surgery in specific localizations, such as the head, isthmus, and body of the pancreas (p < 0.001). Radical procedures are more commonly used than conservative ones (52.5% vs. 47.5%), and paradoxically, although less invasive, procedures such as inactivation and drainage are associated with more frequent complications (p = 0.03). This type of localization, due to the elements of local anatomical topography, requires adequate preparation in biliopancreatic surgery, considering that sometimes preoperative diagnosis is not oriented, and intraoperative records may require extensive interventions. Our research encompassed a thorough review of literature spanning the last decade using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, focusing specifically on cases involving primary hydatid cysts found within the pancreas. Thirty-three relevant articles were published between 2014 and 2024. In addition, we presented a unique case study that illustrates this uncommon occurrence.

Laparoscopic versus open surgery in treating patients with gallbladder cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Concerns over the security of laparoscopic radical operation for gallbladder cancer (GBC) persist. This systematic review and meta-analysis attempted to compare the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic surgery (LS) versus open surgery (OS) in the treatment of GBC. Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched from inception to July 18, 2022. Literature search, quality assessment, and data extraction were completed independently and in duplicate. Effect-size estimates expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) or odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were derived under the random-effects model. Results: A total of 27 independent studies including 2,868 participants were meta-analyzed. Significance was noted for intraoperative blood loss (WMD: -117.194, 95% CI: -170.188 to 64.201, P<0.001), harvested lymph nodes (WMD: -1.023, 95% CI: -1.776 to -0.269, P=0.008), postoperative hospital stay (WMD: -3.555, 95% CI: -4.509 to -2.601, P<0.001), postoperative morbidity (OR: 0.596, 95% CI: 0.407 to 0.871, P=0.008), overall survival rate at 2-year (OR: 1.524, 95% CI: 1.143 to 2.031, P=0.004), T2 survival at 1-year (OR: 1.799, 95% CI: 1.777 to 2.749, P<0.01) and 2-year (OR: 2.026, 95% CI: 1.392 to 2.949, P<0.001), as well as T3 survival at 1-year (OR: 2.669, 95% CI: 1.564 to 4.555, P<0.001) and 2-year (OR: 2.300, 95% CI: 1.308 to 4.046, P=0.004). Subgroup analyses revealed that ethnicity, incidental GBC, sample size, and follow-up period were possible sources of heterogeneity. There was a low probability of publication bias for all outcomes except postoperative morbidity. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that LS statistically had better 2-year survival rates, less intraoperative bleeding, shorter hospitalization times, and lower rates of complications than OS. However, the superiority and even the safety of LS still remain an open question due to the impact of incidental GBC, unaccounted heterogeneity, publication bias, lymph node dissection, and port-site metastasis.

Is endoscopic technique an effective and safe alternative for lumbar interbody fusion? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Study design: Systematic review; meta-analysis. Purpose: Lumbar degenerative disease is frequent and has a tremendous impact on patients' disability and quality-of-life. Open and minimally invasive procedures have been used to achieve adequate decompression and fusion. Endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-LIF) is emerging as an alternative, trying to reduce morbidity, while achieving comparable to superior clinical outcomes. The aim of this work is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate how Endo-LIF compares to open or minimally invasive procedures. Methods: Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane) were systematically reviewed using the query: '(percutaneous OR endoscop*) AND (open OR minimal* invasive) AND lumbar AND fusion'. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Results: Twenty-seven articles were included (25 cohort study, 1 quasi-experimental study, and 1 randomized control trial; for meta-analytical results, only observational studies were considered). Endo-LIF conditioned longer operative time, with significantly lower blood loss, bedtime, and hospital length of stay. Early post-operative back pain favored endoscopic techniques. Endo-LIF and non-Endo-LIF minimally invasive surgery displayed comparable results for most back and leg pain or disability outcomes, despite Endo-LIF having been associated with higher disability at late follow-up (versus Open-LIF). No differences were found regarding fusion rates, cage subsidence, or adverse events. Definitive conclusions regarding fusion rate cannot be drawn due to low number of studies and unstandardized fusion definition. Conclusion: Endo-LIF is an effective and safe alternative to conventional lumbar interbody fusion procedures. Evidence shortcomings may be addressed, and future randomized control trials may be performed to compare techniques and to validate results.

Hybrid approach to intrapancreatic inferior pancreaticoduodenal aneurysm repair.

Pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs) are an extremely rare visceral artery aneurysm subtype, usually managed by endovascular techniques. We report the case of a 57-year-old man with an intrapancreatic, inferior PDAA abutting the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). This location, in relation to the SMA, risks SMA thrombosis using an endovascular-only approach. Our approach consisted of open exploration and ligation of the inferior PDAA junction at the SMA, followed by endovascular coil embolization of the aneurysm. This case serves as a reminder that although many vascular diseases can be treated with less invasive endovascular strategies, open surgery can sometimes be the safer alternative.

A ruptured mesenteric lymphangioma causing peritonitis: a case report.

Cystic lymphangioma is a rare disease that is mainly diagnosed in childhood. When diagnosed, the lesion presents an indication for surgery due to the risk of serious complications. Herein, we report the case of a 32-year-old patient who presented to the emergency room for abdominal pain that developed 2 days before with worsening symptoms and abdominal pain in the last 24 hr. The computed tomography showed diffuse wall thickening of the jejunum and proximal ileum with mesenteric fat infiltration, a mesenteric collection, and a moderate volume of ascites extending into the pelvis. A laparotomy was performed, revealing diffuse chemical peritonitis with a crater-like lesion in the jejunal mesentery, secreting lymphatic fluid. The mesenteric lesion was then excised, and the histological examination showed a ruptured cystic lymphangioma. Lymphangiomas of the small bowel mesentery are rare and may be exceptionally associated with bowel occlusion or peritonitis.

Surgeons' dominant surgical modality: Impacts on wellbeing, burnout, and interventions for neuromusculoskeletal disorders.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the impact of surgical modalities on surgeon wellbeing with a focus on burnout, job satisfaction, and interventions used to address neuromusculoskeletal disorders (NMSDs). METHODS: An electronic survey was sent to surgeons across an academic integrated multihospital system. The survey consisted of 47 questions investigating different aspects of surgeons' wellbeing. RESULTS: Out of 245 thoracic and abdominopelvic surgeons, 79 surgeons (32.2 â€‹%) responded, and 65 surgeons (82 â€‹%) were able to be categorized as having a dominant surgical modality. Compared to robotic surgeons, laparoscopic (p â€‹= â€‹0.042) and open (p â€‹= â€‹0.012) surgeons reported more frequent feelings of burnout. The number of surgeons who used any treatment/intervention to minimize the operative discomfort/pain was lower for robotic surgeons than the other three modalities (all p â€‹< â€‹0.05). CONCLUSIONS: NMSDs affect different aspects of surgeons' lives and occupations. Robotic surgery was associated with decreased feelings of burnout than the other modalities.

Results Of Minimally Invasive Vats Thymectomy In Miastenia Gravis Patients Compared With More Invasive Approaches - 10-Year Experience In A Single Center.

INTRODUCTION: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune, neurologic disease that causes a wide range of symptoms. While the transsternal, transcervical and thoracotomy approaches are accepted as effective, there is still debate regarding the VATS approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed our center's surgical experience with thymectomy for myasthenia gravis, comparing the results of patients operated on using VATS and more invasive approaches, over a period of 10 years. A search of the department's surgical database for myasthenia gravis cases between January 2010 and January 2021, revealed a total of 40 cases. Twenty-four patients were included in the final analysis and were distributed into two groups: the VATS procedure group (group A) and the open procedure group (group B). The latter included sternotomy, thoracotomy, transcervical and hemiclamshell approaches. Only radical thymectomies were included. The established outcomes were clinical improvement defined as asymptomatic remission, reduction, or discontinuation of the medication necessary to achieve optimal symptom control. RESULTS: The median follow-up time was 27 months (ranging from 4 to 75 months). Videothoracoscopy radical thymectomy was performed on 12 patients. Complete remission with no medication was achieved in 1 case (8.3%), while 2 patients (16.7%) became asymptomatic with reduced medication. An improvement (reduced symptoms or decreased medication) was observed in 8 cases (66.6%). No change in clinical outcome was noted in 1 patient (8.3%). None of the patients reported worsening symptoms. Open thymectomy was performed on 12 patients. Complete remission with no medication was achieved in 1 case (8.3%), while 2 patients (16.7%) became asymptomatic with reduced medication. An improvement was noted in 6 cases (50%). No change in clinical outcome was observed in 3 patients (25%) whereas 2 of them (16.7%) experienced slightly better symptom control but with a significant increase in medication. One patient (8.3%) described the clinical results as without any significant change. None of the patients reported worsening symptoms. CONCLUSION: The videotoracoscopic approach in the treatment of myasthenia gravis is non-inferior compared to the open approach and effective in a long-term follow-up, offering all the additional benefits of less invasive surgery.