Investigation of risk factors for vaginal dehiscence and development of small bowel evisceration after robot-assisted radical cystectomy for female bladder cancer and an improved vaginal reconstruction technique to prevent its onset.

Transvaginal organ prolapse, such as small bowel evisceration, is a rare complication after radical cystectomy (RC) in female patients with invasive bladder cancer, However, it often requires emergency surgical repair. Here, we describe our experience with such a case and a review of similar previously reported cases, along with evaluation of the risk factors. We also propose a vaginal reconstruction technique to prevent this complication during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (RARC). A total of 178 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) or RARC were enrolled, 34 of whom (19%) were female. One of the 34 female patients had transvaginal small bowel evisceration after RARC. We evaluated our case and six such previously reported cases, to determine vaginal reconstruction techniques during RARC to prevent this complication postoperatively. Median age of these cases was 73 (51-80) years, and all patients were postmenopausal. The median time to small bowel evisceration was 14 (6-120) weeks postoperatively. In addition, we changed the methods of the vaginal reconstruction technique during RARC from the conventional side-to-side closure technique to the improved caudal-to-cephalad closure technique. Since implementing this change, we have not experienced any cases of vaginal vault dehiscence or organ prolapse. Transvaginal small bowel evisceration after RC can easily become severe. Therefore, all possible preventive measures should be taken during RARC. We believe that our vaginal reconstruction techniques might reduce the risk of developing this complication.

Laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal repair for recurrent inguinal bladder hernia: A case report.

We present a case of a recurrent inguinal bladder hernia that was previously unsuccessfully operated on three times and was repaired using totally extraperitoneal repair (TEP). A 79-year-old man presented with a right inguinal swelling that had been treated three times on the same side with anterior approaches. Computed tomography confirmed a recurrent inguinal bladder hernia. TEP was performed after identifying the bladder hernia preoperatively, with previous surgeries that used a plug-and-patch technique through an anterior approach. The extraperitoneal approach allowed the bladder to be reduced without injury and the hernia to be safely repaired using a 3D Max® Light Mesh. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, with no recurrence after 1 year. TEP facilitates the diagnosis and repair of bladder hernias, emphasizing the importance of preoperative diagnosis and the efficacy of endoscopic procedures in bladder hernia repair, even in recurrent cases.

Safety and graft outcome of right retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy for living donor kidney transplantation: A comparison with left retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy.

INTRODUCTION: The left kidney is often preferred for living donor kidney transplantation because of its anatomical advantages. However, the right kidney may be procured due to donor conditions. Few studies have assessed the safety and graft outcome of right retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (RDN). This study aimed to compare the outcomes between right and left RDN with respect to donor outcome and the graft function of recipients. METHODS: This retrospective study included 230 consecutive living donor kidney transplants performed at our institution between May 2019 and March 2023. We reviewed the outcomes of kidney transplant in the right and left kidneys after RDN. RESULTS: A total of 230 living donor kidney transplants were performed, with 32 donors receiving right RDN (right RDN group) and 198 donors receiving left RDN (left RDN group). The renal veins and ureters were significantly shorter in the right RDN group than in the left RDN group (both p < .001). Donor operation and warm ischemia time were significantly longer in the right RDN group than in the left RDN group (p = .012 and p < .001, respectively). None of the groups exhibited any cases of delayed graft function owing to donor-related reasons. Perioperative changes in the estimated glomerular filtration rate of recipients and death-censored graft survival were not significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: In RDN, the outcomes of right donor nephrectomy were comparable to those of left donor nephrectomy in terms of donor safety and recipient renal function.

New surgery technique combining robotics and laparoscopy using the Hugo™ RAS system.

INTRODUCTION: Hybrid total laparoscopic hysterectomy combines conventional laparoscopic surgery and robot-assisted devices: the camera and assistant forceps are operated by a robotic device, whereas the surgeon performs laparoscopic procedures, enabling surgery with a completely fixed field of view and significantly reducing errors in forceps grasping and needle misalignment. Here, we examined whether using two arms of the Hugo™ robot-assisted surgery system, one for the camera and one for the assistant, would improve surgical accuracy compared with conventional total laparoscopic hysterectomy. MATERIALS AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: The surgical system reduced surgeon errors in grasping the forceps during training and stabilized forceps operation. Compared with conventional laparoscopic surgery, the use of the surgical system did not result in different operative durations. The stable surgical procedure was considered a major advantage. DISCUSSION: This new technique involving new equipment can improve surgeon training and performance. In the future, we will develop new techniques to improve surgical performance.

Acute idiopathic mesenteroaxial gastric volvulus managed laparoscopically.

Gastric volvulus is an uncommon cause of upper gastrointestinal obstruction that occurs when the stomach twists along its vertical (organoaxial) or horizontal (mesenteroaxial) axis. Its rarity combined with its non-specific presentation makes gastric volvulus a diagnostic challenge, especially when the volvulus occurs without underlying structural abnormality such as hiatal hernia. The organoaxial type comprises most cases of this rare diagnosis. Few cases of mesenteroaxial volvulus have been reported in children and even fewer in adults. Here, we present a rare case of acute, idiopathic mesenteroaxial volvulus in a patient in his 70s, that was successfully managed laparoscopically.

Effect of cuff inflation with lidocaine, saline, and air on tracheal tube cuff pressure during laparoscopic resection of colorectal neoplasms: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Tracheal tube cuff pressure will increase after pneumoperitoneum when the cuff is inflated with air, high pressure can cause tracheal mucosal damage. This prospective trial aimed to assess if inflating with normal saline or lidocaine can prevent increase of tracheal tube cuff pressure and tracheal mucosal damage in laparoscopic surgeries with general anesthesia. Whether changes of tracheal tube cuff transverse diameter (CD) can predict changes of tracheal tube cuff pressure. METHODS: Ninety patients scheduled for laparoscopic resection of colorectal neoplasms under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to groups air (A), saline (S) or lidocaine (L). Endotracheal tube cuff was inflated with room-temperature air in group A (n = 30), normal saline in group S (n = 30), 2% lidocaine hydrochloride injection in group L (n = 30). After intubation, tracheal tube cuff pressure was monitored by a calibrated pressure transducers, cuff pressure was adjusted to 25 cmH2O (T0.5). Tracheal tube cuff pressure at 15 min after pneumoperitoneum (T1) and 15 min after exsufflation (T2) were accessed. CD were measured by ultrasound at T0.5 and T1, the ability of ΔCD (T1-0.5) to predict cuff pressure was accessed. Tracheal mucous injury at the end of surgery were also recorded. RESULTS: Tracheal tube cuff pressure had no significant difference among the three groups at T1 and T2. ΔCD had prediction value (AUC: 0.92 [95% CI: 0.81-1.02]; sensitivity: 0.99; specificity: 0.82) for cuff pressure. Tracheal mucous injury at the end of surgery were 0 (0, 1.0) in group A, 0 (0, 1.0) in group S, 0 (0, 0) in group L (p = 0.02, group L was lower than group A and S, p = 0.03 and p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Compared to inflation with air, normal saline and 2% lidocaine cannot ameliorate the increase of tracheal tube cuff pressure during the pneumoperitoneum period under general anesthesia, but lidocaine can decrease postoperative tracheal mucosa injury. ΔCD measured by ultrasound is a predictor for changes of tracheal tube cuff pressure. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, identifier: ChiCTR2100054089, Date: 08/12/2021.

Outcomes of surgical treatment for enterovesical fistula in Crohn's disease.

Enterovesical fistula (EVF) in Crohn's disease (CD) often does not improve with medical treatment and requires surgical treatment. The surgical treatment strategy for EVF in CD is definitive resection of the intestinal tract side, and performing a leak test using dye injection into the bladder after EVF dissection to determine the appropriate surgical procedure for the bladder side. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of surgical treatment for EVF in CD. Twenty-one patients who underwent surgery for EVF between 2006 and 2021 were included and retrospectively evaluated for clinical background, surgical procedures, and postoperative complications. The most common origin of EVF was the ileum (17 cases; 81%), and the most common site of EVF formation was the apex (12; 57%). Surgical approaches were laparotomy in 11 (52%) cases and laparoscopy in 10 (48%). Surgical procedures on the bladder side were fistula dissection in 13 (62%) cases and sutured closure of fistula in 8 (38%). A comparison of approaches revealed no significant difference in operative time, but the amount of blood loss was significantly less in the laparoscopy (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of postoperative complications between approaches. Postoperative anti-TNF-α antibody agents were used in 17 (81%) cases, and there were no cases of recurrent EVF. In conclusion, definitive resection of the intestinal tract and minimal treatment on the bladder side were sufficient to achieve satisfactory outcomes for EVF in CD.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic resection of a pelvic solitary fibrous tumour causing distal ureteric compression.

This case report describes a male in his late 40s with a 4 cm pelvic mass compressing the left distal ureter, resulting in left hydroureteronephrosis. Biopsy of the mass was suggestive of a solitary fibrous tumour. The patient underwent a robotic-assisted laparoscopic excision of the left pelvic mass. Intraoperatively, the mass was found to be densely adhered to the ureter, necessitating a left distal ureterectomy and ureteric reimplantation. Subsequent histopathological analysis revealed the mass was a solitary fibrous tumour with no evidence of malignancy.

Comparing the long-term follow-up anal function between robot-assisted and laparoscopic surgery for low rectal cancer: A meta-analysis and systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) is increasingly used for treating low rectal cancer. Its comparative effectiveness against laparoscopic surgery (LAS) in enhancing long-term anal function remains uncertain. METHODS: A meta-analysis was conducted to compare long-term anal function outcomes between patients undergoing RAS and LAS. Meta-regression and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess available evidence. Studies published up to September 2023 in English or Chinese were included. RESULTS: Seven studies were identified. RAS patients exhibited lower low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) scores (standardised mean difference [SMD] = -1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -2.64 to -0.15) and Wexner scores (SMD = -0.74; 95% CI: -1.20 to -0.27) compared with LAS patients. However, RAS did not significantly reduce major LARS risk (odds ratio = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.68-1.04). CONCLUSIONS: RAS slightly improved postoperative anal function compared with LAS. Further studies with large samples are warranted to confirm or update our findings.

Transabdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) versus totally extraperitoneal (TEP) laparoscopic techniques for inguinal hernia repair.

BACKGROUND: An inguinal hernia occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal muscles. In adults, this common condition is much more likely in men than in women. Inguinal hernia can be monitored by 'watchful waiting', but if symptoms persist or worsen, surgery is usually required, which can be open or laparoscopic. Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair of inguinal hernias in adults is generally performed using either the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) or the totally extraperitoneal (TEP) method. Both methods include the use of mesh placed in front of the peritoneal lining of the abdominal wall, but for the TAPP technique, the abdominal cavity needs to be entered to place the mesh, and for the TEP technique, the whole procedure is done on the outside of the peritoneal lining of the abdominall wall. Whether one method is superior to the other has not been established, and there is debate about their relative benefits and harms. An advantage of TEP is its avoidance of the abdominal cavity; the downside is that it requires a steeper learning curve for clinicians. TAPP is considered simpler and makes it possible to inspect the contralateral side, but TAPP may have a higher risk of visceral injury compared to TEP. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2005. OBJECTIVES: To compare the benefits and harms of laparoscopic TAPP technique versus laparoscopic TEP technique for inguinal hernia repair in adults. SEARCH METHODS: On 25 October 2022, the authors searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library; Ovid MEDLINE(R) Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE(R) Daily, and Ovid MEDLINE(R); and Ovid Embase, for published randomised controlled trials. To identify studies in progress, we searched ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (ICTRP). SELECTION CRITERIA: All prospective randomised, quasi-randomised, and cluster-randomised trials that compared the laparoscopic TAPP technique with the laparoscopic TEP technique for inguinal hernia repair in adults were eligible for inclusion. We included studies that involved a mix of different types of groin hernia if we could extract data for the inguinal hernias. Studies may have also included a group of participants receiving hernia repair by open surgery, but these groups were not included in our review. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Both review authors independently evaluated trial eligibility, extracted data from included studies, and assessed the risk of bias in the included studies. The review's primary outcomes were serious adverse events, chronic pain (persisting for at least six months after surgery), and hernia recurrence. We also assessed a variety of secondary outcomes at perioperative, early postoperative, and late postoperative time points. We performed statistical analyses using the random-effects model, and expressed the results as odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MDs) for continuous outcomes, with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for key outcomes as high, moderate, low or very low. MAIN RESULTS: We included 23 studies in this review update, which randomised 1156 people to TAPP and 1110 people to TEP, all requiring repair of inguinal hernias. Study sample sizes varied from 40 to 316 participants. The vast majority of study participants were male. We judged most studies to be at 'high' or 'unclear' risk of bias. Our judgements of the certainty of the evidence were low or very low for all outcomes we assessed. There may be little to no difference between TAPP and TEP laparoscopic techniques for serious adverse events (0.4% versus 0.7%; OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.15 to 2.32, P = 0.45, I2 = 0%; 19 studies, 1735 participants; low certainty of evidence); and hernia recurrence (1.2% versus 1.1%; OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.49 to 2.62, P = 0.97, I2 = 0%; 17 studies, 1712 participants; low certainty of evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effects of TAPP versus TEP techniques on chronic pain (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.97, P = 0.68, I2 = 0%; 6 studies, 860 participants; very low certainty of evidence). In terms of secondary outcomes, the evidence is very uncertain for TAPP versus TEP techniques for perioperative visceral and vascular injury (15 studies, 1523 participants; very low certainty of evidence), and for haematoma or seroma during the early (≤ 30 days) postoperative phase (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.37, P = 0.3861, I2 = 0%; 15 studies, 1423 participants; very low certainty of evidence). TEP technique may carry a higher risk of conversion to another hernia repair method (either TAPP technique or open surgery) when compared to TAPP (2.5% versus 0.7%; OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.84, P = 0.02, I2 = 0%; 13 studies, 1178 participants; low certainty of evidence). Only two studies (474 participants) reported quality of life in the late (> 30 days) postoperative phase; overall, there was an improvement in quality of life from the pre- to post-operative assessment, but the evidence suggests little to no difference between the techniques (low certainty of evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: This review update found that there may be little to no difference between the TAPP and TEP techniques for serious adverse events, hernia recurrence, or chronic pain (low- to very-low-certainty evidence). Decisions about which method to use will most likely reflect surgeon and patient preference until high-certainty evidence becomes available. There may be a higher risk of needing to convert from TEP to TAPP or open surgery when compared to the risk of needing to convert from TAPP to open surgery (low-certainty evidence). If surgeons opt for TEP as their standard laparoscopic method, they could consider having a strategy for how to handle the potential need for conversion. This might include proficiency in the TAPP approach or having informed the patient about the risk of conversion to open surgery. For surgeons or surgical departments, the choice of a laparoscopic technique should involve shared decision-making with patients and their families or carers. Future research could focus on patient-reported outcomes, such as quality of life.

A novel technique for NO.253 lymph node dissection and left colic artery preservation to avoid potential postoperative internal hernia in laparoscopic radical resection for rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: The preservation of the left colic artery (LCA) has emerged as a preferred approach in laparoscopic radical resection for rectal cancer. However, preserving the LCA while simultaneously dissecting the NO.253 lymph node can create a mesenteric defect between the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), the LCA, and the inferior mesenteric vein (IMV). This defect could act as a potential "hernia ring," increasing the risk of developing an internal hernia after surgery. The objective of this study was to introduce a novel technique designed to mitigate the risk of internal hernia by filling mesenteric defects with autologous tissue. METHODS: This new technique was performed on eighteen patients with rectal cancer between January 2022 and June 2022. First of all, dissected the lymphatic fatty tissue on the main trunk of IMA from its origin until the LCA and sigmoid artery (SA) or superior rectal artery (SRA) were exposed and then NO.253 lymph node was dissected between the IMA, LCA and IMV. Next, the SRA or SRA and IMV were sequentially ligated and cut off at an appropriate location away from the "hernia ring" to preserve the connective tissue between the "hernia ring" and retroperitoneum. Finally, after mobilization of distal sigmoid, on the lateral side of IMV, the descending colon was mobilized cephalad. Patients'preoperative baseline characteristics and intraoperative, postoperative complications were examined. RESULTS: All patients' potential "hernia rings" were closed successfully with our new technique. The median operative time was 195 min, and the median intraoperative blood loss was 55 ml (interquartile range 30-90). The total harvested lymph nodes was 13.0(range12-19). The median times to first flatus and liquid diet intake were both 3.0 days. The median number of postoperative hospital days was 8.0 days. One patient had an injury to marginal arterial arch, and after mobolization of splenic region, tension-free anastomosis was achieved. No other severe postoperative complications such as abdominal infection, anastomotic leakage, or bleeding were observed. CONCLUSIONS: This technique is both safe and effective for filling the mesenteric defect, potentially reducing the risk of internal hernia following laparoscopic NO.253 lymph node dissection and preservation of the left colic artery in rectal cancer surgeries.

Aesthetic Outcomes and Patient Satisfaction in Laparoscopic vs. Open Incisional Hernia Repair: Have We Asked the Patients?

Background: Incisional hernias are predominantly treated through open or laparoscopic surgery, with each method influencing recovery and patient-reported outcomes. This underscores the need for reliable assessment tools such as the EuraHS-QoL questionnaire to evaluate quality of life after surgery. Methods: This prospective single-center study was aimed at evaluating aestethic outcomes and patient satisfaction following laparoscopic versus open hernia repair. It involved 222 patients categorized by type of approach. The EuraHS-QoL questionnaire was used preoperatively and at 1- and 3-months post-surgery, with data analysis performed using Origin Pro 2018 and SPSS software version 28.0. Results: Among the participants, 152 were females and 70 males, with 78% undergoing open surgery and 22% laparoscopic. Findings revealed superior patient outcomes with laparoscopic repair in terms of pain management, daily activities, and aesthetic satisfaction. Patients reported significantly lower pain levels and fewer restrictions in daily activities post-laparoscopic surgery. While initial postoperative cosmetic results favored laparoscopic methods, the perceived differences in abdominal shape diminished over time. Conclusions: Laparoscopic repair significantly improves quality of life compared to open surgery, as shown by EuraHS-QoL scores. These results support the use of laparoscopic techniques in appropriate cases due to their benefits in pain reduction and faster functional recovery.

The Clinical Efficacy, and Long-Term Outcomes Between Pneumatic Dilation and Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy in Achalasia.

Introduction: Achalasia is the most well-known motility disorder, characterized by the lack of optimal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter during swallowing and the absence of peristalsis of the esophageal body. Laparoscopic Heller esocardiomyotomy (LHM) and pneumatic dilation (PD) were the main treatment options for achalasia. Currently, the therapeutic methods are complemented by per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Materials and Methods: we performed a retrospective study, analyzing the data and evolution of 98 patients with achalasia, admited and treated in the General and Esophageal Surgery Clinic of the St. Mary Clinical Hospital-Bucharest between January 2016 and June 2023. The treatment was performed by PD in 25 cases and the majority LHM. The average duration of symptoms in the case of PD was 48 months, and 24 months in LHM. The patients were evaluated before and after the treatment procedures by the Eckardt clinical score and investigations such as timed barium esophagogram (TBO) and esophageal manometry. Results: Although patients had the same Eckardt score before treatment, a statistically significant decrease of the Eckardt score was obtained at the post-therapeutic evaluation after undergoing LHM compared to PD. Recurrence of symptoms was more frequent in the case of PD, requiring another therapeutic intervention. The cost of treatment, as well as the number of hospitalization days were reduced in the case of PD. Conclusions: The treatment of achalasia with LHM is more effective regarding recurrence of symptoms, even if it involves higher costs and a longer hospital stay compared to DP.

Outcomes Post Beyond Total Mesorectal Excision Plane Resections Following Setting up Complex Colorectal Cancer Service in a District General Hospital.

Background: This study aims to validate the feasibility of a hub-and-spoke model for pelvic exenteration (PE) surgery while upholding favorable patient outcomes. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing PE at our trust October 2017 and December 2023 was conducted. Descriptive statistics and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were employed. Results: Sixty-seven patients underwent PE during the study period, mainly for locally advanced colorectal cancer (n=61, 91.04%). Minimally invasive surgery was performed in 16 cases (Robotic 3, 4.47% / Laparoscopic 13, 19.40) while the rest of patients 51 had open surgery (75.11%). Median hospital stay was 12 days (range:8-20). While 24 patients (35.82%) developed major complications (CD III-IV) post-surgery, there were no mortalities associated with pelvic exenteration in this study. Of the 67 patients undergoing surgery with curative intent, negative margins (R0 resection) were achieved in 57 patients (85.12%). This is comparable to outcomes reported by the PelvEx collaborative (85.07% versus 79.8%). At a median follow-up of 22 months, 15 patient (22.38%) recurred with 10.44% local recurrence rate. The 2 years overall and disease-free survival were 85.31% and 77.0.36%, respectively. Conclusion: Our study suggests that a nascent PE service, supported by specialist expertise and resources, can achieve good surgical outcomes within a district general hospital.

Beyond the Surface: A Case Report of a Patient with Small Bowel Metastasis and Melanoma History. Diagnosis and Management.

Background: Malignant melanoma (MM) is one of the most prevalent and deadliest forms of skin cancer, resulting from the malignant transformation of melanocytes. It accounts for approximately 1.7% of global cancer diagnoses and is the fifth most common cancer in the US. MM can metastasize to almost any part of the body, with early detection significantly improving prognosis. Case presentation: We report the case of an 81-year-old female with a history of malignant melanoma (primary lesion on the left calf) and various comorbidities. She presented with severe anemia of unknown origin. A CT scan was performed due to her medical history, revealing a circumferential, asymmetrical parietal thickening at the level of a hypogastric ileal loop. The lesion suggested a tumoral substrate. Subsequent colonoscopy showed no metastatic lesions, but surgical intervention confirmed a malignant melanoma ileal metastasis. The patient underwent laparoscopic segmental resection with favorable post-surgery outcomes. Histopathological examination of the resected tissue confirmed the diagnosis of small intestine secondary lesions from the malignant melanoma. Conclusion: This case underscores the necessity of considering metastatic melanoma in patients with a history of MM and vague gastrointestinal symptoms. Early and accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging and endoscopic techniques can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Laparoscopic Pancreatoduodenectomy: Twenty years later, where are we?

In its 20th anniversary, laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy, while feasible and safe in the hands of experienced surgeons, has not seen the anticipated popularity observed in other digestive surgery procedures. The primary hurdle remains the absence of a clear advantage over traditional open surgery, paired with the procedures complexity and a consequent steep learning curve. In regions with limited pancreatic surgery services, conducting this procedure without adequate training can have serious repercussions. Given the advent of robotic platforms and the anticipation of prospective and randomized studies on this new technology, it is imperative to engage in comprehensive discussions, endorsed by surgical societies, on the value, application, and implementation strategies for various minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy techniques. Such dialogue is crucial for advancing the field and ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

High peritoneal incision approach in endoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal patch plasty (TAPP) for inguinal hernia after radical prostatectomy.

BACKGROUND: Inguinal hernia develops as one of the common complications after robotic or laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RP). Transabdominal preperitoneal patch plasty (TAPP) for an inguinal hernia after RP is difficult to perform due to postoperative severe adhesions in the preperitoneal cavity. We have introduced a high peritoneal incision approach (HPIA) in TAPP for inguinal hernia patients in whom peritoneal dissection is difficult due to severe adhesions after RP. We evaluate the safety and efficacy of TAPP with a HPIA for patients with an inguinal hernia after robot-assisted RP (RARP). METHODS: Patients characteristics and surgical outcome were evaluated by a retrospective analysis. RESULTS: From January 2014 to December 2017, 21 consecutive patients underwent TAPP for an inguinal hernia after RARP. Twenty-four lesions were the type 3b and three were type 3a according to the Nyhus classification. A circular incision TAPP was performed for 10 hernia lesions in eight patients and TAPP with HPIA was utilized for 17 lesions in 13 patients. The mean operation time for the unilateral hernia in the HPIA (137.8 ± 20.7 min) was significantly shorter than that (182.2 ± 42.0 min) in the circular incision TAPP (p = .038). The HPIA was complete in all patients, while the circular incision TAPP was converted to intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM)intraperitoneal onlay mesh in five patients (55.6%, p = .008) due to dense adhesions with difficult dissection. No recurrent was observed after follow-up period of 48 months in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The TAPP with HPIA is feasible and a safe and reliable treatment of choice in patients with an inguinal hernia after RARP.

Surgical step recognition in laparoscopic distal gastrectomy using artificial intelligence: a proof-of-concept study.

PURPOSE: Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) is a difficult procedure for early career surgeons. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based surgical step recognition is crucial for establishing context-aware computer-aided surgery systems. In this study, we aimed to develop an automatic recognition model for LDG using AI and evaluate its performance. METHODS: Patients who underwent LDG at our institution in 2019 were included in this study. Surgical video data were classified into the following nine steps: (1) Port insertion; (2) Lymphadenectomy on the left side of the greater curvature; (3) Lymphadenectomy on the right side of the greater curvature; (4) Division of the duodenum; (5) Lymphadenectomy of the suprapancreatic area; (6) Lymphadenectomy on the lesser curvature; (7) Division of the stomach; (8) Reconstruction; and (9) From reconstruction to completion of surgery. Two gastric surgeons manually assigned all annotation labels. Convolutional neural network (CNN)-based image classification was further employed to identify surgical steps. RESULTS: The dataset comprised 40 LDG videos. Over 1,000,000 frames with annotated labels of the LDG steps were used to train the deep-learning model, with 30 and 10 surgical videos for training and validation, respectively. The classification accuracies of the developed models were precision, 0.88; recall, 0.87; F1 score, 0.88; and overall accuracy, 0.89. The inference speed of the proposed model was 32 ps. CONCLUSION: The developed CNN model automatically recognized the LDG surgical process with relatively high accuracy. Adding more data to this model could provide a fundamental technology that could be used in the development of future surgical instruments.

Simple, Rapid, Safe, and Cost-Effective Technique for Rectal Washout During Laparoscopic Surgery for Rectal Cancer.

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