Novel cost-effective specimen retrieval bag in laparoscopy: Nadiad bag.

OBJECTIVES: To describe an innovative bag for effective specimen retrieval with the aim of reducing the cost of surgery. Retrieval bags are useful in specimen retrieval after ablative surgery. METHODS: The components of the retrieval bag are a polyethylene roll, nylon thread, and a 5 ureteral catheter. The lower end is double-sewn with an autoseal device. The neck of the bag consists of a folded edge of the polyethylene bag, which is single-sewn. The folded tunnel accommodates the 5F ureteral catheter and nylon thread. Introduction is performed through the 10-mm port with the help of an atraumatic grasper without any special introducer sheath. Two laparoscopic instruments are required to open, place the specimen within, and close the bag. The bag is extracted by extending the port incision, if required. RESULTS: The bag was used in 40 cases, including radical prostatectomy in 7, simple nephrectomy in 18, nephroureterectomy in 11, and adrenalectomy in 4. The running cost of the retrieval bag was

Guide wire-assisted urethral dilatation for urethral strictures in pediatric urology.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to report the results of 32 cases of dilatation of urethral stricture using a guide wire and sheath dilator technique supplemented by clean intermittent catheterization if further stabilization of the urethral stricture was felt warranted. METHODS: The procedure involves insertion of a straight flexi-tip lubricated guide wire through the urethral stricture under cystoscopic guidance followed by insertion of a series of sheath dilators. Dilatation was followed by insertion of a Foley catheter, which was left in situ for 1 to 3 days. Patients underwent repeat cystoscopy to evaluate the urethra for recurrent stricture and those with a recalcitrant stricture were commenced on clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) to stabilize the narrowing. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients were included. They have been followed up for up to 2(1/2) years after their last cystoscopy (mean, 16 months). Thirteen of 32 patients had more than 4 dilatations under anesthesia. Twelve patients had undergone CIC postoperatively. Complications included a urinary tract infection in 3 boys and bladder spasms in one. No false passage or sepsis occurred with this approach. CONCLUSIONS: Guide wire-assisted urethral dilatation helps avoid risks associated with blind dilatation techniques and appears to be a safe and simple alternative for management of urethral strictures in pediatric urology.