Outcomes of Laparoscopic Suture Rectopexy Versus Laparoscopic Mesh Rectopexy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The contemporary literature provides conflicting evidence regarding the precedence of laparoscopic mesh rectopexy over laparoscopic suture rectopexy for full-thickness rectal prolapse. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of mesh and suture rectopexy to improve the surgical management of complete rectal prolapse. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to extract studies based on mesh versus suture rectopexy and published from 2001 to 2023. The articles of interest were obtained from PubMed Central, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Journal Storage (JSTOR), Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. The primary outcomes included rectal prolapse recurrence, constipation improvement, and operative time. The secondary endpoints included the Cleveland Clinic Constipation Score, Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score, intraoperative bleeding, hospital stay duration, mortality, overall postoperative complications, and surgical site infection. A statistically significant low recurrence of rectal prolapse (odds ratio: 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21-0.80; p=0.009) and longer mean operative duration (mean difference: 27.05, 95% CI 18.86-35.24; p<0.00001) were observed in patients with mesh rectopexy versus suture rectopexy. Both study groups, however, had no significant differences in constipation improvement and all secondary endpoints (all p>0.05). The laparoscopic mesh rectopexy was associated with a low postoperative rectal prolapse recurrence and a longer operative duration compared to laparoscopic suture rectopexy. Prospective randomized controlled trials should further evaluate mesh and suture rectopexy approaches for postoperative outcomes to inform the surgical management of complete rectal prolapse.

A Single-Center Study on Clinico-Radiological Evaluation of Inguino-Scrotal or Labial Swellings Presenting to a Tertiary Care Set-Up in Central India.

Introduction The inguino-scrotal/labial region, anatomically defined as the juncture where the thigh meets the lower abdomen, encompassing the ipsilateral scrotal area in men and the inguino-labial area in women, exhibits a broad spectrum of masses. Traditionally, these swellings were clinically diagnosed with high accuracy, primarily due to the prevalence of simple hernias and hydroceles. However, contemporary observations reveal a surge in complex inguino-scrotal/labial swellings, particularly in referral hospitals, necessitating additional radiological and imaging modalities for precise diagnosis. Our interest in this subject was sparked by the escalating numbers of intricate inguino-scrotal/labial masses encountered in our medical setting, posing challenges for clinical diagnosis in both pediatric and adult populations. Materials and methods A prospective, observational study was conducted over two years (August 2021 to March 2023) involving 210 patients presenting with inguino-scrotal/labial swellings at our institute. Clinical data were meticulously collected using a designed pro forma, following informed consent procedures. Results Among the 210 patients with inguino-scrotal/labial swellings, males predominated (194) compared to females (16). The paediatric age group comprised 84 patients, while 126 were adults. Radiological investigations played a crucial role in diagnosing 40 patients and provided significant additional information in 12 cases. Radiological investigations contributed to the diagnosis in 52 patients (24.76%). The study revealed a spectrum of new entities in the inguino-scrotal/labial region, including malignancies, lymph nodal masses in the groin, and vascular, inflammatory, and congenital lesions, which might have been overlooked if solely relying on clinical parameters for diagnosis. Conclusion Inguino-scrotal/labial swelling patients, especially those facing diagnostic dilemmas or harbouring complex lesions, should undergo radiological assessment as an indispensable criterion, particularly when such facilities are readily accessible.

Management Dilemma: Is Enucleation With Lymphadenectomy a Viable Choice for Large Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (p-NETs)?

Managing pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) has gradually taken a trend toward conservative management owing to its slow-growing and prolonged course. Though clear criteria exist regarding managing small tumors, the direction of a large tumor remains a dilemma. We present a case of a young 26-year-old lactating woman with a large 3.4 cm × 3.2 cm mass in the uncinate process, which is adjacent to the inferior vena cava (IVC) and has flimsy adhesions to the duodenum. She also had an enhancing adjacent lymph node measuring 1.2 cm × 0.7 cm, which showed enhancement with Ga-68 DOTANOC positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and raised serum gastrin levels. The dilemma was between pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or enucleation with lymphadenectomy (EL). Finally, EL was conducted. We discussed this case with relevant studies, which we had referred to because large-sized tumors are not usually enucleated.

Management Dilemma in a Large Fungating Squamous Cell Carcinoma Over a Marjolin's Ulcer on the Chest Wall Coexisting With Severe Post-Burn Contracture of the Neck.

Marjolin's ulcer is a premalignant condition occurring over scars and chronically inflamed tissue. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignancy associated with Marjolin's ulcer. The progression of disease and metastasis is relatively slow due to scarring and meagre lymphatic and vascular supply over these scars. We present a case of a large fungating squamous cell carcinoma in a patent having a burn scar over his chest as well as having post-burn contracture of the neck, posing problems in management due to intubation issues. We managed him unconventionally with serial excision under local anesthesia and skin grafting of the wound.

A case report: Management dilemma in a large fungating squamous cell carcinoma over a Marjolin's ulcer on the chest wall coexisting with severe post burn contracture of the neck.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Marjolin's ulcer is a premalignant condition occurring over scars and chronically inflamed tissue. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignancy associated with Marjolin's ulcer. These are rare tumors which spread locally and once infiltrating, may lead to distant spread. In our case recurrent bleeding causing severe anaemia and foul smelling discharge, mandated an early resection, the problem in this case was due to his chest condition and severe post-burn neck contracture and he was unfit for general anesthesia. He was subjected to serial local excisions as well as subsequent serial skin grafts. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of a large fungating squamous cell carcinoma in a patent having burn scar over his chest as well has having post-burn contracture of the neck, posing problems in management due to intubation issues. DISCUSSION: The progression of disease and metastasis is relatively slow due to scarring and meager lymphatic and vascular supply over these scars. Owing to the complexities and urgency, we managed him unconventionally with serial excision under local anesthesia and skin grafting of the wound. CONCLUSION: Some alterations in management may be a gift of life in such patients is the message through this case.

Revisiting the clinico-radiological features of an unusual inguino-labial swelling in an adult female.

INTRODUCTION: Processus vaginalis in females or the canal of Nuck was first described by the Dutch anatomist Anton Nuck in 1691 (Ranschaert and Worsley, n.d.; Brainwood et al., 2020 [1,2]). Its patency after birth predisposes to congenital presentations like hydroceles, encysted hydroceles and hernias presenting as an unusual inguino-labial swelling. It gets obliterated by first year of life and hence anomalies related to its patency in adult hood are even rare. It is hence important to be familiar with the clinico-radiological aspects of such a presentation when it is encountered. CASE REPORT: Case presentation is of an adult woman of 36 years with hydrocele of the canal of Nuck. DISCUSSION: We proceed to discuss the clinico-radiological features and variations of this entity in our case report. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, differential diagnosis of female inguino-labial swellings need detailed evaluation to exclude the possibility of rare entities.

A Study on Clinico-Pathological Profile of Breast Cancer Patients and Their Correlation With Uterine Fibroids Using Hormone Level and Receptor Status Assessment.

Purpose: To study the clinico-pathological profile of breast cancer patients and the prevalence of uterine fibroids in them, their hormonal levels and hormone receptor status. Patients and methods: 52 patients with breast cancer who attended AIIMS Bhopal from November 2018 to January 2020 were selected, with their clinical details, triple assessment and other investigations for further management being performed and recorded. The presence of uterine fibroids was assessed using ultrasound of the abdomen, and for patients who had undergone hysterectomy, previous medical records were examined to ascertain the history of uterine fibroids. Serum levels of estrogen and progesterone were assessed using chemi-luminescent micro-particle immune assay (CMIA). Results: The mean age of patients was 50.35 ± 10.87 years. 36.54% of our patients had uterine fibroids, of whom 15.38% had undergone hysterectomy for the same, and 21.15% was detected on ultrasound of the abdomen during evaluation. Among patients with uterine fibroids, 84.2% were hormone receptor-positive, while in patients without uterine fibroids, only 57.6% had positive receptors. (P = 0.049). Among premenopausal patients, there was a statistically significant difference in serum progesterone values between patients with and without uterine fibroids. Conclusion: The prevalence of uterine fibroids in our study group of breast cancer patients was found to be high. The role of estrogen and progesterone in the pathophysiology of both diseases and the common risk factors involved may biologically explain this finding. Breast cancer and other estrogen associated disorders may hold future research prospects.

A PILOT STUDY on the Clinical and Functional Outcomes of an Improvised Technique of Core-cut Fistulectomy for Fistula-in-ano.

BACKGROUND: Anal fistulae are difficult to treat entities and minimally invasive procedures are evolving with promises. Our improvised technique is a simple and easy day-care procedure for simple fistulae. AIM: To evaluate the outcomes of a technical modification in the procedure of core-cut fistulectomy in simple cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano. METHODS: 47 patients of fistula-in-ano presenting to the out-patient of the General Surgery department at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, from November 2018 to March 2020 were selected. A complete history, physical examination followed by relevant investigations were meticulously performed and recorded. They were operated using an improvised core-cut technique, under a pudendal nerve block. Patients were kept on follow-up for a minimum of 6 months period to note the outcome of the surgery. RESULTS: The mean age was 37 ± 13.17 years with a male: female ratio of 5.1:1. The most common clinical presentation was perianal discharge in 96% of patients followed by pain and pruritus ani in 45% and 32%, respectively. 93.62% were inter-sphincteric, and 6.38% were trans-sphincteric. Extra-sphincteric and supra-levator fistulae were excluded from the study. The mean operative time was 17 ± 10.19 minutes. The mean healing time was 19.21 ± 5.99 days. The success rate of this novel technique of core-cut was calculated to be 89.37%. The rate of recurrence was calculated to be 10.63% (5 out of 47 patients). None of our patients developed incontinence. CONCLUSION: Our pilot study results for simple fistulae-in-ano had less morbidity, postoperative pain, better wound healing, patient satisfaction, and compliance with low risk of recurrence, and no incontinence. It could hence be recommended for larger groups and more complicated fistulae in the future.

Metastatic Hepatic Epitheloid Hemangioendothelioma in a Young Male: A Rare Presentation.

Hepatic EHE (epithelioid hemangioendothelioma) is an uncommon entity of vascular origin and a low-grade malignant tumor. Primary hepatic EHE is rare. These tumors can be multifocal at presentation like in the soft tissues, bones, brain, liver, and small intestine. First described by Weiss and Enzinger in 1982 as a malignant vascular neoplasm with indolent behavior. We report the case of a 23-year-old male, known case of chronic liver disease, who presented with incisional hernia following exploratory laparotomy 8 months back, performed for intestinal obstruction. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography abdomen revealed an incisional hernia with a large defect along with multiple lesions in the liver (suspected metastases) and peritoneal deposits and a few discrete lung nodules. Some areas of interloop collections were also noted. Biopsies were taken from the liver which revealed benign cirrhotic lesion. Relevant to the findings, multiple biopsies were performed and fluid was sent for evaluation. The liver biopsy came out positive for borderline vascular malignancy (epithelioid hemangioendothelioma). This was confirmed with the immunohistochemistry report. Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma occurs mostly in soft tissues of extremity and lungs. The involvement of the liver may be seen as metastasis or rarely as a primary tumor. The incidence of primary malignant hepatic hemangioendothelioma is about 0.1/100,000; the mean age at the time of diagnosis is 41.7 years, and male:female ratio is 2:3. Liver transplantation, hepatectomy, chemoembolization, radiotherapy, and chemotherapeutic agents are reported treatment regimens. Malignant EHE of liver presents as multiple hepatic nodules. Being locally aggressive, it can invade the peritoneum, gut, and lungs. Orthoptic liver transplantation appears to be the only remedy because of the multifocal nature of the disease. Partial hepatectomy is possible for localized tumors.

Surgical technique: an improvisation in application of the technique of core-cut fistulectomy for fistula-in-ano.

Cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano is a chronic inflammatory condition of the perianal region attributed to the obstruction of the glands, located chiefly at the dentate line and their subsequent infection. Anal fistulae are difficult to treat, and minimally invasive procedures are evolving with promises. We present an improvised application of core-cut technique of fistulectomy. It is a minimally invasive, simple, effective and easy to perform procedure with minimal risk of incontinence and recurrence in simple cryptoglandular fistulae-in-ano. We performed 47 cases with good results and present this procedure to emphasize the procedural modification used.

Abdominal Wall Hernias: An Epidemiological Profile and Surgical Experience from a Rural Medical College in Central India.

Background Abdominal wall hernia is a common surgical entity worldwide with groin hernias having the most common presentation among them. They are a cause of morbidity and mortality if not addressed in time. A variety of surgical methods are available for the repair of hernias. The tension-free repair using synthetic mesh has the least recurrence and is the most accepted. Aim To describe the surgical burden and clinical profile of abdominal wall hernias as well as experiences in their management in a rural setup. Methods This was a retrospective observational study of all the cases of abdominal wall hernias presenting to various surgical divisions of Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, during a two-year period from December 2011 to November 2013. Relevant details were collected from the hospital information statistics and patient file records and analysis of obtained data was done. Result A total of 910 out of 90,056 surgical outpatients (10.10%) seen during this period had abdominal wall hernias; 816 (89.67%) got operated. A total of 163 (20%) of 816 were operated in an emergency. Groin hernias were the most common 653 (80%), followed by incisional 82 (10%), umbilical and paraumbilical 41 (5%), epigastric 33 (4%), and rarer hernias in 8 (1%). Of 816 operations, 24 (2.9%) had recurrent hernias and 83 (10.17%) were pediatric patients. Male to female ratio was 9:1 in adults and 4:1 in children. The median age among adults was 49 years (range: 14-95 years), and among the pediatric age group, it was 7 years (range: 3 months-14 years). The majority of the adult patients were from a low-income group and presented more than 2 years after symptoms appeared. Comorbid conditions encountered were hypertension in 212 (26%), diabetes in 155 (19%), chronic airway disorders in 449 (55%), cardiac problems in 163 (20%), obesity in 10 (1.2%), and chronic renal failure and liver disorder in 82 (1%). Predisposing factors in the majority of the patients were chronic cough 449 (55%), prostatic problems in 187 (23%), chronic constipation in 163 (20%), previous surgeries in 82 (10%), obesity in 10 (1.2%), and ascites in 9 (0.1%). Hernia surgery was performed laparoscopically in 51 (6.25%) patients. Simultaneous other surgeries were performed in 130 (16%) patients. Mortality occurred in 2 (0.24%) patients operated in emergency, and chief morbidity was due to wound infection in 25 (3%) and chronic pain in 30 (3.9%) patients. Conclusion Abdominal wall hernias are common clinical entities. Although the pattern of presentation and management is similar, the challenges faced in a rural setup are due to ignorance, social inhibitions, and financial restraints, leading to delayed presentations which increase their morbidity and mortality. Health programs and surveys to increase awareness in rural areas as well as cutting down on expenses could help these patients.

To do or not to do: prolapsed, bleeding, rectal polyp, a dilemma in austere circumstances.

Polyps are defined as abnormal growth of tissue from a mucosal surface. Rectal polyps are the most common (2%) cause of gastro-intestinal bleed in children below 10 years. In adults, a rectal polyp presenting as an emergency with irreducible prolapse and massive bleeding causing severe anemia is seldom seen. We present one such case in which surgery was performed under austere circumstances before any investigations, as a life saving measure.

Management of a delayed, post-traumatic rupture of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm in a patient with life threatening co-morbidities: A treatment challenge.

INTRODUCTION: Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is an accepted intervention for patients with traumatic injury AAST III-IV in hemodynamically stable patients, splenic artery aneurysm and pseudoaneurysm (Brian and Charles, 2012). Unusual circumstances may pose different challenges in individual cases. CASE PRESENTATION: A 52-year-old male on anticoagulants for past mitral valve replacement presented to us with history of blunt trauma sustained a month prior, was found to have grade IV splenic injury with delayed pseudo-aneurysmal rupture. In addition, his cardiac evaluation revealed an ejection fraction of 20%. A potential life threatening unstable cardiac status and hemodynamic irregularities accentuated due to the hemoperitoneum was an unusual challenge to deal with. After initial stabilization in ICU, the option of distal embolization of splenic artery was undertaken in a well-planned manner. DISCUSSION: Unstable cardiac condition, anticoagulant therapy and delayed pseudo aneurysmal bleed led us into undertaking this procedure as a semi-emergency with calculated risks. We discuss this case due to the complexities and dilemmas on various aspects which we faced in his management. CONCLUSION: Patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged on the third day of embolization. Our experience taught us the judicious implementation of a viable and only lifesaving option for an otherwise inoperable patient due to multiple co-morbidities and would strongly recommend this interventional radiological, relatively innocuous procedure for salvaging such patients.

An Unusual Combination of Three Rare Complications: Pleuro-Pancreatic Fistula, Chylous Ascites, and Renal Vein Thrombosis, in a Case of Acute Severe Pancreatitis.

Background Acute pancreatitis is fraught with a variety of complications, which account for the mortality associated. Our case had a fulminant course, with three rare, near-fatal complications and was successfully managed conservatively. Pleural effusion due to pleuro-pancreatic fistula is uncommon, seen in only 1% cases, of which right-sided effusions are rarer still. Management modalities include conservative, endoscopic, and surgical options. Chylous ascites is an extremely rare complication of pancreatitis and is managed with high protein, low lipid diet, restricted to medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Extra-splanchnic venous thrombosis is uncommon in pancreatitis, and isolated renal vein thrombosis is very rare. Case Presentation A 34-year-old, chronic alcoholic male, presented to the outpatient department (OPD) in a state of shock and respiratory distress. Chest radiograph showed massive right-sided pleural effusion. The pleural fluid was hemorrhagic with markedly elevated amylase levels, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) confirmed the presence of a right-sided pleuro-pancreatic fistula. Left renal vein thrombosis was also noted. The patient improved with chest drain, intravenous (IV) octreotide, and anticoagulants. Subsequently, he developed hemorrhagic pancreatic ascites, which later turned chylous. This was managed with dietary modifications. The patient had a prolonged recovery but was finally discharged after 45 days. Conclusion It is a challenge managing the various complications of acute severe pancreatitis. We describe this case to emphasize maintaining a high sensitivity for timely diagnosis and appropriate addressal of all the complications for better patient outcomes.

Treatment of Colocutaneous Fistula in the Left Thigh.

Aim There are few publications on the surgical management of a colocutaneous fistula in the thigh. Here, we describe a patient who presented with a 2-year history of fecal fistula in the left thigh, following a history of drainage of a psoas abscess. This is followed by a discussion of appropriate treatment modalities for this type of fistula. Methods To determine the appropriate treatment for our patient with chronic fistula, we thoroughly reviewed the relevant literature in an Internet-based search and selected a staged operative approach for our patient. Results Using a staged surgical procedure, we were able to resolve the colocutaneous fistula without the occurrence of comorbidities. Conclusion Substantial morbidity is associated with the presence of colocutaneous fistulas. The best possible approach is prevention of its occurrence, but this is not always feasible. Measures for management of an acute fistula differ from those in patients with chronic fistula. Medical management can be more effective in acute cases, while chronic cases require surgical management. We used a staged surgical method with a few risks for our patient and he is in good health 1 year after treatment.