Laparoscopic management of ventriculoperitoneal and lumboperitoneal shunt complications.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Minimally invasive approaches for the initial placement of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) and lumboperitoneal (LP) shunts have been well described. A laparoscopic approach has multiple advantages over open techniques, including decreased morbidity, more rapid recovery, and ability to visually assess catheter function. However, few series have addressed the role of laparoscopy in the management of VP and LP shunt complications. METHODS: We present here the largest published series of laparoscopic treatment of VP and LP shunt complications in adults, by retrospectively reviewing all cases performed in a 1-year interval by a single surgeon. RESULTS: Ten patients presented with complications of previous shunting; all were managed laparoscopically. Eighty percent of these patients had a successful single laparoscopic intervention. One patient developed a cerebrospinal fluid leak from the lumbar wound, and 2 patients required additional laparoscopic shunt revisions. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that laparoscopy has great utility in the assessment of shunt function. Laparoscopic techniques should be considered not only for placement of peritoneal catheters, but also for the management of distal shunt malfunction and diagnosis of abdominal pain in these patients.

Classification of hiatal hernias using dynamic three-dimensional reconstruction.

Hiatal hernias and paraesophageal hernias are common clinical entities and have a well-known classification system. Multiple modalities have been used to illustrate these hernias, most relying on artists' renderings or two-dimensional radiographic studies. However, surgeons would benefit from a comprehensive graphic representation of hiatal hernias based on current imaging technologies. We have applied polygonal mesh surface modeling techniques to render dynamic three-dimensional computed tomography-based models of the four recognized types of hiatal hernias. The resulting images allow nearly real-time navigation in an intuitive and clinically relevant fashion. This model should clarify and eventually advance the existing classification by applying modern and sophisticated image processing to established concepts.

Training competent minimal access surgeons: review of tools, metrics, and techniques across the spectrum of technology.

Technology has transformed the face of surgical technique among the disciplines of surgery. This revolution has created a strong demand from the public for the availability of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) interventions. Significant pressure has been placed on both industry and medicine to develop, test, and implement devices and procedures at a rapid pace. Unfortunately, this pace has at times surpassed the system's ability to train and prepare a corps of surgeons competent in both the technical and cognitive aspects of minimal access surgery. The economic constraints of surgical practice, coupled with recently introduced work-hour restrictions, have made the delivery of minimally invasive surgical education a challenging endeavor. Much work has been done in academic and private institutions to address this need. Solutions traversing the spectrum of technology have been developed, tested, and implemented in training. The purpose of this review is to highlight these solutions on the basis of their validity, utility, and overall contribution toward achieving the goal of producing competent minimally invasive surgeons. The body of literature suggests multiple valid training and assessment constructs exist. However, the overall utility of many validated "high-end" training technologies is limited by cost and access. Efforts should be aimed at creating valid training and assessment paradigms that can be applied by the broadest group of trainees, from medical students to surgeons, in active practice.