Blunt Dissection Research Articles

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement failure: surgical valve explantation after more than a decade.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become an established alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement for severe aortic stenosis. However, the long-term outcomes and need for surgical reintervention following TAVR remain uncertain. This case report describes a 76-year-old woman who underwent surgical explantation of a SAPIEN-XT valve more than a decade after initial TAVR implantation due to late valve failure. The patient presented with severe aortic insufficiency and heart failure symptoms. Surgical intervention involved concomitant ascending aortic replacement, tricuspid annuloplasty, and coronary artery bypass grafting. The TAVR valve was successfully explanted using careful blunt dissection to avoid annulus damage. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with the patient discharged after 4 weeks. This case highlights the potential need for long-term surgical management of patients after TAVR, and emphasizes the importance of surgical preparedness as TAVR indications expand. It also provides valuable insights for surgeons encountering similar cases of late TAVR failure requiring explantation.

Preliminary Application of Bilateral Submandibular Horizontal Incision in the Treatment of Upper Cervical Tumors.

The upper cervical spine has a complex anatomical structure, making anterior surgical approaches challenging and prone to complications. This study aims to explore the use of bilateral submandibular incisions to provide safer and more convenient exposure of the upper cervical spine and to assess the feasibility of this approach for anterior surgical treatment of complex upper cervical diseases. From November 2019 to August 2021, three patients with malignant tumors of the upper cervical spine were subjected to an anterior-posterior combined approach for cervical tumor resection. The cohort consisted of one male and two females, aged between 41 and 51 years. The anterior approach began with a submandibular incision, followed by blunt dissection through the prevertebral muscles to expose the diseased vertebra. Subsequently, the diseased vertebra was excised, and either a titanium cage or a pre-customized 3D-printed artificial vertebral body was implanted anteriorly. Then, posterior fixation of the cervical spine was performed using pedicle screws to provide additional stability. Follow-up ranged from 8 to 34 months. All patients experienced varying degrees of pain relief within 24 hours post-operation. Frankel grading showed improvement by at least one grade in all three cases. Regular X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging examinations revealed no tumor recurrence or involvement of adjacent vertebrae in the surgical area. The anterior bilateral submandibular horizontal incision approach offers comprehensive exposure of the anatomical structures of the upper cervical spine. This approach introduces a new option for the anterior treatment of upper cervical spine diseases.

Technical Adaptation of First Rib Resection by Vats for the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is not common in the thoracic surgeon´s routine. However, when it is encountered, it is important that the correct diagnosis and treatment is carried out, especially as surgery can be indicated in cases of non-clinical improvement. The goal of the surgery is to release the thoracic outlet constriction structures, which can be performed by several approaches. The innovative VATS surgical technique described here allows better rib exposure, the use of blunt digital dissection, as well as a new device for rib cutting. The technique described here has proven to be feasible, safe and reproducible.

Laparoscopic Transabdominal Needle-free Emergency Cerclage in the Early Second Trimester of Pregnancy after Failed Transvaginal Cerclage: Two Case Reports and a Review of the Literature.

The aim of the study was to describe the preventive option and safety of laparoscopic transabdominal emergency cerclage in pregnant women with advanced cervical shortening after failed vaginal cerclage or in whom vaginal cerclage is no longer possible. Laparoscopic isthmo-cervical emergency cerclage was carried out in two patients at 13+0 and 15+5 weeks of gestation (GW) respectively. Both patients had cervical shortening and it was no longer possible to expose the cervix after conization or re-conization. The attempts to carry out transvaginal cerclage were unsuccessful. The technical aspects, feasibility, safety, and pregnancy outcomes after laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage are presented here, based on two case reports. The cerclages were placed after blunt dissection of the uterine vessels and careful introduction of a KELLY forceps through the avascular space between the ascending and descending branches of the uterine vessels without using a needle. The operating times were 93 and 134 minutes (min), respectively. The estimated blood loss during the procedure was less than 50ml and neither perioperative nor postoperative complications occurred. The subsequent course of both pregnancies was uneventful and fetal development in both cases was normal. In the first case, the baby was delivered by secondary cesarean section following premature rupture of membranes in week 35+4 of gestation. The baby had a birthweight of 2786g, APGAR scores of 8/9/10 and an umbilical cord arterial pH of 7.36. In the second case, delivery was by primary cesarean section in week 39+5 of gestation. The infant had a birth weight of 4160g, APGAR scores of 5/9/10 and an umbilical cord arterial pH of 7.20. Laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage is a safe and effective treatment option, even early in the second trimester of pregnancy, for patients in whom transvaginal cerclage is no longer possible due to anatomical factors. The method is technically very feasible and is associated with positive obstetric outcomes. The overall risk of perioperative complications is within acceptable limits.

Minimally-invasive tracheostomy (MIT): A care bundle for safety improvement in high-risk critically ill patients

BackgroundDetailed reports are scarce on minimally-invasive tracheostomy (MIT) techniques for critically ill patients with challenging anatomy or complex coagulopathies. In such high-risk patients, conventional percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) may lead to severe complications. MethodsAiming to broaden the scope of MIT for patients previously excluded due to high risks, we developed a new care bundle (MIT technique), specifically designed for intensive care specialists. Our study examined the outcomes of MIT in 32 high-risk patients treated in an ICU of a University Hospital with specific focus on gastrointestinal and liver diseases. ResultsWe have modified the conventional PDT technique by incorporating an initial skin incision, blunt dissection, diaphanoscopy-guided probe puncture, and continuous bronchoscopic monitoring. Our care bundle also introduces an anterolateral approach for tracheal entry, a significant advancement for patients with complex neck anatomy or dense vasculature, where an anterolateral trajectory avoids midline blood vessels. This enhanced method has proven to be safer than traditional PDT, with a notable absence of post-procedural hemorrhages, cannula misplacements, or infections. ConclusionThe use of our refined care bundle enabled swift minimally-invasive tracheostomy in high-risk patients without the occurrence of serious complications.

A simple transconjunctival technique for the management of intraconal orbital hydatid cyst

Abstract Purpose: To present a simple transconjunctival technique for the excision of intraconal orbital hydatid cysts. Methods: This retrospective, non-comparative, clinical intervention case study was conducted between April 2018 and October 2023. The study included five patients presented to the Orbital unit of Assiut University Hospital with an intraconal orbital cyst, which histologically proved to be a hydatid cyst. In all cases, a conjunctival incision near the fornix was made depending on the cyst location as revealed by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A traction suture was applied to the two relevant recti muscles to guide the globe toward the desired direction. Blunt orbital dissection was made toward the cyst until exposing its anterior surface. A 20-gauge needle was introduced into the cyst and followed by aspiration of its content. The collapsed cyst was then removed by non-toothed forceps and followed by copious irrigation of the field. The follow-up period ranged from 11 to 58 months. Results: The age of patients ranged from 11 to 44 years. Three were males and two were females. The cyst was iso-dense to the vitreous on CT and iso-intense to the vitreous on MRI. In all cases after aspiration of the content, the collapsed cyst was easily removed. None of the five patients developed recurrence during the follow-up period. Conclusion: The removal of the collapsed orbital hydatid cyst in the intraconal space after the aspiration of its content via transconjunctival anterior orbitotomy is a simple, fast technique with early recovery and maximum cosmesis.

Blunt dissection of the axillary flap through double mini-incisions on both sides of the axilla to prevent postoperative hematoma.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical effect of treating axillary osmidrosis by trimming the apocrine glands under direct vision after blunt dissection of the axillary flap through double mini-incisions on both sides of the axilla to prevent postoperative hematoma. The clinical data of 108 patients with axillary osmidrosis were retrospectively analyzed. Treatment involved blunt dissection of the axillary flap through double mini-incisions and trimming of the apocrine glands under direct vision. The surgical duration, hematoma incidence, flap necrosis rate, incision healing rate, incision VSS score, comfort level, axillary odor cure rate, and satisfaction rating were all statistically analyzed. The average surgical duration was 72.45±5.71 min. The cure rate of axillary osmidrosis was 100%. Postoperative complications, including delayed incision healing 12 days after surgery (1 patient), a small hematoma (2 patients), and local flap necrosis (1 patient), were minor. No infection, malodor, or recurrence was observed. The VAS score for patient comfort was 8.53±0.89, the VAS score for patient satisfaction was 8.87±0.98, and the VSS score for the incision was 0.84±0.99. This retrospective study demonstrated that the trimming of apocrine glands after blunt dissection of the axillary flap through double mini-incisions on both sides of the axilla effectively controlled bleeding. This approach significantly reduces the complication rate of axillary osmidrosis surgery and ensures the complete trimming of apocrine glands, eradicating axillary odor and maintaining a good appearance.

615. ROBOTIC REDO LAPAROSCOPIC HELLER’S CARDIOMYOTOMY

Abstract Introduction Robotic Heller’s cardiomyotomy is the preferred treatment option for achalasia cardia. However, following Heller’s cardiomyotomy up to 20% of patients experience dysphagia and regurgitation in the long term. The ideal management option for such patients needs to be determined. Surgical Steps The procedure is carried out with patient in supine position, legs abducted with the knees in slightly flexed position in reverse Trendelenburg position of approximately 30°.The pneumoperitoneum is created by closed Veress needle technique. After Relasing Adhesions, the gastrohepatic ligament is divided and the right crus is identified and retrocardiac window is formed; proximal short gastric vessels are divided for posterior wrap. The esophagus is separated by blunt dissection from the crus, the peritoneum and phrenoesophageal membrane are divided and the left crus is identified. If an anterior partial fundoplication is planned as antireflux procedure, the mobilization is limited to the lateral and anterior aspects. The anterior vagus nerve is identified and should be dissected and lifted away from the distal esophagus and proximal stomach in order to facilitate transhiatal dissection, myotomy and also to prevent injury to the esophagus and vagal trunks. Dissection is continued cranially around the esophagus for a distance of about 2–3 cm onto the dilated segment of the esophagus in the posterior mediastinum. If posterior partial wrap (Toupet) is planned, esophagogastric dissection is performed posteriorly from both crura and median arcuate ligament to get tension free wrap. Fundus of the stomach is dissected off the diaphragm and if needed two or three short gastric vessels are divided. Posterior vagal trunk is dissected along with esophagus. Conclusion Redo Robotic Heller’s cardiomyotomy can safely be performed with good symptomatic relief for patients who present with recurrent symptoms following Heller’s cardiomyotomy. Long term follow-up with larger sample size is needed to confirm these findings. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uFgx0Aal92o5FE-Ndp-tAsCg01NJ6Crm/view?usp=sharing

Transparent Cap-Assisted Blunt Endoscopic Dissection of Gastric Submucosal Tumours Smaller than 2cm.

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of transparent cap-assisted blunt dissection (TCABD) in the endoscopic resection of gastric submucosal tumours (G-SMT) smaller than 2cm, as compared with conventional electronic knife dissection. Randomised controlled analysis. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, The First Hospital of Putian City, Putian, China, from July 2020 to 2022. Fifty-eight patients having G-SMT smaller than 2cm were included. They were randomly divided into two groups; undergoing transparent cap-assisted blunt dissection (BD group) and conventional endoscopic submucosal excavation (ESE group). The pathology, lesion size in long diameter (mm), operation time, the number of clips used to close the wounds, the number of snare used to resect the tumour, hospital days, hospitalisation expense, en bloc resection rate, and the complications including perforation, postoperative bleeding, and postoperative infection were compared between the two groups. The mean long diameter in the BD group was 9.6 ± 3.6mm, while the conventional ESE group was 10.7 ± 4.5mm. As compared with the conventional ESE group, the operation time, the number of clips used to close the wounds, the number of snare used to resect the tumours, the hospital days, and the hospitalisation expense were all significantly decreased (p <0.05). The perforation rate was lower in the BD group (p <0.05). TCABD was effective and safe in the endoscopic resection of G-SMT smaller than 2cm. TCABD could help to reduce the perforation rate, shorten the operation time and hospital days, and decrease the hospitalisation expense in the endoscopic resection of G-SMT. Endoscopic submucosal excavation, Endoscopic full-thickness resection, Endoscopic resection, Submucosal tumour, Transparent cap-assisted blunt dissection.

Modified submucosal tunneling by blunt dissection for peroral endoscopic myotomy.

Modified submucosal tunneling by blunt dissection for peroral endoscopic myotomy.

How I do it: en-bloc thoracic vertebrectomy.

Some young patients with preserved functional status suffering from aggressive isolated neoplastic disease of the thoracic spine may be eligible from curative en-bloc vertebrectomy surgical treatment. Long-segment posterior pedicle screw fixation is performed. Complete excision of the posterior arch and of ribs posterior aspect is performed. Finger blunt dissection is performed between vertebral body, pleura, and aorta allowing to place a soft abdominal valve and then Gigli saws surrounding the anterior aspect of the spine, in order to saw the upper and the lower discs. Unilateral temporary rod is placed. The vertebral body is dislodged from posterior ligament and then removed by circling laterally around spinal cord. An expandable vertebral implant is placed. Posterior en-bloc thoracic vertebrectomy is a highly technical yet achievable procedure which carries a curative intent for isolated neoplastic spine lesions.

Blunt dissection with a cannula prior to filler introduction may facilitate lip augmentation and enhance volume

Blunt dissection with a cannula prior to filler introduction may facilitate lip augmentation and enhance volume

Current practice of diagnosis and treatment for rectourethral fistula in male patients with anorectal malformation: a multicenter questionnaire survey in Japan

PurposeSurgical procedures for anorectoplasty for anorectal malformations (ARMs), particularly rectourethral fistula (RUF), depend on the institution. We investigated the diagnosis and treatment of RUF in male patients with ARMs in Japan using a questionnaire survey.MethodsAn online survey inquiring about the diagnosis and treatment (diagnostic modalities, surgical approaches, fistula dissection devices, and fistula closure techniques) of each type of ARM in male patients was conducted among institutional members of the Japanese Study Group of Anorectal Anomalies. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare surgical methods between posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) and laparoscopy-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP).ResultsSixty-one institutions (100%) completed the survey. LAARP was the preferred approach for high-type ARM (75.4%). PSARP was preferred for intermediate-type ARM (59.0%). Monopolar devices were most commonly used (72.1%) for RUF dissection. Blunt dissection was more frequent in the PSARP group (PSARP vs. LAARP: 55.6 vs. 20.0%, p < 0.005). Cystoscopy/urethroscopy to confirm the extent of dissection was used more frequently in the LAARP group (70.0% vs. 25.0%, p < 0.005). Clips and staplers were used more frequently in the LAARP group (p < 0.05).ConclusionDistinct fistula management strategies for PSARP and LAARP were revealed. Further studies are needed to investigate the postoperative outcomes associated with these practices.

Shoeshine maneuver for cystic duct dissection: a simple technique to make Calot-triangle dissection smooth.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, introduced in 1985 by Prof. Dr. Erich Mühe, has become the gold standard for treating chronic symptomatic calculous cholecystopathy and acute cholecystitis, with an estimated 750,000 procedures performed annually in the United States of America. The risk of iatrogenic bile duct injury persists, ranging from 0.2 to 1.3%. Risk factors include male gender, obesity, acute cholecystitis, previous hepatobiliary surgery, and anatomical variations in Calot's triangle. Strategies to mitigate bile duct injury include the Critical View of Safety and fundus-first dissection, along with intraoperative cholangiography and alternative approaches like subtotal cholecystectomy. This paper introduces the shoeshine technique, a maneuver designed to achieve atraumatic exposure of anatomical structures, local hemostatic control, and ease of infundibulum mobilization. This technique involves the use of a blunt dissection tool and gauze to create traction and enhance visibility in Calot's triangle, particularly beneficial in cases of severe inflammation. Steps include using the critical view of safety and Rouviere's sulcus line for orientation, followed by careful dissection and traction with gauze to maintain stability and reduce the risk of instrument slippage. The technique, routinely used by the authors in over 2000 cases, has shown to enhance patient safety and reduce bile duct injury risks. The shoeshine technique represents a simple and easy way to apply maneuver that can help surgeon during laparoscopic cholecystectomies exposing the hepatocystic area and promote blunt dissection.

Novel Vaginal Cerclage Assisted Laparoscopic Cervico-Sacropexy Technique for Uterovaginal Prolapse.

Laparoscopic hysteropexy is a complicated procedure that requires specialized surgical skills, including precise dissection and suturing. The aim is to describe the technical considerations for performing a new, feasible, and minimally invasive technique to correct apical and concurrent apical and anterior vaginal wall defects. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 70 consecutive women who underwent surgery for stage ≥3 uterovaginal prolapse. As a part of the technique, an anterior 2-cm long transverse incision was made at the anterior cervicovaginal junction, and the bladder was dissected through blunt and sharp dissection to the level of the isthmus. A posterior colpotomy was performed. A polypropylene tape was inserted into the cervical connective tissue, and the free arms of the tape were inserted into the peritoneum via the posterior colpotomy. Two arms of the tape were passed from the tunnel parallel and medial to a right sacrouterine fold, then fixed to the anterior longitudinal ligament via the laparoscopic route. The tape can be inserted into the cervix in a median of 15min, and the laparoscopy procedure can be completed in 24min. No mesh erosion or long-term complications occurred. At a 1-year control, there were no cases of recurrence. This novel cervico-sacrocolpopexy technique is a feasible and safe, minimally invasive way to correct apical or multicompartment defects, with a short operation time and an anatomical result that mimics the normal sacrouterine ligament.

Precision in Preservation: Mastering Cadaver Embalming with the Femoral Artery Approach - a technical note.

Human anatomy is a fundamental aspect of a physician's knowledge. While novel technologies offer innovative ways to teach anatomy, cadavers remain an essential component of anatomical education. The quality of specimens begins with well-preserved cadavers, and the chosen vascular access for injection plays a crucial role. Unfortunately, there is a lack of literature regarding embalming procedures, as discourse on such practices could enhance the quality, safety, and effectiveness of anatomical instruction. In this study, a femoral artery approach is described for embalming, which entails a meticulous process of cutting through the skin, navigating through fascias and adipose tissue by means of blunt dissection, ultimately reaching the artery for embalming injection. Tips and techniques pertaining to this technique are provided, including vital details for convenient accessibility and minimal impairment of tissue. The objective of this study is to facilitate anatomists and technicians in the adoption of the femoral artery approach, and to encourage further exploration of alternative embalming methods, thus contributing to the continuous advancement of anatomical sciences.

Isolation of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells with High Yields and Low Damage.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a population of multipotent cells with remarkable regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. Wharton's jelly (WJ) from the umbilical cord (UC) has gained increasing interest in the biomedical field as an outstanding source of MSCs. However, challenges such as limited supply and lack of standardization in existing methods have arisen. This article presents a novel method for enhancing MSC yield by dissecting intact WJ from the umbilical cord. The method employs blunt dissection to remove the epithelial layer, maintaining the integrity of the entire WJ and resulting in an increased quantity and viability of harvested MSCs. This approach significantly reduces WJ waste compared to conventional sharp dissection methods. To ensure the purity of WJ-MSCs and minimize external cellular influence, a procedure utilizing internal tension to peel off the endothelium after flipping the UC was conducted. Additionally, the Petri dish was inverted for a short time during explant culture to improve attachment and cell outgrowth. Comparative analysis demonstrated the superiority of the proposed method, showing a higher yield of WJ and WJ-MSCs with better viability than traditional methods. The similar morphology and expression pattern of cell surface markers in both methods confirm their characterization and purity for various applications. This method provides a high-yield and high-viability approach for WJ-MSC isolation, demonstrating great potential for the clinical application of MSCs.

Large-bore Chest Tube Insertion: Seldinger Technique over Two Guidewires.

Large-bore chest tube insertion is commonly performed using the trocar technique and blunt dissection; however, large-bore chest tube can cause severe visceral injury due to penetration, which is a life-threatening complication. Conversely, small-bore chest tubes can be safely inserted using the Seldinger technique; however, small-bore chest tubes are prone to blockage, especially in empyema cases. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate large-bore chest tube insertion using the Seldinger technique over two guidewires following image-guided puncture. We started performing large-bore chest tube insertion using the Seldinger technique over two guidewires following image-guided puncture in February 2022. Demographic data and procedural details, such as chest tube size, dilator size, procedure time, and type of image-guided puncture, of patients who underwent this procedure between February 2022 and March 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Technical success was defined as the successful drainage of the pleural cavity. This method was used for performing ten procedures in nine patients who presented with empyema, pneumothorax, and pulmonary fistula. The insertion of a large-bore chest tube with a size ranging from 18- to 24-French was successfully performed in all cases without any complications. The median procedure time was 17.5 (first quartile-third quartile, 13.5-28.0) min. Large-bore chest tube insertion using the Seldinger technique over two guidewires may be used as an alternative to conventional methods.

Partial incision blunt scissors lamellar keratectomy under topical anesthesia for the treatment of presumed calcific corneal degeneration in dogs.

The aim of the study was to investigate clinical features of lamellar keratectomy for presumed calcific corneal degeneration in a population of geriatric dogs using blunt scissors dissection under topical anesthesia. Retrospective analysis of dogs with clinically diagnosed calcific degeneration treated by keratectomy under topical anesthesia between 2015 and 2021 at two veterinary ophthalmology practices was performed. Descriptive data regarding signalment, concurrent systemic and ocular disease, complications, healing time, and recurrence were collected. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to calculate 1-year recurrence probability. Sixty-five eyes in 57 dogs met inclusion criteria. All 54 eyes with follow-up healed within a median of 14 days (7-74), including 17 with complicating factors of infection or deep stromal ulceration. Globe rupture occurred intraoperatively in three eyes (4.6%), for which subsequent conjunctival graft was performed. Calculated 1-year recurrence probability from 47 eyes followed long term was 25%. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard modeling showed a significant association between documented systemic disease and time to recurrence (p = .035), irrespective of topical EDTA use (p = .432). Median follow-up time available for all cases was 249 days. Blunt lamellar dissection with corneal scissors can be performed in dogs under topical anesthesia, yielding healing times and recurrence comparable to previously reported treatments for calcific corneal degeneration. Globe rupture is an inherent risk of both the disease and procedure and occurred in 4.6% of treated eyes. This approach expands non-anesthetic treatment options for affected patients but should only be performed with advanced microsurgical training and client counseling on individual risk and benefit.

Postcholecystectomy Duodenal Injuries, Their Management, and Review of the Literature.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard for treating gallstones; however, it is not free of complications. Postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries are rare but challenging complications after cholecystectomy. The objective of this study was to analyze the management of postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries and to review the related literature. An observational and retrospective study was conducted. We included all patients with postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries treated at a reference center, from January 2019 to December 2023. In addition, a review of the literature was carried out. Fifteen patients were found, mostly women; with gallbladder wall thickening on ultrasound (mean of 8 mm). The majority were emergency (n = 12, 80%) and LCs (n = 8, 53.33%). Cholecystectomies were reported to be associated with excessive difficulty (n = 10, 66.66%). The most injured duodenal portion was the first portion (n = 9, 60%), and blunt dissection was the most common mechanism of injury (n = 7, 46.66%). Most of these injuries were detected in the operating room (n = 9, 60%), and treated with primary closure (n = 11, 73.33%). Three patients with delayed injuries died (20%). According to the literature reviewed, 93 duodenal injuries were found, mostly detected intraoperatively, in the second portion, and treated with primary closure. A minority of patients were treated with more complex procedures, for a mortality rate of 15.38%. Postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries are rare. Most of these injuries are detected and repaired intraoperatively. However, a high percentage of patients have high morbidity and mortality. Diaz-Martinez J, Pérez-Correa N. Postcholecystectomy Duodenal Injuries, Their Management, and Review of the Literature. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2024;14(1):44-50.