Extraperitoneal Tunnel Research Articles

A technique for laparoscopic extraperitoneal colostomy with an intact posterior sheath of rectus

Regardless of the advances in surgical techniques, parastomal hernia is still an inevitable complication for many patients with low rectal cancer undergoing abdominal perineal resection (APR). Extraperitoneal colostomy (EPC) seems to be a effective method to reduce the risk of parastomal hernia. We propose a new approach to simplify and standardize laparoscopic EPC to make this operation easy to perform. We used the technique of laparoscopic TEP groin hernia repair to produce an extraperitoneal tunnel, which can not only facilitate precise visualization of the extraperitoneal tunnel but also utilize the intact posterior rectus abdominis sheath as biologic materials to maintain soft-tissue augmentation, with a satisfactory result. With laparoscopy, we can create adequate space without insufficient dissection of the extraperitoneal tunnel while avoiding damage to the retrorectus sheath. At the time of writing, we had performed this method in four patients, without any complications. This technique is effective at preventing parastomal hernia without extra costs.

Extraperitoneal colostomy after laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection using a cannula for tunnel creation through a trocar port.

Extraperitoneal colostomy (EPC) after laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection (APR) remains a challenge for surgeons. This study aims to summarize our laparoscopic EPC method and assess its effects versus a transperitoneal colostomy (TPC) for patients with rectal tumors. A total of 133 patients with rectal cancer treated with laparoscopic APR between May 2009 and May 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical data, including demographics, comorbidities, tumor stage, colostomy duration, and complications were compared between the EPC group and the TPC group. The EPC group included 83 patients whose extraperitoneal tunnels were created using a cannula through a trocar port, and the TPC group included 50 patients whose stomata were formed traditionally. There were no differences in colostomy time [(23.1 ± 6) min vs. (21.4 ± 4) min, P = 0.078], number of parastomal dermatitis patients (5 vs. 2, P = 0.916), or number of stomal stenoses (1 vs. 1, P = 0.715) between the EPC and TPC groups. No cases of parastomal hernia developed in the EPC group, whereas 4 patients were diagnosed with a parastomal hernia; the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P = 0.036). Laparoscopic EPC have a lower incidence of parastomal hernia than TPC. It is easy and inexpensive to create an extraperitoneal tunnel using a cannula through a trocar port.

Extraperitoneal colostomy in robotic surgery for rectal cancer using a tip-up fenestrated grasper.

Although extraperitoneal colostomy could reduce the risk for parastomal hernia formation, it is often technically demanding to dissect the extraperitoneal route laparoscopically. Here, we demonstrate our original surgical technique for extraperitoneal tunneling using a robotic instrument. After total mesorectal excision (TME) and before specimen retrieval, the edge of the outer leaf of the parietal peritoneum was elevated by the grasper in the left hand and the tip-up fenestrated grasper (Tip-Up) in the right hand. The extraperitoneal tissue was opened using the scissor forceps (right hand). Then, extraperitoneal tunneling (inner tunnel) was performed using a Tip-Up with a width of approximately 4cm that could reach adjacent to the lateral border of the abdominal rectus muscle. A round incision was made at a preoperatively marked site on the skin. The anterior rectal sheath was cut in a cruciate fashion. The abdominal rectus muscle was split, and then the posterior rectus sheath was cut longitudinally not just below the stoma marking site but also at a slant on the lateral side. The peritoneum was dissected with care to avoid opening the peritoneum. The outer side of the tunnel was broken through to the inner tunnel using an easy blunt dissection with two fingers. Kelly forceps were introduced through the extraperitoneal tunnel along with the fingers, and the stump of the sigmoid colon was grasped and exteriorized through this tunnel. Robotic retroperitoneal tunneling using a Tip-Up is easy and useful for preventing parastomal hernia.

Laparoscopic extraperitoneal sigmoid colostomy using the totally extraperitoneal hernia repair technique after abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer.

Stoma creation through the extraperitoneal route reportedly reduces the risk of parastomal hernia and stomal prolapse after abdominoperineal resection (APR) for rectal cancer. We describe a new technique for laparoscopic extraperitoneal sigmoid colostomy following APR. After the rectus abdominis muscle is separated, Lap ProtectorTM and EZ AccessTM devices are placed. An extraperitoneal stoma tunnel is created laparoscopically as much as possible. Next, the peritoneum is separated from the inside of the abdominal cavity, and the extraperitoneal tunnel is opened. At the time of writing, we had performed laparoscopic extraperitoneal sigmoid colostomy in eight patients, without any complications or conversion to the conventional procedure. Thus, laparoscopic extraperitoneal sigmoid colostomy is a useful and safe technique for the laparoscopic creation of an extraperitoneal stoma tunnel after APR.

Laparoscopy-assisted continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis catheter placement using Amplatz dilators: a new technique with results.

To describe a new modified technique of laparoscopic placement of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) catheters and assess the early results. CAPD catheter implantation was performed in 100 consecutive patients. The technique used laparoscopically guided, extraperitoneal tunneling of the CAPD catheter using Amplatz dilators. The extraperitoneal tunneling helped to maintain the catheter's orientation toward the deep pelvis. Omentopexy was performed on patients with long omentum. Wherever indicated, adhesiolysis was performed to eliminate compartmentalization that could affect the completeness of dialyzate drainage. The average duration of surgery, hospital stay, morbidity, mortality, and catheter survival were assessed. The average operative time was 40 ± 7 minutes, and hospital stay was 3 ± 1 days. There were no conversions from laparoscopy to conventional catheter insertion methods. Exit site or tunnel infections, hemorrhagic complications, abdominal wall hernias, or catheter cuff extrusions were not detected. No patient had either catheter migration or displacement. Peroperative mortality did not occur in this series of patients. Catheter survival was 97% at 6 months. The laparoscopic method described in this report is compliant with consensus guidelines for the best demonstrated practices in peritoneal access placement. Laparoscopy permits direct visualization of all procedure steps in a safe, efficient, and reproducible manner. The use of Amplatz dilators helps in better orientation of the catheter reducing the risk of catheter tip migration.

Flexible endoscopic single-incision extraperitoneal implant and fixation of peritoneal dialysis catheter: proof of concept in the porcine model.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters placed in the pelvic space without anchoring present a high rate of migration. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a single-incision approach, using a flexible endoscopic preperitoneal tunneling for catheter implantation and fixation. Eight pigs were involved in this experimental study. A 2/0 Vicryl loop was sutured at the tip of a PD catheter. In 4 pigs, a 1.5 cm incision was made on the left paramedian line and the parietal peritoneal layer was identified by splitting rectal muscles. A gastroscope was inserted in the incision and advanced in the extraperitoneal space. An exit hole was made in the peritoneum over the low pelvic cavity. A guidewire was left in the abdominal cavity, and the PD catheter was inserted over the guidewire. The endoscope was inserted in the tunnel again, and endoscopic clips were deployed over the Vicryl loop to fix the catheter. In 4 pigs, the PD catheter was inserted laparoscopically using a two-port approach. The catheter's tip was fixed with laparoscopic clips on the Vicryl loop. A strain test to assess the force required to detach clips was performed using a digital dynamometer. Operative time for flexible endoscopic tunneling was longer when compared to the laparoscopic implant (29.5 ± 4.43 vs. 22.7 ± 2.51 min). Mean force to displace the catheter was similar after flexible endoscopic fixation when compared to laparoscopic clip fixation (5.57 N ± 2.76 vs. 4.15 N ± 1.76). Flexible endoscopic extraperitoneal tunneling allows for minimally invasive single-incision PD catheter placement and fixation.

Drainage Placement Through the Extraperitoneal Tunnel Can Prevent Its Postoperative Dislodgement Effectively in Laparoscopic Rectal Surgery

Drainage placement is frequently used in laparoscopic rectal surgery, and dislodgement is common in conventional transperitoneal drainage placement. We proposed that extraperitoneal tunnel for drainage placement is useful to prevent the dislodgement. We conducted an observational case-matched control study. In study group, a total of 40 patients undergoing laparoscopic rectal surgery with drainage through the extraperitoneal tunnel were enrolled. In control group, a total of 35 matched patients with drainage through the transperitoneal route were enrolled. Clinical data, tumor features, and intraoperative and postoperative characteristics were analyzed. Ten patients had drainage dislodgement in the transperitoneal group (28%) and 4 patients in the extraperitoneal group (10%). The P value was 0.039. Postoperative recovery was faster in the extraperitoneal group than in the transperitoneal group, as reflected by a shorter time to diet (P=0.049) and postoperative length of stay (P=0.032). In a multivariate analysis, drain dislodgement had a significant impact on the time to diet (P=0.023) and the postoperative length of stay (P=0.037). Drain placement influenced the time to diet (P=0.055) and the postoperative length of stay (P=0.079). In laparoscopic rectal surgery, drainage placement through the extraperitoneal tunnel can prevent its postoperative dislodgement effectively and is associated with better postoperative recovery.

Laparoscopic extraperitoneal colostomy in elective abdominoperineal resection for cancer: a single surgeon experience

Parastomal herniation of end colostomies can be chronically debilitating for patients and a difficult problem to treat. To prevent parastomal hernia (PSH) formation an extraperitoneal colostomy (EPC) approach has been developed in open colorectal surgery and some studies have suggested a potential advantage to this approach. Here we describe our technique of laparoscopic extraperitoneal stoma formation and present our experience to date. We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing a laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection between March 1999 and March 2011. We performed the EPC technique as follows: under laparoscopic guidance, a smooth tip instrument was used to gently separate the peritoneum from the posterior aponeurotic plane to create an extraperitoneal tunnel running from the skin incision to the left flank of the abdominal cavity to join the previously dissected paracolic gutter. The colon was exteriorized and the position was checked to ensure the absence of torsion or kinking. Twenty-two patients underwent a standard laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection with total mesorectal excision. Colostomy was constructed extraperitoneally (EPC) or transperitoneally (TPC) in 12 and 10 patients respectively. There were five complications requiring operative intervention: two stomal necrosis and one surgical site infection in the TPC group and two small bowel occlusions in the EPC group. Four patients from the TPC group developed PSH at 24, 36, 48 and 72 months respectively while there were no cases of PSH in the EPC group. Extraperitoneal laparoscopic colostomy showed a potential reduction of PSH in our series of patients.

Risk Factors of Parastomal Hernia and Creation of an Ostomy

See Article on Page 241-246 A parastomal hernia at the site of a permanent end colostomy is a common and troublesome complication, and its incidence is estimated to be up to 48.1% [1]. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence of and the risk factors for a parastomal hernia. In this study, the plausible risk factors for a parastomal hernia were as follows: female gender, age over 60 years, body mass index more than 25 kg/m2, and hypertension. Other risk factors from other studies were obesity and waist circumference greater than 100 cm. Although the prophylactic use of mesh may be an option for those patients requiring a permanent [2], the efficacy of using prophylactic mesh for patients with a permanent is a subject of debate due to mesh-associated complications [3, 4]. In this study, the parastomal hernias were assessed by using computed tomography scans. No objective grading-system was used, and no subject symptoms were noted. Also, no descriptions of the stoma-creation techniques used by the authors were given. The key factor to prevent a parastomal hernia is the surgical accuracy of creation. As general rules, stomas should be placed through the rectus sheath for additional muscular support, fascial openings should be fit to the size of the exteriorized bowel circumference, prophylactic application of mesh may only be considered for those patients requiring a permanent stoma, and an extraperitoneal tunneling of the bowel may be considered [4]. The procedure of an end colostomy is usually performed as a final surgical procedure; the surgeon should do his or her best to create an appropriate because the incidence of a too loose stoma might be double the incidence of a too tight stoma. Further detailed studies regarding the degree of herniation and standardization of the stoma-creation method may be helpful for focusing on the risk factors. This study appears to support the prophylactic use of mesh in high-risk patients.

Invited comment to the letter by K. Bielecki “Recurrent ileostomy prolapse: is it a solved problem?”

Regarding the difficult clinical problem that Dr. Bielecki has proposed, this is a complicated situation [1]. The first thought that came to mind is the fact that the only thing we can do to prevent stomal prolapse is to do an extraperitoneal ileostomy. This was proposed by Professor Goligher many years ago [2], and I think that it is the only thing a surgeon can do to prevent a prolapse. It is not a very difficult procedure; it is just a matter of making an extra peritoneal tunnel and bringing the ileostomy up through the tunnel and then bringing it out through the abdominal wall. I think this may have solved the problem for this patient; however, we have not been in the habit of making an extraperitoneal colostomy or ileostomy. You cannot build an extraperitoneal stoma routinely on every patient, and this patient had Crohn’s disease and may have had a much thickened bowel to deal with, which may have not been appropriate to place in an extraperitoneal tunnel. The other question has to do with the fact that if you do get recurrence of the terminal ileum, and it is in an extraperitoneal tunnel, it may be even more difficult to deal with if recurrent Crohn’s disease does occur. Regarding the Nobel’s plication, this is an operation we rarely do any longer; however, I think the way Dr. Bielecki managed it was the best thing to do in this situation.

Comparative study of colostomy in the laparoscopic-assisted abdominoperineal resection

To compare two different procedures of colostomy in the laparoscopic- assisted abdominoperineal resection(LAPR), and to reduce the related complications of colostomy. Sixty- three cases with anorectal cancer undergone LAPR from June 2001 to December 2005 were registered and followed up. Circular stapler anastomosis with sigmoid colon and abdominal skin were applied on 61 cases of the colostomy, and 2 cases were hand sutured. All patients were assigned to group A and B. Thirty- seven cases received the procedure of colostomy through the rectus abdominis peritoneally in group A,other 26 cases through extraperitoneal tunnel and the rectus abdominis in group B. Descending colon, sigmoid colon and rectum were dissected using laparoscopic instruments in 63 cases. No conversion to open procedure and no operative death occurred in two groups of patients. There was no significant difference between two groups in mean operation time, but significant differences were found in the time of return of bowl function[A group (2.4 +/- 1.1)d vs B group (1.9 +/- 0.8)d,P < 0.05], duration of postoperative hospital stay [A group (19.9 +/- 7.8)d vs B group (14.5 +/- 3.9)d,P < 0.01] and stoma related complications(A group 29.4% vs B group 4.0%,P < 0.05). Postoperative hospital stay were shorter, and less colostomy related complications were found in group B. Colostomy through extraperitoneal tunnel and the rectus abdominis is a better procedure in LAPR, which can reduce the related complications of colostomy and shorten postoperative hospital stay.

Selected best demonstrated practices in peritoneal dialysis access

Many burdensome interventions that adversely affect the utilization of peritoneal dialysis as renal replacement therapy and patient satisfaction with this treatment modality can be avoided by early peritoneal access placement with embedded catheters, implantation techniques that preempt common catheter complications, and the use of access devices that provide flexibility in exit site location. Catheter embedding consists of subcutaneously burying the external limb of the catheter tubing at the time of the insertion procedure. Interval exteriorization of the catheter is performed when dialysis is needed. Earlier commitment by patients to peritoneal dialysis can be achieved by elimination of catheter maintenance until dialysis is necessary. Catheter embedding is a practical strategy to avoid temporary hemodialysis with vascular catheters and reduces stress on operating room access by allowing more efficient scheduling as non-urgent procedures. Laparoscopic catheter placement enables proactive techniques not available to other conventional insertion methods. These techniques include rectus sheath tunneling to prevent catheter tip migration, selective prophylactic omentopexy to prevent omental entrapment, selective resection of epiploic appendages to prevent catheter obstruction, adhesiolysis to eliminate compartmentalization, and diagnosis and simultaneous repair of previously undiagnosed abdominal wall hernias. Both standard and extended 2-piece catheter systems are necessary to customize the peritoneal access to a variety of body configurations. Catheters should be able to produce lower abdominal, mid-abdominal, upper abdominal, and upper chest exit site locations that facilitate management by the patient without sacrificing deep pelvic position of the catheter tip or resulting in excessive tubing stress during passage through the abdominal wall.

Minilaparoscopic Extraperitoneal Tunneling with Omentopexy: A New Technique for CAPD Catheter Placement

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is an effective form of treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease. Open insertion of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters is the standard surgical technique, but it is associated with a relatively high incidence of catheter-related problems. To overcome these problems, different laparoscopic techniques have been presented, being preferable to the open and percutaneous methods. To introduce and evaluate the efficiency of laparoscopic omental fixation and extraperitoneal placement of the cuff-coil part (the straight portion) of the catheter to prevent catheter tip migration, pericatheter leakage, severe abdominal pain, and the obstruction caused by omental wrapping. The study was carried out in the General Surgery Department, Akdeniz University Medical School, in Turkey. Between November 2001 and March 2005, the technique was applied in 44 consecutive patients (mean age 51.6 years, range 18 - 67 years) with end-stage renal disease. During this laparoscopic technique, the omentum was first fixed onto the parietal peritoneum, and then the catheter was introduced through the subumbilical trocar site into the posterior rectus compartment and advanced toward the symphysis pubis. The catheter was then inserted into the abdominal cavity, passing the peritoneal opening, which was prepared before catheter insertion. The straight portion of the catheter was located into the extraperitoneal area of the anterior abdominal wall. The curled end, which contains the side-holes of the catheter, was placed into the true pelvis. Catheter position and patency were verified under direct vision using a 2 mm telescope. All procedures were completed laparoscopically. Operating time ranged between 40 and 100 minutes (median 52 minutes). There was no intraoperative complication or surgical mortality. Peritoneal dialysis was initiated within 15 - 24 hours after catheter implantation. After a median follow-up period of 17.4 months (range 1 - 38 months), early exit-site infection occurred in 1 of 44 patients. All catheters functioned well postoperatively. There was no pain during CAPD. This new laparoscopic technique using an extraperitoneal approach with omentopexy for PD catheter placement could prove extremely useful for preventing catheter malfunction caused by catheter tip migration, pericatheter leakage, omental wrapping, and periodic catheter movement that causes abdominal pain in CAPD.

170: Laparoscopic Mesh-Sacrovaginopexy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

To evaluate the efficacy of our technique of laparoscopic mesh-sacrovaginopexy (LMSVP) for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Retrospective analysis of 122 patients with POP operated on in our clinic between 2003 and 2004. Gynecology Department of the Cosmetology and Plastic Surgery Center. One hundred twenty two patients (ages 35-55 yrs) with POP including 46 operated on using our technique and 76 by other approaches; 22% of patients had history of hysterectomy. Our technique of laparoscopic sacrovaginopexy with Prolene mesh implied anchoring the mesh to anterior vaginal vault (after bladder shift downwards), cervix, and posterior vaginal wall in extraperitoneal tunnel under the promontory in one block, followed by reperitonealization. LMSVP achieved resolution of preexistent vaginoperineal symptoms in 42 (91%) patients; 3 patients reported pelvic pain at rest and under physical load; 1 patient had POP recurrence due to mesh rejection, which required revision using a different approach. No mesh erosion was observed. LMSVP is an effective treatment for POP, providing support between sacro-uteral ligaments, rectovaginal septum, vaginal vault and presacral ligament; fast recovery after simultaneous repair of cystocele and rectocele in one block with one mesh, minimizing operative time and complications.

Extraperitoneal tunnel flat sigmoidostomy: a report of 36 cases

目的 探讨隧道式乙状结肠腹膜外平坦造口术在Miles术中的应用效果.方法对36例肛管直肠癌患者施行Miles术中采用隧道式乙状结肠腹膜外平坦型造口术,观察造口并发症和排便功能情况.结果36例患者经3个月至5年的随访,除有1例(2.78%)出现造口周围皮肤炎外,无其他并发症.30例(83.39%)患者获排便感.结论腹膜外隧道式乙状结肠平坦造口术具有并发症少,排便功能恢复好,隐蔽性好,外形美观等优点,可提高患者术后生存质量。

Vaginal Reconstruction with an Axial Subcutaneous Pedicle Flap from the Inferior Abdominal Wall

A new method of vaginal reconstruction is reported. In the procedure, the left inferior abdominal wall flap with the subcutaneous pedicle containing epigastric superficial blood vessels and/or the circumflex iliac superficial vessel and the external pudendal vessel and their branches is raised and passed through an immediate extraperitoneal tunnel to be the artificial vagina. The operation is straightforward, quick, and safe. Thirty consecutive patients suffering from congenital absence of vagina have been treated. All flaps in the group, which were less bulky, survived completely. The follow-up survey was carried out from 6 months to more than 4 years postoperatively. There was no occurrence of hernia after surgery. The reconstructed vaginas in all patients were clean, soft, elastic, and expansible. Married patients indicated satisfaction with their sexual life.