Significant Reduction In Operative Time Research Articles

Learning curve analysis of robot-assisted radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer: initial experience at a single institution

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the learning curve and perioperative outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic procedure for cervical cancer.MethodsA series of 65 cases of robot-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomies with bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection for early stage cervical cancer were included. Demographic data and various perioperative parameters including docking time, console time, and total operative time were reviewed from the prospectively collected database. Console time was set as a surrogate marker for surgical competency, in addition to surgical outcomes. The learning curve was evaluated using cumulative summation method.ResultsThe mean operative time was 190 minutes (range, 117 to 350 minutes). Two unique phases of the learning curve were derived using cumulative summation analysis; phase 1 (the initial learning curve of 28 cases), and phase 2 (the improvement phase of subsequent cases in which more challenging cases were managed). Docking and console times were significantly decreased after the first 28 cases compared with the latter cases (5 minutes vs. 4 minutes for docking time, 160 minutes vs. 134 minutes for console time; p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). There was a significant reduction in blood loss during operation (225 mL vs. 100 mL, p<0.001) and early postoperative complication rates (28% vs. 8.1%, p=0.003) in phase 2. No conversion to laparotomy occurred.ConclusionImprovement of surgical performance in robot-assisted surgery for cervical cancer can be achieved after 28 cases. The two phases identified by cumulative summation analysis showed significant reduction in operative time, blood loss, and complication rates in the latter phase of learning curve.

Robotic adrenalectomy: technical aspects, early results and learning curve

Adrenal surgery is undergoing continuous evolution, and robotic technology may extend indications for a minimally invasive approach to adrenalectomy. Thirty robot-assisted unilateral transperitoneal adrenalectomy procedures have been performed at our Department over the last 5 years. The presence of bilateral lesions and vascular involvement were the only contra-indications for a minimally invasive approach. Several patients presented with significant co-morbidities: BMI > 35 kg/m(2) (20%); ASA score III-IV (58.7%); and moderate to severe impaired respiratory function (36.6%). In addition, 40% of patients had undergone previous abdominal surgery. Two patients presented with intra-operative complications (6.6%) and only one patient required conversion to an open procedure (3.3%). None of the patients required intraoperative transfusions. Hospital morbidity was 10% but no mortality was recorded. The mean hospital stay was 5.2 ± 2.2 days. The mean size of the resected adrenal mass was 5.1 ± 2.4 cm. A significant reduction in operative times was found with gaining experience. Thanks to robotic technology, some subpopulations of patients with clinical or oncological contra-indications to laparoscopic treatment may be addressed with minimally invasive treatment.

A Standardized Operative Team for Major Head and Neck Cancer Ablation and Reconstruction

Prolonged procedure time in head and neck cancer ablation and free flap reconstruction cases has been shown to significantly increase perioperative complications. The authors' objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of a standardized surgical nursing team for head and neck cancer ablation and free flap reconstruction operations for reducing procedure time. A retrospective cohort analysis of consecutive patients presenting for head and neck cancer ablation and free flap reconstruction between January 1, 2007, and September 1, 2010, was performed. A standardized head and neck surgical nursing team was introduced on May 1, 2009, at our center. Procedure time and case time were measured before and after the introduction of the team. Univariable analyses were performed to evaluate the difference in procedure and case time between the two cohorts. A multivariable linear regression model was developed to control for confounding variables. There were 52 cases before the team was introduced and 49 cases after. Mean procedure time was reduced by 47.1 minutes (p = 0.04) and mean case time was reduced by 68.9 minutes (p = 0.01) after team introduction. The multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in operative time after team introduction, controlling for confounding variables. The introduction of a standardized surgical nursing team led to a significant reduction in procedure and case time. A standardized team approach improves operating room efficiency in complex cases such as free flap reconstruction following tumor ablation. Therapeutic, III.

Bipolar Vessel Sealer versus Harmonic Scalpel in Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the use of Electrothermal Bipolar Vessel Sealer (EBVS) with Harmonic Scalpel (HS) during laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH) with respect to operation time, estimated blood loss and related complications. Methods: A randomized clinical study was conducted in the OB/GYN Department, Maternity Hospital, Kuwait, from March 2009 till January 2011. Forty candidates for Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy were enrolled and divided randomly into two equal groups of 20 patients each. Twenty hysterectomies (LSH) were performed using the Harmonic Shears (HS) (group I) and the other twenty patients (group II) had LSH operation using Electro-Thermal Blood Vessel Sealer (EBVS) technology. All the operations were performed by the same surgeon. Data about the characteristics of the patients, operation time, estimated blood loss, related complications and length of hospital stay were registered and compared. Results: Mean operation time, Hemoglobin (Hb) and Hematocrite value (Ht) drop, and hospital stay were significantly less in the bipolar vessel sealer group. There was significant reduction in operation time using the EBVS technique (64.15 ± 12.02) minutes as compared to HS technique (138.25 ± 23.41) minutes. Blood loss during operation was significantly lower in group (II) patients compared to group (I) demonstrated by significant greater drop in hemoglobin and hematocrite in the latter compared to the former group. The mean Hemoglobin drop in group (I) patients was (3.15 ± 0.82) while hematocrite drop was (3.72 ± 0.74). The mean hemoglobin drop for group (II) patients was (0.43 ± 0.33), while hematocrite drop was (0.74 ± 0.41). The mean hospital stay time for group (I) patients was 2.0 ± 1.52 days. The mean hospital stay for group (II) was 1.65 ± 0.58 days; the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The bipolar vessel sealer technique seems to be less time-consuming during operation and caused less bleeding when compared with harmonic shears. Further studies with larger number of patients are required for stronger evaluation of the technique.

Comparison of Single Incision Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal and Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair: Initial Experience

Laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) surgery has been implemented recently in many laparoscopic (LAP) surgical procedures. We report our initial experience with LESS totally extraperitoneal (LESS-TEP) inguinal hernia repair in relation to conventional LAP-TEP. Between November 2008 and May 2009, 25 LESS-TEP repairs of inguinal hernia and 29 LAP-TEP repairs of inguinal hernia were performed in 44 patients. Data regarding patient demographics, type of hernia, operative time, complications, postoperative hospital stay, and recurrence were prospectively collected and analyzed. All 44 patients were men, aged 17 to 84 years. Of 44 men, 3 had bilateral inguinal hernias in the LESS-TEP group and 7 in the LAP-TEP group. The operative time for bilateral LESS-TEP was 60 ± 15.3 min (range 40-70 min) and 40 ± 21.6 min (range 20-100 min) for unilateral LESS-TEP, while for bilateral hernia LAP-TEP it was 60 ± 24.8 min (range 40-100 min) and for unilateral LAP-TEP it was 50 ± 14.2 min (range 40-80 min). Comparison of operative times in the LESS-TEP and LAP-TEP groups between the first and second half cohort resulted in significant reduction of operative time in the second half of the LESS-TEP group (P<0.001). There were no intraoperative complications. Discharge was within 72 hours for most patients in both groups. There was one early recurrence (mesh displacement) during a median follow-up period of 11.5 ± 2.5 months in the LESS-TEP group and no recurrences during the 11 ± 1.6 months in the LAP-TEP group. In our experience, LESS-TEP is a safe and feasible procedure with a short learning curve. In all analyzed parameters, it is comparable to conventional LAP-TEP. Further studies that compare LESS-TEP and conventional multiport LAP-TEP repairs with long-term follow-up evaluation are needed to confirm the initial experience.

Biomechanical analysis of a novel posterior construct in a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion model an in vitro study

Spinal fusion is a commonly performed surgical procedure. It is used to treat a variety of spinal pathologies, including degenerative disease, trauma, spondylolisthesis, and deformities. A mechanically stable spine provides an ideal environment for the formation of a fusion mass. Instrumented spinal fusion allows early ambulation with minimal need for a postoperative external immobilizer. Several biomechanical and clinical studies have evaluated the stability offered by different posterior instrumentation techniques and the effects of reduced instrumentation. The aim of the study was to compare the biomechanics of a novel pedicle and translaminar facet screw (TLFS) construct. Also, in this study, comparisons were made with the more common pedicle screw/TLFS constructs for posterior fixation. Human cadaveric lumbar spines were tested in an invitro flexibility experiment to investigate the biomechanical stability provided by a novel pedicle and TLFS construct after transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Seven fresh human lumbar spines (L2-L5) were tested by applying pure moments of ±8 Nm. After intact specimen testing, a left-sided TLIF with a radiolucent interbody spacer was performed at L3-L4. Each specimen was then tested for the following constructs: bilateral pedicle screws (BPS) and rods at L3-L4; unilateral pedicle screws (UPS) and rods at L3-L4; UPS and rods and TLFS at L3-L4 (UPS+TLFS); and unilateral single pedicle screw and TLFS and rod at L3-L4 (V construct). The L3-L4 range of motion (ROM) and stiffness for each construct were obtained by applying pure moments in flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. All instrumented constructs significantly reduced ROM in flexion-extension and lateral bending compared with the intact specimen. In axial rotation, only BPS constructs significantly reduced ROM compared with intact specimen. The V construct was able to achieve more reduction in ROM compared with UPS construct and was comparable to UPS+TLFS construct. Unilateral pedicle screws construct was the least stable in all loading modes and was significantly different than BPS construct in lateral bending. The V construct exhibited enhanced stability compared with UPS construct in all loading modes. It provides bilateral fixation and preserves the anatomic integrity of the superior facet joint. The novel construct may offer advantages of less invasiveness, significant reduction in operation time, duration of hospitalization, and costs of implants, which would require further clinical evaluation.

Successful Reconstruction of a Large Helical Rim Defect Using Retroauricular Artery Perforator-Based Island Flap

The retroauricular flap has many applications, providing coverage for various portions of the face as a pedicled flap or a free flap. The retroauricular skin, having similar attributes to the facial skin, is an ideal donor site for facial reconstruction. Also, the donor site can be primarily closed without morbidity, which is also an advantage. In this article, a large helical defect resulting from a traumatic amputation was reconstructed using the contralateral conchal cartilage graft and a retroauricular perforator-based island flap. Using the "perforator pedicled propeller flap" concept, no meticulous dissection around the perforator was done, and the flap was elevated only until sufficient rotation arc was achieved. There was some degree of venous congestion on the flap for 3 days postoperatively, but the flap survived completely. By using the conchal cartilage from the contralateral side, the final contour of the ear was maintained aesthetically. The flap had some bulkiness on the posterior side of the auricle where it was transposed, but it was inconspicuous on frontal or lateral view because the conchoscaphal angle had not changed. The patient was satisfied with the aesthetic results. The retroauricular flap is useful for resurfacing any portion of the ear, and by using the propeller flap method, significant reduction in operative time can be achieved without compromising the final results.

Nuclear Mapping in Parathyroidectomy: the Impact on Operative Time

Background : Precise intraoperative localization and identification of hyperactive parathyroid tissue remains one of the most challenging tasks for surgeons performing parathyroidectomies. Among a few adjuvant methods tested recently, a novel technique called nuclear mapping may become a real breakthrough in parathyroid surgery. It is based on intraoperative detection of radioactivity after previous intravenous administration of 99mTc Sestamibi, which is accumulated in hyperactive parathyroid tissue. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of nuclear mapping on operative time in parathyroidectomy.Methods : The study was conducted as a retrospective univariable and multivariable analysis of clinical factors potentially influencing the operative time in a group of 27 patients undergoing parathyroidectomy.Results : Univariable analysis revealed that nuclear mapping was associated with significant reduction in operative time (79.4 ± 62.2 min vs. 135.8 ± 49.2 min; p = 0.0186); whereas, bilateral neck exploration, partial sternotomy and reoperative neck prolonged the procedure by mean 70.7 ± 12.9 min (p = 0.0035); 100,9 ± 50.36 min (p = 0.0154) and 73.3 ± 22.8 min (p = 0.0081), respectively. Multivariable analysis using a multiple regression model identified nuclear mapping, sternotomy and reoperative neck as independent variables significantly influencing the duration of parathy-roidectomy .Conclusions : Nuclear mapping is an efficient intraoperative adjuvant technique facilitating localization of hyperactive parathyroid tissues in vivo and instantly confirming their identity ex vivo. It guides the surgeon throughout the parathyroidectomy and is associated with significant reduction in operative time.

Suction cautery adenoidectomy (SCA): Is the additional cost justified?

Objectives Adenoidectomy is one of the oldest and most frequent ENT procedures. This study aimed to compare adenoidectomy using suction-cautery adenoidectomy (SCA) to curettage with respect to operative time, postoperative complications, and cost-effectiveness. Methods The data for this retrospective case control study were retrieved from the Medical Records Department at one of the few medical centers that perform this technique in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The data for each case included the following: patient demographic features, type of procedure, time of operation, occurrence of any postoperative complications, length of hospital stay and cost of the procedure. To minimize the sources of variance in our data, all adenoidectomies were performed by the same consultant otolaryngologist, using either SCA or curettage. Result Of the 86 patients who underwent adenoidectomy in this study, SCA was performed in half of them (43) and curettage in the other half. The two groups were well matched with no significant group differences in either age or gender ( p = 0.2 and p = 0.19, respectively). There was a significant reduction in operative time ( p < 0.001) in the SCA group. There were no cases of postoperative hemorrhage after SCA, but there was one case of hemorrhage in the curette group that required a 2nd surgery to control the bleeding. Regarding cost, there were additional profits of more than 700,000 SR (US$180,000) each month with SCA as compared to curettage. Conclusions The suction cautery technique was superior at reducing operative time, increasing cost-effectiveness and decreasing the risk of postoperative complications. Therefore, we suggest suction cautery as the most appropriate method for adenoidectomy.

The Learning Curve of Laparoendoscopic Single-Site (LESS) Cholecystectomy: Definable, Short, and Safe

The applications of laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) surgery, including cholecystectomy, are occurring quickly, although little is generally known about issues associated with the learning curve of this new technique including operative time, conversion rates, and safety. We prospectively followed all patients undergoing LESS cholecystectomy, and compared operations undertaken at our institutions in cohorts of 25 patients with respect to operative times, conversion rates, and complications. One-hundred fifty patients of mean age 46 years underwent LESS cholecystectomy. No significant differences in operative times were demonstrable between any of the 25-patient cohorts operated on at our institution. A significant reduction in operative times (p < 0.001) after completion of 75 LESS procedures was, however, identified with the experience of a single surgeon. No significant reduction in the number of procedures requiring an additional trocar(s) or conversion to open operations was observed after completion of 25 LESS cholecystectomies. Complication rates were low, and not significantly different between any 25-patient cohorts. For surgeons proficient with multi-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the learning curve for LESS cholecystectomy begins near proficiency. Operative complications and conversions were infrequent and unchanged across successive 25-patient cohorts, and were similar to those reported for multi-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy after the learning curve.

Rapid prototyping in craniofacial surgery: Using a positioning guide after zygomatic osteotomy – A case report

Introduction The management of post-traumatic deformity in the midface region poses challenges for the maxillofacial surgeon. Ensuring symmetry after zygomatic osteotomy can be difficult and precise positioning of the osteotomised bony fragments requires careful treatment planning. It may be necessary to use a coronal flap to allow the surgeon to compare the contralateral zygomatic bone to allow symmetrical reduction. The authors present a new technique for the positioning of osteotomised zygomatic bones using a combination of computer assisted surgical simulation and rapid prototyping. Method A patient presented to our unit with a post-traumatic zygomatic deformity. Using surgical simulation software the displaced zygomatic bone was osteotomised and placed in the idéal position on a three-dimensional computed tomography scan (3D CT). The position was determined by reference to the contralateral zygoma. In addition the repositioning of the soft tissues was simulated. A surgical guide which allowed intraoperative positioning of the osteotomised zygoma was manufactured by a rapid prototyping process. Use of the guide allowed a minimally invasive approach to the affected zygoma. The post-operative results were compared to the predicted outcome. Results The post-operative appearance was satisfactory and corresponded well with the predicted result. There was a significant reduction in operative time compared to the previous management of similar cases.

Sutureless tympanoplasty using acellular dermis

Objective A prospective randomized unblinded controlled trial was conducted by comparing acellular dermis with temporalis fascia as graft materials in tympanoplasty (type 1) in terms of operative time, postoperative pain, graft success rate, and audiologic outcome. Study design Forty-two patients with (inactive) chronic suppurative otitis media of tubotympanic type were randomized, matched, and divided equally into 2 groups of 21 each. One group underwent tympanoplasty (type 1) via transcanal route using temporalis fascia graft and the other using acellular dermis. Both groups were compared for operative time, postoperative pain, graft success rate, and audiologic improvement in hearing. Results There was a statistically significant reduction in operative time ( P < .05) and postoperative pain ( P < .05) in the acellular dermis group. However, there was no statistical difference in graft success rate ( P > .05) and hearing improvement ( P > .05) between both the groups. Conclusion Results of tympanoplasty using acellular dermis as graft material are comparable to that using temporalis fascia in terms of graft uptake and hearing improvement. However, tympanoplasty using acellular dermis has the advantage of shorter operative time and lesser postoperative pain.

Microscopic versus endoscopic transnasal pituitary surgery

The transnasal endoscopic approach to the sella turcica is an alternative to the microscopic approach and over the last decade has come into prominence as a new technique. In the present article, we will analyze the current literature on outcomes between the two techniques. The endoscopic approach to the pituitary has redefined visualization of the sella. The panoramic view afforded by the endoscope is unparalleled as compared with the traditional conical view of the microscope. This technique has been shown to have a statistically significant reduction in operative time and length of hospital stay. There is also a trend toward improved endocrine outcomes and rate of return of visual defects. These two approaches are equally efficacious in oncological outcomes and the complication rates are comparable. With longer follow-up of this developing field it may be shown that complication rates are decreased, surgical reconstruction is less time consuming, and tumor resection is more complete due to improved visualization in the sellar and parasellar areas. In addition, the use of endoscopes facilitates extended approaches, reaching a myriad of skull base lesions that are suprasellar, retrosellar, and parasellar, which permits visualization beyond the abilities of the microscope.

Randomized trial comparing LigaSure to closed Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy

Performing hemorrhoidectomy with LigaSure vessel sealing system is a relatively new technique. The aim of the study was to evaluate LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy by comparing its results to closed Ferguson technique. Eighty patients with grades III and IV hemorrhoids were prospectively randomized to either LigaSure or Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy. Primary end point was postoperative pain. Secondary end points were operative time, blood loss, morbidity, manometric assessment, need for analgesics, hospital stay, time to achieve complete wound healing, and patient satisfaction. The LigaSure group achieved a significant reduction in operative time (P < 0.001), blood loss (P < 0.001), first postoperative day pain score (P < 0.006), seventh day pain score (P < 0.012), second week pain score (P < 0.001). Less patients in the LigaSure group required pethidine analgesia on the first postoperative day (P < 0.006). Hospital stay (P < 0.001), time to achieve complete wound healing (P = 0.001) were shorter in the LigaSure group, and third month satisfaction score was higher (P = 0.03). There was no difference in postoperative complications. Postoperative manometric resting (P = 0.0001) and squeeze (P = 0.001) pressures were significantly decreased in the Ferguson group. LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy provides a valid alternative to closed hemorrhoidectomy. LigaSure patients gain short-term benefits in terms of reduced postoperative pain, wound healing, and better satisfaction. Based on our preliminary results, future studies addressing long-term functional results are needed to prove that LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy may be safer for the patients.

Interpositional Vein Graft Suturing over Temporary Silastic Tube

Interpositional vein grafting is the gold standard for the replacement of vascular defects. Although many microsurgeons have used classical suture anastomosis successfully, it is still technically challenging, especially for the inexperienced surgeon. We present a new technique that facilitates autogenous vein grafting by using a commercially available silastic tube employed temporarily during the suture anastomosis and removed at the end of the procedure. Effects of this technique on operative time and patency were tested by an experienced and an inexperienced microsurgeon. Each surgeon operated on a total of 20 rats divided in experimental and control groups of 10 animals each. The experimental group was operated on with silastic-tube-assisted suture anastomosis, and the control group was operated on using the classical suture anastomosis without using the device. For the experienced microsurgeon, proposed modification resulted in a statistically significant reduction in operative time without an effect on patency. For the inexperienced microsurgeon, the proposed modification resulted in a statistically significant reduction in operative time and also enhanced patency rates significantly. Interpositional vein grafting over a temporary silastic tube is a practical modification of the classical microvascular anastomosis that adds speed and ease to the microvascular vein grafting procedure and prevents back-wall biting, particularly for inexperienced microsurgeons.

Day-case laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

Nissen fundoplication has been performed laparoscopically for over 15 years, being associated with shorter hospital stay and fewer complications than conventional open surgery with good long-term outcomes. Day-case laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is rarely performed in the UK and most series in the literature report length of stay >2 days. The objective of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of day-case LNF. The clinical records of all patients undergoing LNF under the care of three surgeons in a district general hospital (DGH) during a 5-year period (January 2003 to December 2007) were reviewed to examine length of stay, complications, length of procedure, grade of operating surgeon and symptoms on follow-up. One hundred thirteen day-case LNFs were recorded in this series. Day-case LNF patients had median age of 45 years (range 20-68 years, 65% (64.6%) male) and 98% were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade I or II. Twenty-one cases (19%) were performed by higher surgical trainees. Median operative time was 54 minutes (range 25-120 min). Only one perioperative complication (port-site bleed) occurred, treated without prolonging length of stay. The proportion of all LNF performed as day cases increased from 8% to 52% during the study period. Median operative time has significantly reduced from the first 20 consecutive LNF cases to the latest 20 cases [65 min (range 40-120 min) versus 48 min (range 25-72 min); p = 0.037]. At follow-up (median 7 weeks, range 2-31 weeks) 82% of patients had improvement in all presenting symptoms. Eight patients had postoperative complications [wound infection (n = 2), persistent regurgitation requiring laparoscopic division of a gastric band adhesion (n = 1), dysphagia (n = 5 with two patients requiring redo partial fundoplication and one patient requiring dilatation) and there were no conversions to open surgery. Day-case LNF is safe and effective for treating selected patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in a DGH. The proportion of day-case LNFs is increasing in our unit. Half of the LNFs in a DGH can be done as day cases. Experience is associated with a significant reduction in operative time.

The use of “harmonic scalpel” versus “knot tying” for conventional “open” thyroidectomy: results of a prospective randomized study

We evaluated the safety and cost-effectiveness of the harmonic scalpel (HS) during conventional "open" thyroidectomy (CT). Two hundred patients scheduled for conventional total thyroidectomy (TT) were included in the study and randomly assigned to TT with the use of HS (HS group) or with knot tying technique (KT group). Mean operative time was significantly shorter in the HS group (P < 0.001), as well as the total operative room occupation time (P < 0.001). The cost of the disposable materials is significantly higher in the HS group (420.1 +/- 23.2 vs 137.8 +/- 25.3 euros; P < 0.001). Conversely, drugs, personnel and operative room charges were significantly higher in KT group patients (P < 0.001). Overall, no significant difference was found between the two groups concerning the charges of the hospitalisation (P = NS). HS is a safe alternative to KT, allowing for a significant reduction of operative time without increasing complications rate and overall costs and probably better utilization of health resources.

Meta-analysis of Short-term Outcomes of Randomized Controlled Trials of LigaSure vs Conventional Hemorrhoidectomy

To evaluate the short-term outcomes of hemorrhoidectomy performed using the LigaSure vessel sealing device (Valleylab, Boulder, Colorado) or the conventional approach. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Ovid, and Cochrane databases for studies published between 2002 and 2006. Randomized controlled trials published between 2002 and 2006 comparing short-term outcomes for LigaSure vs conventional hemorrhoidectomy. Operative parameters, short-term complications, and postoperative recovery. Trials were assessed using a modified Jadad score. Random-effects meta-analytical techniques were used in the analysis. Nine randomized controlled trials with matched selection criteria reporting on 525 patients, of whom 266 (50.7%) underwent LigaSure and 259 (49.3%) underwent conventional hemorrhoidectomy. Operative time (weighted mean difference [WMD], - 8.67 minutes; 95% confidence interval [CI], - 15.34 to - 2.00 minutes), blood loss (WMD, - 23.08 mL; 95% CI, - 27.24 to - 18.92 mL), and pain the day after the operation measured by the visual analog scale (WMD, - 2.31; 95% CI, - 3.37 to - 1.26) were significantly reduced following LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy. There was a decrease in time taken to return to work or normal activity (WMD, - 3.49 days; 95% CI, - 7.40 to 0.43), which was of marginal significance (P = .08). Incidence of postoperative hemorrhage was comparable as was incidence of anal stenosis and fecal and flatus incontinence between the 2 groups. LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy results in a significant reduction in operative time and blood loss, but it may not confer any advantage over the conventional operation in terms of postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, or time taken to return to work or normal activity. The expediency of the device must be weighed against its additional cost. Long-term evaluation of outcomes and morbidity are still needed.

Outcomes of surgical and endovascular treatment of acute traumatic thoracic aortic injury

Acute thoracic aortic injury resulting from blunt trauma is a life-threatening condition. Endovascular therapy is a less invasive treatment modality that may potentially improve patient outcomes. We reviewed our experience with patients who sustained blunt thoracic aortic injuries distal to the left subclavian artery and presented for open surgical or endovascular repair. Between August 1993 and August 2006, 62 patients sustained blunt thoracic aortic injuries distal to the origin of the left subclavian artery and proceeded to undergo open surgical (n = 48, 77%), or endovascular repair (n = 14, 23%). Revised trauma score (RTS), injury severity score (ISS), new injury severity score (NISS), individual associated traumatic injuries, as well as operative and postoperative outcomes were compared between open surgical and endovascular groups. Age, gender, race, and mechanism of injury did not differ between open surgical and endovascular groups. Additionally, RTS, ISS, and NISS values were not significantly different. The proportion of patients with sternal fractures (14% vs 0%), or unstable spinal fractures (36% vs 10%) was significantly greater in the endovascular group. Of the patients who received endografts, 93% (n = 13) were evaluated by a cardiothoracic surgeon and assessed to be prohibitive to operative intervention. Endografts utilized included commercially manufactured thoracic endografts (n = 6; 43%) and abdominal aortic endograft components (n = 8; 57%). Forty-one interposition grafts were placed in the open surgical group. Renal complications (32% vs 7%), and urinary tract infections (35% vs 7%) approached significance between surgical and endovascular groups (P = .082 and P = .077, respectively). Intraoperative mortality for the surgical and endovascular groups was 23% and 0%, respectively (P = .056). Endovascular repair was associated with significant reductions in operative time (118 vs 209 minutes), estimated blood loss (77 vs 3180 ml), and intraoperative blood transfusions (0.9 vs 6.1 units). No endoleaks were detected during a mean follow-up of 9.4 months in the endovascular group. Endovascular repair of blunt descending thoracic aortic injuries utilizing thoracic or abdominal endographs is a technically feasible modality that is at least equivalent to open therapy in the short term and associated with a lower intraoperative mortality (P = .056). Endovascular therapy has advantages in operative time, operative blood loss, and intraoperative blood transfusions.

Transmesocolic Pyeloplasty: Experience of a Single Center

We present our experience with dismembered left-sided pyeloplasty using a transmesocolic technique as a way to reduce operative time and facilitate repair by avoiding colon displacement. Between January 2004 and January 2006, a total of 11 transmesocolic laparoscopic pyeloplasties were performed by the same surgeon at our institution. The mean patient age was 41.6 years (range 14-65 years). Operative records and follow-up were reviewed. A dismembered Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty was carried out in nine patients (82%), while a Y-V plasty (9%) and a Fengerplasty (9%) were done in one patient each. Crossing vessels were observed in 8 patients (73%). A ureteral stent was left in all patients. The mean operative time was 88.6 minutes (range 60-125 minutes), and blood loss was minimal. Compared with classic transperitoneal laparoscopic left pyeloplasties, transmesocolic cases showed a significant reduction in operative time (88.6 minutes v 117 minutes; P < 0.05). There were no intraoperative complications or open conversions. The mean hospital stay was 2.1 days (range 2-3 days). Only 1 patient (9%) demonstrated narrowing of the anastomosis, which occurred 12 months after a Fengerplasty. The transmesocolic approach to a dilated left pelvis enables a shorter operative time without increasing morbidity. More patients and longer follow-up are necessary to determine its effect on convalescence.