Transabdominal Sutures Research Articles

Three-Port Laparoscopic Splenic Flexure Colectomy for Descending Colon Cancer with Intracorporeal Colocolic Anastomosis and Transvaginal Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction

Introduction: Transanal and transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) are viable alternatives to transabdominal specimen retrieval after laparoscopic colorectal surgery in selected patients without increasing morbidity or compromising oncologic outcomes.1 Conventional laparoscopic colorectal surgery is performed using one camera port, two operator ports, and one or two assistant ports. Three-port surgery is feasible2 and complementary to NOSE for laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery to reduce surgical trauma to the abdominal wall.3 Transanal NOSE avoids an additional vaginal incision, however, the transvaginal route is preferable for larger tumors because of the elasticity of the vagina.3 Although dyspareunia and rectovaginal fistulae are theoretical concerns following transvaginal NOSE, these fears are thus far unfounded.1,3 Placement of a transvaginal wound protector protects against the risk of tumor seeding. Transvaginal NOSE following three-port laparoscopic D3 right hemicolectomy4 and three-port laparoscopic anterior resection5 have been previously demonstrated. Compared with other locations within the large bowel, cancers of the splenic flexure are relatively uncommon.6 Splenic flexure colectomy preserves bowel and is safe and oncologically comparable with a subtotal colectomy or formal left hemicolectomy.7,8 However, segmental resection and anastomosis for tumors in this area can be technically challenging. Methods: A 69-year-old patient with a descending colon cancer and body mass index of 29.2 kg/m2 presented for resection. Preoperative bowel preparation with 2 L polyethylene glycol was administered. A 12-mm transumbilical camera port was used, with a 12- and 5-mm right iliac fossa and right flank working ports, respectively. The splenic flexure was mobilized from medial to lateral. The inferior mesenteric artery was identified, and the left colic artery was ligated at its origin, with adequate distal mesenteric division to ensure satisfactory lymph node harvest. Proximal and distal bowel transection were performed intracorporeally with a linear stapler. An isoperistaltic side-to-side colocolic anastomosis was fashioned, with a two-layer closure of the colonic defect. The uterus was hitched to the anterior abdominal wall with a transabdominal suture. The vagina was cleansed before a posterior vaginotomy was created with the help of a transvaginal sizer. A double ring wound protector was inserted transvaginally with one ring completely within the abdominal cavity and the other ring opened against the perineum to shorten the channel for specimen delivery. The wound protector was removed and the vaginotomy was closed using a barbed suture. Results: Operative time was 3 hours 15 minutes, with 20 mL intraoperative blood loss. There was minimal postoperative pain with return of gastrointestinal function on the first postoperative day. The patient was discharged uneventfully on postoperative day 2. Histology was pT4N1 and 27 lymph nodes were harvested. Adjuvant chemotherapy was administered, with no evidence of disease recurrence at 6 months follow-up. Conclusion: The reduced port technique is feasible and synergistic with NOSE for splenic flexure colectomy in selected patients, augmenting the minimally invasive nature of laparoscopy. No competing financial interests exist. Runtime of video: 5 mins 49 secs Patient Consent: The authors have received and archived patient consent for video recording/publication in advance of video recording of procedure.

Laparoscopic repair of giant Morgagni hernia by direct suturing with V-Loc.

Morgagni hernias present technical challenges. The laparoscopic approach for repair was first described in 1992; however, as these hernias are uncommon in adult life, few data exist on the optimal method for surgical management. The purpose of this study was to analyze a method for laparoscopic repair of Morgagni giant hernias using laparoscopic primary closure with V lock (Medtronic, Covidien). This case series describes a method of laparoscopic Morgagni hernia repair using primary closure. In all patients, a laparoscopic transabdominal approach was used. The content of the hernia was reduced into the abdomen, and the diaphragmatic defect was closed with a running laparoscopic suture using a self-fixating suture. Clips were placed at the edges of the suture to secure the pledged sutures to both the anterior and posterior fascia. Demographic data such as BMI and operative and postoperative data were collected. Retrospectively collected data for 9 patients were analyzed. There were 1 (11.1%) males and 8 (88.8%) females. The median BMI was 29.14±52 kg/m2. The median operative time was 80±25 minutes. There were no intraoperative complications or conversions to open surgery. Patients began a fluid diet on the first postoperative day and were discharged after a median hospital stay of 3±1.87 days. In a median follow-up of 36 months, we did not observe any recurrences. Transabdominal laparoscopic approach with primary closure of the diaphragmatic defect is a viable approach for the repair of Morgagni hernia. In our experience, the use of laparoscopic transabdominal suture fixed to the fascia allowed the closure of the defect laparoscopically with minimal tension on the repairs.

Laparoscopic repair of lateral sided trocar site hernias.

Repair of trocar site hernia (TSH) has been mentioned in a limited number of studies. Trocar site hernias are mostly located in the umbilical region with a small size. Laparoscopic repair could be a choice due to the appearance of large defects and requirement of mesh repair for lateral sided TSH. We aimed to share our experience with laparoscopic repair of lateral sided trocar site hernia (LRTSH) with a long term follow up. Twenty-three patients who underwent LRTSH between March 2013 and July 2015 were included in our study. Four edges of the mesh were fixed with pre-tied 2/0 polypropylene suture for 9 patients initially (Group 1). Unexpected complication of chronic pain in 3 patients led us to revise our method and we avoided to position the mesh with transabdominal sutures for the rest of the patients (Group 2). Nineteen (82.6%) female and 4 (17.4%) male patients, with a mean age of 50.9 years underwent laparoscopic repair. Following the revision and avoiding transabdominal sutures to position the mesh, no complaint of chronic pain was observed, and the difference was statistically significant between the groups (p<0.05). Previous laparoscopic surgery indicates the lack of obstacle in laparoscopic repair of TSH, and LRTSH can be considered as first option in treatment. Shorter mean operative time in obese patients and lack of recurrence in our series support this view. Using transabdominal sutures should be avoided to prevent chronic pain in LRTSH.

Use of a T'LIFT transabdominal organ retraction device in two-portal laparoscopic ovariectomy in dogs.

To describe the use of the T'LIFT transabdominal organ retraction device to suspend ovaries during canine laparoscopic ovariectomy (LapOVE) and compare its use to a transabdominal suspension suture (TSS). Randomized clinical trial. Client-owned intact bitches (n=30). Dogs were randomly assigned either to group T, in which LapOVE was performed with the T'LIFT, or to group S, in which a TSS was used. Laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed by using a standard two-portal protocol. Signalment (age, weight, body condition score [BCS], fat score of the ovarian pedicle [FSOP]), overall operative time, ovarian resection time, and perioperative complications were compared between groups. No significant differences were found between groups regarding age, weight, BCS, or FSOP. Surgical times were not significantly different between groups. No significant differences in major or minor complications were recorded. Overall operative time was significantly shorter for the last half of the cases compared with the first half, for the overall population, and within each group. Ovarian resection time for the last cases was significantly shorter compared with that for the first ones only in group T. The T'LIFT was used to suspend ovaries for two-portal LapOVE, with no major complications noted. There was no significant difference in surgical times or complications compared with transabdominal suturing. The T'LIFT can be considered as an alternative to transabdominal suture for ovarian suspension in dogs undergoing LapOVE.

A Novel Technique for Bladder Wall Fixation in Pneumovesicoscopic Surgery: T-Bar.

Background: As a relatively new approach, popularity of pneumovesicoscopic surgery is increasing, but slower than expected due to complex nature of the procedure with efforts to overcome the difficult steps of the procedure. Bladder fixation is one of the crucial steps of the procedure. In this study, we present a novel and simple T-bar technique to overcome this difficulty. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 24 consecutive patients (39 ureters) who underwent pneumovesicoscopic surgery with fixation of the bladder wall between December 2017 and September 2019. Results: Fixation by transabdominal suture (TS) was performed in 3 patients, while fixation by thread loops with needle in 3 and T-bar device in 18. Tearing of the bladder wall was encountered in 2 patients in TS, in 2 patients with thread loop groups, but none in the T-bar group. Conversion to open surgery was necessary in 3 patients in the T-bar group, but only 1 was related with the fixation technique. Conclusions: T-bar technique is an inexpensive and simple solution providing stable and reliable bladder wall and working port fixation during pneumovesicoscopy.

Laparoscopic Gastrostomy Tube Placement with Transabdominal Suture

Abstract Introduction: We present a novel transabdominal suture technique for laparoscopic gastrostomy tube placement. This technique may help reduce the risk of tube dislodgement in the early post...

Application of the novel enhanced transabdominal preperitoneal (ETAP) technique for laparoscopic suprapubic incisional hernia repair.

Suprapubic incisional hernia is a special type of incisional hernia, the optimal choice of surgery for which remains controversial. Inspired by advantages of laparoscopic incisional hernia repair and inguinal hernia repair, we developed a novel laparoscopic surgery procedure for suprapubic incisional hernia repair: the enhanced transabdominal preperitoneal (ETAP) technique. To create a peritoneal flap, the peritoneum was dissected from 2cm above the abdominal wall defect to 2cm below the pubic arch, then the hernia defect was closed with a full-thickness transabdominal suture. Following the position of mesh to cover the defect with an 5-cm overlap on all sides, the peritoneal flap was closed with continuous suture. In this study, a total of 57 patients with suprapubic incisional hernia underwent laparoscopic ETAP. The mean hernia size was 61.5 cm2, the average mesh size was 173.6 cm2, the mean operating time was 90min, the mean blood loss was 34cc, and the average hospital stay was 2.6days. In the follow-up period, which ranged from 12 to 45months, the overall incidence of complications was 17.86%. Six patients developed seroma without herniation, six patients suffered from obvious postoperative pain, and four patients experienced urinary retention. All complications resolved without treatment. No recurrence was observed. In conclusion, the laparoscopic ETAP technique contributes to reduced rates of suprapubic incisional hernia repair and mesh-induced complications.

Laparoscopic repair of umbilical and paraumbilical hernias: a prospective and interventional study in government hospital

Background: Umbilical and ventral hernia occurs as a result of weakness in musculofascial layer of anterior abdominal wall. The most important causes are congenital, acquired, incisional and traumatic. UH and VH can be repair by open surgical procedure. A successful series of laparoscopic repair of umbilical hernia and VH was done by Le blanc in 1993. The cost can be optimised by selection of mesh and optimal uses of transabdominal suture and various fixation devices. This original article reveals methods, techniques, indication, contraindication, post-op pain, operative time, surgical site infection recurrence and outcome of laparoscopic umbilical hernia and paraumbilical hernia repair.Methods: A total of 21 patients of ventral hernia (umbilical, paraumbilical and incisional), who underwent laparoscopic hernia repair from October 2014 to October 2016, were selected have taken part in study with valid consent, in B.J. Medical College Ahmedabad Gujarat. All patient study regarding operative time, postoperative pain, postoperative hospital stay, surgical site infection like wound infection, seroma, hernia defect size, mean drain removal and recurrence.Results: Out of 21 patients male are 33% and female are 67%. Mean age of patients is 45 yrs with range being 18-65 yrs. 28%, 33.33%, and 38.1% of patient had umbilical, paraumbilical and incisional hernia respectively. Mean size defect was 7.8 cm2. Mean operative time in this study is 98.6 minute. Mean drain removal is 2.80 day. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.3 days. 4.7% had wound infection, 9.5% had seroma formation. There is 0% recurrence in present study.Conclusions: The laparoscopic approach appears to be safe, effective and acceptable. It is also effective in those who are obese, with co morbidities (complex) and who have recurrence from prior open repair and having ascites.

IPEG 2019 The 28th Annual Congress for Endosurgery in Children March 20-22, 2019, Santiago, Chile.

IPEG 2019 The 28th Annual Congress for Endosurgery in Children March 20-22, 2019, Santiago, Chile.

Transabdominal Versus Subcuticular Sutures to Secure a Laparoscopic Gastrostomy.

Traditional methods for securing a laparoscopic gastrostomy (LG) involve the placement of two monofilament transabdominal (TA) sutures to be removed after a short interval of 5 days. A modified technique employing an absorbable suture tunneled subcutaneously has been adopted by many surgeons. The aim of this study was to compare wound complications between these techniques. A retrospective review of patients who underwent LG placement between 2010 and 2016 was conducted, dividing patients into two cohorts by securing stitch type, TA and subcutaneous (SC), and evaluating for complications. A total of 740 children underwent laparoscopic gastrostomy tube (GT) placement, of whom 554 (75%) patients had a TA stitch and the remaining 186 (25%) had a SC stitch. Demographic data were comparable in both groups. The most common wound complication was granulation tissue (22%), dislodgement (19%), external drainage (16%), cellulitis (10%), erosion (3%), and abscess formation (2%). Seven patients required operative revision for dislodgement; TA patients comprised the majority of these patients. Operative times were significantly longer in the SC group (22 minutes versus 28 minutes, P < .05). Rates of granulation, erosion, external and internal leakage, and dislodgement were equivalent between cohorts. There were higher rates of cellulitis (7.3% versus 19%, P < .05) and abscess (0.8% versus 7.6%, P < .05) noted in the SC group. Time to external leakage was significantly earlier in the SC group (P < .05); however, all other complications occurred at comparable times following initial operation. Persistent gastrocutaneous fistula requiring surgical closure occurred at equal rates with no difference in times to closure from GT discontinuation in both groups. While both techniques are feasible, there was a significant increase in infectious complications and operative times observed in the SC stitch patients, suggesting this may not be the optimal securing method.

Laparoscopic transabdominal Morgagni hernia repair

Morgagni hernias are a rare finding in the adult population and represent 1%–3% of all congenital diaphragmatic hernias. Multiple approaches to these rare hernias have been described in the literature. Here, we present a novel technique of laparoscopic transabdominal repair using a combination of the Endo-Close device (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) and the Ti-KNOT (LSI Solutions, Victor, NY, USA). In a patient with a large left anterior diaphragmatic defect, we performed transabdominal suturing utilizing the Endo-Close to perform primary closure of the defect, using the Ti-KNOT to secure the pledged sutures along the anterior fascia. Due to the size of the defect (7 cm × 10 cm), this primary repair was buttressed with polyester mesh. In a second patient with a smaller (6 cm × 8 cm) classic right-sided anterior diaphragmatic defect, we similarly performed laparoscopic transabdominal suturing using the Endo-Close to traverse both the anterior and posterior fascia and the Ti-KNOT to secure the sutures to perform a primary repair of the hernia. Both patients presented had an uneventful postoperative course and no indication of recurrence at 4 months. Morgagni hernias present unique technical challenges. In our experience, the combined use of transabdominal suture with laparoscopic knot placement device allowed for completion of both cases laparoscopically with minimal tension on the repairs.

Laparoscopic repair of traumatic flank hernias.

Traumatic flank hernias (TFH) are caused by a blunt abdominal trauma with resultant detachment of the oblique musculofascial complex at the iliac crest and/or costal margin. Given such proximity to the bony structures and essential absence of healthy fascia to anchor the mesh, TFH represent a challenging surgical problem. Although laparoscopic repair of ventral hernias has become very common, no series of laparoscopic repairs of TFH has been reported to date. We present a series of patients undergoing laparoscopic repair of TFH. After retrospective review of prospective hernia database at two Hernia centers, patients undergoing laparoscopic TFH repair were identified and analyzed. Main outcome measures included patient demographics, surgical technique, intraoperative data, and post-operative outcomes. From December 2007 to December 2013, 14 patients underwent laparoscopic repair of a TFH. Eleven patients had chronically incarcerated viscera within the defect. Operative steps included complete reduction of the hernia sac, pre/retroperitoneal dissection to expose the entire lateral edge of a psoas muscle, defect closure with transabdominal sutures, wide mesh overlap, and transabdominal suture fixation with selective use of bone anchors. The mean operative time was 174min (range 125-230). Mean estimated blood loss was 65cc. Mean mesh size was 295cm2. There were no peri-operative complications. Mean hospital stay was 3.1days and all patients returned to full activities by 6weeks. At a mean follow-up of 35months, there have been no recurrences. Laparoscopic approach to TFH is feasible and safe. It is associated with minimal hospital stay and fast functional recovery. The key components of our approach include wide pre/retroperitoneal with defect closure and subsequent wide mesh underlay coverage with fixation to bony structures using anchors/screws. We believe that the laparoscopic approach should safely considered for the majority of patients with TFH.

Pediatric gastrostomy tubes and techniques: making safer and cleaner choices

BackgroundGastrostomy tube placement is a common procedure that can be accomplished with a variety of techniques, each with its attendant complications. In an effort to standardize practice at our institution, we retrospectively evaluated complications including early dislodgement requiring operative repair, leaks, and granulation tissue to determine the optimal technique. Materials and methodsA retrospective cohort study (June 2008-July 2014) evaluating children (<18) receiving gastrostomy tubes was completed. We recorded demographic data, placement technique, and postoperative complications within 120 days. The seven techniques in use at our institution were categorized into three groups: standard pull-type techniques for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomies (PEGs), “push” techniques using transabdominal sutures or T-fasteners for securement of the stomach, and “fascial” techniques using sutures directly from the stomach to the abdominal fascia at the stoma site. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using t test and Kruskal-Wallis tests as appropriate, and outcomes with P < 0.05 were considered significant. ResultsOf the 450 patients, 255 (56.7%) were male. Median age and weight at the time of operation were 19.3 months (interquartile range, 6.5-89.6 months) and 9.0 kg (interquartile range, 5.7-17.1 kg) respectively. By technique, 245 patients underwent fascial placement (54.4%), 112 underwent push (24.9 %), and 93 underwent PEG (20.7%). Push and fascial techniques were less likely become dislodged than PEG, with odds ratios (ORs) of 0.14 (confidence interval CI 0.02-0.66) and 0.31 (CI 0.11-0.83), respectively. Fascial techniques had more granulation tissue than either push or PEG pull methods, OR 2.39 (CI 1.20-3.36), and more leakage, OR 2.22 (CI 1.19-4.15). ConclusionsDislodgement is most likely with PEG techniques. Granulation and leakage are most likely with fascial suture techniques. Push techniques are associated with the lowest complication rate.

The role of transabdominal cervical cerclage techniques in maternity care

Key content The transabdominal cerclage procedure aims to strengthen the cervix by placing a suture at the level of the internal os. The main indications for transabdominal suture are a grossly disrupted cervix, an absent vaginal cervix, and previous failed elective vaginal cerclage. The transabdominal cerclage was first described in 1965 and the laparoscopic modification was first reported in 1998. Published reports suggest very high neonatal survival rates with both approaches. Laparoscopic cerclage has the general advantages of minimal access surgery, such as avoiding a large abdominal incision, short hospital stay and quick recovery. Potential complications include bleeding from uterine vessels and loss of pregnancy for non‐interval procedures. The other reported complications, such as suture migration, rectouterine fistula, uterine rupture and intrauterine growth restriction, are rare. The place of transabdominal cerclage in preventing pregnancy loss and preterm birth remains a subject of debate and there is a need to audit the outcomes. Learning objectives To better understand the role of the cervix in miscarriage. To understand the indications for referral for transabdominal cervical cerclage. To understand the obstetric and neonatal outcomes of women after this procedure. Ethical issues To consider the place of this invasive procedure, with its consequent possible complications, in the management of cervical weakness in women who often have poor reproductive histories. To consider the lack of national and international availability of this potentially valuable procedure. To consider an effective system of assessment of this procedure in a referral context, and the future of this procedure.

Single‐port laparoscopic incisional hernia repair in a horse

SummaryA 16‐year‐old Italian Saddle Horse gelding was referred for treatment of an incisional hernia that developed 7 months after a ventral midline laparotomy for treatment of acute abdominal pain. Physical examination revealed a hernia approximately 20 cm long and 15 cm wide on the ventral aspect of the abdomen. Ultrasonography revealed the dimensions of the hernia ring to be approximately 15 cm in length and 10 cm in width. A single‐port laparoscopic incisional hernia repair using an operating 0° laparoscope was performed with an appropriately sized (24 × 18 cm) piece of mesh fixed in place with simple interrupted transabdominal sutures. At 4 weeks post operatively, follow‐up physical examination and ultrasonography confirmed healing of the surgical site with no evidence of hernia recurrence. The same evaluation was done 6 months post operatively, and the horse returned to its previous level of activity 8 months post operatively. In horses, laparoscopic application of mesh should be considered among the treatment options for incisional hernia. In the present case, this technique was performed with a single port using an operative laparoscope, in contrast to the multiportal techniques reported previously. The case presented here demonstrates that single‐port laparoscopic herniorrhaphy is feasible, and allows proper placement of an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene intraperitoneal mesh in horses

Closure of a Persistent Non-healing Gastrocutaneous Fistula (GCF) With a Porcine Biodegradable Fistula Plug (FP) and an Over-The-Scope Clipping Device

Introduction: A 50yo M with a history of tonsillar cancer s/p chemoradiation and subsequent complications related to osteoradionecrosis of the left mandible required long-term placement of a PEG tube (24Fr). After removal the patient developed a persistent GCF. Attempts to close the site with endoclips were unsuccessful due to large size and difficulty opposing the edges of the internal defect. A large 14mm diameter over-the-scope clip was tried but could not be passed across a cervical esophageal radiation stricture. Due to extensive induration of the peristomal area, abdominal wall suture was not feasible. After disrupting the lining of the fistula tract with a cytology brush, a FP (7mm diameter) was placed in antegrade fashion percutaneously through the abdominal wall defect under direct endoscopic guidance. The distal tip of the trimmed fistula plug was secured internally with a 11mm over-the-scope clip. No sutures were required. Immediate closure of the GCF was achieved. Three weeks later, the fistula plug remains in place and is dissolving without leakage. Discussion: PEG tube tracts usually close spontaneously within a few days after removal. Infrequently, a GCF develops. Before attempts at endoscopic closure, disrupting the lining within the fistula tract with a brush or silver nitrate may be enough to facilitate closure if the tract is small. Potential endoscopic management options for refractory GCF usually include through-the-scope endoclips, over-the-scope clipping devices or endoscopic suturing devices. Percutaneous trans-abdominal suture placement or the use of tissue adhesives such as the fibrin sealant may also be considered when feasible. The use of a FP for GCF closure using a technique similar to PEG tube placement has been described in which the FP is pulled through the GCF by a percutaneously placed snare with base of plug located internally within stomach. This method requires sutures to be placed between either the internal and / or external buttons to secure the FP, which can be technically difficult. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe this variation of technique in which a FP was used to close a large GCF secured internally with an over-the-scope clip. Conclusion: FP can be feasible alternative to consider for refractory GCF. They can be secured internally with an over-the-scope clipping device without the need for sutures.Figure 1

Endoscopic Management of Gastrocutaneous Fistula Using Clipping, Suturing, and Plugging Methods

BackgroundPercutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement is a commonly performed procedure in patients requiring medium to long term enteral feeding and with impaired swallowing. The PEG tract and stoma usually close spontaneously after PEG tube removal. Infrequently, gastrocutaneous fistula develops. Patients and methodsIn this video manuscript, the author reviews and demonstrates different endoscopic management options in approaching gastric fistula: mechanical approximation using through-the-scope endoclips or over-the-scope clipping devices; percutaneous trans-abdominal suture placement; and plugging the fistula tract with biodegradable materials or other tissue adhesives. ConclusionsHealth care providers need to be aware of this uncommon complication after PEG tube removal and management it with appropriate minimally invasive options where expertise and devices are available. Currently, tissue approximation with clips, intra-gastric and/or trans-abdominal suture placement is the preferred endoscopic options for fistula closure.

Does ovarian suspension following laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis reduce postoperative adhesions? An RCT

Is temporary ovarian suspension following laparoscopic surgery for severe pelvic endometriosis an effective method for reducing the prevalence of postoperative ovarian adhesions? Temporary ovarian suspension for 36-48 h following laparoscopic treatment of severe endometriosis does not result in a significant reduction of postoperative ovarian adhesions. Pelvic adhesions often develop following laparoscopic surgery for severe pelvic endometriosis. Adhesions can cause chronic pelvic pain and fertility problems compromising the success of treatment. Small observational studies suggested that temporary postoperative ovarian suspension to the abdominal wall may significantly reduce the prevalence of postoperative ovarian adhesions. This was a prospective within group comparison double-blind RCT. We recruited premenopausal women with severe pelvic endometriosis who required extensive laparoscopic surgery with preservation of the uterus and ovaries. Severity of the disease and eligibility for inclusion were determined at surgery. A total of 55 women were randomized to unilateral ovarian suspension for 36-48 h, 52 of which were included in the final analysis. Both ovaries were routinely suspended to the anterior abdominal wall during surgery. At the end of the operation, each woman was randomized to having only one ovary suspended postoperatively. The suture suspending the contralateral ovary was cut and a new transabdominal suture was inserted to act as a placebo. Both sutures were removed 36-48 h after surgery prior to discharge. Three months after surgery, all women attended for a detailed transvaginal ultrasound scan to assess ovarian mobility. Both the women and the ultrasound operators were blinded as to the side of postoperative ovarian suspension. The primary outcome was the prevalence of ovarian adhesions as described on ultrasound examination. Secondary outcomes were the severity of adhesions and the presence and intensity of postoperative pain. All 55 participants had severe pelvic endometriosis confirmed at laparoscopy. As each participant had only one of their ovaries suspended at the end of surgery, they acted as their own control. The median interval between ovarian suspension and postoperative scan was 99 days (interquartile range 68-114). There was no significant difference (P = 0.23) in the prevalence of postoperative ovarian adhesions between the suspended (20/52) and unsuspended (27/52) side (38.5 versus 51.9%) [odds ratio 0.56 (95% confidence interval 0.22-1.35)]. Ovaries were suspended postoperatively for 36-48 h. Longer suspension could result in lower prevalence of postoperative adhesions. The value of temporary ovarian suspension in women having surgery for mild-to-moderate endometriosis should be investigated further. The potential benefits of other adhesion prevention strategies, such as surgical barrier agents, in women undergoing surgical treatment for severe pelvic endometriosis should also be explored. E.S. received honoraria from Ethicon for provision of training to healthcare professionals and consultancy fees from Bayer. W.H. was supported by the research fund provided by the Gynaecology Ultrasound Centre, London UK. A.C. is on the advisory board for surgical innovations for which he receives an annual honorarium. A.C. also received support for courses and education from Storz and Johnson and Johnson and support for clinical nursing from Covidien and Lotus. The other authors declared no competing interests. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN24242218.

Physical and mathematical modelling of implant–fascia system in order to improve laparoscopic repair of ventral hernia

BackgroundThis paper describes an investigation of biomechanical behaviour of hernia repair, which is focused on the selection of safe linking of certain type of implant with fascia in laparoscopic operation. The strength of various fixations of the implant to the fascia is analysed. MethodsThe research is based on experimental observations of operated hernia model behaviour during a dynamic impulse load corresponding to post-operative cough. Fifty seven different types of models of implanted mesh are considered. Five types of implants and five types of connectors are used. Mechanical properties of the implants as well as limit tearing forces of joints are identified in uni-axial tensile tests. Mathematical model of implanted mesh based on finite element method is proposed. The identified mechanical properties of the materials are applied and the model is calibrated using quantities measured during experiments. FindingsThe presented results point at trans-abdominal sutures and ProTacks (connectors) and at DynaMesh (implant) as the most reliable materials used in ventral hernia operation, in the tested materials group. Desired properties of implants seem to be: elastic properties similar to the properties of tissues and high local strength, as fixation have a local character. The proposed mathematical model can be applied to simulate real behaviour of an implant with appropriate accuracy and to estimate the number of tacks for the implantation of hernia meshes. InterpretationThe presented results may help in the deeper understanding of the fascia–mesh system behaviour, and thus may lead to improve the fixation methods.

Laparoscopic splenectomy for splenomegaly using a homemade retrieval BAG.

IntroductionOperating on an enlarged spleen via the laparoscopic approach presents several challenges. A homemade bag may facilitate retrieval of the enlarged spleen assisted by a laparoscope and save medical expense.AimTo assess the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic splenectomy for moderate or massive splenomegaly using our technique and a homemade retrieval bag.Material and methodsFifty patients underwent laparoscopic splenectomy for moderate or massive splenomegaly which was defined as the major axis exceeding 17 cm by abdominal computed tomography. A homemade retrieval bag made from a commercial sterile infusion container which costs about US$ 1–2 per piece was used for spleen retrieval. Two transabdominal sutures for suspension of the retrieval bag were made to aid specimen removal in this technique.ResultsThere were 31 males and 19 females with mean age of 56 ±11 years. Laparoscopic splenectomy was successfully completed in 49 of these 50 patients. Overall, mean operative time was 149 ±31 min (range: 100–252 min). Median estimated blood loss was 189 ±155 ml (range: 50–920 ml). There were 12 minor complications but no mortality. Time to discharge after surgery ranged from 3 to 9 (mean: 4.7 ±1.7 days). The average splenic weight was 729 ±74 g (range: 632–930 g).ConclusionsOur preliminary results indicate that laparoscopic splenectomy is feasible and safe for moderate or massive splenomegaly and may be a well-tolerated alternative to open splenectomy. Not only is the cost of our homemade retrieval bag low, but also it is easy to make and ready to use.