Transvaginal Specimen Extraction Research Articles

Simplified Laparoscopic Abdominal Morcellation (“SLAM”): A Technique to Facilitate Transvaginal Specimen Extraction

Simplified Laparoscopic Abdominal Morcellation (“SLAM”): A Technique to Facilitate Transvaginal Specimen Extraction

Specimen extraction through natural orifices with Cai tubes in gastrointestinal surgery: a single-institute series of 234 cases

Objective: To investigate the feasibility of Cai tube-assisted natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) in gastrointestinal surgery. Methods: This was a descriptive case-series study. Inclusion criteria: (1) colorectal or gastric cancer diagnosed by preoperative pathological examination or redundant sigmoid or transverse colon detected by barium enema; (2) indications for laparoscopic surgery; (3) body mass index <30 kg/m2 (transanal surgery) and 35 kg/m2 (transvaginal surgery); (4) no vaginal stenosis or adhesions in female patients undergoing transvaginal specimen extraction; and (5) patients with redundant colon aged 18-70 years and a history of intractable constipation for more than 10 years. Exclusion criteria: (1) colorectal cancer with intestinal perforation or obstruction, or gastric cancer with gastric perforation, gastric hemorrhage, or pyloric obstruction; (2) simultaneous resection of lung, bone, or liver metastases ; (3) history of major abdominal surgery or intestinal adhesions; and (4) incomplete clinical data. From January 2014 to October 2022, 209 patients with gastrointestinal tumors and 25 with redundant colons who met the above criteria were treated by NOSES utilizing a Cai tube (China invention patent number:ZL201410168748.2) in the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University. The procedures included eversion and pull-out NOSES radical resection in 14 patients with middle and low rectal cancer, NOSES radical left hemicolectomy in 171 patients with left-sided colorectal cancer, NOSES radical right hemicolectomy in 12 patients with right-sided colon cancer, NOSES systematic mesogastric resection in 12 patients with gastric cancer, and NOSES subtotal colectomy in 25 patients with redundant colons. All specimens were collected by using an in-house-made anal cannula (Cai tube) with no auxiliary incisions. The primary outcomes included 1-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) and postoperative complications. Results: Among 234 patients, 116 were male and 118 were female. The mean age was (56.6±10.9) years. NOSES was successfully completed in all patients without conversion to open surgery or procedure-related death. The negative rate of circumferential resection margin was 98.8% (169/171) with both two positive cases having left-sided colorectal cancer. Postoperative complications occurred in 37 patients (15.8%), including 11 cases (4.7%) of anastomotic leakage, 3 cases(1.3%) of anastomotic bleeding, 2 cases (0.9%) of intraperitoneal bleeding, 4 cases (1.7%) of abdominal infection, and 8 cases (3.4%) of pulmonary infection. Reoperations were required in 7 patients (3.0%), all of whom consented to creation of an ileostomy after anastomotic leakage. The total readmission rate within 30 days after surgery was 0.9% (2/234). After a follow-up of (18.3±3.6) months, the 1-year RFS was 94.7%. Five of 209 patients (2.4%) with gastrointestinal tumors had local recurrence, all of which was anastomotic recurrence. Sixteen patients (7.7%) developed distant metastases, including liver metastases(n=8), lung metastases(n=6), and bone metastases (n=2). Conclusion: NOSES assisted by Cai tube is feasible and safe in radical resection of gastrointestinal tumors and subtotal colectomy for redundant colon.

Transvaginal versus transabdominal specimen extraction surgery for right colon cancer: A propensity matching study.

The transvaginal route for specimen extraction is considered ideal for colorectal surgery, but its safety is still questioned. There has been little research on transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) in the right hemicolectomy. As a result, we conducted a study comparing transvaginal NOSES to traditional transabdominal specimen extraction surgery. Data on female patients who underwent radical right hemicolectomy at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between January 2015 and December 2020 were collected retrospectively. A total of 847 patients were compliant, with 51 undergoing the transvaginal specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) group and 796 undergoing the transabdominal specimen extraction surgery (TISES) group. A propensity score matching method (1:2) was used to balance the clinicopathological characteristics of the two groups. Finally, 138 patients were enrolled in our study, with 46 in the NOSES group and 92 in the TISES group. Compared to the TISES group, the NOSES group had less intraoperative blood loss (p = 0.036), shorter time to first flatus (p < 0.001), shorter time to first liquid diet (p < 0.001), lower postoperative white blood cell counts (p = 0.026), lower C-reactive protein levels (p = 0.027), and lower visual analog scale (VAS) scores (p < 0.001). Regarding the quality of life after surgery, the NOSES group had better role function (p < 0.01), emotional function (p < 0.001), and improved symptoms of postoperative pain (p < 0.001) and diarrhea (p = 0.024). The scar satisfaction was significantly higher in the NOSES group than in the TISES group. Overall survival and disease-free survival in two groups were similar. The short-term results of transvaginal NOSES were superior to conventional transabdominal specimen extraction surgery. At the same time, transvaginal NOSES could improve the abdominal wall appearance and quality of life. The long-term survival was similar in the two surgical approaches. Therefore, transvaginal NOSES is worthy of our implementation and promotion.

Comment on "Early results of novel robotic surgery-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer and transvaginal specimen extraction by using Da Vinci XI: initial clinical experience".

Comment on "Early results of novel robotic surgery-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer and transvaginal specimen extraction by using Da Vinci XI: initial clinical experience".

Laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy followed by in-bag transvaginal corpus uteri morcellation and extraction: A case series

ObjectivesLaparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy (LSH) is a possible treatment for patients with benign uterine disease. Once the hysterectomy has been completed, morcellation and extraction of the corpus uteri is a crucial step of the procedure. We here present a case series to evaluate the feasibility of the in-bag transvaginal specimen retrieval following LSH. Study designWe report a case series of consecutive patients who underwent LSH followed by in-bag transvaginal specimen retrieval. LSH was accomplished in a standard fashion. Once the uterus was detached from the cervix, a 2 cm posterior colpotomy was performed laparoscopically with a monopolar hook under direct view to insert a specimen retrieval bag into the abdomen. The corpus uteri was placed into the bag and transvaginal contained manual morcellation was performed. The colpotomy was then sutured transvaginally. Baseline patients’ characteristics and surgical data were collected. Postoperative complications, same-hospital readmissions, and reoperations were registered if occurred within 30 days from surgery. ResultsPatients’ median age and BMI were 45,5 and 22,7, respectively. Median operative time was 71.5 min (range 34–143) and uterus weight ranged from 60 g to 470 g (median 210 g). The estimated blood loss was 100 mL (median) and no blood transfusion was required. No conversions to open surgery, nor intraoperative complications occurred. Median hospital stay was 2 days (1–3) and no postoperative complications within 30 days from surgery were recorded. ConclusionsLSH followed by in-bag transvaginal specimen extraction is a promising technique and might be considered a reliable and safe option to further reduce the invasiveness of the procedure.

Preliminary surgical outcomes of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with transrectal specimen extraction: a propensity score matching study of 120 cases (with video).

Compared with conventional laparoscopic surgery, natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) has many advantages. Laparoscopic right colectomy with transvaginal specimen extraction has been reported, but the safety and feasibility of transrectal specimen extraction in male patients with ascending colon cancer remain to be verified. This study aimed to preliminarily evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with transrectal specimen extraction. The study was conducted at a single tertiary medical center in China. A total of 494 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic right colectomy between September 2018 and September 2020 were included. Transrectal specimen extraction was performed in 40 male patients (the NOSES group). Patients in the NOSES group were matched to the conventional laparoscopic group using propensity score matching at a 1:2 ratio. Short-term and long-term outcomes between the two groups were compared and evaluated. Forty patients in the NOSES group and 80 patients in the conventional laparoscopic group were matched for analysis. Baseline characteristics were balanced after propensity matching. The operative features, including operating time, intraoperative bleeding, and the number of harvested lymph nodes, were statistically comparable in both groups. In terms of post-operative recovery, patients in the NOSES group showed preferable outcomes, as evidenced by less post-operative pain and faster return to flatus, defecation, and discharge. The post-operative complications rate, according to the Clavien-Dindo classification system, was similar in both groups. No differences in overall survival or disease-free survival were observed between the two groups. Laparoscopic right colectomy with transrectal specimen extraction is oncologically safe. Compared with conventional laparoscopic right colectomy, it can reduce post-operative pain, accelerate post-operative recovery, shorten the hospital stay, and achieve better cosmetic effect.

Transvaginal Specimen Extraction: Novel Techniques and Strategies for Success

<h3>Study Objective</h3> To review the benefits of transvaginal specimen extraction, to demonstrate applications of this technique in laparoscopic gynecologic surgery, and to discuss strategies for successful transvaginal extraction and colpotomy closure. <h3>Design</h3> Educational video highlighting surgical techniques. <h3>Setting</h3> Academic medical center. <h3>Patients or Participants</h3> We present four cases of patients undergoing transvaginal specimen extraction during laparoscopic gynecologic surgery. <h3>Interventions</h3> Transvaginal specimen extraction performed via colpotomy or through a dilated cervix. <h3>Measurements and Main Results</h3> We present a stepwise approach to making a posterior colpotomy for transvaginal specimen extraction: 1) Identify the uterosacral ligaments and rectum, 2) expose and delineate the colpotomy site, 3) ensure maintenance of pneumoperitoneum, and 4) make an incision no wider than the borders of the uterosacral ligaments, using a judicious amount of energy. We demonstrate multiple applications of this approach using a variety of instruments and energy sources. Additionally, we present a case of transcervical specimen extraction through a dilated cervix following laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy. <h3>Conclusion</h3> We have demonstrated a variety of techniques and applications for transvaginal specimen extraction. This approach represents a safe and effective alternative to mini-laparotomy or power morcellation.

Comparison of robotic-assisted resection alone and with natural orifice specimen extraction for rectal cancer by using Da Vinci Xi.

The aim of our study is to compare the results of robotic surgery-assisted Low Anterior Resection (LAR) and Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction (NOSE) for Rectal Cancer (RC). From November 2015 to June 2021, patients receiving robotic NOSES and robotic surgery assisted resection (RSAR) were retrospectively enrolled in the study. All robotic-assisted LAR of the rectum, NOSE, colorectal anastomosis and loop ileostomies were performed using the Da Vinci Xi system. A total of 57 patients with robotic NOSES and 93 with robotic RC resection were enrolled. Total mesorectal excision of the rectum, trans-anal or transvaginal specimen extraction (TVSE), anastomoses and protective ileostomy were conducted in all patients. ASA, BMI, tumor histology, stage, nodal stage, mean operative time, estimated blood loss, tumor size, lymph nodes removal, hospital stay morbidity and mortality were evaluated. No patient required conversion to conventional surgery. NOSE has less morbidity and significantly reduces postoperative pain and hospital stay (5.0 vs. 5.5). The two groups were similar in long-term survival. According to our literature search, this is the first study to compare RSAR and NOSE for RC using the Da Vinci Xi system. NOSE can be performed safely and successfully on selected patients, providing excellent good results.

Surgical outcomes and sexual function after laparoscopic colon cancer surgery with transvaginal versus conventional specimen extraction: A retrospective propensity score matched cohort study

BackgroundNatural orifice specimen extraction has been shown to reduce postoperative pain and wound complications, and provide better cosmetic outcome. However, whether transvaginal specimen extraction affects sexual function remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the short-term outcomes, sexual function, cosmetic outcomes and prognosis after colon cancer surgery with transvaginal specimen extraction. MethodThis study was a propensity score-matched comparative retrospective study, based on prospectively collected data in a single center. This study included 70 pairs of propensity score-matched female patients who underwent laparoscopic curative resection for stage I-III colon cancer with transvaginal specimen extraction and conventional specimen extraction between November 2015 and November 2020. Covariates used in the propensity score included age, tumor diameter, tumor differentiation, T stage and American Joint Committee on Cancer stage. Outcome measures included postoperative complication, postoperative sexual function, cosmetic result, disease-free survival and overall survival. ResultsPatients in transvaginal group were administered with less additional analgesics (P = 0.008), and had fewer wound complications (P = 0.028). None of patient in the two groups underwent anastomotic leakage, incisional disruption or vaginal fistula. The baseline pre-operative Female Sexual Function Index scores in two groups were the same, and no difference was found in postoperative score between the two groups (P = 0.790). The cosmetic score was significantly better in transvaginal group than that of conventional laparoscopy group (P = 0.000). During the follow-up period, there were no differences in OS or DFS between the two groups (P = 0.658, P = 0.663). ConclusionsCompared with laparoscopic colon cancer radical resection with specimen extraction, transvaginal specimen extraction is oncologically safe, brings better short-term outcomes, improved cosmetic results and has limited adverse effect on female's sexual function. This procedure can be further carried out in more appropriate patients.

Totally laparoscopic resection of right-sided colon cancer using transvaginal specimen extraction with a 10-mm-long abdominal incision.

Natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) has been developed as a means of decreasing the incidence of surgical wound complications. We refined the procedure for totally laparoscopic colectomy with transvaginal specimen extraction using the reduced port surgery technique with the ultimate goal of attenuating damage to the abdominal wall. We herein report this innovative technique and its short- and long-term outcomes. We prospectively collected data on seven patients who underwent totally laparoscopic colectomy using transvaginal specimen extraction with a 10-mm-long abdominal incision for right-sided colon cancer from January 2014 to December 2021. Two 5-mm ports were used in the procedure without laparotomy. Transverse transabdominal posterior colpotomy was then performed. We introduced a GelPOINT Mini advanced access platform (Applied Medical, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA) into the transvaginal route for the insertion of a laparoscope, forceps, and stapling device. Lymph node dissection and transection of the ileum and distal colon were performed with transvaginal assistance. A specimen was then extracted transvaginally. Intracorporeal functional end-to-end anastomosis was conducted using a linear stapler through the vagina. After the removal of GelPOINT Mini, the vaginal incision was closed transvaginally. Seven patients successfully underwent this procedure. Median operative time was 219min (range 174-255min), median blood loss was 23ml (range 10-37ml), median number of harvested lymph nodes was 21 (range 17-35 lymph nodes) and median margins were17.0cm (range 9.0-25.0cm) for the proximal margin and 9.5cm (range 5.0-13.0cm) for the distal margin. There were no complications more severe than Clavien-Dindo Grade II and there was no mortality. The median frequency of use intravenous analgesics from postoperative day 1 to discharge was once. Two patients did not require analgesics. A node-positive patient developed recurrence at the lung and paraaortic lymph nodes. This procedure appears to be feasible, safe, and oncologically acceptable for selected cases.

Feasibility and safety of transvaginal specimen extraction in deep endometriosis colorectal resectional surgery and analysis of risk factors for postoperative complications

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate that transvaginal specimen extraction is a feasible and safe approach in colorectal resection for deep endometriosis (DE) and to assess the risk factors for postoperative complications. This retrospective cohort study included all the consecutive patients undergoing segmental bowel resection for symptomatic endometriosis at "La Paz" University Hospital (Madrid, Spain) and at "Hospital General Universitario de Valencia" (Valencia, Spain) from January 2014 to December to 2017. Patients were grouped according to specimen extraction approach into those who had transvaginal extraction (Group I) and those who had suprapubic extraction (Group II). Clinic-demographical, surgical and post-surgical data were recorded. Intra- and postoperative complications were classified according to Clavien-Dindo criteria. Postoperative data were compared between groups. Risk factors associated with surgery were investigated. Out of 99 female patients included (average age 36.91 ± 5.36years), 23 patients (23.2%) had transvaginal and 76 (76.8%) had suprapubic specimen extraction. The groups were comparable regarding operative time, nodule size, level of anastomosis, hospital stay and intraoperative complications. We observed no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications and rectovaginal fistula rate between the groups. Binary logistic regression analyses determined that vaginal endometriosis is an independent risk factor for postoperative complications (OR: 2.63, 95% CI [1.10-6.48], p = 0.03). Transvaginal specimen extraction is a safe and feasible technique in DE colorectal surgery and should be taken into consideration whenever vaginal endometriosis exists. Nevertheless, vaginal endometriosis can be an independent risk factor for postoperative complications in DE surgery.

Short-term outcomes of transvaginal specimen extraction versus transumbilical specimen extraction following totally laparoscopic gastrectomy in female patients with gastric cancer: a retrospective analysis.

Natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) laparoscopic surgery is emerging as a new and promising technique, especially in gastric cancer (GC). To analyze the difference between transvaginal and transumbilical specimen extraction following totally laparoscopic gastrectomy (TLG). Between January 2016 and July 2021, 37 consecutive female patients with GC who underwent either natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) or TLG at our center were included and analyzed. In total, 12 patients underwent NOSES, and 25 patients underwent TLG. The NOSES group had a shorter operative time (239.3 ±21.5 vs. 256.1 ±21.2 min, p = 0.031) and shorter specimen extraction time (17.0 ±4.2 vs. 30.8 ±4.3 min, p < 0.01). No significant difference was observed in the comparison of the radical validity including estimated blood loss, the number of harvested LNs and the comparisons of distal and proximal margin. In the postoperative recovery comparisons, the NOSES group had a shorter time to first fluids (3.9 ±0.5 vs. 5.6 ±1.2 days, p < 0.01), and time to starting a soft diet (5.6 ±0.7 vs. 7.7 ±1.7 days, p < 0.01). Postoperative pain in the NOSES group was significantly less. Postoperative hospital stay days in the NOSES group were fewer (10.2 ±2.2 vs. 12.4 ±2.9 days, p = 0.030). Overall, the postoperative complications were similar between the two groups (p = 0.438). When more cases were included, the results were similar. NOSES reduced hospital costs for GC patients, and it also applied to the premenopausal patients. NOSES was a safer and more reliable method as compared to transumbilical specimen extraction.

Transvaginal Specimen Extraction After Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Tumors.

The aim was to evaluate the feasibility of transvaginal specimen extraction after laparoscopic gastrectomy for tumors. Inclusion criteria were females not planning to deliver a child and an accessible vaginal entry. Exclusion criteria were benign gastric pathologies and emergency cases. There were 24 females with a mean age of 54.5±12.0. Subtotal, total, central, and vertical gastrectomies were implemented in 17, 4, 2, and 1 patients, respectively. There was no conversion to open or conventional laparoscopic surgery. Specimens were removed from the vagina in all cases successfully. Histopathologies were adenocarcinoma in 20, gastrointestinal stromal in 3, neuroendocrine tumors in 2 and high-grade dysplasia in the rest. Mean blood loss and duration of surgery were 122.5±163.4 (range: 10 to 800) ml. and 287.7±95.9 (range: 120 to 440) minutes, respectively. No patient required intraoperative blood transfusions. The median length of hospital stay was 7 days (range: 3 to 22). The mean tumor size was 7.8±6.5 (range: 0.5 to 24) cm. Fourteen of 24 cases were advanced gastric cancers. Mean dissected lymph node numbers in the patients with radical gastrectomy was 35.3±12.9 (range: 18 to 62). There were no early or late complications related to the specimen extraction and no wound-related problems were observed. In the selected cases, transvaginal specimen extraction was feasible after laparoscopic gastric resections in patients with stomach tumors. As far as we know, this was the largest study on the transvaginal extraction of gastric tumors.

Transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) in 3D laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy: a preliminary study

BackgroundWith the development of minimally invasive technology, more and more people pay attention to aesthetics of the wound after operation. This study is aim to introduce a new surgical technique of transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) in 3D laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy and evaluate the safety, feasibility and clinical effect.MethodsEleven patients who underwent 3D laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (n = 7) or radical nephrectomy (n = 4) and NOSES were included in this study. The surgical procedures and techniques, especially the NOSES operation, are reported in detail. In addition, the basic clinical data, perioperative related data, perioperative complications were analyzed.ResultsAll 11 patients were performed successfully without conversion to open surgery. The mean total operative time was 133 (84, 150) min. NOSES time was 15 (13, 16) min, and the postoperative hospital stay was 5 (5, 5) d. The mean visual analogue score (VAS) was 3 (2, 4) point and 1 (0, 1) point at 24 h and 48 h after operation, respectively. No patient had recurrence, metastasis and death during the follow-up period of 3 to 17 months. The median Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was 1 (1, 1) point. The mean of Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was 21.60 (20.20, 21.60), 21.80 (19.80, 21.80) respectively between preoperative and postoperative 3 months, which has no statistical difference (P = 0.179). There was no statistical difference in the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-short form 20 (PFDI-20) score between preoperative and postoperative 3 months (P = 0.142).ConclusionsTransvaginal NOSES is safe and feasible in 3D laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy. Furthermore, it results in low incision-related pain without affecting the pelvic floor and sexual function.

Early results of novel robotic surgery-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer and transvaginal specimen extraction by using Da Vinci XI: initial clinical experience.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the early results of robotic surgery-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer and transvaginal specimen extraction, regarding the operative time, operative and early postoperative complications, hospital stay, and pathological reports in a series of 10 patients. From November 2016 to October 2019, case series study on patients diagnosed with RC was included in this study. All robotic-assisted low anterior resection of the rectum, vaginal removal of the specimen, colorectal anastomosis, and loop ileostomies were performed using the Da Vinci XI system. The mean age of patient was 64.8 (58-72) years. Low anterior resection was performed to seven patients, and very low anterior resection was performed to three patients. Total mesorectal excision of the rectum, transvaginal specimen extraction, transanal anastomoses, and protective ileostomy were performed in all 10 patients. The mean operative time was 275±30.50 min, and estimated blood loss was 50±10.50 mL. No patient required conversion to conventional surgery. Negative circumferential resection, proximal, and distal margins were accomplished negative. Mean number of lymph nodes harvested was 20±5.5. According to the pathological reports, all were adenocarcinoma. T1 stage was 80.0%, and T2 stage was 20.0%. Lymph node metastasis accounted for 80.0%. To our literature search, this is the first study reporting the early outcomes of the novel robotic surgery-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer and transvaginal specimen extraction by using the Da Vinci Xi system. It can be performed safely and successfully in selected patients by providing an excellent cosmetic body image, which may be important for women.

Minilaparoscopy in gynecology: applications, benefits and limitations.

The word "minilaparoscopy" refers to laparoscopic surgical procedures performed using <5-mm trocars, with the exception of the umbilical access. The aim of this review is to explore the feasibility of minilaparoscopy in gynecologic surgery, focusing on instruments, surgical techniques, application and limits of this approach. In this review the authors discussed the positive features and limitation of 3-mm laparoscopy for gynecologic surgery. Using smaller trocars decreases incisional and postoperative pain, and shortens hospitalization, and provides a better cosmetic outcome. Transvaginal specimen extraction can be used to maximize the aesthetic outcomes. A minilaparoscopic surgical procedure is accomplished with lower carbon dioxide pressures, reducing pneumoperitoneum related complications. Accurate patient selection is critical in order to offer the best laparoscopic approach, considering that obesity and endometriosis may represent a challenge for 3-mm surgical tools, which are more flexible and have lower grasping ability. Minilaparoscopy has been shown as a valid alternative to conventional laparoscopy both for diagnostic purpose, major surgical procedures and oncological surgery. Minilaparoscopy in gynecologic surgery represents an option for selected patients, for both benign and malignant indications. The aesthetic outcome represents the main benefit of this approach. Surgeons must be aware of few limitations of this technique such as severe obesity and endometriosis.

Robotic Full Lobe Hepatectomy With Natural Orifice Extraction: Case Series Describing the Novel Technique of Robotic Major Hepatectomy and Transvaginal Specimen Extraction.

A minimally invasive approach to partial hepatectomy with transvaginal specimen extraction is safe and feasible with the potential to improve the cosmetic outcome, minimize postoperative narcotic utilization, and shorten hospital length of stay. This series describes the initial experience using this novel technique.

Recto-vaginal fistula after laparoscopic rectal cancer resection through natural orifice specimen extraction surgery and transvaginal specimen extraction combined with hysterectomy

Abstract Introduction: Laparoscopic rectal cancer resection is currently the most common surgical procedure for treating colorectal cancer. The surgical technique of natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) for colorectal cancer is becoming common but post-operative complications occur. In this article, we present a patient with rectal cancer who underwent trans-vaginal NOSES laparoscopic rectal cancer resection combined with hysterectomy and developed a recto-vaginal fistula after the surgery. Patient Concerns: The patient was a 56-year-old female with complaint of blood in the stool 7 months before without obvious cause, with aggravation in the last one month. Colonoscopy revealed a mass located 6 cm from the anus. Diagnoses: Colonoscopy findings and pathology results suggested mesenchymal ulcerative adenocarcinoma of the rectum. Interventions: Patient underwent trans-vaginal NOSES laparoscopic rectal cancer resection combined with hysterectomy. Outcome s: The patient recovered well but developed anastomotic fistula on postoperative day 11. An enterostomy was performed urgently. The patient was in stable condition at 1 month follow-up. Conclusion: NOSES has the advantage of reduced trauma, quick recovery time, and aesthetics. However, for patients with advanced tumors, especially cancers that invade adjacent organs, expanded resection will increase the risk of postoperative complications. Routine digital rectal examination after ultra-low rectal anastomosis can aid in diagnosing anastomotic leakage early in patients with obscure clinical features.

Transvaginal hybrid-NOTES vs. traditional laparoscopic sigmoid resection for diverticulitis: a short-term comparative study

The aim was to compare short-term results of transvaginal hybrid-NOTES (NSR) with traditional laparoscopic technique in sigmoid resection (LSR) in cases of diverticulitis. Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery has been evolved as a minimally invasive procedure to reduce the operative trauma due to the absence of specimen extraction through the abdominal wall causing less postoperative pain, and shorter hospital stay. Despite the increasing use and published case series of NSR for diverticulitis as a laparoscopic procedure with transvaginal stapling and specimen extraction, there are no studies comparing this procedure with LSR. Twenty NSR patients operated at the Cologne-Merheim Medical Center have been documented and compared with 20 female LSR patients matched for body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists-classification (ASA), Hansen/Stock classification, and age. To ensure comparability regarding peri- and postoperative care, only procedures performed by the same surgeon were included. Procedural time, intra- and postoperative complications, conversion rate, postoperative pain, the duration of an epidural catheter, analgesic consumption, and postoperative length of hospital stay were analyzed. There were no significant differences in the sum of pain levels (p = 0.930), length of procedure (p = 0.079), intra- and postoperative complications, as well as duration of an epidural catheter. On the contrary, there were significant positive effects for NSR on morphine requirement at day seven and eight (p = 0.019 and p = 0.035 respectively) as well as the postoperative length of hospital stay (p = 0.031). This retrospective study reveals significant positive effects for NSR compared to LSR regarding length of hospital stay as well as morphine consumption after removal of the epidural catheter, whereas there were no significant differences in complication rate and procedural time. In summary, NSR is an adequate alternative to traditional laparoscopic sigmoid resection considering the surgeons experience and the patient’s personal preferences.

Natural orifice specimen extraction surgery in laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy: A single-center case series.

Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy is an appealing and minimally invasive method for pancreaticoduodenal tumors. However, an abdominal incision is still required to extract the specimen. We used the natural orifice specimen extraction technique in laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy to accomplish specimen retraction in 8 female patients and summarized the clinical results. A total of 8 female patients with periampullary carcinoma or duodenal cancer who underwent laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy were enrolled in our study between April 2018 and October 2019. A 4-cm transverse incision was made in the posterior vaginal wall, and the specimen was extracted via the vagina. Age, operative time, intraoperative hemorrhage, pathological data of the tumor, postoperative hospital stay, and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed. All operations were performed laparoscopically, by the same team of surgeons. The mean age of the patients was 67.5±7.7 years. Mean BMI was 23.7±1.7kg/m2. The operative time ranged between 312 and 460min. The intraoperative blood loss ranged from 100 to 600ml. The average hospital stay of all patients was 9.9±2.2 days; 5 out of 8 patients (62.5%) had postoperative complications, including postoperative pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying, and postpancreatectomy hemorrhage. No patient developed short-term complications due to vaginal extraction of specimens. All patients underwent R0 resection. Transvaginal specimen extraction is a practicable method for laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy. By adhering to correct operation specifications and selecting patients with appropriate indications for natural orifice specimen extraction, this technique was safe and beneficial to selected female patients with pancreaticoduodenal tumors.