A surgical activity model of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for co-operation with collaborative robots.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a very frequent surgical procedure. However, in an ageing society, less surgical staff will need to perform surgery on patients. Collaborative surgical robots (cobots) could address surgical staff shortages and workload. To achieve context-awareness for surgeon-robot collaboration, the intraoperative action workflow recognition is a key challenge. METHODS: A surgical process model was developed for intraoperative surgical activities including actor, instrument, action and target in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (excluding camera guidance). These activities, as well as instrument presence and surgical phases were annotated in videos of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed on human patients (n = 10) and on explanted porcine livers (n = 10). The machine learning algorithm Distilled-Swin was trained on our own annotated dataset and the CholecT45 dataset. The validation of the model was conducted using a fivefold cross-validation approach. RESULTS: In total, 22,351 activities were annotated with a cumulative duration of 24.9 h of video segments. The machine learning algorithm trained and validated on our own dataset scored a mean average precision (mAP) of 25.7% and a top K = 5 accuracy of 85.3%. With training and validation on our dataset and CholecT45, the algorithm scored a mAP of 37.9%. CONCLUSIONS: An activity model was developed and applied for the fine-granular annotation of laparoscopic cholecystectomies in two surgical settings. A machine recognition algorithm trained on our own annotated dataset and CholecT45 achieved a higher performance than training only on CholecT45 and can recognize frequently occurring activities well, but not infrequent activities. The analysis of an annotated dataset allowed for the quantification of the potential of collaborative surgical robots to address the workload of surgical staff. If collaborative surgical robots could grasp and hold tissue, up to 83.5% of the assistant's tissue interacting tasks (i.e. excluding camera guidance) could be performed by robots.

Optimization of anastomotic technique and gastric conduit perfusion with hyperspectral imaging and machine learning in an experimental model for minimally invasive esophagectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Esophagectomy is the mainstay of esophageal cancer treatment, but anastomotic insufficiency related morbidity and mortality remain challenging for patient outcome. Therefore, the objective of this work was to optimize anastomotic technique and gastric conduit perfusion with hyperspectral imaging (HSI) for total minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) with linear stapled anastomosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A live porcine model (n = 58) for MIE was used with gastric conduit formation and simulation of linear stapled side-to-side esophagogastrostomy. Four main experimental groups differed in stapling length (3 vs. 6 cm) and simulation of anastomotic position on the conduit (cranial vs. caudal). Tissue oxygenation around the anastomotic simulation site was evaluated using HSI and was validated with histopathology. RESULTS: The tissue oxygenation (ΔStO2) after the anastomotic simulation remained constant only for the short stapler in caudal position (-0.4 ± 4.4%, n.s.) while it was impaired markedly in the other groups (short-cranial: -15.6 ± 11.5%, p = 0.0002; long-cranial: -20.4 ± 7.6%, p = 0.0126; long-caudal: -16.1 ± 9.4%, p < 0.0001). Tissue samples from avascular stomach as measured by HSI showed correspondent eosinophilic pre-necrotic changes in 35.7 ± 9.7% of the surface area. CONCLUSION: Tissue oxygenation at the site of anastomotic simulation of the gastric conduit during MIE is influenced by stapling technique. Optimal oxygenation was achieved with a short stapler (3 cm) and sufficient distance of the simulated anastomosis to the cranial end of the gastric conduit. HSI tissue deoxygenation corresponded to histopathologic necrotic tissue changes. The experimental model with HSI and ML allow for systematic optimization of gastric conduit perfusion and anastomotic technique while clinical translation will have to be proven.

Crossover-effects in technical skills between laparoscopy and robot-assisted surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Robot-assisted surgery is often performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons. However, this technique requires a different set of technical skills and surgeons are expected to alternate between these approaches. The aim of this study is to investigate the crossover effects when switching between laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgery. METHODS: An international multicentre crossover study was conducted. Trainees with distinctly different levels of experience were divided into three groups (novice, intermediate, expert). Each trainee performed six trials of a standardized suturing task using a laparoscopic box trainer and six trials using the da Vinci surgical robot. Both systems were equipped with the ForceSense system, measuring five force-based parameters for objective assessment of tissue handling skills. Statistical comparison was done between the sixth and seventh trial to identify transition effects. Unexpected changes in parameter outcomes after the seventh trial were further investigated. RESULTS: A total of 720 trials, performed by 60 participants, were analysed. The expert group increased their tissue handling forces with 46% (maximum impulse 11.5 N/s to 16.8 N/s, p = 0.05), when switching from robot-assisted surgery to laparoscopy. When switching from laparoscopy to robot-assisted surgery, intermediates and experts significantly decreased in motion efficiency (time (sec), resp. 68 vs. 100, p = 0.05, and 44 vs. 84, p = 0.05). Further investigation between the seventh and ninth trial showed that the intermediate group increased their force exertion with 78% (5.1 N vs. 9.1 N, p = 0.04), when switching to robot-assisted surgery. CONCLUSION: The crossover effects in technical skills between laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgery are highly depended on the prior experience with laparoscopic surgery. Where experts can alternate between approaches without impairment of technical skills, novices and intermediates should be aware of decay in efficiency of movement and tissue handling skills that could impact patient safety. Therefore, additional simulation training is advised to prevent from undesired events.

Video-based learning of coping strategies for common errors improves laparoscopy training-a randomized study.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to investigate whether shifting the focus to solution orientation and developing coping strategies for common errors could increase the efficiency of laparoscopic training and influence learning motivation. The concept of coping has been particularly defined by the psychologist Richard Lazarus [Lazarus and Folkman in Stress, appraisal, and coping, Springer publishing company, New York, 1984]. Based on this model, we examined the use of observational learning with a coping model for its effectiveness as a basic teaching model in laparoscopic training. METHODS: 55 laparoscopically naive medical students learned a standardized laparoscopic knot tying technique with video-based instructions. The control group was only offered a mastery video that showed the ideal technique and was free from mistakes. The intervention group was instructed on active error analysis and watched freely selectable videos of common errors including solution strategies (coping model) in addition to the mastery videos. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the intervention and control groups for number of knot tying attempts until proficiency was reached (18.8 ± 5.5 vs. 21.3 ± 6.5, p = 0.142). However, there was a significantly higher fraction of knots achieving technical proficiency in the intervention group after first use of the coping model (0.7 ± 0.1 vs. 0.6 ± 0.2, p = 0.026). Additionally, the proportion of blinded attempts that met the criteria for technical proficiency was significantly higher for the intervention group at 60.9% vs. 38.0% in control group (p = 0.021). The motivational subscore "interest" of the validated score on current motivation (QCM) was significantly higher for the intervention group (p = 0.032), as well as subjective learning benefit (p = 0.002) and error awareness (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Using video-based learning of coping strategies for common errors improves learning motivation and understanding of the technique with a significant difference in its qualitative implementation in laparoscopy training. The ability to think in a solution-oriented, independent way is necessary in surgery in order to recognize and adequately deal with technical difficulties and complications.

Combined two-stage total pancreatoduodenectomy and esophagectomy for synchronous malignancy of the pancreatic corpus and the esophagus: A surgical case report.

INTRODUCTION: Synchronous visceral malignancy is rare especially for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma combined with malignancy in the pancreas. So far only 7 cases of combined partial pancreatoduodenectomy and esophagectomy for synchronous malignancy have been described in the literature and none for combined total pancreatectomy and esophagectomy. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report the case of a 67-year-old male patient, who underwent multi-modality treatment including two-stage total pancreatoduodenectomy and subsequent Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy for synchronous adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus and pancreatic multilocal metastases of a renal cell carcinoma after nephrectomy 17 years ago. Pathology revealed R0 resections for both malignancies and there were no postoperative complications. A 12 months follow-up showed no signs of recurrence and a good quality of life. CONCLUSION: Curative-intent, combined oncological two-stage open total pancreatoduodenectomy and esophagectomy with several days interval is safe and feasible in selected cases when performed by an experienced interdisciplinary team in a high-volume surgical center.

Force-based assessment of tissue handling skills in simulation training for robot-assisted surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Although robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly performed, objective assessment of technical skills is lacking. The aim of this study is to provide validity evidence for objective assessment of technical skills for robotic-assisted surgery. METHODS: An international multicenter study was conducted with participants from the academic hospitals Heidelberg University Hospital (Germany, Heidelberg) and the Amsterdam University Medical Centers (The Netherlands, Amsterdam). Trainees with distinctly different levels of robotic surgery experience were divided into three groups (novice, intermediate, expert) and enrolled in a training curriculum. Each trainee performed six trials of a standardized suturing task using the da Vinci Surgical System. Using the ForceSense system, five force-based parameters were analyzed, for objective assessment of tissue handling skills. Mann-Whitney U test and linear regression were used to analyze performance differences and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to analyze skills progression. RESULTS: A total of 360 trials, performed by 60 participants, were analyzed. Significant differences between the novices, intermediates and experts were observed regarding the total completion time (41 s vs 29 s vs 22 s p = 0.003), mean non zero force (29 N vs 33 N vs 19 N p = 0.032), maximum impulse (40 Ns vs 31 Ns vs 20 Ns p = 0.001) and force volume (38 N3 vs 32 N3 vs 22 N3 p = 0.018). Furthermore, the experts showed better results in mean non-zero force (22 N vs 13 N p = 0.015), maximum impulse (24 Ns vs 17 Ns p = 0.043) and force volume (25 N3 vs 16 N3 p = 0.025) compared to the intermediates (p ≤ 0.05). Lastly, learning curve improvement was observed for the total task completion time, mean non-zero force, maximum impulse and force volume (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION: Construct validity for force-based assessment of tissue handling skills in robot-assisted surgery is established. It is advised to incorporate objective assessment and feedback in robot-assisted surgery training programs to determine technical proficiency and, potentially, to prevent tissue trauma.

European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) consensus on Indocyanine Green (ICG) fluorescence-guided surgery.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the use of Indocyanine Green (ICG) fluorescence-guided surgery during open and laparoscopic procedures has exponentially expanded across various clinical settings. The European Association of Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) initiated a consensus development conference on this topic with the aim of creating evidence-based statements and recommendations for the surgical community. METHODS: An expert panel of surgeons has been selected and invited to participate to this project. Systematic reviews of the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane libraries were performed to identify evidence on potential benefits of ICG fluorescence-guided surgery on clinical practice and patient outcomes. Statements and recommendations were prepared and unanimously agreed by the panel; they were then submitted to all EAES members through a two-rounds online survey and results presented at the EAES annual congress, Barcelona, November 2021. RESULTS: A total of 18,273 abstracts were screened with 117 articles included. 22 statements and 16 recommendations were generated and approved. In some areas, such as the use of ICG fluorescence-guided surgery during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the perfusion assessment in colorectal surgery and the search for the sentinel lymph nodes in gynaecological malignancies, the large number of evidences in literature has allowed us to strongly recommend the use of ICG for a better anatomical definition and a reduction in post-operative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, from the systematic literature review performed by the experts panel and the survey extended to all EAES members, ICG fluorescence-guided surgery could be considered a safe and effective technology. Future robust clinical research is required to specifically validate multiple organ-specific applications and the potential benefits of this technique on clinical outcomes.

Serious gaming and virtual reality in the multimodal training of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair: a randomized crossover study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the transferability of surgical skills for the laparoscopic hernia module between the serious game Touch Surgery™ (TS) and the virtual reality (VR) trainer Lap Mentor™. Furthermore, this study aimed to collect validity evidence and to discuss "sources of validity evidence" for the findings using the laparoscopic inguinal hernia module on TS. METHODS: In a randomized crossover study, medical students (n = 40) in their clinical years performed laparoscopic inguinal hernia modules on TS and the VR trainer. TS group started with "Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Module" on TS (phase 1: Preparation, phase 2: Port Placement and Hernia Repair), performed the module first in training, then in test mode until proficiency was reached. VR group started with "Inguinal Hernia Module" on the VR trainer (task 1: Anatomy Identification, task 2: Incision and Dissection) and also performed the module until proficiency. Once proficiency reached in the first modality, the groups performed the other training modality until reaching proficiency. Primary endpoint was the number of attempts needed to achieve proficiency for each group for each task/phase. RESULTS: Students starting with TS needed significantly less attempts to reach proficiency for task 1 on the VR trainer than students who started with the VR trainer (TS = 2.7 ± 0.6 vs. VR = 3.2 ± 0.7; p = 0.028). No significant differences for task 2 were observed between groups (TS = 2.3 ± 1.1 vs. VR = 2.1 ± 0.8; p = 0.524). For both phases on TS, no significant skill transfer from the VR trainer to TS was observed. Aspects of validity evidence for the module on TS were collected. CONCLUSION: The results show that TS brought additional benefit to improve performances on the VR trainer for task 1 but not for task 2. Skill transfer from the VR trainer to TS could not be shown. VR and TS should thus be used in combination with TS first in multimodal training to ensure optimal training conditions.

Safe implementation of hand held steerable laparoscopic instruments: a survey among EAES surgeons.

The complexity of handheld steerable laparoscopic instruments (SLI) may impair the learning curve compared to conventional instruments when first utilized. This study aimed to provide the current state of interest in the use of SLI, the current use of these in daily practice and the type of training which is conducted before using SLI in the operating room (OR) on real patients. An online survey was distributed by European Association of Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) Executive Office to all active members, between January 4th and February 3rd, 2020. The survey consisted of 14 questions regarding the usage and training of steerable laparoscopic instruments. A total of 83 members responded, coming from 33 different countries. Twenty three percent of the respondents using SLI, were using the instruments routinely and of these 21% had not received any formal training in advance of using the instruments in real patients. Of all responding EAES members, 41% considered the instruments to potentially compromise patient safety due to their complexity, learning curve and the inexperience of the surgeons. The respondents reported the three most important aspects of a possible steerable laparoscopic instruments training curriculum to be: hands-on training, safe tissue handling and suturing practice. Finally, a major part of the respondents consider force/pressure feedback data to be of significant importance for implementation of training and assessment of safe laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Training and assessment of skills regarding safe implementation of steerable laparoscopic instruments is lacking. The respondents stressed the need for specific hands-on training during which feedback and assessment of skills should be guaranteed before operating on real patients.

Telestration with augmented reality for visual presentation of intraoperative target structures in minimally invasive surgery: a randomized controlled study.

AIMS: In minimally invasive surgery (MIS), intraoperative guidance has been limited to verbal communication without direct visual guidance. Communication issues and mistaken instructions in training procedures can hinder correct identification of anatomical structures on the MIS screen. The iSurgeon system was developed to provide visual guidance in the operating room by telestration with augmented reality (AR). METHODS: Laparoscopic novices (n = 60) were randomized in two groups in a cross-over design: group 1 trained only with verbal guidance first and then with additional telestration with AR on the operative screen and vice versa for group 2. Training consisted of laparoscopic basic training and subsequently a specifically designed training course, including a porcine laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Outcome included time needed for training, performance with Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS), and Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score for LC, complications, and subjective workload (NASA-TLX questionnaire). RESULTS: Telestration with AR led to significantly faster total training time (1163 ± 275 vs. 1658 ± 375 s, p < 0.001) and reduced error rates. LC on a porcine liver was performed significantly better (GOALS 21 ± 5 vs. 18 ± 4, p < 0.007 and OSATS 67 ± 11 vs. 61 ± 8, p < 0.015) and with less complications (13.3% vs. 40%, p < 0.020) with AR. Subjective workload and stress were significantly reduced during training with AR (33.6 ± 12.0 vs. 30.6 ± 12.9, p < 0.022). CONCLUSION: Telestration with AR improves training success and safety in MIS. The next step will be the clinical application of telestration with AR and the development of a mobile version for remote guidance.

[Technical innovations and future perspectives]. / Technische Innovationen und Blick in die Zukunft.

BACKGROUND: Digital systems have increasingly become integrated into the modern operating room in the last few decades. This has brought about a massive change, especially in minimally invasive surgery. OBJECTIVE: The article provides an overview of the current technical innovations and the perspectives of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) in surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The article is based on a literature search via PubMed and research work by the participating coauthors. RESULTS: Current research is increasingly looking at machine learning techniques that take advantage of the complex data in surgery; however, the integration of artificial intelligence systems into the operating room and clinical practice has only just begun. DISCUSSION: Translational research of artificial intelligence in surgery is still in its infancy but has great potential to improve patient care; however, to accelerate the incorporation of intelligent systems into the clinical practice, the creation of interdisciplinary research groups led by surgeons is necessary.

Randomized controlled trial of robotic-assisted versus conventional laparoscopic fundoplication: 12 years follow-up.

AIMS: Numerous reports have addressed the feasibility and safety of robotic-assisted (RALF) and conventional laparoscopic fundoplication (CLF). Long-term follow-up after direct comparison of these two minimally invasive approaches is scarce. The aim of the present study was to assess long-term disease-specific symptoms and quality of life (QOL) in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treated with RALF or CLF after 12 years in the randomized ROLAF trial. METHODS: In the ROLAF trial 40 patients with GERD were randomized to RALF (n = 20) or CLF (n = 20) between August 2004 and December 2005. At 12 years after surgery, all patients were invited to complete the standardized Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) and the Quality of Life in Reflux and Dyspepsia questionnaire (QOLRAD). Failure of treatment was assessed according to Lundell score. RESULTS: The GSRS score was similar for RALF (n = 15) and CLF (n = 15) at 12 years´ follow-up (2.1 ± 0.7 vs. 2.2 ± 1.3, p = 0.740). There was no difference in QOLRAD score (RALF 6.4 ± 1.2; CLF 6.4 ± 1.5, p = 0.656) and the QOLRAD score sub items. Long-term failure of treatment according to the definition by Lundell was not different between RALF and CLF [46% (6/13) vs. 33% (4/12), p = 0.806]. CONCLUSION: In accordance with previous short-term outcome studies, the long-term results 12 years after surgery showed no difference between RALF and CLF regarding postoperative symptoms, QOL and failure of treatment. Relief of symptoms and patient satisfaction were high after both procedures on the long-term. REGISTRATION NUMBER: DRKS00014690 ( https://www.drks.de ).

Learning Curves in Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Pancreatic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Proposal of a Standardization.

Objective: To depict and analyze learning curves for open, laparoscopic, and robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP). Background: Formal training is recommended for safe introduction of pancreatic surgery but definitions of learning curves vary and have not been standardized. Methods: A systematic search on PubMed, Web of Science, and CENTRAL databases identified studies on learning curves in pancreatic surgery. Primary outcome was the number needed to reach the learning curve as defined by the included studies. Secondary outcomes included endpoints defining learning curves, methods of analysis (statistical/arbitrary), and classification of learning phases. Results: Out of 1115 articles, 66 studies with 14,206 patients were included. Thirty-five studies (53%) based the learning curve analysis on statistical calculations. Most often used parameters to define learning curves were operative time (n = 51), blood loss (n = 17), and complications (n = 10). The number of procedures to surpass a first phase of learning curve was 30 (20-50) for open PD, 39 (11-60) for laparoscopic PD, 25 (8-100) for robotic PD (P = 0.521), 16 (3-17) for laparoscopic DP, and 15 (5-37) for robotic DP (P = 0.914). In a three-phase model, intraoperative parameters improved earlier (first to second phase: operating time -15%, blood loss -29%) whereas postoperative parameters improved later (second to third phase: complications -46%, postoperative pancreatic fistula -48%). Studies with higher sample sizes showed higher numbers of procedures needed to overcome the learning curve (rho = 0.64, P < 0.001). Conclusions: This study summarizes learning curves for open-, laparoscopic-, and robotic pancreatic surgery with different definitions, analysis methods, and confounding factors. A standardized reporting of learning curves and definition of phases (competency, proficiency, mastery) is desirable and proposed.

Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy is superior to laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the initial training for surgical novices in an ex vivo porcine model: a randomized crossover study.

BACKGROUND: Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) potentially reduces workload and shortens the surgical learning curve compared to conventional laparoscopy (CL). The present study aimed to compare robotic-assisted cholecystectomy (RAC) to laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in the initial learning phase for novices. METHODS: In a randomized crossover study, medical students (n = 40) in their clinical years performed both LC and RAC on a cadaveric porcine model. After standardized instructions and basic skill training, group 1 started with RAC and then performed LC, while group 2 started with LC and then performed RAC. The primary endpoint was surgical performance measured with Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score, secondary endpoints included operating time, complications (liver damage, gallbladder perforations, vessel damage), force applied to tissue, and subjective workload assessment. RESULTS: Surgical performance was better for RAC than for LC for total OSATS (RAC = 77.4 ± 7.9 vs. LC = 73.8 ± 9.4; p = 0.025, global OSATS (RAC = 27.2 ± 1.0 vs. LC = 26.5 ± 1.6; p = 0.012, and task specific OSATS score (RAC = 50.5 ± 7.5 vs. LC = 47.1 ± 8.5; p = 0.037). There were less complications with RAC than with LC (10 (25.6%) vs. 26 (65.0%), p = 0.006) but no difference in operating times (RAC = 77.0 ± 15.3 vs. LC = 75.5 ± 15.3 min; p = 0.517). Force applied to tissue was similar. Students found RAC less physical demanding and less frustrating than LC. CONCLUSIONS: Novices performed their first cholecystectomies with better performance and less complications with RAS than with CL, while operating time showed no differences. Students perceived less subjective workload for RAS than for CL. Unlike our expectations, the lack of haptic feedback on the robotic system did not lead to higher force application during RAC than LC and did not increase tissue damage. These results show potential advantages for RAS over CL for surgical novices while performing their first RAC and LC using an ex vivo cadaveric porcine model. REGISTRATION NUMBER: researchregistry6029.

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and individual patient data comparing minimally invasive with open oesophagectomy for cancer.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive oesophagectomy (MIO) for oesophageal cancer may reduce surgical complications compared with open oesophagectomy. MIO is, however, technically challenging and may impair optimal oncological resection. The aim of the present study was to assess if MIO for cancer is beneficial. METHODS: A systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Web of Science and CENTRAL was performed and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing MIO with open oesophagectomy were included in a meta-analysis. Survival was analysed using individual patient data. Random-effects model was used for pooled estimates of perioperative effects. RESULTS: Among 3219 articles, six RCTs were identified including 822 patients. Three-year overall survival (56 (95 per cent c.i. 49 to 62) per cent for MIO versus 52 (95 per cent c.i. 44 to 60) per cent for open; P = 0.54) and disease-free survival (54 (95 per cent c.i. 47 to 61) per cent versus 50 (95 per cent c.i. 42 to 58) per cent; P = 0.38) were comparable. Overall complication rate was lower for MIO (odds ratio 0.33 (95 per cent c.i. 0.20 to 0.53); P < 0.010) mainly due to fewer pulmonary complications (OR 0.44 (95 per cent c.i. 0.27 to 0.72); P < 0.010), including pneumonia (OR 0.41 (95 per cent c.i. 0.22 to 0.77); P < 0.010). CONCLUSION: MIO for cancer is associated with a lower risk of postoperative complications compared with open resection. Overall and disease-free survival are comparable for the two techniques. LAY SUMMARY: Oesophagectomy for cancer is associated with a high risk of complications. A minimally invasive approach might be less traumatic, leading to fewer complications and may also improve oncological outcome. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing minimally invasive to open oesophagectomy was performed. The analysis showed that the minimally invasive approach led to fewer postoperative complications, in particular, fewer pulmonary complications. Survival after surgery was comparable for the two techniques.

Oesophagectomy for cancer is associated with a high risk of complications. A minimally invasive approach might be less traumatic, leading to fewer complications and may also improve oncological outcome. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing minimally invasive to open oesophagectomy was performed. The analysis showed that the minimally invasive approach led to fewer postoperative complications, in particular, fewer pulmonary complications. Survival after surgery was comparable for the two techniques.

Virtual reality simulation in robot-assisted surgery: meta-analysis of skill transfer and predictability of skill.

BACKGROUND: The value of virtual reality (VR) simulators for robot-assisted surgery (RAS) for skill assessment and training of surgeons has not been established. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify evidence on transferability of surgical skills acquired on robotic VR simulators to the operating room and the predictive value of robotic VR simulator performance for intraoperative performance. METHODS: MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science were searched systematically. Risk of bias was assessed using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for Education. Correlation coefficients were chosen as effect measure and pooled using the inverse-variance weighting approach. A random-effects model was applied to estimate the summary effect. RESULTS: A total of 14 131 potential articles were identified; there were eight studies eligible for qualitative and three for quantitative analysis. Three of four studies demonstrated transfer of surgical skills from robotic VR simulators to the operating room measured by time and technical surgical performance. Two of three studies found significant positive correlations between robotic VR simulator performance and intraoperative technical surgical performance; quantitative analysis revealed a positive combined correlation (r = 0.67, 95 per cent c.i. 0.22 to 0.88). CONCLUSION: Technical surgical skills acquired through robotic VR simulator training can be transferred to the operating room, and operating room performance seems to be predictable by robotic VR simulator performance. VR training can therefore be justified before operating on patients.

Bedside hyperspectral imaging indicates a microcirculatory sepsis pattern - an observational study.

INTRODUCTION: Microcirculatory alterations are key mechanisms in sepsis pathophysiology leading to tissue hypoxia, edema formation, and organ dysfunction. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is an emerging imaging technology that uses tissue-light interactions to evaluate biochemical tissue characteristics including tissue oxygenation, hemoglobin content and water content. Currently, clinical data for HSI technologies in critical ill patients are still limited. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: TIVITA® Tissue System was used to measure Tissue oxygenation (StO2), Tissue Hemoglobin Index (THI), Near Infrared Perfusion Index (NPI) and Tissue Water Index (TWI) in 25 healthy volunteers and 25 septic patients. HSI measurement sites were the palm, the fingertip, and a suprapatellar knee area. Septic patients were evaluated on admission to the ICU (E), 6 h afterwards (E+6) and three times a day (t3-t9) within a total observation period of 72 h. Primary outcome was the correlation of HSI results with daily SOFA-scores. RESULTS: Serial HSI at the three measurement sites in healthy volunteers showed a low mean variance expressing high retest reliability. HSI at E demonstrated significantly lower StO2 and NPI as well as higher TWI at the palm and fingertip in septic patients compared to healthy volunteers. StO2 and TWI showed corresponding results at the suprapatellar knee area. In septic patients, palm and fingertip THI identified survivors (E-t4) and revealed predictivity for 28-day mortality (E). Fingertip StO2 and THI correlated to SOFA-score on day 2. TWI was consistently increased in relation to the TWI range of healthy controls during the observation time. Palm TWI correlated positively with SOFA scores on day 3. DISCUSSION: HSI results in septic patients point to a distinctive microcirculatory pattern indicative of reduced skin oxygenation and perfusion quality combined with increased blood pooling and tissue water content. THI might possess risk-stratification properties and TWI could allow tissue edema evaluation in critically ill patients. CONCLUSION: HSI technologies could open new perspectives in microcirculatory monitoring by visualizing oxygenation and perfusion quality combined with tissue water content in critically ill patients - a prerequisite for future tissue perfusion guided therapy concepts in intensive care medicine.

Robotic versus laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy: multicentre analysis.

BACKGROUND: The role of minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy is still unclear, and whether robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP) offers benefits over laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is unknown because large multicentre studies are lacking. This study compared perioperative outcomes between RDP and LDP. METHODS: A multicentre international propensity score-matched study included patients who underwent RDP or LDP for any indication in 21 European centres from six countries that performed at least 15 distal pancreatectomies annually (January 2011 to June 2019). Propensity score matching was based on preoperative characteristics in a 1 : 1 ratio. The primary outcome was the major morbidity rate (Clavien-Dindo grade IIIa or above). RESULTS: A total of 1551 patients (407 RDP and 1144 LDP) were included in the study. Some 402 patients who had RDP were matched with 402 who underwent LDP. After matching, there was no difference between RDP and LDP groups in rates of major morbidity (14.2 versus 16.5 per cent respectively; P = 0.378), postoperative pancreatic fistula grade B/C (24.6 versus 26.5 per cent; P = 0.543) or 90-day mortality (0.5 versus 1.3 per cent; P = 0.268). RDP was associated with a longer duration of surgery than LDP (median 285 (i.q.r. 225-350) versus 240 (195-300) min respectively; P < 0.001), lower conversion rate (6.7 versus 15.2 per cent; P < 0.001), higher spleen preservation rate (81.4 versus 62.9 per cent; P = 0.001), longer hospital stay (median 8.5 (i.q.r. 7-12) versus 7 (6-10) days; P < 0.001) and lower readmission rate (11.0 versus 18.2 per cent; P = 0.004). CONCLUSION: The major morbidity rate was comparable between RDP and LDP. RDP was associated with improved rates of conversion, spleen preservation and readmission, to the detriment of longer duration of surgery and hospital stay.

Functional outcomes after laparoscopic versus robotic-assisted rectal resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Surgical resection is crucial for curative treatment of rectal cancer. Through multidisciplinary treatment, including radiochemotherapy and total mesorectal excision, survival has improved substantially. Consequently, more patients have to deal with side effects of treatment. The most recently introduced surgical technique is robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) which seems equally effective in terms of oncological control compared to laparoscopy. However, RAS enables further advantages which maximize the precision of surgery, thus providing better functional outcomes such as sexual function or contience without compromising oncological results. This review was done according to the PRISMA and AMSTAR-II guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018104519). The search was planned with PICO criteria and conducted on Medline, Web of Science and CENTRAL. All screening steps were performed by two independent reviewers. Inclusion criteria were original, comparative studies for laparoscopy vs. RAS for rectal cancer and reporting of functional outcomes. Quality was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The search retrieved 9703 hits, of which 51 studies with 24,319 patients were included. There was a lower rate of urinary retention (non-RCTs: Odds ratio (OR) [95% Confidence Interval (CI)] 0.65 [0.46, 0.92]; RCTs: OR[CI] 1.29[0.08, 21.47]), ileus (non-RCTs: OR[CI] 0.86[0.75, 0.98]; RCTs: OR[CI] 0.80[0.33, 1.93]), less urinary symptoms (non-RCTs mean difference (MD) [CI] - 0.60 [- 1.17, - 0.03]; RCTs: - 1.37 [- 4.18, 1.44]), and higher quality of life for RAS (only non-RCTs: MD[CI]: 2.99 [2.02, 3.95]). No significant differences were found for sexual function (non-RCTs: standardized MD[CI]: 0.46[- 0.13, 1.04]; RCTs: SMD[CI]: 0.09[- 0.14, 0.31]). The current meta-analysis suggests potential benefits for RAS over laparoscopy in terms of functional outcomes after rectal cancer resection. The current evidence is limited due to non-randomized controlled trials and reporting of functional outcomes as secondary endpoints.