Robot-assisted Radical Cystectomy with Totally Intracorporeal Urinary Diversion Versus Open Radical Cystectomy: 3-Year Outcomes from a Randomised Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing open radical cystectomy (ORC) and robot-assisted RC (RARC) have involved an extracorporeal approach for urinary diversion (UD), undermining the potential benefits of a totally robotic procedure. Our objective was to compare 3-yr outcomes from a RCT comparing ORC to RARC with totally intracorporeal UD (iUD). METHODS: Patients with cT2-4 N0 M0 or bacillus Calmette-Guérin-failed high-grade non-muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma who were candidates for RC without absolute contraindications to robotic surgery were included. A covariate adaptive randomisation process based on body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, preoperative haemoglobin, type of UD, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and cT stage was used. The primary endpoint was to investigate the superiority of RARC with iUD in terms of a 50% reduction in transfusion rate. Secondary outcomes included adherence to an early recovery after surgery protocol, perioperative and postoperative outcomes, readmission and complication rates, a cost analysis, and functional, oncological, and health-related quality-of-life outcomes. KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS: Overall, 116 patients were enrolled. The primary endpoint was confirmed, as the overall perioperative transfusion rate was significantly lower in the RARC cohort, with an absolute risk reduction of 19% (95% confidence interval 2-36%; p = 0.046). No differences in perioperative and postoperative complications and 3-yr oncological outcomes were observed between the groups. Despite the superiority of ORC on quantitative analysis of night-time pad use, there were no differences in the probabilities of recovery of daytime and night-time continence. Body image was significantly better in the RARC cohort. Cost analysis confirmed that RARC is a more expensive surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Our findings support RARC with iUD as a safe surgical option; the transfusion rate was reduced by 50% and the complication rates and 3-yr oncological outcomes were comparable to those with ORC. The minimally invasive nature of RARC was reflected in better body image perception in this cohort. The probabilities of daytime and night-time continence recovery were comparable between the groups. Higher costs remain a drawback of robotic surgery. PATIENT SUMMARY: This RCT demonstrated a 50% transfusions rate's reduction compared to ORC. We confirmed safety and feasibility of RARC with i-UD providing comparable peri- and postoperative complication rates, as well as, 3yr oncologic outcomes to those of ORC. Patients receiving either RARC-iUD or ORC had comparable probabilities of urinary continence recovery after surgery.

Open vs robotic intracorporeal Padua ileal bladder: functional outcomes of a single-centre RCT.

PURPOSE: Functional outcomes of robot-assisted (RA) radical cystectomy (RC) with intracorporeal orthotopic neobladder (i-ON) have been poorly investigated. The study aimed to report functional outcomes of a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing open RC (ORC) and RARC with i-ON. METHODS: Inclusion criteria were cT2-4/N0/M0, or BCG-failure high-grade urothelial carcinoma, candidate to RC with curative intent. A covariate adaptive randomization process was used, based on the following variables: BMI, ASA score, haemoglobin levels, cT-stage, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, urinary diversion. Day-time continence was defined as "totally dryness", nigh-time continence as pad wetness ≤ 50 cc. Continence recovery probabilities were compared between arms with Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of continence recovery. HRQoL outcomes analysis was assessed with a generalized linear mixed effect regression (GLMER) model. RESULTS: Out of 116 patients randomized, 88 received ON. Quantitative analysis of functional outcomes reported similar results in terms of day continence, while a better night continence status in ORC cohort was observed. However, 1-yr day- and night-time continence recovery probabilities were comparable. Night-time micturition frequency < 3 h was the only predictor of nigh-time continence recovery. At GLMER, 1-yr body image and sexual functioning were significantly better in RARC cohort, while urinary symptoms were comparable between arms. CONCLUSION: Despite superiority of ORC at quantitative night-time pad use analysis, we showed comparable day- and night-time continence recovery probabilities. At 1-yr analysis of HRQoL outcomes, urinary symptoms were comparable between arms, while RARC patients reported lower body image and sexual functioning worsening.

Combined Reporting of Surgical Quality and Cancer Control after Surgical Treatment for Penile Tumors with Inguinal Lymph Node Dissection: The Tetrafecta Achievement.

BACKGROUND: To optimize results reporting after penile cancer (PC) surgery, we proposed a Tetrafecta and assessed its ability to predict overall survival (OS) probabilities. METHODS: A purpose-built multicenter, multi-national database was queried for stage I-IIIB PC, requiring inguinal lymphadenectomy (ILND), from 2015 onwards. Kaplan-Meier (KM) method assessed differences in OS between patients achieving Tetrafecta or not. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses identified its predictors. RESULTS: A total of 154 patients were included in the analysis. The 45 patients (29%) that achieved the Tetrafecta were younger (59 vs. 62 years; p = 0.01) and presented with fewer comorbidities (ASA score ≥ 3: 0% vs. 24%; p < 0.001). Although indicated, ILND was omitted in 8 cases (5%), while in 16, a modified template was properly used. Although median LNs yield was 17 (IQR: 11-27), 35% of the patients had <7 nodes retrieved from the groin. At Kaplan-Maier analysis, the Tetrafecta cohort displayed significantly higher OS probabilities (Log Rank = 0.01). Uni- and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified age as the only independent predictor of Tetrafecta achievement (OR: 0.97; 95%CI: 0.94-0.99; p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Our Tetrafecta is the first combined outcome to comprehensively report results after PC surgery. It is widely applicable, based on standardized and reproducible variables and it predicts all-cause mortality.

Sutureless Purely Off-Clamp Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: Avoiding Renorrhaphy Does Not Jeopardize Surgical and Functional Outcomes.

To compare outcomes of sutureless (SL) vs. renorrhaphy (RR) off-clamp robotic partial nephrectomy (ocRPN), we retrospectively analyzed procedures performed at our center, from January 2017 to April 2021, for cT1-2N0M0 renal masses. All the patients with a minimum follow-up < 1 month were excluded from the analysis. The trifecta rate defined surgical quality. Any worsening from chronic kidney disease (CKD) I-II to ≧ IIIa (from IIIa to ≧ IIIb, and from IIIb to ≧ IV) was considered as significant stage migration (sCKDsm). A 1:1 propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis minimized baseline imbalances between SL and RR cohorts in terms of age, gender, ASA score, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), tumor size, and RENAL score. Logistic regression analyses identified predictors of trifecta achievement. Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis assessed the impact of RR on significant chronic kidney disease sCKDsm-free survival (SMFS), while Cox regression analyses identified its predictors. Overall, 531 patients were included, with a median tumor size of 3.5 cm (IQR: 2.7-5); 70 (13%) presented with a cT2 mass. An SL approach was pursued in 180 cases, but 10 needed conversion to RR. After PSM analysis, patients receiving SL showed a higher trifecta rate (94% vs. 84%; p = 0.007). SMFS probabilities were comparable at KM analysis (log-rank = 0.69). Age (OR: 0.97; 95%CI: 0.95-0.99; p = 0.01), a RENAL score ≧ 10 (OR: 0.29; 95%CI: 0.15-0.57; p < 0.001), and RR (OR: 0.34; 95%CI: 0.17-0.67; p = 0.002) were independent predictors of trifecta achievement. Age (OR: 1.04; 95%CI: 1.003-1.07; p = 0.03) and baseline eGFR (OR: 0.99; 95%CI: 0.97-0.99; p = 0.05) independently predicted sCKDsm. Compared to RR, our experience seems to show that the SL approach significantly increased the probabilities of achieving the trifecta in the observed group of cases.

Purely Off-Clamp Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy Stands the Test of Time: 15 Years Functional and Oncologic Outcomes from a Single Center Experience.

BACKGROUND: Nephron-sparing surgery represents the gold standard treatment for organ-confined renal tumors. We present 15-years of outcomes after off-clamp laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (ocLPN). METHODS: a retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent ocLPN between May 2001 and December 2005. Baseline demographic, clinical, pathologic, surgical, functional and survival data were collected. The Kaplan-Meier method evaluated group-specific oncologic outcomes at 5, 10 and 15 years and the log rank test assessed differences between groups. The same analysis investigated the probabilities of developing a significant renal function impairment (sRFI) and achieving ROMeS. Cox analyses identified predictors of this latter tricomposite outcome. RESULTS: We included 63 patients whose median tumor size was 3 cm (IQR:2-4). At 15 years, the chances of developing local recurrence, metachronous renal cancers or distant metastases were 2 ± 2%, 23 ± 6% and 17 ± 5%, respectively. Consequently, disease-free, cancer-specific and overall-survival probabilities were 68 ± 6%, 90 ± 4% and 72 ± 6%. MCRSS and UCISS well predicted oncologic outcomes. Overall, nine (14%) patients experienced an sRFI and 33 (52%) achieved ROMeS. Age (HR: 1.046; p = 0.033) and malignant histology (low-risk cancers HR: 3.233, p = 0.048) (intermediate/high risk cancers HR: 5.721, p = 0.023) were independent predictors of ROMeS non-achievement. CONCLUSIONS: At 15 years from ocLPN, most of patients will experience both excellent functional and oncologic outcomes.

Valveless Trocar Versus Standard Pneumoperitoneum Insufflation System in Minimally Invasive Surgery: Impact on Postoperative Pain. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: The benefits of a valid pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic surgery are counterbalanced by the possible negative effects of increased abdominal pressure and carbon dioxide (CO2) insufflation, which are crucial factors in causing postoperative pain. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the effectiveness of the valveless trocar (VT) insufflation system in decreasing postoperative pain and influencing operative time, compared to a standard insufflation system. Methods: A systematic research was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Central Cochrane Library, and CINAHL Plus for studies published up to June 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on adult population evaluating the effects of VT versus a standard insufflation system in laparoscopic surgery and reporting postoperative pain level and operative time were included in the analysis. Data and study quality indicators were extracted independently by 2 authors using a standardized form. Statistical analysis was based on a random effect model, using the inverse variance method. Results: We identified 3 RCTs for a total of 245 patients. The meta-analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in shoulder pain with the use of VT at 24 hours: mean difference (MD) -7.9% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: -1.29 to 0.29; z = 3.08; P = .002) and a nonstatistically significant increase in operation time: MD 5.80 (95% CI: -8.93 to 20.54; P = .44). Conclusion: Our study suggests a better shoulder pain control at 24 hours postoperation using new-generation VT for laparoscopic surgery compared to standard insufflation system. Weak evidence of increased operating time with the VT was observed considering only two of the three RCTs. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020191835.

The Effects of Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block on Acute and Chronic Postsurgical Pain After Robotic Partial Nephrectomy: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Use of a locoregional analgesia technique, such as the ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block (TAPb), can improve postoperative pain management. We investigated the role of TAPb in robotic partial nephrectomy, a surgery burdened by severe postoperative pain. METHODS: In this prospective trial, patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists class I-III physical status undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy were randomly assigned to standard general anesthetic plus ultrasound-guided TAPb (TAP group) or sole standard general anesthetic (NO-TAP group). The primary end point was morphine consumption 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes were postoperative nausea and vomiting in the first 24 hours, sensitivity, and acute and chronic pain, as measured by multiple indicators. RESULTS: A total of 96 patients were evaluated: 48 patients in the TAP group and 48 in the NO-TAP group. Median morphine consumption after 24 hours was higher in the NO-TAP group compared with the TAP group (14.1 ± 4.5 mg vs 10.6 ± 4.6, P < 0.008). The intensity of acute somatic pain and the presence of chronic pain at three and six months were higher in the NO-TAP group. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that TAPb can significantly reduce morphine consumption and somatic pain, but not visceral pain. TAPb reduced the incidence of chronic pain.

Recovery from Anesthesia after Robotic-Assisted Radical Cystectomy: Two Different Reversals of Neuromuscular Blockade.

During robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC), specific surgical conditions (a steep Trendelenburg position, prolonged pneumoperitoneum, effective myoresolution until the final stages of surgery) can seriously impair the outcomes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and ileus and the quality of cognitive function at the awakening in two groups of patients undergoing different reversals. In this randomized trial, patients that were American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status (ASA) ≤III candidates for RARC for bladder cancer were randomized into two groups: In the sugammadex (S) group, patients received 2 mg/kg of sugammadex as reversal of neuromuscolar blockade; in the neostigmine (N) group, antagonization was obtained with neostigmine 0.04 mg/kg + atropine 0.02 mg/kg. PONV was evaluated at 30 min, 6 and 24 h after anesthesia. Postoperative cognitive functions and time to resumption of intestinal transit were also investigated. A total of 109 patients were analyzed (54 in the S group and 55 in the N group). The incidence of early PONV was lower in the S group but not statistically significant (S group 25.9% vs. N group 29%; p = 0.711). The Mini-Mental State test mean value was higher in the S group vs. the N group (1 h after surgery: 29.3 (29; 30) vs. 27.6 (27; 30), p = 0.007; 4 h after surgery: 29.5 (30; 30) vs. 28.4 (28; 30), p = 0.05). We did not observe a significant decrease of the PONV after sugammadex administration versus neostigmine use. The Mini-Mental State test mean value was greater in the S group.

Impact of a goal-directed fluid therapy on length of hospital stay and costs of hepatobiliarypancreatic surgery: a prospective observational study.

AIM: The effectiveness of goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) algorithms in improving postoperative outcomes has extensively been suggested. Nevertheless, there is a lack of strong evidence regarding both the clinical impact and the cost-effectiveness of the GDFT protocols. The aim of this study is to evaluate the costs of patients undergoing hepatobiliopancreatic surgery when a GDFT protocol is applied. Materials & methods: Consecutive ASA I-III patients undergoing hepatobiliopancreatic surgery were included in this prospective observational study. Depending on device availability, patients were handled either by fluid therapy guided by Vigileo monitor-derived hemodynamic variables (Vigileo-GDFT group) or by standard fluid treatment (standard group). Postoperative length of stay and economic costs were analyzed. RESULTS: In total, 147 patients were included (71 in the Vigileo-GDFT group and 76 in the standard group). The total hospital length of stay was 13 (median, 1st-3rd quartile, 9-20) days for the Vigileo-GDFT group and 14 (8-21) days for the standard group (p = 0.58); no statistically significant differences between the two groups emerged regarding costs and postoperative complications. In both groups, complications were the main contributor to total cost sustained. CONCLUSION: The application of a GDFT algorithm did not reduce the total length of hospital stay and the global costs, which were mainly influenced by the number of complications.

Acquired Hemophilia A After Hepatic Yttrium-90 Radioembolization: A Case Report.

Acquired hemophilia is a rare but potentially life-threatening bleeding disorder caused by the development of autoantibodies (inhibitors) directed against plasma coagulation factors, most frequently factor VIII. We report a case of a 65-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma who bled massively after a hepatic Yttrium-90 radioembolization procedure (Selective Internal Radiation Therapy with Yttrium-90 Resin Microspheres [SIRTex]). An acquired deficiency of factor VIII was diagnosed and successfully treated with recombinant activated factor VII and immunosuppression.

A Prospective, Randomized, Clinical Trial on the Effects of a Valveless Trocar on Respiratory Mechanics During Robotic Radical Cystectomy: A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Prolonged pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg positioning for robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) are essential for optimizing visualization of the operative field, although they worsen hemodynamic and respiratory function. Our hypothesis is that the use of a valveless trocar (VT) may improve respiratory mechanics. METHODS: In this prospective, 2-arm parallel trial, patients ASA II to III undergoing RARC were randomly assigned into 2 groups: in the VT group, the capnoperitoneum was maintained with a VT; in the control group, the capnoperitoneum was maintained with a standard trocar (ST group). Inspiratory plateau pressure (Pplat), static compliance (Cstat), minute volume (MV), tidal volume (Vt), and carbon dioxide (CO2) elimination rate were recorded at these times: 15 minutes after anesthesia induction (T0), 10 minutes (T1) and 60 minutes (T2) after first robot docking, 10 minutes before first undocking (T3), 10 minutes (T4) and 60 minutes (T5) after second docking, 10 minutes before second undocking (T6), and 10 minutes before extubation (T7). The primary end point of the study was the assessment of Pplat mean value from T1 to T6. RESULTS: A total of 56 patients were evaluated: 28 patients in the VT group and 28 in the ST group. VT group had lower Pplat (means and standard error, VT group 30 [0.66] versus ST group 34 [0.66] cm H2O, with estimated mean difference and 95% confidence interval, -4.1 [-5.9 to -2.2], P < .01), lower MV (means and standard error, VT group 8.2 [0.22] versus ST group 9.8 [0.21] L min, P < .01), lower CO2 elimination rate (means and standard error, VT group 4.2 [0.25] versus ST group 5.4 [0.24] mL kg min, P < .01), lower end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) (means and standard error, VT group 28.8 [0.48] versus ST group 31.3 [0.46] mm Hg, P < .01), and higher Cstat (means and standard error, VT group 26 [0.9] versus ST group 22.1 [0.9] mL cm H2O, P < .01). Both groups had similar Vt (P = .24). CONCLUSIONS: During RARC, use of a VT was associated with a significantly lower Pplat and improvement in other respiratory parameters.

Protective effect of sevoflurane preconditioning on ischemia-reperfusion injury in patients undergoing reconstructive plastic surgery with microsurgical flap, a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: In many clinical conditions that involve free flaps and tissue transplantations the possibility of minimizing ischemia-reperfusion injury can be a determinant factor for the success of the surgery itself. We hypothesize that preconditioning with sevoflurane is a protective factor against ischemia-reperfusion injury. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, patients ASA I-II undergoing breast reconstruction with deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps were allocated into two groups and analyzed: group BAL included patients who received balanced anesthesia with sevoflurane for 30 min before removal of the flap and throughout the surgery. The TCI group included patients who received a total intravenous anesthesia with propofol and remifentanil. We evaluated regional tissue oximetry at the end of the surgery and at 4, 12 and 20 h after surgery. Other assessed parameters were: blood lactate clearance, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactic dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase. RESULTS: In total 54 patients, twenty-seven per group, were analyzed. There was a significant increase of the average value of regional tissue oximetry measured 4 h after surgery in the BAL group compared to the TCI group: BAL: 84.05 % (8.96 SD); TCI : 76.17 % (12.92 SD) (P = 0.03), but not at the other time frames. The creatine phosphokinase value was significantly lower in the BAL group at the end of surgery, but not at the other time-frames. There were no significant differences in blood levels of other markers. CONCLUSIONS: From our results, the positive preconditioning impact of sevoflurane on ischemia-reperfusion injury in patients undergoing free flap surgery is expressed in the early postoperative hours, but it does not persist in the long-term. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrial.gov identifier: NCT01905501 . Registered July 18, 2013.

Preperitoneal Continuous Infusion of Local Anesthetics: What Is the Impact on Surgical Wound Infections in Humans?

OBJECTIVE: Continuous surgical wound infusion with local anesthetics is an effective and widely used technique in postoperative pain management. Some aspects of this technique, however, require further investigation. The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess whether continuous infusion of ropivacaine delays the process of wound healing, with an increased incidence of infection. DESIGN: In total, 244 patients aged between 18 and 75 years, American society of anesthesiology II-III, underwent hepatobiliary pancreatic surgery, were classified into two groups and retrospectively analyzed: group R (Ropivacaine) included 152 patients whose surgical incision was fitted with a preperitoneal catheter continuously infusing ropivacaine. Group C (Control) included 92 patients receiving a total intravenous postoperative analgesia. The evaluation forms of the surgical wound according to the Southampton wound assessment scale (SWAS) were collected at three time points. The main outcome was the rate of patients with surgical site infection within 30 days postoperatively. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients (13.8%) in group R and 9 patients (9.8%) in group C (P = 0.35) presented wound infection. The rate of patients with a wound evaluation of a SWAS grade IV or V in three time frames in Group R and Group C was T0, 1 (0.7%) and 1 (1.08%) (P = 0.72); T1, 25 (16.4%) and 7 (7.6%) (P = 0.04); T2, 8 (5.3%) and 5 (5.4%) (P = 0.53), respectively.onclusions. The incidence of infection in the surgical site according to the centers for disease control definition was comparable in both groups. The description of the wound healing process according to the SWAS scale shows an initial and temporary decrease in maturation in group R which does not persist in the long-term.

Evaluation of renal function under controlled hypotension in zero ischemia robotic assisted partial nephrectomy.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: In partial nephrectomy with hilar clamping every minute of ischemia can impair renal function, thus great importance is having the controlled hypotension as a part of zero ischemia technique. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of hypotensive anesthesia on renal function, in patients undergoing robotic assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) , during surgery and at 3 months follow up. METHODS: This is a prospective study of 100 patients, ASA 1-2, who underwent zero ischemia RAPN under controlled hypotension (CH) from December 2011 through to May 2013. Serum creatinine, BUN, estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR), fractional excretion of sodium (FSE) and technetium Tc 99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine (99mTC-MAG-3), renal scintigraphy with effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) were evaluated. RESULTS: Mean duration of CH was 50 ± 4 minutes. Acute renal failure wasn't observed in any of the patients. A significant variation of eGFR during the procedure and 24 hours after surgery was observed. No significant variation of BUN and FSE was detected. Comparing preoperative ERPF of the operated kidney with ERPF 3 months after surgery, it decreased by 2%. CONCLUSION: In patients with normal preoperative renal function CH didn't show any detrimental impact on renal function during and after robotic assisted partial nephrectomy.

Conventional (CH) vs. stapled hemorrhoidectomy (SH) in surgical treatment of hemorrhoids. Ten years experience.

INTRODUCTION: Interest about hemorrhoids is related to its high incidence and elevated social costs that derive from its treatment. Several comparative studies are reported in Literature to define a standard for ideal treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. Radical surgery is the only therapeutic option in case of III and IV stage haemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids surgical techniques are classified as Open, Closed and Stapled ones. OBJECTIVE: We report our decennial experience on surgical treatment focusing on early, middle and late complications, indications and contraindications, satisfaction level of each surgical procedure for hemorrhoids. METHODS: Four hundred forty-eight patients have been hospitalized in our department fom 1st January to 31st December 2008. Of these 241 underwent surgery with traditional open or closed technique and 207 with the SH technique according to Longo. This retrospective study includes only patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids at III or IV stage. RESULTS: There were no differences between CH and SH about both pre and post surgery hospitalization and intraoperative length. Pain is the most frequently observed early complication with a statistically significant difference in favour of SH. We obtain good results in CH group using anoderma sparing and perianal anaesthetic infiltration at the end of the surgery. In all cases, pain relief was obtained only with standard analgesic drugs (NSAIDs). We also observed that pain level influences the outcome after surgical treatment. No chronic pain cases were observed in both groups. Bleeding is another relevant early complication in particular after SH: we reported 2 cases of immediate surgical reintenvention and 2 cases treated with blood transfusion. Only in SH group we report also 5 cases of thrombosis of external haemorrhoids and 7 perianal hematoma both solved with medical therapy There were no statistical significant differences between two groups about fever, incontinence to flatus, urinary retention, fecal incontinence, substenosis and anal burning. No cases of anal stenosis were observed. About late complications, most frequently observed were rectal prolapse and hemorrhoidal recurrence, especially after SH. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Our experience confirms the validity of both CH and SH. Failure may be related to wrong surgical indication or technical execution. Certainly CH procedure is more invasive and slightly more painfull in immediate postoperative period than SH surgery, which is slightly more expensive and has more complications. In our opinion the high risk of possible early and immediate complications after surgery requires at least a 24 hours hospitalization length. SH is the gold standard for III grade haemorrhoids with mucous prolapse while CH is suggested in IV grade cases. Hemorrhoidal arterial ligation operation (HALO) technique in III and IV degree needs further validations.

Severe intra-aortic balloon pump complications: a single-center 12-year experience.

OBJECTIVE: An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is used routinely in high-risk patients undergoing cardiac surgery to prevent or treat low-cardiac-output syndrome and to reduce perioperative mortality. The insertion and management of IABP carry the risk of major vascular complications. The authors reviewed their database to ascertain the incidence of IABP-related severe complications. DESIGN: A retrospective study. SETTING: A teaching hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Ten thousand three hundred sixty-five patients scheduled for elective or emergency cardiac surgery over a 12-year period at a single center. INTERVENTIONS: Four hundred twenty-three patients received an IABP perioperatively. Careful preoperative screening for peripheral arterial disease, strict postoperative control, and the sheathless insertion technique to spare the arterial flow to the lower limb were performed routinely. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The use of a perioperative IABP was 0.7% at the beginning of the observation period in 1999 and 7.3% in 2010, showing a fluctuating trend. Two patients (0.47%) died of direct complications, arterial wall damage and bleeding. Immediate surgical exploration and control of bleeding were followed by multiple-organ failure and death. Vascular complications, leading to lower-limb ischemia, occurred in 4 of 423 patients (0.94%). All of them underwent urgent vascular surgery and survived. Local sepsis occurred in 2 other patients (0.47%). CONCLUSIONS: These data indicate that an IABP is a valuable option in high-risk patients undergoing cardiac surgery even if not devoid of intrinsic risks for vascular complications (0.94%), septic complications (0.47%) and mortality (0.47%).