Randomized experimental study of two novel techniques for transanal repair of dehiscent low rectal anastomosis.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leak after low anterior rectal resection is a dreadful complication. Early diagnosis, prompt management of sepsis followed by closure of anastomotic defect may increase chances of anastomotic salvage. In this randomized experimental study, we evaluated two different methods of trans-anal anastomotic repair. METHODS: A model of anastomotic leak was created in 42 male pigs. Laparoscopic low anterior resection was performed with anastomosis created using a circular stapler with half of the staples removed. Two days later, animals were randomized into a TAMIS (trans-anal minimally invasive surgery) repair, endoscopic suture (ENDO) or control group with no treatment (CONTROL). Signs of intraabdominal infection (IAI), macroscopic anastomotic healing and burst tests were evaluated to assess closure quality after animals were sacrificed on the ninth postoperative day. RESULTS: Closure was technically feasible in all 28 animals. Two animals had to be euthanized due to progressive sepsis at four and five days after endoscopic closure. Healed anastomosis with no visible defect was observed in 10/14 and 11/14 animals in TAMIS and ENDO groups, respectively, versus 2/14 in CONTROL (p < 0.05). Overall IAI rate was significantly lower in TAMIS (4/14; p = 0.006) and ENDO (5/14; p = 0.018) compared to CONTROL (12/14). Burst tests confirmed sealed closure in healed anastomosis with a median failure pressure of 190 (110-300) mmHg in TAMIS and 200 (100-300) mmHg in ENDO group (p = 0.644). CONCLUSION: In this randomized experimental study, we found that both evaluated techniques are effective in early repair of dehiscent colorectal anastomosis with a high healing rate.

Assessment of colorectal anastomosis perfusion with confocal laser endomicroscopy − an experimental study

Introduction: Early diagnosis of complicated healing of colorectal anastomosis can increase the chance for salvage surgery and thus reduce overall morbidity. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) enables in vivo assessment of tissue perfusion without disturbing its integrity. This experimental study evaluates the potential of CLE for postoperative monitoring of colorectal anastomosis. Methods: A hand-sewn colorectal anastomosis was performed in 9 pigs. The animals were subsequently divided into groups with normal (N=3) and ischemic anastomosis (N=6). Microscopic signs of hypoperfusion were evaluated postoperatively at regular intervals using CLE. Results: Uneven saturation of the images was evident in the group with ischemic anastomosis. The epithelium had inhomogeneous edges and more numerous crypt branching was visible. Tissue oedema quantified as the number of crypts per visual field was already more extensive at the first measurement after induction of ischemia. There was also a significant difference between the values measured before and 10 minutes after ischemia ­ 8.7±1.9 vs. 6.0±1.1 (p=0.013). Conclusion: Postoperative monitoring of the colorectal anastomosis using CLE enables prompt detection of perfusion disorders.

Robotic-assisted surgery for rectal cancer results of a non-randomized study.

INTRODUCTION: The Czech Republic belongs to countries in which colorectal cancer significantly contributes to the overall oncological burden. Radical removal of tumor-affected tissues plays a key role in the multimodal therapy of rectal cancer. In the first decade of the third millennium the mini-invasive approach in rectal cancer surgery gradually expanded to include robotic-assisted surgeries. The aim of this paper is to present the results of a non-randomized study with prospectively collected data from robotically assisted rectal cancer surgeries. METHODS: 204 patients with rectal cancer (.

Assessment of anastomosis perfusion by fluorescent angiography in robotic low rectal resection: the results of a non-randomized study.

INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer is a major contributor to the overall cancer burden in the Czech population. Anastomotic healing defects are a feared complication which may have a fatal impact on the patient. Fundamental conditions for proper anastomotic healing include sufficient blood supply. Fluorescent angiography using indocyanine green in the spectrum of near-infrared light facilitates the monitoring of tissue perfusion during a surgery. The aim of this article is to present the results of a non-randomized study in which we assessed prospectively obtained data from a perioperative assessment of anastomosis perfusion by fluorescent angiography using indocyanine green during robotic resection of the rectum with a malignant tumor. METHOD: Thirty patients with rectal cancer who underwent a robotic resection with primary anastomosis were consecutively included in the study between 1 April 2017 and 21 June 2018. The study included patients due to undergo a minimally invasive procedure with guaranteed health insurance coverage. During the operation, we monitored and assessed the quality of perfusion of the resection line of the sigmoid colon and subsequent anastomosis by means of fluorescent angiography using indocyanine green in the spectrum of near-infrared light. The data were obtained prospectively and subsequently analyzed. RESULTS: Between 1 April 2017 and 21 June 2018, we consecutively included 30 rectal cancer patients in the project: 16 men and 14 women. Monitoring of perfusion of the resection line and anastomosis was successful in all cases and perfusion quality was satisfactory across the sample. Perfusion insufficiency requiring a change in the resection line level or anastomosis adjustments was not detected with any patient. In two cases (12.5 %) of TME, we gave up the planned protective ileostomy owing to good perfusion of the anastomosis. One patient (3.3%) suffered from defective anastomotic healing without clinical symptoms (type A). We found no technical complications related to fluorescent angiography or undesirable effects due to the application of indocyanine green. CONCLUSION: Fluorescent angiography using indocyanine green in the spectrum of near-infrared light is a fast and safe option to monitor the level of blood supply to an anastomosis during surgery, which is a fundamental condition for proper healing. Even though we did not record insufficient perfusion in our sample and hence we did not need to change the resection line level or adjust the anastomosis, we may state that fluorescent angiography performed by an experienced colorectal surgeon may potentially reduce the frequency of complications linked to defective anastomotic healing.

[Surgical treatment of midshaft clavicular fractures using intramedullary nail]. / Operacní resení zlomenin strední cásti klícní kosti pomocí nitrodrenového hrebu.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of our study was to assess treatment outcomes in fractures of the middle part of the clavicle using an intramedullary nail. METHODS: We have evaluated a total of 58 patients with a clavicle bone fracture stabilized by the Hofer Clavicula Pin implant (HCP, Hofer GmbH & Co KG, Fürstenfeld, Germany). A static implant was used in 43 cases, and a dynamic implant was used in the remaining 15. The mean age of patients was 39.1 years (range 1871, SD 4.4), the male-to-female ratio being 43:15. The right collarbone was broken in 26 patients, the left one in 32. The average time between accident and surgery was 10.2 days (range 2-19, SD 4.4). The set included 24 two-, 14 three- and 20 four-fragment fractures of the clavicle midshaft. Open reduction was used in all the cases. The implant was introduced by the indirect method: first, insertion of the pin from the fracture antegrade into the lateral fragment took place, then it was inserted retrogradely into the medial fragment. RESULTS: The average patient follow-up was 7.1 months (range 623, SD 5.5). X-ray signs of healing were evident in all cases, with healing occurring at 8.4 weeks on average (range 620, SD 4.1). In one case (1.7%), however, healing did not occur - refracture was diagnosed 18 days following pin extraction with no clear mechanism of injury; two more refractures were caused by a new accident. The apex of the pin was broken in four cases (6.9%). In two cases (3.4%), angulation of the pin occurred; however, full fracture healing was satisfactorily achieved. Pin prominence was observed in a total of 23 cases (39.7%), requiring premature extraction of the implant due to perforation or irritation of skin and pain in 13 (22.4%) cases. 10 cases (17.2%) of prominence were asymptomatic. Six cases with skin perforation by the implant developed clinical signs of infection, wound healing was always achieved after extraction of the pin and application of antibiotics. A very good functional finding in the shoulder joint was observed in 57 patients (98.2%). The DASH score reached an average of 8.1 points (range 0.8-30.8, SD 4.4). Constant score was 93.1 (range 42.8-98.1, SD 3.2). CONCLUSION: Intramedullary stabilization of two-, three- and four-fragment fractures of the middle part of the clavicle using the Hofer Clavicula Pin provides very good stability during healing and leads to good healing of fractures. The complications of the method are soft tissue irritation or even skin perforation in the region of the lateral end of the implant. Preventive insertion of the pin closer to the bone may prevent such complications, but also result in difficult pin extraction.Key words: fractures - clavicle - osteosynthesis - intramedullary complications.

Postoperative monitoring of colorectal anastomosis - experimental study.

INTRODUCTION: Inadequate blood supply is one of the major risk factors for colorectal anastomotic leak. Early postoperative detection of local ischemic changes can predict complicated healing and lead to better outcome. Microdialysis (MD) offers real-time evaluation of adequate bowel perfusion through monitoring of tissue metabolism. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of MD for early detection of ischemic changes in colorectal anastomosis. METHOD: Five pigs with end-to-end colorectal anastomosis were included. MD catheter was placed intramurally 5mm from anastomotic edge. Occlusive ischemia was induced after 3 measurements and followed by another 3 hours of monitoring. Tissue levels of different metabolites were measured every 60 minutes before and after ischemia induction. Mann-Whitney test was used to compare pre and post ischemic changes. RESULTS: The monitoring of colorectal anastomosis using MD was technically feasible and associated with no complications. Significant changes caused by local ischemia were observed in decreased levels of glucose or pyruvate and increased levels of lactate and glycerol. All metabolic changes were detectable already in first samples 60 minutes after ischemia induction. CONCLUSION: Postoperative ischemic changes in colorectal anastomosis can be detected by means of microdialysis.Key words: colorectal anastomosis anastomotic leak microdialysis.

[Laparoscopic versus open left pancreatectomy: surgical stress response comparison in the porcine model]. / Srovnání operacní záteze u laparoskopické a otevrené levostranné pankreatektomie v experimentu na velkém laboratorním zvíreti.

INTRODUCTION: Although several techniques of laparoscopic left pancreatectomy have already been developed through experiments on animals and human patients, there is still insufficient information about their pathophysiological mechanisms, especially the impact on surgical stress. METHOD: In a group of 10 pigs, open left pancreatectomy was performed, and the other group of 10 pigs underwent laparoscopic left pancreatectomy. Postoperative stress was compared by determining serum levels of leukocytes, interleukin 1, 6 and CRP from peripheral venous blood collection. The blood was collected prior to incision, 1 and 2 hours after incision, 24 hours after the beginning of the procedure, and on the 7th postoperative day. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was found between open and laparoscopic left pancreatectomy in the measured values of leukocytes, IL-1 and 6 and CRP.Key words: laparoscopy - left pancreatectomy surgical stress response interleukin 1 interleukin 6.

[Can robotic rectal cancer surgery improve quality of total mesorectal excision?] / Muze robotická asistence pri chirurgické lécbe karcinomu rekta zlepsit kvalitu totální mezorektální excize?

INTRODUCTION: The introduction of total mesorectal excision (TME) in the 1980s was pivotal in the surgical treatment for rectal carcinoma (RC). Routinely applied TME led to a significant reduction in the incidence of local recurrences. The purpose of our paper is to present the results of our non-randomized study comparing prospectively acquired data from radical resection / rectal extirpation using classic open access, laparoscopy and da Vinci robotic system. METHOD: The study group included 116 patients with RC who underwent radical surgical treatment between 1/2014-12/2016, after which the collected resection specimens were assessed in pathology laboratories of the referring hospital using the Quirkes protocol. Analysis of data collected prospectively over a period of 3 years was done. The surgical procedures were open, laparoscopic and robotic. Robotic surgery could only be performed in patients whose health insurers guaranteed to cover the robotic resection expenses. Those patients whose health insurers did not cover the costs of the robotic assisted procedure were treated using the laparoscopic technique. RESULTS: Over a period of 3 years (2014-2016), the teams at the Department of Surgery of the 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Central Military Hospital, Prague treated 116 patients (75 men and 41 women) for RC; resected specimens of the patients were processed according to the Quirkes protocol. Mean age was 63 years (33-80). pCRO positivity was confirmed in 5 patients (4.3%) and complete or nearly complete TME was achieved in 94 patients (81%). More than a half of the procedures were performed using the minimally invasive surgery. No patient died. CONCLUSION: Despite the high rate of technically difficult cases (male sex, tumours in the distal third of the rectum), the robotic assisted treatment showed best results in our study group in terms of quality of the mesorectal excision. Our results thus provide evidence of an unequivocal benefit of robotic assistance compared to manual laparoscopy and open procedures in terms of TME as a quality indicator of surgery in patients with CR. Given the limited time span, there are no long-term results to be assessed in our patients.Key words: rectal carcinoma - TME - evaluation of surgical treatment - robotic rectal surgery.

A comparison of two endoscopic closures: over-the-scope clip (OTSC) versus KING closure (endoloop + clips) in a randomized long-term experimental study.

BACKGROUND: Both over-the-scope clip (OTSC) and KING (endoloop + clips) closures provide reliable and safe full-thickness endoscopic closure. Nevertheless, OTSC clip demonstrated significantly inferior histological healing in the short-term follow-up. AIM: To compare OTSC versus KING closure of a perforation with regard to long-term effectiveness and macroscopic and histological quality of healing. METHODS: We performed a randomized experimental study with 16 mini-pigs (mean weight 43.2 ± 11.2 kg). A standardized perforation was performed on the anterior sigmoid wall. KING closure (n = 8) was attained by approximation of an endoloop fixed to the margins of a perforation with endoclips. OTSC closure (n = 8) was performed by deploying OTSC (OVESCO) over the defect. Pigs underwent a control sigmoidoscopy 8 months after the closure to assess the macroscopic quality of healing. Then, autopsy was performed and the rectosigmoid was sent for histopathological assessment. RESULTS: All closures were completed successfully without air leaks. The duration of closure was similar in both techniques (OTSC 17.8 ± 7.6 min vs. KING 19.6 ± 8.8 min). At autopsy, all KING closures (100 %) were healed with a flat scar without signs of leakage. Microscopically, no inflammatory changes were observed after KING closure. In the OTSC group, microscopic ulcers were present in two pigs (25 %), cryptal abscesses in three pigs (38 %) and significant neutrophil accumulation in all eight pigs (P < 0.01). Giant cell granulomas, dysplasia or abundant scarification was not observed in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Both OTSC and KING closures offer a long-term reliable seal of a gastrointestinal perforation without stenosis or fistulas. KING closure provides long-term histologically superior healing.

[Existing laparoscopic simulators and their benefit for the surgeon]. / Laparoskopické simulátory a jejich soucasný prínos pro chirurga.

INTRODUCTION: Nowadays, laparoscopic operations are a common part of surgical practice. However, they have their own characteristics and require a specific method of preparation. Recently, simulation techniques have been increasingly used for the training of skills. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of available literature on the topic of laparoscopic simulators, to assess their contribution to the training of surgeons, and to identify the most effective type of simulation. METHODS: PubMed database, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were used to search for relevant publications. The keywords "laparoscopy, simulator, surgery, assessment" were used in the search. The search was limited to prospective studies published in the last 5 years in the English language. RESULTS: From a total of 354 studies found, we included in the survey 26 that matched our criteria. Nine studies compared individual simulators to one another. Five studies evaluated "high and low fidelity" (a virtual box simulator) as equally effective (EBM 2a). In three cases the "low fidelity" box simulator was found to be more efficient (EBM 2a3b). Only one study preferred the virtual simulator (VR) (EBM2b).Thirteen studies evaluated the benefits of simulators for practice. Twelve found training on a simulator to be an effective method of preparation (EBM 1b3b). In contrast, one study did not find any difference between the training simulator and traditional preparation (EBM 3b). Nine studies evaluated directly one of the methods of evaluating laparoscopic skills. Three studies evaluated VR simulator as a useful assessment tool. Other studies evaluated as successful the scoring system GOALS-GH. The hand motion analysis model was successful in one case. Most studies were observational (EBM 3b) and only 2 studies were of higher quality (EBM 2b). CONCLUSION: Simulators are an effective tool for practicing laparoscopic techniques (EBM: 1b). It cannot be determined based on available data which of the simulators is most effective. The virtual simulator, however, still remains the most self-sufficient unit suitable for teaching as well as evaluation of laparoscopic techniques (EBM 2b3b). Further studies are needed to find an effective system and parameters for an objective evaluation of skills. KEY WORDS: laparoscopy - simulator - surgery assessment.

[Da Vinci assisted surgery for rectal cancer - preliminary results of nonrandomized trial]. / Da Vinci asistovaná lécba karcinomu rekta - prubezné výsledky nerandomizované studie.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the Czech Republic is reported to be one of the highest on the global scale. Radical tumor removal has been observed to be the most effective part in the context of current multimodal therapy. The authors present their preliminary results of robotic assisted treatment of rectal carcinoma (RC). METHOD: The observed group includes 61 patients who underwent robotic assisted treatment for rectal cancer. The data were collected prospectively in the last 31 patients. Analyses were conducted on epidemiological data, perioperative outcomes, complications and oncological results. RESULTS: Robotic assisted treatment of RC was performed in 61 patients: 34 men and 27 women, mean age of 62 years (33-80). Neoadjuvant oncological treatment was indicated in 46% of the patients. Average blood loss was 187 ml, transfusions were administered in three cases. Conversion to open procedure was performed 6 times, and 16 patients had postoperative complications. Anastomotic leak was observed in 10% of the patients, and 4 patients undewent surgical treatment. No patient died. Local recurrence of the cancer was diagnosed in 3 (5%) patients. The quality of mesorectal excision (ME) and the circumferential resection margin [(y)pCRM] have been determined in 27 patients since 2013. Positive (y)pCRM was recorded in two cases and incomplete ME was observed in 25.8% of the patients. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment for RC is pivotal in multimodal therapy. Our preliminary results are similar to the conclusions in other published studies. The da Vinci robotic system is a safe manipulator in the treatment of RC and provides indisputable benefits to the surgeon when operating in the narrow pelvic space. However, the benefits of robotic treatment in abdominal surgery are yet to be evaluated in patients (with respect to long-term results, sufficient number of patients or a high EBM level of evidence). The high purchase price of the robotic device, individual instruments with equipment and non-systemic compensation constitute a significant hindrance that prevents wider use of the robotic system in the treatment of RC and other abdominal malignancies in the Czech Republic.

[Revision surgery in diaphyseal forearm fractures]. / Revizní operace diafyzárních zlomenin predloktí

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study was to compare the results of revision surgery in diaphyseal fractures of the ulna and radius treated by intra-medullary interlocking nailing or plate osteosynthesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The group included 36 patients who, in the period from 2000 to 2005, were treated with the use of the intra-medullary ForeSight nail system (Smith & Nephew, USA) or a small, 3.5 mm auto-compression plate (different manufacturers). Pseudoarthrosis developed in 25 patients and recurrent fractures were found in 11 patients (six of these suffered fractures along the original fracture line after minimal trauma and five showed a recurrent fracture at the site of screw tunnels). The average age of the patients was 37.3 years. The average period between injury and revision surgery was 16 months (range, 4 to 32 months). The follow-up included examination for early and late complications and the evaluation of X-ray findings and functional outcomes. RESULTS: The average follow-up was 21 months (range, 12 to 36 months). For revision surgery, an intra-medullary nail was used in 28 and a plate in 8 patients. The average operative time was 85 min (range, 30 to 180 min). Radiographic union was achieved by 6 months in 30, by 12 months in three and by 18 months in three patients. The average fusion time in the 30 patients healing by 6 months (nailing, 23x, 7x plate osteosynthesis) was 16.05 weeks. The range of motion in the wrist, forearm and elbow was evaluated by the Anderson method. The outcomes were excellent, good and satisfactory in 11, 15 and 10 patients, respectively. Poor results or wrist or elbow stiffness were not recorded. Pain was recorded at rest and in activity, taking requirements for analgesic therapy into account. After revision surgery, 22 patients were free from pain, 10 reported occasional pain during activity and four experienced pain at rest. None of the patients required permanent analgesic therapy. CONCLUSIONS: The results of our study show the effectiveness of plate and nailing techniques in revision forearm surgery. The corrective procedure must be chosen with regard to the type of pseudoarthrosis, and individual therapy respecting the principles of stable osteosynthesis is necessary. A differentiated operative approach, infection control and stimulation of bony union also play important roles.

[Callus distraction lengthening of the tibia with the intramedullary kinetic nail (case report)]. / Prolongace bérce pomocí kalus-distrakce s vyuzitím kinetického intramedulárního hrebu (kazuistika).

In this report the first experience with callus distraction lengthening using the intramedullary kinetic nail is described. This was performed on a left tibia with a total shortening of 34 mm. The distraction phase lasted 36 days and the rate of distraction was 0.95 mm per day. The full weight-bearing of the treated lower extremity was allowed at 12 weeks after surgery. Complete consolidation of the callus was achieved at 112 days and the consolidation index was 3.21 days/mm. No serious complications were recorded during the post-operative period. At 12 months after surgery, the patient showed a full range of motion in the knee, his ankle range of motion was S 15-0-35, and he achieved an excellent functional outcome on evaluation by Paley's classification.

[Treatment of intracapsular femoral neck fractures with the use of a proximal femoral nail]. / Resení intrakapsulárních zlomenin krcku femuru pomocí proximálního femorálního hrebu.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The management of intracapsular femoral neck fractures remains an unsolved issue of the present-day trauma surgery of the musculoskeletal system. These fractures are conventionally treated with the use of spongious screws or a dynamic hip screw combined with an antirotational spongious screw. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of surgical therapy using a different type of implant (proximal femoral nail) for intracapsular femoral neck fractures. MATERIAL: From January 2000 to March 2004, intracapsular fractures were treated with the use of a proximal femoral nail in 70 patients. In this retrospective study, 56 patients (28 men and 28 women) were evaluated at a minimum of 12 months after surgery. The average follow-up was 22.4 months. According to the AO classification, the fractures were categorized as 31- B1 in 20, 31-B2 in 12 and 31-B3 in 24 patients. METHODS: The implant used was a bi-axial proximal femoral nail (Targon PF, B. Braun Aesculap, Germany) inserted by the standard surgical procedure. RESULTS: In 33.3 % of the patients the operative stabilization was performed early, within 6 hours of injury, in 51.8 % the operation was carried out within 24 hours, and 14.3 % of the patients underwent surgery later than 24 hours after injury. At one year after injury, fracture union without complications was recorded in 45 patients (80 %). Complications included avascular necrosis of the femoral head in seven patients (12.5 %), pseudoarthrosis in two patients (3.6 %) and other serious complications in two patients (3.6 %). Reoperations were indicated in five patients, and these underwent total hip replacement. No refracture occurred in the vicinity of the implant. No or little pain after the implantation procedure, as assessed at 12 months and later, was reported by 83 % of the patients. The patients in whom fracture union was achieved without complications were allowed to walk with full weight-bearing at 13.8, 16.4 and 20.4 weeks, when their injury was 31-B1, 31-B2 and 31-B3, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that the bi-axial proximal femoral nail (Targon PF, B. Braun Aesculap, Germany) is useful for management of intracapsular femoral head fractures because of the following advantages: it eliminates the risk of lateral protrusion of the implant, it allows for even distribution of weight bearing and thus reduces the risk of pseudoarthrosis development, it has a low probability of the sliding screw getting jammed.

[Diagnosis and treatment of benign subvesicular obstruction in benign prostatic hyperplasia without enlargement]. / Diagnostika a lécba benigní subvezikální obstrukce u nezvetsené benigní prostatické hyperplazie.

At the urological department of the First Surgical Clinic, Faculty of general Medicine Charles University in Prague from January 1977 to December 1986 922 men were operated on account of benign obstruction of the cervix. Ninety-one patients, i.e. 9.8%, with some common signs were subjected to clinical analysis. The criterium for inclusion in the group was the finding of a not enlarged, through on palpation frequently altered prostate, the finding of a histological, endoscopic, X-ray and urodynamic examination. The common sign of these patients was the presence of the disease in young age, a prolonged persistence (up to 20 years) and the frequent presence of supravesical congestion, sometimes with a diverticulum of the urinary bladder. The cause of the disease was dyssynergy, urethrovesical hypertrophy of the poesterior commissure, atrophy of the prostate, subtrigonal hyperplasia of the prostate and a secondary contracture. A transurethral operation was performed in 64 patients, a transvesicalar one in 24 and in three a XY plastic operation was made.