Quantitative assessment of the troCarWash™ system for automated laparoscopic camera cleaning.

BACKGROUND: Soilage of the surgical endoscope occurs frequently during minimally invasive surgery. The resultant impairment of visualization of the surgical field compromises patient safety, prolongs operative times, and frustrates surgeons. The standard practice for cleaning the surgical camera involves a disruption in the conduct of surgery by completely removing the endoscope from the field, manually cleaning its lens, treating it with a surfactant, and reinserting it into the patient; after which the surgeon resumes the procedure. METHODS: We developed an automated solution for in vivo endoscope cleaning in minimally invasive surgery- a port that detects the position of the endoscope in its distal lumen, and precisely and automatically delivers a pressurized mist of cleaning solution to the lens of the camera. No additions to the scope and minimal user interaction with the port are required. We tested the efficacy of this troCarWash™ device in a porcine model of laparoscopy. Four board-certified general surgeons were instructed to soil and then clean the laparoscope using the device. Representative pre- and post-clean images were exported from the surgical video and clarity was graded (1) digitally by a canny edge detection algorithm, and (2) subjectively by 3 blinded, unbiased observers using a semi-quantitative scale. RESULTS: We observed statistically significant improvements in clarity by each method and for each surgeon, and we noted significant correlation between digital and subjective scores. CONCLUSION: Based on these data, we conclude that the troCarWash™ effectively restored impaired visualization in a large animal model of laparoscopy.

Laparoscopic Trocars: Marketed Versus True Dimensions-A Descriptive Study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To establish true dimensions of single-use laparoscopic trocars compared with marketed dimensions, calculate corresponding incision sizes, examine what trocar size categories are based on, and outline accessibility of information regarding true dimensions. DESIGN: Descriptive study. SETTING: Laparoscopic disposable trocars available in North America and Europe are marketed in several distinct categories. In practice, trocars in the same-size category exhibit different functionality (ability to introduce instruments/needles and retrieve specimens) and warrant different incision lengths. PATIENTS: Not applicable. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: True dimensions for 125 trocars (bladeless, optical, and balloon) were obtained from 9 vendors covering 8 marketed size categories (3-, 3.5-, 5-, 8-, 10-, 11-, 12-, and 15-mm trocars). On average, true inner cannula diameter was 0.92 mm wider (SD, 0.41 mm; range, 0-2.4 mm) than the marketed size category, with the widest range in the 5 mm category. For 5-mm trocars, mean true inner diameter was 6.1 mm (SD, 0.45; range, 5.5-7.4) and true outer diameter 8.3 mm (SD, 0.71; range, 8.0-10.7). For 12-mm trocars, mean true inner diameter was 13.0 mm (SD, 0.21; range, 12-13.3) and outer diameter 15.3 mm (SD, 0.48; range, 14.4-16.8). Five-mm trocars necessitate a mean incision size of 13.0 mm (SD, 1.1; range, 12.1-16.8) and 12-mm trocars a mean incision of 24.0 mm (SD, 0.75; range, 22.6-26.4). No vendors stated actual diameters on company website or catalog. In one instance the Instructions For Use document contained the true inner diameter. CONCLUSION: Trocar size categories give a false sense of standardization when in actuality there are considerable within-category differences in both inner and outer diameters, corresponding to differences in functionality and required incision sizes. There is no universally applied definition for trocar size categories. Accessibility of information on true dimensions is limited.

Constant high-level visual acuity during total laparoscopic hysterectomy using the OpClear® system.

BACKGROUND: Operative vision can frequently be critically reduced during laparoscopic surgery by condensation and other matter accumulating on the distal laparoscope lens. By delivering saline and carbon dioxide across the lens, the OpClear system is designed to maintain operative vision without needing scope removal for lens cleaning. This study evaluates the system's efficacy in providing high-level visual acuity during laparoscopic hysterectomy while examining its utility through its impact on operative duration. METHODS: A retrospective audit compared efficacy and utility for the three years before and after the implementation of OpClear in a single unit. Thirty-three cases were reviewed pre-OpClear, while 82 cases were analysed in the post-OpClear group. All cases involved routine total laparoscopic hysterectomies (TLH) performed by the same surgeon (AT) with similar complexity levels. RESULTS: The OpClear system provided a consistently high level of visual acuity throughout the laparoscopic procedures. Scope removals, which typically result in non-productive operating time, were virtually eliminated. Consequently, in highly comparable cases, OpClear usage resulted in a 17-minute reduction in operating time over cases performed without the device. Additionally, in the OpClear group, there were trends towards reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stays, with patients in the OpClear group being discharged on first rather than second postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this audit suggest that the OpClear system provides continuous high-level vision during laparoscopic hysterectomy. Further, reducing periods of non-productive time associated with scope removal for cleaning resulted in shorter operating times. Thus, the system has the potential to enhance safety, improve theatre utilisation and alleviate some of the surgical stresses associated with laparoscopic surgery.

Keyhole (Laparoscopic) surgery is often better for patients than open surgery as it speeds up recovery and return to normal activities. However, despite technical advances, the surgeon's view during keyhole operations may be lost by condensation and tissue material sticking to the lens of the laparoscope, the instrument used to see inside the body. For safety, such vision loss demands that operations must be paused so the 'scope' can be removed and the lens cleaned. This may occur often during an operation, interrupting its progress. Our audit reviews OpClear, a device that cleans the lens while the scope is in the body, improving vision and reducing pauses. OpClear works by blowing gas and fluid across the lens, washing away contamination. In keyhole hysterectomy operations, OpClear maintained vision and shortened the length of operations. OpClear may lead to safer, shorter keyhole operations and help improve the efficiency of operating departments.

Hybrid optical-vision tracking in laparoscopy: accuracy of navigation and ultrasound reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: The use of laparoscopic and robotic liver surgery is increasing. However, it presents challenges such as limited field of view and organ deformations. Surgeons rely on laparoscopic ultrasound (LUS) for guidance, but mentally correlating ultrasound images with pre-operative volumes can be difficult. In this direction, surgical navigation systems are being developed to assist with intra-operative understanding. One approach is performing intra-operative ultrasound 3D reconstructions. The accuracy of these reconstructions depends on tracking the LUS probe. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study evaluates the accuracy of LUS probe tracking and ultrasound 3D reconstruction using a hybrid tracking approach. The LUS probe is tracked from laparoscope images, while an optical tracker tracks the laparoscope. The accuracy of hybrid tracking is compared to full optical tracking using a dual-modality tool. Ultrasound 3D reconstruction accuracy is assessed on an abdominal phantom with CT transformed into the optical tracker's coordinate system. RESULTS: Hybrid tracking achieves a tracking error < 2 mm within 10 cm between the laparoscope and the LUS probe. The ultrasound reconstruction accuracy is approximately 2 mm. CONCLUSION: Hybrid tracking shows promising results that can meet the required navigation accuracy for laparoscopic liver surgery.

Optical angle and visuospatial ability affect basic laparoscopic simulator task performance.

Surgical trainees show decreased performance during laparoscopic surgery when the laparoscope (camera) is not aligned with their line of sight towards the operating area. In this study we investigate the influence of visuospatial ability on laparoscopic simulator performance under such non-zero optical angles. Novices were invited to participate in a laparoscopic training session. After completing a visuospatial ability assessment, they performed a simplified laparoscopic task on an in-house developed laparoscopic simulator under eight different optical angles ranging between 0° and 315° in steps of 45°. Data-analysis showed decreased performance under all non-zero optical angles for task duration (mean difference between 1506 and 5049 ms, standard error between 499 and 507, p < .05) and for accuracy under optical angles greater than ±45° (mean difference between 1.48 and 2.11, standard error 0.32, p < .01). Performance-zones were identified for various optical angle ranges and differed for task duration and accuracy. Participants of high visuospatial ability performed significantly better under non-zero angles for accuracy compared to participants of low visuospatial ability (mean difference 0.95, standard error 0.34, p < .01), except for the 180° optical angle (no difference).

A Monocular Variable Magnifications 3D Laparoscope System Using Double Liquid Lenses.

During minimal invasive surgery (MIS), the laparoscope only provides a single viewpoint to the surgeon, leaving a lack of 3D perception. Many works have been proposed to obtain depth and 3D reconstruction by designing a new optical structure or by depending on the camera pose and image sequences. Most of these works modify the structure of the conventional laparoscopes and cannot provide 3D reconstruction of different magnification views. In this study, we propose a laparoscopic system based on double liquid lenses, which provide doctors with variable magnification rates, near observation, and real-time monocular 3D reconstruction. Our system composes of an optical structure that can obtain auto magnification change and autofocus without any physically moving element, and a deep learning network based on the Depth from Defocus (DFD) method, trained to suit inconsistent camera intrinsic situations and estimate depth from images of different focal lengths. The optical structure is portable and can be mounted on conventional laparoscopes. The depth estimation network estimates depth in real-time from monocular images of different focal lengths and magnification rates. Experiments show that our system provides a 0.68-1.44x zoom rate and can estimate depth from different magnification rates at 6fps. Monocular 3D reconstruction reaches at least 6mm accuracy. The system also provides a clear view even under 1mm close working distance. Ex-vivo experiments and implementation on clinical images prove that our system provides doctors with a magnified clear view of the lesion, as well as quick monocular depth perception during laparoscopy, which help surgeons get better detection and size diagnosis of the abdomen during laparoscope surgeries.

Experimental evaluation of accuracy and efficiency of two control strategies for a novel foot commanded robotic laparoscope holders with surgeons.

The implementation of a laparoscope-holding robot in minimally invasive surgery enhances the efficiency and safety of the operation. However, the extra robot control task can increase the cognitive load on surgeons. A suitable interface may simplify the control task and reduce the surgeon load. Foot interfaces are commonly used for commanding laparoscope-holding robots, with two control strategies available: decoupled control permits only one Cartesian axis actuation, known as decoupled commands; hybrid control allows for both decoupled commands and multiple axes actuation, known as coupled commands. This paper aims to determine the optimal control strategy for foot interfaces by investigating two common assumptions in the literature: (1) Decoupled control is believed to result in better predictability of the final laparoscopic view orientation, and (2) Hybrid control has the efficiency advantage in laparoscope control. Our user study with 11 experienced and trainee surgeons shows that decoupled control has better predictability than hybrid control, while both approaches are equally efficient. In addition, using two surgery-like tasks in a simulator, users' choice of decoupled and coupled commands is analysed based on their level of surgical experience and the nature of the movement. Results show that trainee surgeons tend to issue more commands than the more experienced participants. Single decoupled commands were frequently used in small view adjustments, while a mixture of coupled and decoupled commands was preferred in larger view adjustments. A guideline for foot interface control strategy selection is provided.

Research progress of robot and laparoscope in postoperative complications of rectal cancer.

Rectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumours worldwide, and it is also one of the major diseases that seriously threatens human life and health. At present, the main treatment for rectal cancer is still surgical treatment. The surgical methods have been rapidly developed from the previous open surgery to the current minimally invasive surgery. At present, there are two main minimally invasive surgeries: robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery. Due to the particularity of rectal cancer surgery, more and more studies have shown that robotic rectal cancer surgery has more advantages than laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery. However, whether the incidence of postoperative complications after robotic rectal cancer surgery is lower than that after laparoscopy is not uniformly conclusive in the current study. Therefore, in this paper, we searched Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Embase and other databases, collected the latest published meta-analysis on postoperative complications of robots and laparoscopy in rectal cancer, and assessed the quality of the included meta-analysis by AMSTAR-2 evaluation tool, so as to explore the current research status and research quality of postoperative complications of robots and laparoscopy in rectal cancer. The results showed that compared with laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery, robotic rectal cancer surgery could improve the postoperative urinary and reproductive function of male patients, but it could not be proved that robotic rectal cancer surgery could reduce the incidence of postoperative complications, anastomotic leakage, urinary retention, intestinal obstruction, anastomotic bleeding, incision infection, pulmonary infection, venous thrombosis and abdominal abscess; however, the overall quality of meta-analysis of the results of each complication was low or very low. Therefore, multicenter, large-sample, high-quality prospective randomised controlled studies and high-quality meta-analysis are still needed to prove the advantages of robotic rectal cancer surgery in postoperative complications in the future.

Quimioterapia intraperitoneal en aerosol presurizado (PIPAC) / Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC)

RESUMEN La técnica PIPAC se presenta como una variante de tratamiento para los pacientes con carcinomato sis peritoneal que no son candidatos a una resección. Se describen de manera detallada los pasos y el procedimiento quirúrgico para la administración de quimioterapia intraperitoneal presurizada con dispositivo PIPAC.

ABSTRACT Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) is a therapeutic option for patients with unresectable peritoneal carcinomatosis. The steps and the surgical technique of the PIPAC technique are thoroughly described.

Insuflación con aguja de Veress en punto de Palmer, hasta presión intraabdominal de 25 mmHg. Técnica para mejorar la seguridad del acceso laparoscópico ginecológico / Veress needle inflation at Palmer's point, up to intra-abdominal pressure of 25 mmHg. Technique to improve the safety of gynecological laparoscopic access

RESUMEN Objetivos: El objetivo del estudio es observar los beneficios de la entrada laparoscópica con trocar para la óptica, tras la insuflación previa con aguja de Veress en punto de Palmer, hasta conseguir una presión intraabdominal de 25 mmHg. Material y método: Estudio prospectivo de 115 cirugías laparoscópicas realizadas con la técnica anteriormente descrita, por el mismo equipo quirúrgico; de julio de 2014 a marzo de 2018, en el Departamento de Ginecología del Hospital General Santa María del Puerto. Resultados: El tiempo medio de las maniobras de acceso fue de 175 segundos. En el 84.3 % de las ocasiones, el acceso a la cavidad abdominal se consiguió en el primer intento. Sólo en dos ocasiones (1.7%), fue necesario cambiar la técnica de acceso. No se objetivó ninguna complicación o efecto adverso en el 96.5% de las cirugías. En dos pacientes (1.7%) se produjo un enfisema subcutáneo, en una ocasión un enfisema epiploico (0.9%) y en una paciente (0.9%), se objetivó una ligera intolerancia anestésica durante la realización del neumoperitoneo. No se registró durante el estudio ninguna complicación mayor asociada a las maniobras de acceso. Conclusiones: La entrada con presiones altas intraabdominales tras insuflación con aguja de Veress en punto de Palmer, es una técnica segura y reproducible para evitar complicaciones mayores, durante las maniobras de acceso a cavidad abdominal. Además, esta técnica no produce efectos adversos anestésicos relevantes secundarios a las altas presiones en pacientes sanas, debido al escaso tiempo durante el que se mantienen las mismas.

ABSTRACT Objectives: The aim of the study is to observe the benefits of laparoscopic trocar entry for optics, after previous insufflation with Veress needle at Palmer's point, until an intra-abdominal pressure of 25 mmHg is achieved. Material and method: Prospective study of 115 laparoscopic surgeries performed with the previously described technique, by the same surgical team; from July 2014 to March 2018, in the Department of Gynecology of the Hospital General Santa María del Puerto. Results: The average time of access maneuvers was 175 seconds. In 84.3% of the cases, access to the abdominal cavity was achieved on the first attempt. Only on two occasions (1.7%), it was necessary to change the access technique. No complication or adverse effect was found in 96.5% of the surgeries. Subcutaneous emphysema (1.7%) occurred in two patients, epiploic emphysema (0.9%) and in one patient (0.9%), a slight anesthetic intolerance was observed during the pneumoperitoneum. No major complications associated with the access maneuvers were recorded during the study. Conclusions: The entry with high intra-abdominal pressures after insufflation with Veress needle at Palmer's point, is a safe and reproducible technique to avoid major complications, during maneuvers of access to the abdominal cavity. In addition, this technique does not produce relevant adverse anesthetic effects secondary to high pressures in healthy patients, due to the short time during which they remain.

Microbiological evaluation of the steam sterilization of assembled laparoscopic instruments / Avaliação microbiológica da esterilização a vapor do instrumental laparoscópico montado / Evaluación microbiológica de la esterilización a vapor de instrumental laparoscópico montado

ABSTRACT Objective: assess the safety of steam sterilization of assembled laparoscopic instruments with challenge contamination. Method: a laboratory experimental study, using as test samples trocars and laparoscopic graspers. Geobacillus stearothermophillus ATCC-7953 was used, with a microbial population of 106UFC/Filter paper substrate, removed from the biological indicator. Three of them were introduced into each instrument at the time of assembly, and sterilized at pressurized saturated steam, 134oC for 5 minutes. After sterilization, the instrument was disassembled and each filter paper substrate was inoculated in soybean casein culture and incubated at 56oC for 21 days. In case of absence of growth, they were subjected to heat shock of 80oC, for 20 minutes and re-incubated for 72 hours. Sample size: 185 graspers and 185 trocars, with 95% power. We paired the experiments with comparative negative control groups (5 graspers and 5 trocars with challenge contamination, sterilized disassembled) and positive control (30 filter paper supports, unsterilized), subject to the same incubation procedures. Results: there was no microbial growth in experimental and negative control. The results of the positive control were satisfactory. Conclusion: this study provided strong scientific evidence to support the safety of steam sterilizing of the assembled laparoscopic instrument.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a segurança da esterilização a vapor, do instrumental laparoscópico montado com desafio da contaminação. Método: estudo experimental laboratorial, cujo corpo de prova foram trocarte e pinça laparoscópica. Utilizou-se esporos Geobacillus stearothermophillus ATCC-7953, com população microbiana de 106UFC/suporte de papel filtro, removidos do indicador biológico. Três deles foram introduzidos no interior de cada instrumento, no momento da montagem, sendo esterilizados a vapor saturado sob pressão, 134oC por 5 minutos. Depois da esterilização, o instrumental foi desmontado, e cada suporte de papel filtro foi inoculado em meio de cultura de caseína soja, incubado a 56oC por 21 dias. Não havendo crescimento, foram submetidos a um choque térmico de 80oC, por 20 minutos e reincubados por 72 horas. Tamanho da amostra, 185 pinças e 185 trocartes, com poder de 95%. Os experimentos foram acompanhados dos grupos controle negativo comparativo (5 pinças e 5 trocartes com contaminação desafio, esterilizados desmontados) e positivo (30 suportes de papel filtro, não esterilizados), submetidos aos mesmos procedimentos de incubação. Resultados: não houve nenhum crescimento microbiano nos grupos experimental e controle negativo. Os resultados do controle positivo foram satisfatórios. Conclusão: este estudo forneceu fortes evidências científicas para sustentar a segurança da prática de esterilização a vapor do instrumental laparoscópico montado.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la seguridad de la esterilización a través de vapor, de instrumental laparoscópico previamente montado con desafío de contaminación. Método: estudio experimental en laboratorio, cuyo cuerpo de prueba fueron trócarte y pinza laparoscópica. Se utilizó esporas Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC-7953, con población microbiana de 106UFC/soporte de papel filtro, removidos del indicador biológico. Tres de ellos fueron introducidos en el interior de cada instrumento, en el momento del montaje, los que fueron esterilizados a vapor saturado bajo presión, 134oC por 5 minutos. Después de la esterilización, el instrumental fue desmontado y cada soporte de papel filtro fue inoculado en medio de una cultura de caseína y soya, incubado a 56oC por 21 días. No habiendo crecimiento, fueron sometidos a un choque térmico de 80oC, por 20 minutos y nuevamente incubados por 72 horas. La muestra estuvo constituida por 185 pinzas y 185 trócartes, con poder de 95%. Los experimentos fueron acompañados en los grupos: control negativo comparativo (5 pinzas y 5 trócartes con contaminación desafío, esterilizados desmontados) y positivo (30 soportes de papel filtro, no esterilizados), sometidos a los mismos procedimientos de incubación. Resultados: no se encontró crecimiento microbiano en los grupos experimental y control negativo. Los resultados del control positivo fueron satisfactorios. Conclusión: este estudio suministra fuertes evidencias científicas para sustentar que la práctica, de esterilización a vapor del instrumental laparoscópico montado, es segura.

Construção de simulador laparoscópico de média fidelidade e avaliação da curva de aprendizagem / Construction of a medium fidelity laparoscopic simulator and evaluate the learning curve assessment

Introdução: Nos cursos de graduação em medicina, a simulação realística está sendo aplicada, cada vez mais, como um meio de propiciar aos estudantes e aos médicos o desenvolvimento de competências técnicas por meio da repetição de tarefas, realizadas em ambiente controlado, não comprometendo a segurança do paciente. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo construir um simulador laparoscópico de média fidelidade e avaliar a curva de aprendizagem gerada pelo treinamento de estudantes e de médicos residentes de cirurgia geral. Método: Após a construção do simulador laparoscópico de média fidelidade, alunos do 3º e 4º anos de graduação, do Curso de Medicina da Universidade José do Rosário Vellano (UNIFENAS), campus Alfenas, e médicos residentes do Hospital Universitário Alzira Velano, foram submetidos a treinamento e suas curvas de aprendizagem foram avaliadas pela determinação do tempo de realização da tarefa e dos erros cometidos. Resultados: Participaram da pesquisa 27 sujeitos, de ambos os sexos (70% mulheres), sendo sete médicos residentes e 20 alunos do 5º ao 8º período do curso de medicina. A manufatura do simulador de média fidelidade foi viabilizada a um custo de R$ 300,00 por unidade. Os alunos que participaram previamente de ligas acadêmicas de cirurgia apresentaram menor tempo do primeiro teste em relação aos que não participaram (372,9 ± 89,1 vs. 259,0 ± 90,5 com p=0,032). Da mesma maneira, o número de repetições para atingir 90% do melhor escore foi inferior (7,0 ± 4,6 vs. 11,9 ± 1,7 com p=0,013). A intenção de seguir carreira cirúrgica também se mostrou associada à melhor pontuação no primeiro teste (282,9 ± 78,2 vs. 406,9 ± 87,6 com p=0,011) e menor número de repetições para atingir 90% do melhor escore (8,8 ± 4,1 vs. 12,4 ± 0,8 com p=0,017). Conclusão: O simulador laparoscópico possibilitou que todos os participantes tivessem uma melhora progressiva nos resultados da pontuação e redução do tempo de execução da tarefa, durante as repetições. Os alunos com interesse na área cirúrgica e que participaram de ligas acadêmicas apresentaram melhor rendimento na curva de aprendizagem. Estes achados, aliados ao baixo custo de produção do equipamento, revelam sua potencialidade como ferramenta de treinamento de habilidades cirúrgicas bem como apontam a necessidade de incorporação de novas tarefas ao simulador

Introduction: In undergraduate medical schools, realistic simulation has been applied more and more as a means of providing students and physicians with the development of technical skills through task repetition, performed in a controlled environment, without compromising the patient's safety. Objective: This study aimed to build a medium fidelity laparoscopic simulator and evaluate the learning curve generated by the training of general surgery students and residents. Method: After the construction of the medium fidelity laparoscopic simulator, 3rd and 4th year undergraduate students of José do Rosário Vellano University (UNIFENAS) School of Medicine, campus Alfenas, and resident doctors at Alzira Velano University Hospital, underwent training and their learning curve were evaluated by the time taken to perform the task and the mistakes made. Results: Twenty-seven subjects of both sexes (70% women) participated in the research, of which seven were residents and 20 were students between 5th to 8th semesters of medical school. The manufacture of the medium fidelity simulator was made possible at a cost of R$300.00 per unit. Students who previously participated in surgery academic leagues took less time in the first test compared to those who did not participate (372.9 ± 89.1 vs 259.0 ± 90.5 where p=0.032). Likewise, the number of repetitions needed to reach 90% of the best score was lower (7.0 ± 4.6 vs 11.9 ± 1.7 where p=0.013). The intention to follow a surgical career also proved to be associated with a better score on the first test (282.9 ± 78.2 vs 406.9 ± 87.6 where p=0.011) and a lower number of repetitions needed to reach 90% of the best score (8.8 ± 4.1 vs 12.4 ± 0.8 with p=0.017). Conclusion: The laparoscopic simulator allowed all participants to have a progressive improvement in scoring results and reduced task execution time during repetitions. Students interested in the surgical area and who participated in academic leagues showed better performance in the learning curve. These findings, sided with the equipment's low production cost, reveal its potential as a surgical skill training tool, as well as indicate the need of incorporating new tasks into the simulator

Evaluation of single-use reprocessed laparoscopic instrument sterilization / Avaliação da esterilidade do instrumental laparoscópico de uso único reprocessado / Evaluación de la esterilidad del instrumental laparoscópico descartable reprocesado

This experimental, comparative, laboratory study evaluated the effectiveness of the sterilization of single-use laparoscopic instruments - SULIs (grasper, dissector, scissors, Veress needle and electrosurgical probe system), after contamination-challenge with bacterial spores and sheep blood, and compared the results of the sterilization tests with those of the equivalent reusable instruments. The cleaning methods used were; ultrasonic washer with pulsatile water jet and enzymatic detergent, manual cleaning, cleaning with pressurized water and rinsing. The SULIs were sterilized with ethylene oxide and the reusable instruments in an autoclave. Sterility tests showed 100 percent negative results for recovery of contaminate microorganisms in both groups. It was concluded that, regarding the sterilization, that it is possible to reprocess SULIs.

O presente estudo, experimental, laboratorial e comparativo, teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia da esterilidade dos instrumentos laparoscópicos de uso único (ILUU): grasper, dissector, tesoura, agulha de Veress e sistema de sonda de eletrocirurgia, após contaminação desafio com esporos bacterianos e sangue de carneiro, e comparar os resultados dos testes de esterilidade com aqueles dos instrumentos equivalentes "permanentes". Para limpeza, utilizou-se lavadora ultrassônica com jato pulsátil e detergente enzimático, limpeza manual, água sob pressão e enxágue. Os ILUUs foram esterilizados por óxido de etileno, os instrumentos "permanentes" em autoclave. Os testes de esterilidade acusaram resultados 100 por cento negativos para a recuperação dos micro-organismos contaminantes, nos dois grupos. Concluiu-se que, em relação ao alcance da esterilidade, é possível reprocessar ILUU.

Se trata de un estudio, experimental, de laboratorio y comparativo, que evaluó la eficacia de la esterilidad de los instrumentos laparoscópicos de uso único(ILUU): grasper, disector, tijera, aguja de Veres y el sistema de sonda electroquirúrgica, después de "contaminación desafío" con esporas bacterianas y sangre de carnero; los resultados de las pruebas de esterilidad fueron comparados con los de los instrumentos equivalentes "permanentes". Para efectuar la limpieza se utilizó: lavadora ultrasónica con chorro pulsante y detergente enzimático, limpieza manual, agua bajo presión y enjuague. Los ILUU fueron esterilizados con óxido de etileno, los instrumentos "permanentes" en autoclave. Las pruebas de esterilidad mostraron resultados 100 por ciento negativos para la recuperación de los microorganismos contaminantes en los dos grupos. Se concluye que, en relación al alcance de la esterilidad, es posible reprocesar los ILUU.

Laparoendoscopic pfannenstiel nephrectomy using conventional laparoscopic instruments - preliminary experience

PURPOSE: To confirm the feasibility of the laparoendoscopic Pfannenstiel nephrectomy using conventional laparoscopic instruments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Since March 2009, laparoscopic nephrectomy through a Pfannenstiel incision has been performed in selected patients in our service. The Veress needle was placed through the umbilicus which allowed carbon dioxide inflow. One 5 mm (or 10 mm) trocar was placed at the umbilicus for the laparoscope, to guide the placement of three trocars over the Pfannenstiel incision. Additional trocars were placed as follows: a 10 mm in the midline, a 10 mm ipsilateral to the kidney to be removed (2 cm away from the middle one), and a 5 mm contralateral to the kidney to be removed (2 cm away from the middle one). The entire procedure was performed using conventional laparoscopic instruments. At the end of the surgery, trocars were removed and all three incisions were united into a single Pfannenstiel incision for specimen retrieval. RESULTS: Five nephrectomies were performed following this technique: one atrophic kidney, one kidney donation, two renal cancers and one bilateral renal atrophy. Median operative time was 100 minutes and median intraoperative blood loss was 100 cc. No intraoperative complications occurred and no patients required blood transfusion. Median length of hospital stay was 1 day (range 1 to 2 days). CONCLUSIONS: The use of the Pfannenstiel incision for laparoscopic nephrectomy seems to be feasible even when using conventional laparoscopic instruments, and can be considered a potential alternative for traditional laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Nefrectomía simple laparoscópica NOTES y LESS con el uso de instrumentos laparoscópicos estándar: experiencia inicial en 3 casos / NOTES and LESS laparoscopic simple nephrectomy with the use of standard laparoscopic instruments: initial experience in 3 cases

Introduction: Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) and Laparoendoscopic Single Site Surgery (LESS) are emerging technologies, which allows to performed surgical procedures avoiding any surgical scars. However there are some problems due to the lack of equipment available for these procedures. The aim of these study is to present our initial experience with the transvaginal nephrectomy NOTES and LESS using standard laparoscopic instruments. Material and Methods: Two female patients (23 and 26 years old) with diagnosis of recurrent urinary tract infection and renal atrophy. A laparoscopic simple nephrectomy with transvaginal NOTES assistance was performed, using one access port for the camera and two abdominal work ports of 10 and 3mm. In a third patient (15 years old) a transumbilical LESS nephrectomy was preformed with the use of standard laparoscopic instruments. Results: Average operative time was 110 min (40-200), with an estimated blood loss of 200 cc. There were no perioperative complications and all patients were discharged 36 hours after surgery. Conclusion: Laparoscopic simple nephrectomy with transvaginal NOTES assistance and LESS are technically feasible with the use of standard laparoscopic instruments. Special access trocars and instruments development for this procedure will allow to performed a pure technique without the use of abdominal incisions.

Introducción: La cirugía endoscópica transluminal a través de orificios naturales (NOTES) y la cirugía laparoendoscópica a través de sitio único (LESS) son tecnologías emergentes, que permiten realizar procedimientos quirúrgicos minimizando el uso de incisiones abdominales. Sin embargo, existen limitaciones respecto al equipamiento disponible para simular la cirugía tradicional. Nuestro objetivo es presentar nuestra experiencia con la técnica de nefrectomía laparoscópica NOTES y LESS con el uso de instrumentos laparoscópicos estándar. Materiales y Métodos: Dos pacientes de sexo femenino de 23 y 26 años, ambas con diagnóstico de infecciones urinarias recurrentes y atrofia renal secundaria. Se les realizó una nefrectomía simple con asistencia de NOTES, utilizando un puerto de trabajo transvaginal para la cámara y dos puertos adicionales de 10 (umbilical) y 3 mm en el abdomen. Un tercer paciente de sexo masculino de 15 a±os de edad, fue operado a través de la técnica LESS por vía transumbilical con el uso de cistoscopio flexible e instrumentos laparoscópicos estándar. Resultados: La media del tiempo operatorio fue de 110 min (40-200), la pérdida sanguínea promedio fue de 133 cc (0-200). No se reportan complicaciones, siendo todos los pacientes dados de alta antes de 36 horas. Conclusión: La nefrectomía laparoscópica con asistencia de NOTES y LESS es técnicamente posible con el uso de instrumentos laparoscópicos estándar. El desarrollo y acceso a trócares y pinzas especiales, permitirá realizar una técnica pura sin el uso de incisiones abdominales.

Carga microbiana de trocartes reprocessáveis após laparoscopias ginecológicas / Microbial load of reprocessable trocars after gynecological videolaparoscopy

OBJETIVO: identificar a carga microbiana presente em trocartes reprocessáveis usados nas laparoscopias ginecológicas. MÉTODOS: estudo exploratório descritivo. Um total de 57 trocartes, sendo 30 com 10 mm de diâmetro e 27 com 5 mm, foram recolhidos na sala de operação, imediatamente após o ato cirúrgico, e colocados em recipiente esterilizado onde foram adicionados 250 mL de água destilada estéril. Foi feita agitação dos trocartes para desprendimento de partículas e obtenção do lavado a ser analisado. Realizou-se filtração por meio de membrana de celulose 0,22 µm, colocadas, com pinça esterilizada, em placas ágar sangue. Após incubação, foi feita a análise microbiológica para contagem de unidades formadoras de colônias e posterior identificação do micro-organismo, usando-se técnicas laboratoriais padronizadas. RESULTADOS: a carga microbiana foi recuperada em 47,4 por cento dos trocartes analisados. Destes, 45,6 por cento apresentou crescimento de 1 a 100 unidades formadoras de colônias. Foram identificados 14 tipos de micro-organismos, dentre os quais, Staphylococcus coagulase negativo (28 por cento) e Bacillus sp (21 por cento) foram isolados com maior frequência. Identificou-se também Aeromonas hydrophila, Alcaligenes sp, Candida parapsilosis e enterobactérias. CONCLUSÕES: o estudo demonstrou que o desafio microbiano enfrentado pelos operadores responsáveis pela limpeza e esterilização dos trocartes é baixo quando comparado com o desafio imposto pelos indicadores biológicos; no entanto, não se pode inferir que os riscos de complicações infecciosas sejam mínimos para pacientes.

PURPOSE: to identify the microbial charge present in reusable trocars used in gynecological laparoscopies. METHODS: a descriptive exploratory study. An amount of 57 trocars, 30 with 10 mm of diameter and 27 with 5 mm, have been collected from the surgical unit, immediately after the surgery and placed in a sterilized recipient, in which 250 mL of sterile distilled water was added. Then, the trocars were agitated for the drainage of particles and to obtain a wash-out fluid to be analyzed. After being filtered through 0.22 µm cellulose membrane, the residue was placed on blood agar plates with a sterilized forceps. Following incubation, microbiological analysis has been done to count the number of colonies and further identify the microorganisms, using standard laboratorial techniques. RESULTS: microbial charge was recovered from 47.4 percent of the trocars analyzed. Among those, 45.6 percent presented 1 to 100 growing colonies. Fourteen types of microorganisms have been identified, among which the more frequently isolated were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (28 percent) and Bacillus sp (21 percent), Aeromonas hydrophila, Alcaligenes sp, Candida parapsilosis, and enterobacteries were also identified. CONCLUSIONS: the study has demonstrated that the microbial challenge faced by the technician responsible for the cleaning and sterilization of trocars is low, as compared to the challenge imposed by biological markers. Nevertheless, it may be not inferred that the risks for infectious complications for patients are minimal.

Validação do protocolo de limpeza manual dos instrumentais videolaparoscópios em hospital universitário / Validation of the manual cleansing protocol for videolaparoscopy instruments at a university hospital

Objetivo: Validar o protocolo de limpeza dos instrumentais utilizados em procedimentos videolaparosscópicos. Métodos: Tratou-se de um estudo transversal, realizado em um hospital universitário. Utilizaram-se o teste para detecção de proteínas e adenosina trifosfato a fim de se avaliar a limpeza. Adotou-se como parâmetro de limpeza a recuperação de até 200 unidades relativas de luz (RLU). Resultados: Obteve-se resultado negativo do resíduo de proteína para todos os itens. para o teste de detecção de adenosina trifosfato, a leitura de RLU foi inferior a 200 par os itens de menor complexidade. Enquanto que, para os de maior, ela foi acima do esperado em quatro itens, fato que evidenciou a necessidade de revisão do protocolo. Após isso, os testes de adenosina trifosfato foram repetidos, alcançando redução da leitura de RLU e validação do protocolo. Conclusão: O processamento do material de produtos para a saúde envolve análises crítica e reflexiva, além de conhecimento e poder de decisão...

Manejo del paciente con peritonitis grave: evaluación en dos años / Management of a patient suffering from a serious peritonitis: evaluation of the case in two years

Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo para analizar el comportamiento de algunas variables relacionadas con las relaparotomías en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos en 4142 intervenciones sobre el abdomen realizadas por el servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital General Provincial Docente Capitán Roberto Rodríguez Fernández de Morón en el periodo comprendido entre el 1º de Enero del 2003 al 31 de Diciembre del 2005. Se relaparotomizaron 54 pacientes (índice de reintervención 1.3 por ciento), de estos el 79.63 por ciento fueron inicialmente operados por una cirugía de urgencia, comportándose el sexo masculino con un 61.11 por ciento, siendo el grupo etáreo de 70 años y más el de mayor representatividad. La cirugía sobre el tracto gastrointestinal fue la más asociada a peritonitis post-operatorias. La taquicardia, el dolor abdominal, la fiebre persistente y los disturbios humorales y hallazgos imagenológicos constituyeron los indicadores de relaparotomía de mayor peso para encontrar colecciones intraabdominales en el mayor porciento de los casos a los que se les practicó una reintervención temprana (primeras 72h). El índice de mortalidad global de nuestra serie fue de 51.85 por ciento, prevaleciendo el síndrome de disfunción orgánica múltiple (35.71 por ciento).

An observacional descriptive study was carried out so as to analyze the behavior of some variables related to laparotomies at the Intensive Care Unit, in 4142 abdominal surgeries executed by the General Surgery Service of the General Provincial Docent Hospital "Capitán Roberto Rodríguez Fernández", Morón Municipality during the period comprised between January 1st 2003 and December 31st 2005. 54 patients underwent a laparotomy (re-intervention index 1, 3 percent), out of them, 79, 63 percent were initially operated on because of an emergency surgery, being males the 61.11% and the 70 years old and more etarean group the most representative of all. Surgery on the gastrointestinal tract was the most associated to post-surgical peritonitis. Tachycardia, abdominal pain, nagging fever, humoral disturbances and imaging discoveries constituted the most important laparotomy indicators to identify intra-abdominal collections in the highest percent of the cases to whom, it was practiced an early surgical intervention. (First 71hs). The global mortality index of our series was the 51, 85 percent, prevailing the dysfunction organic multiple syndrome (35, 71percent).

Entrada umbilical con trocar mínimamente invasivo bajo visión directa en laparascopía ginecológica / Umbilical access with minimally invasive trocar under direct vision in gynecological laparoscopy: initial experience

Objetivo: Analizar la experiencia inicial de entrada umbilical con trocar mínimamente invasivo, Endopath Xcel, bajo visión directa en laparoscopia ginecológica. Método: 20 pacientes ingresadas para cirugía laparoscópica, por patología ginecológica benigna. Pacientes con una media de 54 años, IMC de 32. Cinco pacientes tenían antecedente de cirugía pélvica previa. Se utilizó el trocar blindado Xcel, con cámara endoscópica en su interior. Se identificaron los planos de la pared abdominal a la entrada. Se detuvo la entrada al identificar vasos sanguíneos susceptibles de dañar u órganos adheridos a pared abdominal con posibilidad de perforación. Se utilizó una entrada alternativa. Una vez terminada la cirugía se retiró el trocar, sin suturar la aponeurosis, sólo la piel. Resultados: Sólo en un caso (1 de 20, 5 por ciento) fue necesario detener la inserción del trocar, por identificar la adherencia de intestino delgado a la pared abdominal, susceptible de dañar. Se utilizó el cuadrante superior izquierdo como entrada alternativa. Se soltó el intestino y se realizó adherensiolisis con bisturí ultrasónico exitosamente. Conclusión: El método de inserción del trocar umbilical Xcel con cámara endoscópica acoplada, es un método que permite reducir la posibilidad de complicaciones a la entrada, durante laparoscopia ginecológica.

Objective: To analyze the initial experience of umbilical access with minimally invasive trocar Endopath Xcel, under direct vision in gynecological laparoscopy. Method: 20 patients under laparoscopy surgery for benign gynecological pathology. Media age 54 years old, BMI 32. Five patients had previous surgery. The trocar utilized was Xcel, with endoscopio camera. The planes of the abdominal wall during the entrance were identified. The access was stopped when identifying vessels or organs adhered to the abdominal wall with perforation possibility. An alternative entrance was used. Once finished the surgery the trocar was retired without suturing the muscular fascia, only the skin. Results: Only in one case (1 of 20, 5 percent) it was necessary to stop the trocar insertion, when was identified adhesion of the intestine to the abdominal wall. The left superior quadrant was used like alternative entrance. The adhesions were solved with ultrasonic scalpel. Conclusions: The method of primary access with visual umbilical Xcel trocar connected to the endoscopio camera allows reducing the possibility of complications during the entrance in gynecological laparoscopy procedures.