High SARS-CoV-2 tropism and activation of immune cells in the testes of non-vaccinated deceased COVID-19 patients.

BACKGROUND: Cellular entry of SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to rely on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, whose expression in the testis is among the highest in the body. Additionally, the risk of mortality seems higher among male COVID-19 patients, and though much has been published since the first cases of COVID-19, there remain unanswered questions regarding SARS-CoV-2 impact on testes and potential consequences for reproductive health. We investigated testicular alterations in non-vaccinated deceased COVID-19-patients, the precise location of the virus, its replicative activity, and the immune, vascular, and molecular fluctuations involved in the pathogenesis. RESULTS: We found that SARS-CoV-2 testicular tropism is higher than previously thought and that reliable viral detection in the testis requires sensitive nanosensors or RT-qPCR using a specific methodology. Through an in vitro experiment exposing VERO cells to testicular macerates, we observed viral content in all samples, and the subgenomic RNA's presence reinforced the replicative activity of SARS-CoV-2 in testes of the severe COVID-19 patients. The cellular structures and viral particles, observed by transmission electron microscopy, indicated that macrophages and spermatogonial cells are the main SARS-CoV-2 lodging sites, where new virions form inside the endoplasmic reticulum Golgi intermediate complex. Moreover, we showed infiltrative infected monocytes migrating into the testicular parenchyma. SARS-CoV-2 maintains its replicative and infective abilities long after the patient's infection. Further, we demonstrated high levels of angiotensin II and activated immune cells in the testes of deceased patients. The infected testes show thickening of the tunica propria, germ cell apoptosis, Sertoli cell barrier loss, evident hemorrhage, angiogenesis, Leydig cell inhibition, inflammation, and fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that high angiotensin II levels and activation of mast cells and macrophages may be critical for testicular pathogenesis. Importantly, our findings suggest that patients who become critically ill may exhibit severe alterations and harbor the active virus in the testes.

Primary abandon of hernia sac for inguinoscrotal hernias: a safe way to cut corners.

INTRODUCTION: Inguinoscrotal hernias (ISH) pose a challenge to surgeons with consistently higher rates of postoperative complications and recurrence rates. The aim of this study is to report our initial experience and early results with a new technique for inguinoscrotal hernia repair. METHODS: A review of a prospectively maintained multi-center database was conducted in patients who underwent minimally invasive repair using the "primary abandon-of-the-sac" (PAS) technique for inguinoscrotal hernias from March 2021 to July 2022. Demographics and outcomes were analyzed. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were performed. RESULTS: A total of 76 minimally invasive inguinal hernia repairs were performed. In 70 patients (92%) C-PAS was used as the technique to abandon the sac while in the remaining 6 patients, "pirate-eye-patch" technique was used. Median hernia ring was 3 (IQR 2.5-3.5) cm and median hernia sac was 9.5 (8-10.8) cm. Median operative time was 70 min (IQR 56-96). Seroma was present in 22 (28.9%) patients 7 days after surgery. Most had seroma only in the inguinal area (n = 19; 25%). Thirty days after surgery, 12 (15.8%) patients still had seroma in the inguinal area and 6 (7.9%) in the inguinoscrotal area. Ninety days after surgery, four (5.3%) patients had inguinal seroma, 2 (2.6%) scrotal seromas and 3 (3.9%) inguinoscrotal seromas. The size of the hernia sac was not associated with seroma formation 7 days after surgery (OR 1.06; 95% CI 0.89-1.2; P = 0.461) in the multivariate logistic regression. BMI was also not associated with seroma formation (OR 0.8; 95% CI 0.74-1.06; P = 0.2). CONCLUSIONS: Planned abandon of the hernia sac is an interesting alternative and is associated with a low rate of complications and acceptable seroma formation rates.

Ten golden rules for a safe MIS inguinal hernia repair using a new anatomical concept as a guide.

BACKGROUND: Although laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair was described about 30 years ago and advantages of the technique have been demonstrated, the utilization of this approach has not been what we would expect. Some reasons may be the need for surgeons to understand the posterior anatomy of the groin from a new vantage point, as well as to acquire advanced laparoscopic skills. Recently, however, the introduction of a robotic approach has dramatically increased the adoption of minimally invasive techniques for inguinal hernia repair. METHODS: Important recent contributions to this evolution have been the establishment of a new concept known as the critical view of the Myopectineal Orifice (MPO) and the description of a new way of understanding the posterior view of the antomy of the groin (inverted Y and the five triangles). In this paper, we describe 10 rules for a safe MIS inguinal hernia repair (TAPP, TEP, ETEP, RTAPP) that combines these two new concepts in a unique way. CONCLUSIONS: As the critical view of safety has made laparoscopic cholecystectomy safer, we feel that following our ten rules based on understanding the anatomy of the posterior groin as defined by zones and essential triangles and the technical steps to achieve the critical view of the MPO will foster the goal of safe MIS hernia repair, no matter which minimally invasive technique is employed.

BRAZILIAN HERNIA AND ABDOMINAL WALL SOCIETY STATEMENT ON LARGE HIATAL HERNIAS MANAGEMENT.

Large hiatal hernias, besides being more prevalent in the elderly, have a different clinical presentation: less reflux, more mechanical symptoms, and a greater possibility of acute, life-threatening complications such as gastric volvulus, ischemia, and visceral mediastinal perforation. Thus, surgical indications are distinct from gastroesophageal reflux disease-related sliding hiatal hernias. Heartburn tends to be less intense, while symptoms of chest pain, cough, discomfort, and tiredness are reported more frequently. Complaints of vomiting and dysphagia may suggest the presence of associated gastric volvulus. Signs of iron deficiency and anemia are found. Surgical indication is still controversial and was previously based on high mortality reported in emergency surgeries for gastric volvulus. Postoperative mortality is especially related to three factors: body mass index above 35, age over 70 years, and the presence of comorbidities. Minimally invasive elective surgery should be offered to symptomatic individuals with good or reasonable performance status, regardless of age group. In asymptomatic and oligosymptomatic patients, besides obviously identifying the patient's desire, a case-by-case analysis of surgical risk factors such as age, obesity, and comorbidities should be taken into consideration. Attention should also be paid to situations with greater technical difficulty and risks of acute migration due to increased abdominal pressure (abdominoplasty, manual labor, spastic diseases). Technical alternatives such as partial fundoplication and anterior gastropexy can be considered. We emphasize the importance of performing surgical procedures in cases of large hiatal hernias in high-volume centers, with experienced surgeons.

The toxicity of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles induced on the testicular cells: In vitro study.

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have gained significant attention in biomedical research due to their potential applications. However, little is known about their impact and toxicity on testicular cells. To address this issue, we conducted an in vitro study using primary mouse testicular cells, testis fragments, and sperm to investigate the cytotoxic effects of sodium citrate-coated SPIONs (Cit_SPIONs). Herein, we synthesized and physiochemically characterized the Cit_SPIONs and observed that the sodium citrate diminished the size and improved the stability of nanoparticles in solution during the experimental time. The sodium citrate (measured by thermogravimetry) was biocompatible with testicular cells at the used concentration (3%). Despite these favorable physicochemical properties, the in vitro experiments demonstrated the cytotoxicity of Cit_SPIONs, particularly towards testicular somatic cells and sperm cells. Transmission electron microscopy analysis confirmed that Leydig cells preferentially internalized Cit_SPIONs in the organotypic culture system, which resulted in alterations in their cytoplasmic size. Additionally, we found that Cit_SPIONs exposure had detrimental effects on various parameters of sperm cells, including motility, viability, DNA integrity, mitochondrial activity, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and ROS production. Our findings suggest that testicular somatic cells and sperm cells are highly sensitive and vulnerable to Cit_SPIONs and induced oxidative stress. This study emphasizes the potential toxicity of SPIONs, indicating significant threats to the male reproductive system. Our findings highlight the need for detailed development of iron oxide nanoparticles to enhance reproductive nanosafety.

Stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that negatively affects men's quality of life. It can have various causes, including psychological, vascular, and neurologic factors. Existing treatments for ED mainly focus on symptom relief rather than addressing the underlying cause. Stem cells (SCs) have shown potential as a therapeutic approach for ED due to their anti-inflammatory properties. OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aims to assess the current status of trials and determine the potential impact of SCs on male sexual health. METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy was employed to gather relevant articles from 6 electronic databases. The search included articles published until March 2023. The reference lists of articles were manually reviewed to identify additional studies of relevance. The eligibility criteria for inclusion in the analysis focused on clinical trials involving humans that evaluated the safety and efficacy of SC therapy for ED. Exclusion criteria encompassed case reports, case series, abstracts, reviews, and editorials, as well as studies involving animals or SC derivatives. Data extraction was performed via a standardized form with a focus on erectile outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 2847 articles were initially identified; 18 were included in the final analysis. These studies involved 373 patients with ED and various underlying medical conditions. Multiple types of SC were utilized in the treatment of ED: mesenchymal SCs, placental matrix-derived mesenchymal SCs, mesenchymal SC-derived exosomes, adipose-derived SCs, bone marrow-derived mononuclear SCs, and umbilical cord blood SCs. CONCLUSION: SC therapy shows promise as an innovative and safe treatment for organic ED. However, the lack of standardized techniques and controlled groups in many studies hampers the ability to evaluate and compare trials.

Robotic re-TAPP: a minimally invasive alternative for the failed posterior repair.

OBJECTIVE: to describe the use of the robotic platform in inguinal hernia recurrence after a previous laparoscopic repair. METHODS: patients with recurrent inguinal hernias following a laparoscopic repair who have undergone robotic transabdominal preperitoneal between December 2015 through September 2020 were identified in a prospectively maintained database. Outcomes of interest included demographics, hernia characteristics, operative details and rates of 30-day surgical site occurrence, surgical site occurrences requiring procedural interventions, surgical site infection and hernia recurrence were abstracted. RESULTS: nineteen patients (95% male, mean age 55 years, mean body mass index 28) had 27 hernias repaired (N=8 bilateral). Average operative time was 168.9 ± 49.3min (range 90-240). There were two intraoperative complications all of them were bleeding from the inferior epigastric vessel injuries. Three SSOs occurred (N=2 seromas and N=1 hematoma. After a median 35.7 months follow-up (IQR 13-49), no recurrence has been diagnosed. One patient developed chronic postoperative inguinal pain. CONCLUSIONS: on a small number of selected patients and experienced hands, we found that the use of the robotic platform for repair of recurrent hernias after prior laparoscopic repair appears to be feasible, safe and effective despite being technically demanding. Further studies in larger cohorts are necessary to determine if this technique provides any benefits in recurrent inguinal hernia scenario.

CHALLENGES TO THE 10 GOLDEN RULES FOR A SAFE MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY (MIS) INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR: CAN WE IMPROVE?

BACKGROUND: Since publication of our paper "Ten Golden Rules for a Safe MIS Inguinal Hernia Repair" we have received many questions. As the authors, we feel it is important to address these topics as a follow-up to our paper. AIM: To discuss in more details the main points of controversy, review the rules and update de recommendations. METHOD: The questions and discussions came mainly over five rules, numbered 3, 5, 6, 7, 10. We analyzed all the comments about recommendations and update some technical principles. RESULTS: Rule 3 - Removing normal fat plugs from the obturator canal is unnecessary and therefore is not recommended; Rule 5 - transection of the uterine round ligament (1 cm proximal to the deep ring) facilitates adequate dissection. When performed in this way it does not appear to be associated with complications; Rule 6 - transection of huge sacs are safer than over-dissection of the cord structures. Whether dissecting completely the sac or abandon the distal part it results in less postoperative seromas is an ongoing debate; Rule 7 - any retroperitoneal structure traversing the internal ring is or play a role like a hernia. Failing to identify and remove the lipoma will ultimately result in the patient experiencing a recurrence; Rule 10 - in TAPP peritoneum should preferably be closed with suture than tackes. CONCLUSION: 10 Golden Rules emphasize the most important surgical tips and technical steps that allow the safe performance of MIS repairs of inguinal hernias, regardless the technique.

Autoimmune [auto-inflammatory] syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA): Case report after inguinal hernia repair with mesh.

INTRODUCTION: There has been a great advance in the treatment of inguinal hernias with a significant reduction in recurrences with the use of polypropylene mesh. Local complications such as infections, rejection, and chronic pain are widely studied and reported in the literature. The Autoimmune [Auto-inflammatory] Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA) is little known and can be triggered by using polypropylene mesh. PRESENTATION OF THE CASE: 33-year-old female patient, married, and an administrative manager. History of smoking, previous breast surgery with silicone prosthesis, appendectomy. One year and four months ago, she underwent bilateral inguinal hernioplasty by laparoscopy. Shortly after the inguinal hernia surgery, systemic, urinary symptoms, and chronic local pain appeared. She reported low back pain, fatigue, memory loss, and mood swings associated with limiting pelvic pain, dysuria, and dyspareunia. We performed a robotic surgical procedure to remove the meshes bilaterally. Three days after surgery, the patient was discharged with adequate pain control, without the need for opioids. During outpatient follow-up, there was a significant improvement in symptoms, both local and systemic. DISCUSSION: Local complications with the use of polypropylene mesh to repair inguinal hernias are well described in the literature, highlighting chronic postoperative pain that can affect 10-20% of patients. Recently, polypropylene prostheses have been found to act as adjuvants and may be the trigger for an exacerbated immune response adaptive to an autoantigen. Thus, being capable of causing an autoimmune disease variant of the Autoimmune [Auto-inflammatory] Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA), described by Shoenfeld and Agmon-Levin in 2011. CONCLUSION: In addition to local complications, systemic symptoms related to the use of polypropylene mesh can also occur. In the Autoimmune [Auto-inflammatory] Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA), systemic symptoms, for being nonspecific, make diagnosis difficult and are often not attributed to the use of mesh.

Sperm selection in IVF: the long and winding road from bench to bedside.

Spermatozoa wage battle to conquer fertilization but the traits needed to succeed remain elusive. The natural advantageous qualities that enable only a few selected sperm cells to reach the site of fertilization remain unknown. Although in vitro fertilization (IVF) facilitates the job of spermatozoa, a universally acceptable means of sperm selection is yet to be developed. No objective or reliable sperm quality indicators have been established and sperm selection is, to a great extent, based on subjective qualitative evaluation. The best method for sperm selection in IVF presents several challenges: intrinsic sperm qualities cannot be evaluated and the ideal endpoint for these studies is debatable. An ideal method for sperm selection in ART should be noninvasive and cost-effective, and allow the identification of high-quality spermatozoa and yield better outcomes in terms of pregnancy and live birth rates. This narrative review included 85 papers and focused on the new available methods and technologies that might shed some light on sperm selection in IVF. It discusses the available data on microfluidic devices, omics profiling, micronuclei studies, sperm plasma membrane markers, and other techniques, such as Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS), Raman micro-spectroscopy, and artificial intelligence systems. The new techniques herein reviewed offer fresh approaches to an old problem, for which a definite solution has yet to cross the bridge from bench to IVF clinics around the world, since clinical usefulness and application remain unproven.

SYSTEMIZATION OF LAPAROSCOPIC INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR (TAPP) BASED ON A NEW ANATOMICAL CONCEPT: INVERTED Y AND FIVE TRIANGLES.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has been shown to be superior than open repairs with faster return to daily activities and decrease in the occurrence of chronic pain. However, higher direct costs and mandatory use of general anesthesia are arguments against their use. In addition, increased complexity of surgery resulting from an anatomy that is unusual to general surgeons prevents the widespread adoption of laparoscopic approach. AIM: To propose a technical systematization for transabdominal laparoscopic repair (TAPP) of inguinal hernias based on anatomical concepts. METHOD: To offer a systematization of TAPP repair based on well defined anatomic landmarks, describing the concept of "inverted Y", identification of five triangles and three zones of dissection, to achieve the "critical view of safety" for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. RESULTS: Since this standardization was developed five years ago, many surgeons were trained following these precepts. Reproducibility is high, as far as, it´s rate of adoption among surgeons. CONCLUSION: The concept of the "inverted Y", "Five triangles" and the dissection based in "Three Zones" establish an effective and reproducible standardization of the TAPP technique.

Guidelines of the Brazilian Hernia Society (BHS) for the management of inguinocrural hernias in adults. / Orientações da Sociedade Brasileira de Hérnia (SBH) para o manejo das hérnias inguinocrurais em adultos.

Inguinal hernias are a frequent problem and their repair is the most commonly performed procedure by general surgeons. In the last years, new principles, products and techniques have changed the routine of surgeons, who need to recycle knowledge and perfect new skills. In addition, old concepts regarding surgical indication and risk of complications have been reevaluated. In order to create a guideline for the management of inguinal hernias in adult patients, the Brazilian Hernia Society assembled a group of experts to review various topics, such as surgical indication, perioperative management, surgical techniques, complications and postoperative guidance.

As hérnias inguinais são um problema frequente e o seu reparo representa a cirurgia mais comumente realizada por cirurgiões gerais. Nos últimos anos, novos princípios, produtos e técnicas têm mudado a rotina dos cirurgiões que precisam reciclar conhecimentos e aperfeiçoar novas habilidades. Além disso, antigos conceitos sobre indicação cirúrgica e riscos de complicações vêm sendo reavaliados. Visando criar um guia de orientações sobre o manejo das hérnias inguinais em pacientes adultos, a Sociedade Brasileira de Hérnias reuniu um grupo de experts com objetivo de revisar diversos tópicos, como indicação cirúrgica, manejo perioperatório, técnicas cirúrgicas, complicações e orientações pós-operatórias.

Motherhood after breast cancer: can we balance fertility preservation and cancer treatment? A narrative review of the literature.

Breast cancer may affect young women who have not yet completed childbearing. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) provides alternatives for fertility preservation such as oocyte, embryo or ovarian tissue cryopreservation. We reviewed the published literature on fertility-preserving management in breast cancer, aiming at finding evidence to answer the following questions: (1) What are the fertility sparing options available?; (2) How do these women respond to IVF? and (3) Can pregnancy influence breast cancer recurrence? There is a paucity of publications describing clinical experience and outcome data which limits accessibility to fertility preservation in this setting. Presently, oocyte or embryo cryopreservation are the main options for fertility preservation. IVF success rates are comparable to the ones of non-oncological populations according to the woman's age but current published studies lack data on definitive success rates following embryo banking for cancer patients. The perception that IVF and pregnancy may worsen cancer prognosis remains, despite the lack of scientific evidence to support this notion. Published studies show reassuring results for pregnancies occurring >2 years after breast cancer diagnosis. The best published evidence suggests pregnancy after breast cancer does not increase the risk of disease recurrence, thus pregnancy should not be forbidden once treatment is completed. Decision making for women diagnosed with cancer requires up-to-date knowledge of the efficacy and safety of available options. Providing consultation with a reproductive specialist and appropriate information on fertility preservation for these women should be an essential aspect of their supportive care.

SUBCUTANEOUS ONLAY LAPAROSCOPIC APPROACH (SCOLA) FOR VENTRAL HERNIA AND RECTUS ABDOMINIS DIASTASIS REPAIR: TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION AND INITIAL RESULTS.

BACKGROUND: Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles (DMRA) is frequent and may be associated with abdominal wall hernias. For patients with redudant skin, dermolipectomy and plication of the diastasis is the most commonly used procedure. However, there is a significant group of patients who do not require skin resection or do not want large incisions. AIM: To describe a "new" technique (subcutaneous onlay laparoscopic approach - SCOLA) for the correction of ventral hernias combined with the DMRA plication and to report the initial results of a case series. METHOD: SCOLA was applied in 48 patients to correct ventral hernia concomitant to plication of DMRA by pre-aponeurotic endoscopic technique. RESULTS: The mean operative time was 93.5 min. There were no intra-operative complications and no conversion. Seroma was the most frequent complication (n=13, 27%). Only one (2%) had surgical wound infection. After a median follow-up of eight months (2-19), only one (2%) patient presented recurrence of DMRA and one (2%) subcutaneous tissue retraction/fibrosis. Forty-five (93.7%) patients reported being satisfied with outcome. CONCLUSION: The SCOLA technique is a safe, reproducible and effective alternative for patients with abdominal wall hernia associated with DMRA.

Robotic re-TAPP: a minimally invasive alternative for the failed posterior repair / re-TAPP robótico: uma alternativa minimamente invasiva para falha da via posterior

ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the use of the robotic platform in inguinal hernia recurrence after a previous laparoscopic repair. Methods: patients with recurrent inguinal hernias following a laparoscopic repair who have undergone robotic transabdominal preperitoneal between December 2015 through September 2020 were identified in a prospectively maintained database. Outcomes of interest included demographics, hernia characteristics, operative details and rates of 30-day surgical site occurrence, surgical site occurrences requiring procedural interventions, surgical site infection and hernia recurrence were abstracted. Results: nineteen patients (95% male, mean age 55 years, mean body mass index 28) had 27 hernias repaired (N=8 bilateral). Average operative time was 168.9 ± 49.3min (range 90-240). There were two intraoperative complications all of them were bleeding from the inferior epigastric vessel injuries. Three SSOs occurred (N=2 seromas and N=1 hematoma. After a median 35.7 months follow-up (IQR 13-49), no recurrence has been diagnosed. One patient developed chronic postoperative inguinal pain. Conclusions: on a small number of selected patients and experienced hands, we found that the use of the robotic platform for repair of recurrent hernias after prior laparoscopic repair appears to be feasible, safe and effective despite being technically demanding. Further studies in larger cohorts are necessary to determine if this technique provides any benefits in recurrent inguinal hernia scenario.

RESUMO Objetivo: descrevemos nossa experiência com uso da plataforma robótica no tratamento das recidivas operadas previamente por laparoscopia, mantendo assim uma proposta minimamente invasiva a esses pacientes, apesar de haver uma predileção pela via anterior e aberta nestes casos. Métodos: foram incluídos pacientes submetidos a hernioplastia inguinal robótica transabdominal pré-peritoneal como tratamento de recidiva e que foram operados previamente por laparoscopia, entre dezembro de 2015 e setembro de 2020 e mantidos em uma base de dados ambulatorial prospectiva. Variáveis de interesse incluíram dados demográficos, características herniárias, detalhes operatórios, ocorrências do sítio cirúrgico em 30 dias (com ou sem necessidade de intervenção), infeção do sítio cirúrgico, tempo de seguimento e taxa de recidiva. Resultados: dezenove pacientes (95% masculino, média de idade de 55 anos, média de índice de massa corporal 28kg/m2) e 27 hérnias operadas (N=8 bilaterais). Média de tempo cirúrgico 168.9±49.3 min (variando 90-240). N=2 complicações intraoperatórias por lesão de vasos epigástricos inferiores. N=2 seromas e N=1 hematoma foram identificados no pós-operatório; N=1 paciente apresentou dor crônica pós operatória. Após um tempo de seguimento médio de 35.7 meses (intervalo entre quartis 13-49), nenhuma recidiva foi diagnosticada. Conclusões: o uso da plataforma robótica parece ser seguro e efetivo no tratamento das recidivas operadas previamente laparoscopia, nesse pequeno grupo de pacientes selecionados, apesar de requerer expertise em cirurgia robótica. Outros estudos com maiores casuísticas são necessários para estabelecer o papel desta técnica no cenário das hérnias inguinais recidivadas.

Challenges to the 10 golden rules for a safe minimally invasive surgery (mis) inguinal hernia repair: can we improve? / Desafios para as 10 regras de ouro para o reparo minimamente invasivo seguro das hérnias inguinais: podemos melhorar?

ABSTRACT Background: Since publication of our paper "Ten Golden Rules for a Safe MIS Inguinal Hernia Repair" we have received many questions. As the authors, we feel it is important to address these topics as a follow-up to our paper. Aim: To discuss in more details the main points of controversy, review the rules and update de recommendations. Method: The questions and discussions came mainly over five rules, numbered 3, 5, 6, 7, 10. We analyzed all the comments about recommendations and update some technical principles. Results: Rule 3 - Removing normal fat plugs from the obturator canal is unnecessary and therefore is not recommended; Rule 5 - transection of the uterine round ligament (1 cm proximal to the deep ring) facilitates adequate dissection. When performed in this way it does not appear to be associated with complications; Rule 6 - transection of huge sacs are safer than over-dissection of the cord structures. Whether dissecting completely the sac or abandon the distal part it results in less postoperative seromas is an ongoing debate; Rule 7 - any retroperitoneal structure traversing the internal ring is or play a role like a hernia. Failing to identify and remove the lipoma will ultimately result in the patient experiencing a recurrence; Rule 10 - in TAPP peritoneum should preferably be closed with suture than tackes. Conclusion: 10 Golden Rules emphasize the most important surgical tips and technical steps that allow the safe performance of MIS repairs of inguinal hernias, regardless the technique.

RESUMO Racional: Desde a publicação de nosso artigo "Dez Regras de Ouro para o Reparo Seguro de Hérnia Inguinal MIS", recebemos muitos questionamentos. Como autores, sentimos que é importante abordar esses tópicos como seguimento do artigo Objetivo: Discutir com mais detalhes os principais pontos de controvérsia, revisar as regras e atualizar as recomendações. Método: As dúvidas e discussões surgiram principalmente sobre cinco regras, numeradas 3, 5, 6, 7, 10. Analisamos todos os comentários sobre as recomendações e atualizamos alguns dos princípios técnicos. Resultados: Regra 3 - remoção dos plugs de gordura normais do canal obturador é desnecessária e, portanto, não é recomendada; Regra 5 - transecção do ligamento redondo do útero (1 cm proximal ao anel profundo) facilita a dissecção adequada e quando realizado dessa forma, não parece estar associada com complicações; Regra 6 - transecção de grandes sacos herniários é mais segura do que a dissecção excessiva das estruturas do cordão espermático e, se dissecar completamente o saco ou abandonar a parte distal, resulta em menos seromas pós-operatórios ainda é motivo de debate; Regra 7 - qualquer estrutura retroperitoneal que atravessa o anel interno é ou desempenha o papel como uma hérnia e deixar de identificar e remover o lipoma acabará resultando em recorrência; Regra 10 - na TAPP o peritônio deve ser fechado preferencialmente com sutura do que com tacks. Conclusão: As 10 Regras de Ouro enfatizam as dicas cirúrgicas e etapas técnicas mais importantes que permitem a realização segura de reparos MIS de hérnias inguinais, independentemente da técnica.

Systemization of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (tapp) based on a new anatomical concept: inverted y and five triangles / Sistematização do reparo da hérnia inguinal laparoscópica (tapp) baseada em um novo conceito anatômico: y invertido e cinco triângulos

ABSTRACT Background: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has been shown to be superior than open repairs with faster return to daily activities and decrease in the occurrence of chronic pain. However, higher direct costs and mandatory use of general anesthesia are arguments against their use. In addition, increased complexity of surgery resulting from an anatomy that is unusual to general surgeons prevents the widespread adoption of laparoscopic approach. Aim: To propose a technical systematization for transabdominal laparoscopic repair (TAPP) of inguinal hernias based on anatomical concepts. Method: To offer a systematization of TAPP repair based on well defined anatomic landmarks, describing the concept of "inverted Y", identification of five triangles and three zones of dissection, to achieve the "critical view of safety" for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Results: Since this standardization was developed five years ago, many surgeons were trained following these precepts. Reproducibility is high, as far as, it´s rate of adoption among surgeons. Conclusion: The concept of the "inverted Y", "Five triangles" and the dissection based in "Three Zones" establish an effective and reproducible standardization of the TAPP technique.

RESUMO Racional: O reparo laparoscópico da hérnia inguinal tem se mostrado superior aos reparos abertos, com retorno mais rápido às atividades diárias e diminuição na ocorrência de dor crônica. No entanto, custos diretos mais altos e o uso obrigatório de anestesia geral são argumentos contra seu uso. Além disso, o aumento da complexidade da operação resultante de uma anatomia incomum aos cirurgiões gerais impede a ampla adoção da abordagem laparoscópica. Objetivo: Propor uma sistematização técnica para reparo laparoscópico transabdominal (TAPP) de hérnias inguinais com base em conceitos anatômicos. Método: Oferecer sistematização do reparo do TAPP baseado em pontos anatômicos bem definidos, descrevendo o conceito de "Y invertido", identificação de cinco triângulos e três zonas de dissecação, para alcançar a "visão crítica de segurança" para o reparo de hérnia inguinal laparoscópica. Resultados: Desde que essa padronização foi desenvolvida há cinco anos, muitos cirurgiões foram treinados seguindo esses preceitos. A reprodutibilidade é muito alta, assim como a taxa de adoção entre cirurgiões. Conclusão: O conceito de "Y invertido", dos "Cinco triângulos" e a dissecção baseada em "Três Zonas" estabelecem uma padronização efetiva e reprodutível da técnica TAPP.

Orientações da Sociedade Brasileira de Hérnia (SBH) para o manejo das hérnias inguinocrurais em adultos / Guidelines of the Brazilian Hernia Society (BHS) for the management of inguinocrural hernias in adults

RESUMO As hérnias inguinais são um problema frequente e o seu reparo representa a cirurgia mais comumente realizada por cirurgiões gerais. Nos últimos anos, novos princípios, produtos e técnicas têm mudado a rotina dos cirurgiões que precisam reciclar conhecimentos e aperfeiçoar novas habilidades. Além disso, antigos conceitos sobre indicação cirúrgica e riscos de complicações vêm sendo reavaliados. Visando criar um guia de orientações sobre o manejo das hérnias inguinais em pacientes adultos, a Sociedade Brasileira de Hérnias reuniu um grupo de experts com objetivo de revisar diversos tópicos, como indicação cirúrgica, manejo perioperatório, técnicas cirúrgicas, complicações e orientações pós-operatórias.

ABSTRACT Inguinal hernias are a frequent problem and their repair is the most commonly performed procedure by general surgeons. In the last years, new principles, products and techniques have changed the routine of surgeons, who need to recycle knowledge and perfect new skills. In addition, old concepts regarding surgical indication and risk of complications have been reevaluated. In order to create a guideline for the management of inguinal hernias in adult patients, the Brazilian Hernia Society assembled a group of experts to review various topics, such as surgical indication, perioperative management, surgical techniques, complications and postoperative guidance.

Subcutaneous onlay laparoscopic approach (scola) for ventral hernia and rectus abdominis diastasis repair: technical description and initial results / Abordagem laparoscópica subcutânea pré-aponeurótica (scola) para reparo de hérnia ventral e diástese de reto abdominal: descrição técnica e resultados iniciais

ABSTRACT Background: Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles (DMRA) is frequent and may be associated with abdominal wall hernias. For patients with redudant skin, dermolipectomy and plication of the diastasis is the most commonly used procedure. However, there is a significant group of patients who do not require skin resection or do not want large incisions. Aim: To describe a "new" technique (subcutaneous onlay laparoscopic approach - SCOLA) for the correction of ventral hernias combined with the DMRA plication and to report the initial results of a case series. Method: SCOLA was applied in 48 patients to correct ventral hernia concomitant to plication of DMRA by pre-aponeurotic endoscopic technique. Results: The mean operative time was 93.5 min. There were no intra-operative complications and no conversion. Seroma was the most frequent complication (n=13, 27%). Only one (2%) had surgical wound infection. After a median follow-up of eight months (2-19), only one (2%) patient presented recurrence of DMRA and one (2%) subcutaneous tissue retraction/fibrosis. Forty-five (93.7%) patients reported being satisfied with outcome. Conclusion: The SCOLA technique is a safe, reproducible and effective alternative for patients with abdominal wall hernia associated with DMRA.

RESUMO Racional: A diástase dos músculos retos abdominais (DMRA) é frequente e pode estar associada à presença de hérnias da parede abdominal. Para pacientes com excesso de pele, a dermolipectomia e plicatura da diástase é o procedimento mais comumente utilizado. Entretanto, há um grupo significativo de pacientes que não necessitam ressecção de pele ou não desejam grandes incisões. Objetivo: Descrever uma "nova" técnica (Subcutaneous Onlay Laparoscopic Approach - SCOLA) para a correção das hérnias ventrais combinada à plicatura da DMRA e relatar os resultados iniciais. Métodos: A técnica SCOLA de correção de hérnia ventral concomitante com a plicatura da DMRA por técnica endoscópica pré-aponeurótica foi aplicada em quarenta e oito pacientes. Resultados: O tempo operatório médio foi de 93,5 min. Não houve nenhuma complicação intra-operatória e nenhuma conversão. Seroma foi a complicação mais frequente (n=13, 27%). Apenas um (2%) apresentou infecção de ferida operatória. Após seguimento médio de oito meses (2-19) apenas um (2%) paciente apresentou recidiva da DMRA e um (2%) retração/fibrose do tecido subcutâneo. Quarenta e cinco (93,7%) relataram estarem satisfeitos com resultado. Conclusão: A técnica SCOLA é alternativa segura, reprodutível e efetiva para pacientes com hérnia da parede abdominal associada à DMRA.

Meningeal tumor: A rare extrahepatic association in patients with polycystic liver disease enrolled for liver transplantation.

In the present study, we described a rare association of polycystic liver disease (PCLD) with intracranial meningiomas in patients included on a liver transplant list, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment and possible association with any genetic alterations. Two female patients, aged 39 and 49 years were included on a liver transplant list due to extensive PCLD, with symptoms related to an abdominal compartmental syndrome. Screening for extrahepatic manifestation revealed a right frontal meningioma in the first patient, and a parietal posterior calcified meningioma in the second patient, measuring 1 and 7×3×2 cm in diameter, respectively. Following tumor removal, the histological pattern was compatible with fibrous and transitional meningioma, respectively. Cytogenetic studies conducted following surgery did not reveal any changes in metaphase chromosomes. The postoperative follow-up for the two patients was uneventful, without complications, with the patients remaining on a liver transplant waiting list. We conclude that screening for extrahepatic manifestations of PCLD is mandatory, as certain lesions require treatment prior to liver transplantation. The lack of a genetic or familial association between these two cases show they are likely to have occurred by chance, rather than representing a previously unrecognized association between polycystic liver disease and cranial meningioma.