eTEP Rives-Stoppa impact on abdominal contour: a retrospective observational and clinical quality improvement study using Ellipse 9 tool.

BACKGROUND: The eTEP Rives-Stoppa (RS) procedure, increasingly used for ventral hernia repair, has raised concerns about postoperative upper abdominal bulging. This study aims to objectively evaluate changes in the abdominal contour after eTEP RS and explore potential causes using a novel analytical tool, the Ellipse 9. METHODS: Thirty patients undergoing eTEP RS without posterior rectus sheath closure were assessed before and 3 months after surgery using CT scan images. Key measurements analyzed included the distance between linea semilunaris (X2), eccentricity over the Cord (c/a Cord), superior eccentricity (c/a Sup), Y2, and the superior perimeter of the abdomen. The Ellipse 9 tool, which provides graphical images and numerical representations, was utilized alongside patient-reported outcomes to assess perceived abdominal changes. RESULTS: The study group exhibited a trend toward a flatter abdomen with reduced distance between linea semilunaris(X2). However, 17% of patients developed upper abdominal bulging (5). Significant differences in c/a Cord, c/a Sup, Y2, and the superior perimeter of the abdomen, confirmed with Bonferroni corrections, were noted between bulging (5 patients) and non-bulging groups (25 patients). There was a notable disparity between patient perceptions and objective outcomes. CONCLUSION: The eTEP RS procedure improved abdominal contour in most patients from a selected cohort. The Ellipse 9 tool was valuable for the objective analysis of these changes. The cause of bulging post-eTEP RS is probably multifactorial. Notably, there was often a discrepancy between patient perceptions of bulging and objective clinical findings.

Impact on Anesthetic Agent Consumption After Autonomic Neural Blockade as Part of a Combined Anesthesia Protocol: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: The intraoperative autonomic neural blockade (ANB) was found safe and effective in controlling pain and associated symptoms and reducing analgesic consumption after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). This study evaluated whether ANB performed at the outset of LSG reduces anesthetic consumption and promotes hemodynamic stability. METHODS: This prospective, double-blinded, randomized trial involved patients undergoing LSG in 2 high-volume institutions. Patients were randomized to receive ANB either at the onset or the end of the procedure. The primary outcome measure was the consumption of remifentanil and sevoflurane. Secondary outcomes included Aldrete scale score differences in the recovery room and hemodynamic stability during the surgery. RESULTS: In total, 80 patients (40 in the ANB at the onset group and 40 in the control group) were included for analysis. The consumption of remifentanil was significantly lower in the onset group compared to the control group (mean difference -0.04 mcg/kg/min, 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.06 to -0.02; P < .0001). There were no differences in the Aldrete scale scores between the 2 groups. Mean heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were also significantly less during surgery in the ANB at the onset group. No complications related to the ANB occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Performing ANB at the onset of LSG is a safe and effective approach that reduces remifentanil consumption and promotes hemodynamic stability during the procedure. This technique holds promise for optimizing anesthesia management in LSG and other minimally invasive surgeries.

Paragastric Autonomic Neural Blockade to Prevent Early Visceral Pain and Associated Symptoms After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Visceral pain (VP) following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy remains a substantial problem. VP is associated with autonomic symptoms, especially nausea and vomiting, and is unresponsive to traditional pain management algorithms aimed at alleviating somatic (incisional) pain. The present study was performed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic paragastric autonomic neural blockade (PG-ANB) in managing the symptoms associated with VP following sleeve gastrectomy. STUDY DESIGN: This prospective, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial involved patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at two high-volume institutions. The patients were randomized to laparoscopic transversus abdominis plane block with or without PG-ANB. The primary outcome was patient-reported pain scores assessed at 1, 8, and 24 h postoperatively. The secondary outcome measures were analgesic requirements, nausea, vomiting, hiccups, and hemodynamic changes immediately after PG-ANB and postoperatively. RESULTS: In total, 145 patients (block group, n = 72; control group, n = 73) were included in the study. The heart rate and mean arterial pressure significantly decreased 10 min after PG-ANB. The visual analog scale score for pain was significantly lower in the PG-ANB than in the control group at 1 h postoperatively (p < 0.001) and 8 h postoperatively (p < 0.001). Vomiting, nausea, sialorrhea, and hiccups were significantly less prevalent in the PG-ANB group. Patients in the PG-ANB group received fewer cumulative doses of analgesics at 1 h postoperatively (p = 0.003) and 8 h postoperatively (p < 0.001). No differences between the groups were detected at 24 h (p = 0.298). No complications related to PG-ANB occurred. CONCLUSION: PG-ANB safely and effectively reduces early VP, associated autonomic symptoms, and analgesic requirements after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Critical view of the myopectineal orifice: a scoring system to objectively evaluate transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.

BACKGROUND: More than 20 million inguinal hernia repair (IHR) procedures are performed worldwide every year. The critical view of the myopectineal orifice (CV of the MPO) is a stepwise guide to the achievement and standardization of minimally invasive IHR (MI IHR). We propose a scoring system as an objective method for fulfillment of the CV of the MPO. METHODS: The scoring system was employed for evaluation of the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) technique in 15 video-recorded procedures. Two variants of the score were used: the simple CV of the MPO score (s-CVMPO score) and the extended CV of the MPO score (e-CVMPO score). The inter-rater agreement and internal consistency for both scores and the correlation between the two scores were assessed. RESULTS: Inter-rater agreement with respect to satisfactory/unsatisfactory achievement of the CV of the MPO was high for both the s-CVMPO and e-CVMPO scores (κ = 1, p < 0.001). The Finn coefficient for inter-rater agreement was 0.97 for the s-CVMPO score and 0.99 for the e-CVMPO score (p < 0.001 for both). Both the s-CVMPO and e-CVMPO scores showed internal consistency with Cronbach's α of 0.89 and 0.87, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the two scores for the average score of each procedure was ρ = 0.96 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The CVMPO score is a reliable tool for expert evaluation of TAPP repair. Implementing the CVMPO score facilitates objective assessment of the safety and quality of the procedure.

Implementation and Validation of a Novel and Inexpensive Training Model for Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop and validate a reproducible low-cost model useful for the development and acquisition of skills and competencies required for endoscopic hernia repairs. Methods: Ten general surgery residents (PGY3) were instructed to construct the model and perform the maneuvers necessary for the simulation of laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty by the trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) technique. They practiced for 4 weeks in the model, and the time required to perform simulated hernioplasty by the laparoscopic TAPP technique in the initial session was compared to the time required after 4 weeks of training. Results: The time required to perform the exercise was significantly lower than in the initial session (p < 0.01). The time required by residents to complete the exercise in the initial session was significantly longer than that used by expert surgeons in the same task (p < 0.01), and although a significant difference persisted, this difference was substantially reduced to 3.60 min after the residents completed 4-week training in the model (p < 0.01). An independent expert, blinded to the level of training of the person who performed the exercise, could recognize all residents as novices and all experienced surgeons as experts in the initial session of the exercise with the model, but after 4 weeks of training, they did not recognize 4 of the 10 residents as novices (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The routine implementation of training in this model could be very useful in the laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty teaching-learning process.

Concomitant Anterior and Posterior Component Separations: Absolutely Contraindicated?

Many experts in abdominal wall reconstruction believe that the combination of simultaneous ipsilateral anterior component separation (ACS) and posterior component separation (PCS) is contraindicated. We performed ipsilateral endoscopic ACS and either endoscopic or open PCS-transversus abdominis release (TAR) in 5 fresh cadaver models. The full length of the semilunar line and the lateral abdominal wall remained well reinforced by 2 complete layers, comprising the internal oblique (IO) and TA muscles and their investing fasciae. Myofascial releases occurred 4 cm (median) apart. Additionally, we reviewed computed tomography images at 1 month and 1 year after PCS-TAR in 17 patients (30 PCS-TARs). Lateral displacement of the TA relative to the rectus abdominis (RA) was significant only at the superior mesenteric artery level, where it was <1 cm (median). Muscle mass changed minimally over time. Several studies showed that abdominal wall reconstruction after PCS-TAR results in compensatory muscular hypertrophy of the RA, external oblique (EO), and IO muscles and provides better quality of life and improved core physiology. These changes did not occur when the midline was not restored. Theoretically, endoscopic ACS-EO may be added to PCS-TAR to avoid partially bridged mesh repair in patients in whom complete midline restoration is impossible via PCS-TAR alone. Nevertheless, we advise most surgeons to perform a small-bridged repair instead of risking increased morbidity by attempting a highly complicated procedure.

The Principled Approach to Ventral Hernia Repair / El abordaje basado en principios para el reparo de la hernia ventral

La estandarización de la reparación de la hernia ventral sigue siendo difícil de alcanzar. Los cirujanos utilizan una gran cantidad de técnicas, herramientas y tecnología para reparar defectos similares. Sin embargo, existen principios basados en la evidencia que deben aplicarse a todas las reparaciones, independientemente de la técnica que permita la estandarización y mejores resultados. Se proponen seis principios como base para la reconstrucción compleja de la pared abdominal

Standardization of ventral hernia repair remains elusive. Surgeons use a plethora of techniques, tools, and technology to repair similar defects. Nevertheless, evidence-based principles exist that should be applied to all repairs irrespective of technique allowing standardization and improved outcomes. Six principles are proposed as the basis for complex abdominal wall reconstruction

Endoscopic subcutaneous component separation as an adjunct to abdominal wall reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Proper defect closure during abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is a key to improving cosmetic and functional results, and reducing morbidity. We have completed the initial prospective evaluation of a technique we previously described and published: endoscopic subcutaneous anterior component separation (ACS) as an adjunct to mainly laparoscopic AWR. We now present the long-term clinical and imaging follow-up results. STUDY DESIGN: Data were prospectively collected over a 3-year period (2012-2015) on patients who underwent AWR with endoscopic ACS. Inclusion criteria included the following: defects of 6-15 cm that are longer than wider; no skin dystrophy; no loss of domain; no active infection; no previous multiple, complex repairs; no previous multiple mesh repairs; and no high probability of severe adhesions. All patients were followed up clinically at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and then annually. All patients underwent CT scanning of the abdominal wall (sagittal, axial, coronal, and 3D reconstruction) at 3 months and 1 year postoperatively and then annually. RESULTS: Twenty consecutive patients underwent adjunctive endoscopic ACS: 17 laparoscopic AWRs, 2 open repairs, and 1 hybrid repair. Up to 38 months (mean 21 months) of follow-up, there were no ventral hernia recurrences or de novo hernias at the ACS site. One patient experienced partial primary closure failure. Morbidity consisted in one case each of hematoma, seroma, and transient neuralgia. Cosmetic results and patient satisfaction were excellent. CONCLUSION: We confirmed that endoscopic subcutaneous ACS is a safe, effective, reliable, reproducible technique that facilitates primary closure of defects during AWR in selected patients.

Separación endoscópica de componentes por abordaje subcutáneo, experiencia inicial / Endoscopic component separation by subcutaneous approach

Introducción. La separación clásica de componentes crea un colgajo compuesto, el cual se moviliza para reparar primariamente hernias ventrales sin tensión. La extensa disección requerida produce muchas complicaciones e incapacidad. El abordaje mínimamente invasivo ofrece una alternativa menos mórbida. Se describe en detalle nuestra modificación técnica de la separación de componentes con abordaje endoscópico subcutáneo y los resultados iniciales y a corto plazo de una pequeña serie de pacientes. Métodos. Se hace una descripción detallada de la técnica con énfasis en la marcación preoperatoria de la línea semilunar bajo guía ecográfica y se evalúan los resultados de su aplicación en una serie piloto de seis casos de hernias ventrales grandes, intervenidos entre octubre de 2012 y febrero de 2013. Todos los pacientes han sido evaluados clínicamente entre los cuatro y los ocho meses después de la cirugía y, mediante una tomografía computadorizada de abdomen, a los tres meses. Resultados. Un paciente presentó un gran hematoma subcutáneo. No se presentaron otras complicaciones, como infección, problemas relacionados con la malla o seromas. No ha habido recurrencias durante el seguimiento clínico. El control tomográfico a los tres meses de la cirugía demostró una pared abdominal íntegra excepto por un pequeño defecto de 1 cm, bien reforzado por la malla, en uno de los pacientes. Discusión. La modificación descrita de la separación de componentes por abordaje endoscópico subcutáneo es factible, reproducible, ergonómica y de baja morbilidad en el corto plazo. Es necesario hacer un seguimiento más largo para evaluar la tasa de recurrencia.

Traditional component separation (CS) creates a compound flap that can be advanced for tension-free closure of ventral hernias. Wound complications are common because of the extensive dissection that is necessary with the traditional approach. Endoscopic CS offers an alternative with lower morbidity. We describe our initial experience with endoscopic subcutaneous CS and early postoperative results in a pilot series of six patients with large ventral central hernias. This study shows that endoscopic subcutaneous CS is feasible, reproducible, ergonomic, and can result in minimal postoperative complications. Long-term follow-up is necessary to evaluate recurrence rate outcomes.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux can be reduced by changes in surgical technique.

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) in obese patients, with the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass being the technique preferred by many surgeons. Published data reporting the results of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in patients with GERD are contradictory. In a previous observational study, we found that relative narrowing of the distal sleeve, hiatal hernia (HH), and dilation of the fundus predispose to GERD after LSG. In this study, we evaluated the effects of standardization of our LSG technique on the incidence of postoperative symptoms of GERD. METHODS: This was a concurrent cohort study. Patients who underwent bariatric surgery at our center were followed prospectively. LSG was performed in all patients in this series. RESULTS: A total of 234 patients underwent surgery. There were no cases of death, fistula, or conversion to open surgery. All 134 patients who completed 6-12 months of postoperative follow-up were evaluated. Excess weight loss at 1 year was 73.5%. In the study group, 66 patients (49.2%) were diagnosed with GERD preoperatively, and HH was detected in 34 patients (25.3%) intraoperatively. HH was treated by reduction in three patients, anterior repair in 28, and posterior repair in three. Only two patients (1.5%) had symptoms of GERD at 6-12 months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm that careful attention to surgical technique can result in significantly reduced occurrence of symptoms of GERD up to 12 months postoperatively, compared with previous reports of LSG in the literature.

The enhanced view-totally extraperitoneal technique for repair of inguinal hernia.

BACKGROUND: The totally extraperitoneal (TEP) approach for repair of inguinal hernia is the preferred technique since it does not penetrate the peritoneal cavity, thus avoiding potential intraperitoneal complications. The TEP technique allows for regional or even local plus sedative anesthesia, and it gives us an incomparable view of the inguinal region and hernias exactly where they originate. Part of the difficulty with the TEP technique is the limited space it provides for dissection. METHODS: We describe a modification of the classical TEP approach which overcomes this limitation: the e-TEP technique. Since October 2010 we have performed 36 e-TEP procedures. Many of these were in difficult cases such as inguinoscrotal and incarcerated hernias and patients with previous radical prostatectomy. We present an initial evaluation of this group of patients. RESULTS: Results in terms of pain and time off work were the same as with the classical technique. The average operating time was 38 min. This is longer than usual, probably due to the complexity of the cases performed and the time spent in documenting the technique for educational purposes. The peritoneum was often accidentally opened and air leaked into the peritoneal cavity without interfering with the completion of the surgery. We had two small seromas and one case of skin sloughing at the umbilical wound in a case of umbilical and bilateral inguinal hernias. We have had no recurrences, but follow-up has been short. CONCLUSIONS: Our initial experience with the e-TEP technique has been satisfactory. We have had no conversions in spite of the difficult cases selected. There were no major complications, and functional results were excellent. We believe this modification has a place in the armamentarium for hernia repair.

Reparo laparoscópico de la hernia inguinal: presentación de la técnica totalmente extraperitoneal con vista extendida / Laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia: a totally extraperitoneal technique with

Este artículo describe una modificación a la técnica totalmente extraperitoneal, la cual mejora notablemente el espacio quirúrgico y facilita la ejecución del reparo endoscópico extraperitoneal de la hernia.

This article describes de progressive global acceptance of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair and describes a totally extraperitoneal technique that we have labelled E-ETP because it provides an enhanced or expanded visual surgical field in comparison with the traditional TEP approach. The technique is particularly useful in the obese patients and in patients with large hernias.