Bilateral rectus muscle turning-over for complicated and eventrated abdominal wall hernias: results of a novel method.

PURPOSE: We present a technique for covering large midline loss of abdominal wall using a novel method by autologous tissues. METHODS: Twenty-two patients (body mass index = 35,6 ± 6,9 kg/m2) were involved in the prospective cohort study. Acute and elective cases were included. The gap area was 450.1 ± 54 cm2. The average width of the midline gap was 16,3 ± 3,2 cm. The rectus muscles were mobilized from its posterior sheath. Both muscles were turned by180º medially, so that the complete abdominal wall gap could be covered without considerable tension. Changes in intra-abdominal pressure, quality of life and hernia recurrency were determined. RESULTS: There was no significant increase in the intra-abdominal pressure. Wound infection and seroma occurred in four cases. Bleeding occurred in one case. Pre- and post-operative quality of life index significantly improved (23 ± 13 vs. 47 ± 6; p = 0,0013). One recurrent hernia was registered. The procedure could be performed safely and yielded excellent results. The method was applied in acute cases. The intact anatomical structure of rectus muscles was essential. CONCLUSIONS: The midline reconstruction with bilateral turned-over rectus muscles provided low tension abdominal wall status, and it did not require synthetic mesh implantation.

Simultaneous Deep Endometriosis Affecting Abdominal Wall and Vermiform Appendix / Endometriosis Simultánea de Pared Abdominal y Apéndice Vermicular

SUMMARY: Endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects between 8 % and 44 % of women of reproductive age. Occasionally it presents as a sensitive mass in the abdominal wall, in relation to a surgical scar. On the other hand, in the most severe stage of endometriosis, intestinal involvement is common, and endometriotic disease of the appendix may be present even in appendices with macroscopically normal appearance. Simultaneous affectation of both locations is very rare. Nevertheless, treatment of choice is the excision of both lesions with safety margins. The aim of this manuscript was to report a case of simultaneous deep endometriosis affecting the total abdominal wall and vermiform appendix, resected in a single surgical procedure, which subsequently required abdominal wall repair with mesh plasty. Since desmoid tumors and endometriosis share similar clinical signs and unspecific imaging exams, both options should be considered in case of abdominal wall mass in female patients of childbearing age, especially if they have a history of uterine-related surgery.

La endometriosis se define como la presencia de glándulas endometriales y estroma fuera del útero. Es una afección crónica que afecta entre el 8 % y el 44 % de las mujeres en edad reproductiva. Ocasionalmente se presenta como una masa sensible en la pared abdominal, en relación con una cicatriz quirúrgica. Por otro lado, en su estadio más grave de la endometriosis, la afectación intestinal es común y puede afectar al apéndice, pudiendo estar presente incluso en apéndices de apariencia macroscópicamente normal. La afectación de ambas localizaciones simultáneamente es muy infrecuente. Sin embargo, el tratamiento de ambas lesiones es su exéresis quirúrgica con márgenes de seguridad. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de endometriosis profunda simultánea que afectaba la pared abdominal total y el apéndice vermiforme, las que fueron resecadas en un solo tiempo quirúrgico, incluyendo posteriormente reparación de la pared abdominal con uso de malla. Dado que los tumores desmoides y la endometriosis comparten signos clínicos similares y exámenes de imágenes inespecíficos, se deben considerar ambas opciones en caso de masas en la pared abdominal de mujeres en edad fértil, especialmente si tienen antecedentes de cirugía relacionada con el útero.

Epidemiologia, clínica y evolución en pacientes con endometriosis / Epidemiology, clinic and evolution in patients with endometriosis

Objetivo: Estudiar la relación que existe entre algunos factores predisponente a desarrollar endometriosis y síntomas más frecuentes que manifiestan las pacientes. Métodos: Estudio observacional longitudinal, retrospectivo y descriptivo, mediante la revisión de 455 historias tomadas 560 pacientes que acudieron a la consulta de endometriosis y realizando diagnóstico definitivo en el Hospital Universitario "Dr. Ángel Larralde" y consulta privada, en Venezuela, estado Carabobo, en el periodo de enero 2006 a mayo 2023. Resultados: El diagnóstico se realizó en un 47,1 % de las pacientes con edades entre 26 a 35 años. La menarquia se presentó entre los 8 y los 12 años (el 69 %). El 63 % no tenía embarazos. La dismenorrea primaria fue más frecuente en el 63,07 %. El dolor pélvico y dispareunia en el 48 %, los síntomas digestivos en el 21 %. La localización más frecuente fue en ovario (78,7 %). Conclusión: La endometriosis, enfermedad inflamatoria benigna, estrógeno dependiente, se caracteriza por presencia de glándulas y estroma endometrial ectópico, usualmente acompañados de fibrosis. Se manifiesta en el periodo reproductivo, su principal síntoma es el dolor. Se localiza con mayor frecuencia en la pelvis y de esta en los ovarios, en intestino, vejiga, hígado, pulmones, cerebro, pared abdominal y periné. No hay tratamiento para su cura, pero si para los síntomas y retardar su progreso. Su diagnóstico por su desarrollo multifactorial y manifestaciones clínicas en muchas oportunidades se realiza en forma tardía(AU)

Objective: To study the relationship that exists between some predisposing factors to develop endometriosis and the most frequent symptoms manifested by patients. Methods: Longitudinal, retrospective and descriptive observational study, through the review of 455 records taken from 560 patients who attended the endometriosis consultation and made a definitive diagnosis at the "Dr. Ángel Larralde" and private consultation, in Venezuela, Carabobo state, in the period from January 2006 to May 2023. Results: The diagnosis was made in 47.1% of the patients aged between 26 and 35 years. Menarche occurred between 8 and 12 years of age (69%). 63% did not have pregnancies. Primary dysmenorrhea was more frequent in 63.07%. Pelvic pain and dyspareunia in 48%, digestive symptoms in 21%. The most frequent location was in the ovary (78.7%). Conclusion: Endometriosis, a benign, estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease, is characterized by the presence of ectopic endometrial glands and stroma, usually accompanied by fibrosis. It manifests itself in the reproductive period, its main symptom is pain. It is located most frequently in the pelvis and from this in the ovaries, intestine, bladder, liver, lungs, brain, abdominal wall and perineum. There is no treatment to cure it, but there is treatment for the symptoms and slowing its progress. Its diagnosis due to its multifactorial development and clinical manifestations is often made late(AU)

Use of rainbow trout skin treated with glutaraldehyde as a mesh for abdominal hernioplasty in rats.

PURPOSE: To test the use of rainbow trout skin as a surgical mesh in abdominal hernioplasties in rats. METHODS: The experiment involved 20 Wistar rats receiving implants of trout skin processed for disinfection in 0.5% glutaraldehyde and preserved in 100% glycerin. The animals were divided into four groups, divided at 7, 15, 30, and 90 days postoperatively. Clinical and infrared thermography evaluations were performed, and after euthanasia, assessments of adhesion formations and sample collection for histological evaluation were conducted. RESULTS: The implant was observed to be intact, ensuring the integrity of the abdominal wall, support for the viscera, and normal mobility for the rats for up to 90 days. Low rates of clinical alterations were observed, with an intense inflammatory reaction up to day 7, chronic inflammation and the onset of angiogenesis at day 15, and a low inflammatory reaction with collagenous infiltrate and fibrosis at day 30. At day 90, the implants showed a collagenous and fibrotic infiltrate with a minimal inflammatory infiltrate. CONCLUSIONS: The surgical mesh of trout skin performed well, making it a potential alternative for surgical procedures in muscle aponeurotic corrections in the abdominal wall.

Effects of valproic acid on wound healing of the abdominal wall musculoaponeurotic layer: an experimental study in rats.

INTRODUCTION: valproic acid (VPA), an epigenetic drug, has potential for the treatment of neoplasms. Its effects on the healing of the peritoneal-musculo-aponeurotic plane (PMA) of the abdominal wall are studied. METHOD: sixty Wistar rats were allocated into two groups: experimental (VPA) and control (0.9% sodium chloride), treated daily, starting three days before the intervention and until euthanasia. Under anesthesia, a median laparotomy was performed and repaired with two synthetic layers. Assessments took place 3, 7 and 14 days after surgery. The integrity of the wounds, the quality of the inflammatory reaction, the intensity of the leukocyte infiltrate, collagen synthesis, the intensity of angiogenesis and the presence of myofibroblasts were studied. RESULTS: there was dehiscence of the PMA plane in 11 of the 30 animals (p=0.001) in the experimental group. There was no difference in the quality and intensity of the inflammatory reaction. Immunohistochemistry revealed, in the experimental group, less collagen I (p3=0.003, p7=0.013 and p14=0.001) and more collagen III (p3=0.003, p7=0.013 and p14= 0.001). Collagen evaluated by Sirus Supra Red F3BA showed, in the experimental group, less collagen at all three times (p<0.001) with less collagen I and collagen III (p<0.001). A lower number of vessels was found on the 3rd day (p<0.001) and on the 7th day (p=0.001) and did not affect the number of myofibroblasts. CONCLUSION: VPA showed dehiscence of the PMA plane, with less deposition of total collagen and collagen I, less angiogenic activity, without interfering with the number of myofibroblasts.

Proposal for encoding the surgical treatment in abdominal wall pathology based on a multidimensional analysis of history.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a multidimensional method that allows to identify different treatment concepts, techniques, protagonists, and their connections in surgical pathology of the abdominal wall throughout its historical development, serving as a basis or guide for the future. METHOD: First, an extensive and rigorous review of the literature was conducted to search for and group the different treatments described in the most common abdominal wall pathologies, including both groin and ventral hernias. Then, all treatment approaches were chronologically ordered and grouped according to their author, surgical approach, and method of approach. With all the information gathered, a table was created following a rational and multidimensional criterion that allows for the encoding of the set. RESULTS: 21 treatment modalities were identified and distributed into 8 groups. Additionally, 3 types of authors were detected: the creator, the innovator, and the popularizer. The assignment of values to different dimensions allowed us to obtain an alphanumeric code representative of the set. CONCLUSION: Multidimensional historical analysis allows analytical objectivity and set encoding. Its practical scope should be investigated.

Cicatrización por segunda intención de heridas quirúrgicas obstétricas y ginecológicas complicadas con absceso de pared abdominal / Secondary intent healing of Obstetric and Gynecologic surgical wounds complicated by abdominal wall abscess

Objetivo: Evaluar la cicatrización por segunda intención en las heridas quirúrgicas obstétricas y ginecológicas complicadas con absceso de pared abdominal. Métodos: Estudio de tipo prospectivo, descriptivo, analítico y observacional, se estudiaron 38 pacientes con absceso de pared abdominal posterior a cesárea o cirugía ginecológica en quienes se implementó la cicatrización por segunda intención de la herida. Los datos obtenidos se expresaron como valores absolutos, en porcentajes y como media + desviación estándar. Se aplicó ANOVA para analizar los factores que influyeron en el tiempo de cierre de la herida, considerando un valor de p < 0,05 como estadísticamente significativo. Resultados: En cuanto a las características generales promedio se encontró edad 29,66 ± 10,65 años, peso 72,18 ± 14,21 kg, talla 1,62 ± 0,05 metros, e índice de masa corporal 27,62 ± 4,58 Kg/m2. Para los factores de riesgo, cirugías abdominales previas 44,74 %, infección urinaria 21,05 %, flujo vaginal 28,95 %, ruptura prematura de membranas 18,42 %, hipertensión arterial 39,47 %, diabetes 5,26 %, obesidad 31,58 % y tabaquismo 10,53 %. El germen más frecuente fue Staphylococcus aureus (35,14 %). El 52,63 % ameritó cambio de antibiótico. Se utilizaron apósitos en 55,26 %. El cierre de la herida tardó en promedio 31,30 ± 8,40 días. Las pacientes estuvieron 12,61 ± 5,78 días en hospitalización. Conclusiones: Se obtuvieron buenos resultados estéticos y funcionales, la utilización de apósitos no acelera el tiempo de cicatrización de las heridas(AU)

Objective: Objective: To evaluate healing by secondary intention in obstetric and gynecological surgical wounds complicated by abdominal wall abscess. Methods: A prospective, descriptive, analytical, and observational study was conducted in 38 patients with abdominal wall abscess after cesarean section or gynecological surgery in whom healing by second intention of the wound was implemented. The data obtained were expressed as absolute values, in percentages and as mean + standard deviation. ANOVA was applied to analyze the factors that influenced wound closure time, considering a p-value < 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: Regarding the average general characteristics, age was 29.66 ± 10.65 years, weight 72.18 ± 14.21 kg, height 1.62 ± 0.05 meters, and body mass index 27.62 ± 4.58 Kg/m2. For risk factors, previous abdominal surgeries 44.74%, urinary tract infection 21.05%, vaginal discharge 28.95%, premature rupture of membranes 18.42%, hypertension 39.47%, diabetes 5.26%, obesity 31.58% and smoking 10.53%. The most frequent germ was Staphylococcus aureus (35.14%). A total of 52.63% required a change of antibiotic. Dressings were used in 55.26 %. It took an average of 31.30 ± 8.40 days to close the wound. Patients spent 12.61 ± 5.78 days in hospitalization. Conclusions: Good aesthetic and functional results were obtained; the use of dressings does not accelerate the wound healing time(AU)

STAPLED FASCIAL CLOSURE VS. CONTINUOUS HAND-SEWN SUTURE: EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE ABDOMINAL WALL ON PORCINE MODEL AND HUMAN CADAVER.

BACKGROUND: One of the primary complications associated with large incisions in abdominal surgery is the increased risk of fascial closure rupture and incisional hernia development. The choice of the fascial closure method and closing with minimal tension and trauma is crucial for optimal results, emphasizing the importance of uniform pressure along the suture line to withstand intra-abdominal pressure. AIMS: To evaluate the resistance to pressure and tension of stapled and sutured hand-sewn fascial closure in the abdominal wall. METHODS: Nine abdominal wall flaps from human cadavers and 12 pigs were used for the experimentation. An abdominal defect was induced after the resection of the abdominal wall and the creation of a flap in the cadaveric model and after performing a midline incision in the porcine models. The models were randomized into three groups. Group 1 was treated with a one-layer hand-sewn small bite suture, Group 2 was treated with a two-layer hand-sewn small bite suture, and Group 3 was treated with a two-layer stapled closure. Tension measurements were assessed in cadaveric models, and intra-abdominal pressure was measured in porcine models. RESULTS: In the human cadaveric model, the median threshold for fascial rupture was 300N (300-350) in Group 1, 400N (350-500) in Group 2, and 350N (300-380) in Group 3. Statistical comparisons revealed non-significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.072, p>0.05), Group 1 and Group 3 (p=0.346, p>0.05), and Group 2 and Group 3 (p=0.184, p>0.05). For porcine subjects, Group 1 showed a median pressure of 80 mmHg (85-105), Group 2 had a median of 92.5 mmHg (65-95), and Group 3 had a median of 102.5 mmHg (80-135). Statistical comparisons indicated non-significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.243, p>0.05), Group 1 and Group 3 (p=0.468, p>0.05), and Group 2 and Group 3 (p=0.083, p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Stapled and conventional suturing resist similar pressure and tension thresholds.

Predictive factors for complexity in abdominal wall hernias: a literature scope review.

INTRODUCTION: Abdominal wall hernias encompass both ventral and incisional hernias, often poorly classified regarding complexity in general. This study aims to conduct a review on the primary topics related to defining the complexity of ventral hernias. METHODS: this is a scope review conducted following the guidelines recommended by the PRISMA-ScR directive. Searches were carried out in electronic databases including PubMed, LILACS, and EMBASE, using the descriptors: Abdominal Hernia, Hernia, Ventral Hernia, Incisional Hernia, Complex, Classification, Classify, Grade, Scale, and Definition. Combinations of these terms were employed when appropriate. Inclusion criteria encompassed articles with definitions and classifications of complex hernias, as well as those utilizing these classifications to guide treatments and patient allocation. Synonyms and related topics were also considered. Articles outside the scope or lacking the themes in their title or abstract were excluded. The database search was conducted up to July 29, 2023. RESULTS: several hernia classifications were identified as useful in predicting complexity. For this study, we considered six main criteria: size and location, loss of domain, use of abdominal wall relaxation techniques, characteristics of imaging exams, status of the subcutaneous cellular tissue, and likelihood of recurrence. CONCLUSION: complex abdominal wall hernias can be defined by characteristics analyzed collectively, relating to the patients previous clinical status, size and location of the hernia defect, status of subcutaneous cellular tissue, myofascial release techniques, and other complicating factors.

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.

Giant stone adhered in the vaginal cavity in a female patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Bladder lithiasis comprises 5% of urological lithiasis. Large bladder stones associated with vesicovaginal fistulas are rare, and the risk factors are not an isolated process. There are metabolic comorbidities associated with this pathology, including diabetes mellitus. CASE PRESENTATION: A 70-year-old Mestizo patient is presented, reporting dysuria, pollakiuria, and abdominal pain of 4 months of evolution, located in the hypogastric region, also with a sensation of a foreign body in the vaginal introitus. In her pathological history, she presented type 2 diabetes mellitus. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis was performed, reporting a tumor lesion in the abdominal wall. Therefore, surgical intervention was performed by cystolithotomy, obtaining a giant stone adhered to the vaginal wall with a size of 10 cm × 12 cm. CONCLUSION: Early detection of this pathology should be exhaustive in patients with characteristics and comorbidities associated with stone development to avoid possible complications, such as vesicovaginal fistulas.

Siguiendo la trayectoria de la abdominoplastia TULUA ­ Revelación de su evolución e impacto global / Tracing the Trajectory of TULUA Abdominoplasty ­ Unveiling its Evolution and Global Impact

La técnica de abdominoplastia TULUA, fue concebida por el Dr. Francisco Villegas en Colombia, su acrónimo en inglés refleja sus principios fundamentales: plicatura Transversal, Sin despegamiento, Liposucción sin restricción que incluye la línea media y flancos, Neo umbilicoplastia, ubicación baja de cicatriz y libre posición del ombligo. A lo largo de los últimos 12 años, la técnica TULUA ha ganado espacio en América Latina, Norteamérica, la zona árabe e India. Destacando su relevancia, se ha propuesto la publicación de un libro monográfico, programado para 2024, que abarcará desde los principios fundamentales hasta las experiencias internacionales con la técnica. Las indicaciones de la abdominoplastia TULUA han evolucionado, incluyendo casos estéticos, secundarios, hernias, cicatrices previas, pérdida masiva de peso, alta definición, aumento muscular y combinaciones con otras plicaturas. Ha sido aplicada con éxito en cierre del abdomen donante de reconstrucción mamaria. A través de investigaciones especializadas y revisiones de pares, la TULUA ha sido reconocida por su aplicabilidad y beneficios, especialmente en la realización segura de liposucción en abdominoplastias. Se sugieren estudios adicionales para evaluar los resultados y posibles complicaciones, abriendo oportunidades para una mayor comprensión y refinamiento. El futuro de la abdominoplastia TULUA parece prometedor, anticipando trabajos prospectivos, indicaciones adicionales y un enfoque gradual para cirujanos en formación. En última instancia, la técnica se presenta como una adición al repertorio de procedimientos estéticos abdominales, contribuyendo al avance de la cirugía abdominal estética.

The TULUA abdominoplasty technique, conceived by Dr. Francisco Villegas in Colombia, its acronym in English reflects its fundamental principles: Transverse plication, no Undermined flap above the umbilicus, Liposuction without restrictions including midline and flanks, Neo umbilicoplasty, low scar placement, and free umbilical positioning. Over the past 12 years, the TULUA technique has gained acceptance in Latin America, North America, the Arab region, and India. Highlighting its relevance, the publication of a monographic book has been proposed, its launch is scheduled for 2024, covering from fundamental principles to international experiences with the technique. Indications for TULUA abdominoplasty have evolved, including aesthetic cases, secondary cases, hernias, previous scars, massive weight loss, high definition, muscle augmentation, and combinations with other plications. It has been successfully applied in closing the donor abdomen for breast reconstruction. Through specialized research and peer reviews, TULUA has been recognized for its applicability and benefits, especially in safely performing liposuction during abdominoplasties. Additional studies are suggested to evaluate results and potential complications, opening opportunities for greater understanding and refinement. The future of TULUA abdominoplasty appears promising, anticipating prospective works, additional indications, and a gradual approach for surgeons in training. Ultimately, the technique presents itself as an addition to the repertoire of abdominal aesthetic procedures, contributing to the advancement of aesthetic abdominal surgery.

Effects of botulinum toxin in two indicators of loss of domain and hernia size among patients with large ventral hernias.

BACKGROUND: In patients with large ventral hernias, botulinum toxin to external and internal oblique muscles decreases thickness and increases length. We examined the impact of botulinum toxin in the amount of loss of domain according to two ratios and in hernia size. METHODS: Between October 2021 and November 2023, 20 patients with ventral hernias measuring 10 cm or more on the horizontal size underwent the administration of 50 units of botulinum toxin to each external and each internal oblique muscle 4 weeks before their surgery. Incisional hernia volume to peritoneal volume ratio, volume ratio, and hernia size were compared before and 4 weeks after the injection of botulinum toxin. Comparisons between all variables obtained before and after the administration of botulinum toxin were performed using either the paired t-test or the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to analyze associations between initial conditions and further changes observed after botulinum toxin injection. RESULTS: We observed a 42% reduction in muscle amplitude, 16% increase in intra-abdominal volume, 28% decrease in herniated volume, decreases of 6% in IHV/PV ratio and of 11% in V ratio, 11% reduction of hernia width, and decrease of 10% in rectangular and elliptical hernia areas. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with large ventral hernias, botulinum toxin is associated with reduction of hernia size and decrease in loss of domain, the latter not being significant when less than 10% of the visceral block is herniated.

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.

Volumetry after botulinum toxin A: the impact on abdominal wall compliance and endotracheal pressure.

PURPOSE: Botulinum toxin type A (BTA) is an adjuvant tool used in the preoperative optimization of complex hernias before abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). This study aims to investigate changes in the abdominal cavity and hernia sac dimensions after BTA application. METHOD: A prospective study with 27 patients with a hernia defect of ≥ 10 cm and loss of domain (LOD) ≥ 20% underwent AWR. Computed tomography (CT) measurements and volumetry before and after the application of BTA were performed. Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: Imaging post-BTA revealed hernia width reduction of 1.9 cm (p = 0.002), lateral abdominal wall muscle elongation of 3.1 cm (p < 0.001), hernia volume reduction (HV) from 2.9 ± 0.9L to 2.4 ± 0.8L (p < 0.001), increase in abdominal cavity volume (ACV) from 9.7 ± 2.5L to 10.3L ± 2.4L (p = 0.003), and a reduction in the HV/ACV ratio from 30.2 ± 5% to 23.4 ± 6% (p < 0.001). Fascial closure was achieved in 92.6% of cases and component separation was required in 78%. The average variation in pulmonary plateau pressure was 3.53 cmH2O, and there were no postoperative respiratory failure recorded. At the 90-day follow-up, the wound morbidity rate was 25%, unplanned readmissions were 11%, and hernia recurrence 7.4%. CONCLUSION: BTA produces measurable volumetric changes in abdominal wall and appears to facilitate fascial closure. Further studies are required to determine the role of BTA in the surgical armamentarium for complex hernia repair.

Development of a low-cost congenital abdominal wall defect simulator (wall-go) for undergraduate medical education: a validation study.

BACKGROUND: Congenital Anomalies were responsible for 303,000 deaths in the neonatal period, according to the WHO, they are among the world's top 20 causes of morbidity and mortality. Expensive simulators demonstrate several diseases, but few are related to congenital anomalies. This study aims to develop, validate, and evaluate low-cost simulator models (WALL-GO) of the most common abdominal wall defects, gastroschisis, and omphalocele, to enable diagnosis through an accessible tool with study value and amenable to replication. METHODS: Market research was conducted to find materials to build low-cost models. The researchers built the model and underwent validation assessment of the selected experts who scored five or more in the adapted Fehring criteria. The experts were assessed through a 5-point Likert scale to 7 statements (S1-7). Statements were assigned values according to relevance in face and transfer validities. Concomitantly, the model was also evaluated by students from 1st to 5th year with the same instruments. Content Validity Indexes (CVIs) were considered validated between groups with concordance greater than 90%. Text feedback was also collected. Each statement was subjected to Fisher's Exact Test. RESULTS: Gastroschisis and omphalocele model costs were US $15 and US $27, respectively. In total, there were 105 simulator evaluators. 15 experts were selected. Of the 90 students, there were 16 (1st year), 22 (2nd), 16 (3rd), 22 (4th), and 14 (5th). Students and experts obtained CVI = 96.4% and 94.6%, respectively. The CVIs of each statement were not significantly different between groups (p < 0,05). CONCLUSIONS: The WALL-GO models are suitable for use and replicable at a manufacturable low cost. Mannequins with abdominal wall defects are helpful in learning to diagnose and can be applied in teaching and training health professionals in developing and low-income countries.

Comparison of open anterior component and open transversus abdominus release in repair of large subcostal hernias.

BACKGROUND: Large subcostal incisional hernias are considered as complex defects, and a few different approaches have been described for repair. The purpose of this comparative cross-sectional study is to evaluate the outcomes of patients with large subcostal incisional hernias treated with either the open anterior components separation technique (ACS) or with the open transversus abdominis release technique (TAR). METHODS: From the database of patients with large complex incisional hernias who underwent abdominal wall reconstruction with open techniques between April 2007 and October 2022 at our institution, on May 25th, 2023 we identified those whose hernias were located in the subcostal areas and who underwent reconstruction with a components separation technique and mesh. Perioperative variables and outcomes were compared between the patients with large subcostal hernias who underwent abdominal wall reconstruction with either the ACS or the TAR techniques. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients with large subcostal hernias were included in the study. ACS and intra-abdominal mesh was used in 11 patients; TAR and retro-muscular mesh was performed in 20 patients. More postoperative local abdominal wall complications were seen in patients who had ACS as opposed to TAR (55% vs 15%, p = 0.02). Hernia recurrence was more common in patients who had ACS as opposed to TAR (55% vs 5%, p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: More post-operative complications and recurrences were seen in patients who had ACS as opposed to TAR.

Giant omphalocele: A novel approach for primary repair in the neonatal period using botulinum toxin.

INTRODUCTION: Giant omphalocele (GO) is a complex condition for which many surgical treatments have been developed; however, no consensus on its treatment has been reached. The benefits and efficacy of botulinum toxin A (BTA) in the repair of large abdominal wall defects in adults has been proven, and its reported use in children has recently grown. The goal of this study is to describe a novel technique for primary repair of GO using BTA during the neonatal period and report our initial experience. METHODS: patients were followed from August 2020 to July 2022. BTA was applied to the lateral abdominal wall in the first days of life followed by surgical repair of the abdominal defect. RESULTS: while awaiting surgery, patients had minimal manipulation, without requiring mechanical ventilation, were on full enteral feeding, and in contact with their parents. The midline was approximated without tension and without the need for additional techniques or the use of a prosthesis. Patients were discharged with repaired defects. CONCLUSION: this approach represents a middle ground between staged and the nonoperative delayed repairs. It does not require aggressive interventions early in life, allowing maintenance of mother-child bonding and discharge of the patient with a repaired defect without the need for additional techniques or the use of a prosthesis. We believe that this technique should be considered as a new possible asset when managing this complex condition.

Experimental evaluation of the use of starch and carboxymethylcellulose in the prevention of intraperitoneal adhesions in hernia surgery with coated meshes.

PURPOSE: Laparoscopic hernia repair involves a risk of adhesion between coated mesh and viscera. Plant polysaccharides such as starch and carboxymethylcellulose (SC) make up a product that acts as a barrier and prevents intraperitoneal adhesions. This study aimed to evaluate whether topical SC can also reduce adhesions between mesh and intra-abdominal organs. METHODS: Forty rats each received placement of two intraperitoneal mesh fragments, one on each side of the abdominal wall. Randomly, 20 animals received SC on the right and other 20 on the left, leaving the contralateral side as a control. Fourteen days after the surgery, the animals underwent an additional laparotomy in which macroscopic analysis was performed. RESULTS: As for the percentage of the mesh area affected by adhesion, one (2.6%) animal had > 75% adhesion on the experimental side, and 11 animals (28.9%) on the control side. The adhesion intensity score showed firm adhesions in three (7.9%) animals on the experimental side and nine (23.7%) on the control side. CONCLUSIONS: The use of SC decreased the intensity of adhesions and the surface area of the mesh affected by adhesions. There was no negative interference of the product in the incorporation of the mesh into the abdominal wall.