Mandatory completion of a box trainer curriculum prior to laparoscopic apprenticeship in the OR for surgical residents: A Before and After study.

INTRODUCTION: Training on laparoscopic box trainer (BT) improves surgical skills in the operating room (OR). Despite a large consensus on the educational value of the BT, its use is currently left up to local initiatives among French residency programs. This study evaluated the impact of a requirement to complete the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) curriculum before starting companionship in the OR. METHODS: This was a "Before and After" study conducted in two French academic hospitals in 2015-2017. Gynaecology and urology residents were given open access to a FLS BT during a six-month surgical rotation. Residents in the first group (Before group) trained on the BT while receiving classic companionship. Residents in the second group (After group) had to complete the FLS curriculum before they were allowed to participate in laparoscopic procedures as a primary operator. Outcomes measures were the time to curriculum completion and the intracorporeal suturing performances based on two validated assessment tools (FLS and GOALS scores). RESULTS: Twenty-one surgical residents were included. All but two residents in the Before group completed the curriculum. The time to curriculum completion was longer in the Before group than the After group (69.5 days versus 28 days, P=0.001). Post-curriculum performances were lower in the Before group than in the After group for the FLS scores (452.5 versus 496, P=0.01) and the GOALS scores (14.5 versus 18, P=0.01). DISCUSSION: The mandatory completion of a BT curriculum prior to receiving active companionship in the OR is beneficial to residents in reducing time to curriculum completion and in enhancing laparoscopic skills on the BT.

Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy with a vaginal prosthetic adhesive.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of vaginal prosthetic adhesive (VPA) during laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of 35 first consecutive cases. SETTING: Gynecology Surgery Unit, Bouchard Clinic, Marseille, France. PATIENTS: Thirty-five women (age range: 35-85 years; average 60.8 years) presenting a genital prolapse assessed by a Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) Score (stage 2 to 4). PROCEDURES: Modified laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy using a synthetic glue (Ifabond™, Peters Surgical(®)) to fix the mesh to the vagina (anterior and posterior) and to the levator ani. Two non-absorbable knots are used to secure the anterior mesh to the isthmus and to the promontory. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The average operating time was 68.4 minutes (45-115 min). No complications occurred during the procedure and early postoperative course. One patient (2.8%) experienced mesh exposure, and one patient (2.8%) experienced a subacute intestinal obstruction, which was resolved by a medical treatment. During a median follow-up at 13.2 months (range: 6-24.7 months), the surgical success rate (POP-Q<2) was 94.2% (two recurrences). The patient satisfaction rate was 87%. CONCLUSIONS: The VPA during laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy seems to be safe and effective at short term. This new procedure due to adhesive opens up a new path for the widespread use of sacrocolpopexy and for reduced operating times, which is often one obstacle with the dissection in the development of this technique.

[Influencing factors on surgical duration of ovarian cystectomy by single-port access]. / Facteurs influençant la durée opératoire de la kystectomie ovarienne par accès endoscopique unique.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the factors influencing the operative duration of ovarian cystectomy by single-port access (SPA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational monocentric study from June 2010 to September 2012. Inclusive patients were patients with an indication of ovarian cystectomy may be done by laparoscopy. The procedures were performed by the SPA system LESS®. Factors evaluated were BMI of the patient, histological nature and size of the cyst. RESULTS: We performed 54 cystectomy in 49 patients. SPA surgery was successfully completed in 53 patients. The median operative time was statistically longer for endometriotic cysts than dermoid cysts or serous-mucinous cysts (P=0.003). Cases exceeding 60minutes were significantly higher in the endometriosis group (P=0.005). There wasn't correlation found between the BMI of the patient and operative time (P=0.5). The operating time wasn't increased according to the size of the cyst (P=0.9). CONCLUSION: Endometriotic cysts nature appears to be the only limiting factor of cystectomy by SPA. Further studies are needed to evaluate the factors that may limit the SPA actions.

[Port-site metastasis after retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for endometrial adenocarcinoma]. / Métastase orificielle sur site de trocart après lymphadénectomie rétropéritonéale pour un adénocarcinome endométrial.

Port-site metastasis is a rare but serious complication of laparoscopic surgery. The etiologies are poorly identified and multiple. We report the case of port-site metastasis after laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for endometrial adenocarcinoma. In the literature, three cases of port-site metastasis after laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy are reported: two cases concerning cervical cancer and one case concerning a kidney cancer. To our knowledge, this is the only case about port site metastasis after laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for endometrial adenocarcinoma.

[Single laparoscopic access: initial experience]. / Chirurgie laparoscopique par accès unique : expérience initiale.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate feasibility of single laparoscopic access with LESS(®) system. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted an open study from 1/7/2009 to 1/10/2010 in a single gynaecologic department. All procedures were performed by four operators. Procedures evaluated were total hysterectomy, adnexectomy and ovarian cystectomy. Feasibility, per- and postoperative data were reported. RESULTS: We performed completely 24/25 (96 %) total hysterectomies by single laparoscopic access. Traditional laparoscopy and finally laparotomy was necessary for one patient. Bladder injury repaired by vaginal approach was reported in one patient. We performed 29 adnexectomies in 19 patients (nine unilaterals et 10 bilaterals) and six ovarian cystectomies in four patients (four unilaterals et two bilaterals). All procedures were performed successfully by single laparoscopic access. Parietal haematoma were reported in two patients. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic gynaecologic surgery by single access seems feasible with LESS(®) system for these procedures. Further study including larger number of patients and operators were necessary to confirm risks and advantages of this technique.

[Laparoscopic ways of para-aortic lymphadenectomy]. / Voie d'abord coelioscopique du curage lombo-aortique.

The idea that pelvic cancers can be treated by laparoscopy is now commonly admitted among gynaecological surgeons. Literature shows a lower morbidity than laparotomy, with similar prognostic results. Metastatic invasion of para-aortic lymph nodes is a major prognostic factor in gynaecological malignancies. It modifies the therapeutic plan and requires retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy in many indications. Laparoscopy is an interesting technical procedure in this situation: it allows both staging and curative surgery. Two laparoscopic ways are eligible: transperitoneal lymphadenectomy and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy.

[Isolated tubal torsion: about three cases]. / Torsion tubaire isolée: à propos de trois cas.

Isolated torsion of the Fallopian tube is a rare event and diagnosis is difficult. Coelioscopy is necessary to establish the diagnosis, but surgery often occurs too late for tube conservation. This report focuses on three cases of isolated tubal torsion. The laparoscopy confirms the diagnosis but conservative treatment was not possible. Based on this experience, diagnostic difficulties, echography, treatment and causes are discussed. Isolated Fallopian tube torsion should be suspected in case of acute pelvic pain in female patient. Early surgical intervention is necessary.

[Pelvic organ prolapse surgery in women aged more than 70 years: a literature review]. / Chirurgie du prolapsus génital de la femme âgée de plus de 70 ans: revue de la littérature.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to report surgical techniques for pelvic organ prolapse and complications in women aged more than 70 years. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A Medline search was made for articles indexed between 2000 and 2006 and dealing with operative techniques for pelvic organ prolapse. Seven articles in English and French were included. RESULTS: Three hundred and ninety-four women were treated for pelvic organ prolapse. Transvaginal repairs were reported in 97% (384 women). Vaginal function was preserved in 57% (207 women) and vaginal obliteration techniques represented 40% (145 women) of all prolapse surgery. The death rate was 1% (four deaths). The blood transfusion rate was 12%. The mean complication rate was 3.8% with cardiovascular prevalence (seven pulmonary embolisms, two myocardial infarctions, two congestive heart failures, one prolonged angina, two transient arrhythmias, one cerebrovascular accident, one acute renal failure). The temporospatial disorientation rate was 4.6%. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Vaginal hysterectomy with colpo-perineorrhaphy and sacrospinous ligament fixation are alternative procedures instead of colpocleisis to treat pelvic organ prolapse in women aged more than 70 years. For all pelvic prolapse surgery, the overall perioperative morbidity and mortality rate in elderly women are acceptable. This surgery needs a good collaboration between anesthetist and surgeon team and vigilance during postoperative follow-up.

[Good practice and accuracy of office hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy]. / Bonne pratique et valeur diagnostique de l'hystéroscopie diagnostique et des prélèvement histologiques.

Office hysteroscopy may be performed without anaesthesia. Endometrial biopsy can be performed during hysteroscopy. Antalgics or other treatment to reduce discomfort are not indicated. Prophylactic antibiotics are not indicated. Diagnostic value of hysteroscopy for endometrial pathology is interesting. Pipelle is the most appropriate instrument for endometrial biopsy.

[Pelviperineoscopy. Preliminary study of feasibility on cadavers]. / Pelvipérinéoscopie. Etude préliminaire de faisabilité sur cadavre.

OBJECTIVE: The traditional access of perineum for the treatment of the pelvic organ prolapse by vaginal route is probably responsible for the risk of mesh exposure and a longer convalescence. So, endoscopic access to perinemeum needs to be evaluated. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Feasibility study on cadavers. Details of the procedure: opening of the pararectal space by digital dissection first after incision on the level of the posterior commissure. Introduction of an optical trocart to the level of the perineum incision; dissection of pararectal space with optics and CO(2); individualization of the various elements; installation of a transobturator trocart and a transgluteal trocart; dissection of the rectovaginal septum and visualization of the sacrospinous ligament and pudendal nerve. The measured variables were: operational incidents, possibility of creation of working space, dissection of the rectovaginal septum; finally, visualization of the sacrospinous ligament and pudendal pedicle. RESULTS: On the 4 studied cadavers, we could carry out a dissection of pelvirectal space in all the cases. On the 8 pararectal fosses, in all the cases we could carry out a cavity of dissection and to open the recto vaginal septum, visualization of the sacrosciatic ligament and pudendal pedicle was possible in 6 cases out of 8. There were one rectal injury, two vaginal injuries and one lesion of the pudendal pedicle. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This endoscopic access allows in the majority of cases to see the structures necessary to the realization of a vaginal sacrospinofixation or the installation of posterior mesh without a colpotomy and a traumatic exposure. The incidents are probably due to our inexperience and should disappear in time. The pelvi-perineoscopy is an endoscopic access of perineum which should be evaluated.

[Posthysterectomy prolapse: results of sacrospinous ligament fixation]. / Résultats de la sacro-spino-fixation dans le traitement des prolapsus après hystérectomie.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate results of sacrospinous ligament fixation in the treatment of posthysterectomy prolapse. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between September 1990 and September 2002, 92 women (mean age 64.8 years, range 45 to 92 years) underwent sacrospinous ligament fixation following total hysterectomy (82.6%) or subtotal hysterectomy (17.4%); 96.7% had a menopausal status, and 21.7% used hormone replacement therapy. 48.9% of the patients had a history of surgery for prolapse (and/or urinary incontinence), and 21.7% had associated symptoms of stress urinary incontinence. In all cases, sacrospinous ligament fixation was performed under visual control using conventional stitch. Sacrospinous ligament fixation was combined with the following procedures: anterior vaginal repair (n=31), additional incontinence surgery (n=11), cervical amputation (n=11), levator myorrhaphy (n=61). Main outcome measures were intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, anatomic and functional outcome. RESULTS: Complications were represented by 1 vaginal hematoma (related to sacrospinous fixation), 1 bladder injury, 1 ureteral injury, 3 acute urinary retentions. With a mean follow-up of 47 months (range: 12-156), 12 patients (13.5%) had failure of sacrospinous ligament fixation and 9 required additional procedures, during the first year of follow-up. 14 patients (15.7%) had postoperative cystocele, with 1 case of third-degree cystocele treated with sub-bladder prosthesis by the vaginal route. CONCLUSION: We noted low rates of major complications and sacrospinous ligament fixation in posthysterectomy prolapse appears to give satisfactory long-term results.

[Sacrospinous colpopexy complications]. / Les complications de la sacrospinofixation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate complications of sacrospinous ligament fixation. DESIGN: Monocentric retrospective study. SETTING: Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, La Conception University Hospital, Marcella. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between January 1991 and September 2002, 277 women (mean age 64.9 years, range 37 to 92 years) underwent a sacrospinous ligament fixation; 91% had a menopausal status, and 15.5% used hormone replacement therapy. 33.2% of the patients had prior hysterectomy, 28.9% had a history of surgery for prolapse, and 18.8% had associated symptoms of stress urinary incontinence. In all cases, sacrospinous ligament fixation was performed under visual control using conventional stitch. Sacrospinous ligament fixation was combined with the following procedures: anterior vaginal repair (N =137), additional incontinence surgery (N =31), vaginal hysterectomy (N =137), levator myorraphy (N =203). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, long-term painful symptoms. RESULTS: Intraoperative complications were represented by 1 case of vascular wound and four rectal injuries. Main postoperative complications were vaginal haematomas (N =6) and abscesses (N =2). Long-term symptoms were perineal pain, sciatic neuralgia, and dyspareunia. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: There was no surgical mortality, and we noted low rates of major complications. Sacrospinous ligament fixation assumes high priority in our therapeutic regimen.

[Importance of thrombocytopenia for the management of HELLP syndrome: a report of 104 cases]. / Importance de la thrombopénie dans la prise en charge du HELLP syndrome: à propos de 104 cas.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the importance of thrombocytopenia in the management of HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included all patients with HELLP syndrome treated in the three departments of the Pellegrin Maternity Hospital in Bordeaux, between January 1993 and December 2001. One hundred and four patients were included and were divided into two groups according to the severity of thrombopenia: group 1 (platelet count<50000/mm(3)) and group 2 (50000