Assessment of surgeon communication skills from the patient perspective: A national evaluation using the Communication Assessment Tool.

OBJECTIVE: The Communication Assessment Tool (CAT) has previously been translated and adapted to the Italian context. This national study aimed to validate the CAT and evaluate communication skills of practicing surgeons from the patient perspective. METHODS: CAT consists of 14 items associated with a 5-point scale (5 = excellent); results are reported as the percent of ''excellent'' scores. It was administered to 920 consenting outpatients aged 18-84 in 26 Italian surgical departments. RESULTS: The largest age group was 45-64 (43.8%); 52.2% of the sample was male. Scores ranged from 44.6% to 66.6% excellent. The highest-scoring items were "Treated me with respect" (66.6%), "Gave me as much information as I wanted" (66.3%) and "Talked in terms I could understand" (66.0%); the lowest was "Encouraged me to ask questions" (44.6%). Significant differences were associated with age (18-24 year old patients exhibited the lowest scores) and geographical location (Northern Italy had the highest scores). CONCLUSION: CAT is a valid tool for measuring communication in surgical settings. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Results suggest that expectations of young people for communication in surgical settings are not being met. While there is room to improve communication skills of surgeons across Italy, patients highlighted the greatest need in the Central and Southern regions.

Quality of Life After Elective Laparoscopic Sigmoidectomy for Symptomatic Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease.

INTRODUCTION: Symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD) is characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel function and may affect quality of life. When symptoms are severe and conservative therapy is ineffective, surgical intervention becomes an option. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate quality of life after elective sigmoidectomy for patients affected by SUDD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective multicenter review of consecutive patients affected by SUDD that underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy from January 2015 to March 2018. SUDD was defined as the presence of diverticula with persistent localized pain and diarrhea or constipation without macroscopic inflammation. Quality of life was investigated using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index questionnaire at baseline, and at 6 and 12 months after surgery. Readmissions, unplanned clinical examination, mesalazine resumption, and emergency department visit for abdominal symptoms were recorded. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients were included in the analysis. Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index score at 6 months from surgery did not statistically differ from baseline (96±10.2 vs. 89±11.2; P>0.05), while patients reported a better quality of life at 12 months after surgery (109±8.6; P<0.05). Within the first year of follow-up, 3 patients (5.8%) were readmitted for acute enteritis, 8 patients (15.4%) had emergency room access for abdominal pain, and 8 patients had unplanned outpatients' medical examinations for referred lower abdominal pain and bowel changes. Mesalazine was resumed in 17.3% of patients. CONCLUSION: Elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for SUDD is safe and effective in improving quality of life, although in some cases symptoms may persist.

Surgery in COVID-19 patients: operational directives.

The current COVID-19 pandemic underlines the importance of a mindful utilization of financial and human resources. Preserving resources and manpower is paramount in healthcare. It is important to ensure the ability of surgeons and specialized professionals to function through the pandemic. A conscious effort should be made to minimize infection in this sector. A high mortality rate within this group would be detrimental.This manuscript is the result of a collaboration between the major Italian surgical and anesthesiologic societies: ACOI, SIC, SICUT, SICO, SICG, SIFIPAC, SICE, and SIAARTI. We aim to describe recommended clinical pathways for COVID-19-positive patients requiring acute non-deferrable surgical care. All hospitals should organize dedicated protocols and workforce training as part of the effort to face the current pandemic.

Orthopedic injuries in patients with multiple injuries: Results of the 11th trauma update international consensus conference Milan, December 11, 2017.

BACKGROUND: In blunt trauma, orthopedic injuries are often associated with cerebral and torso injuries. The optimal timing for definitive care is a concern. The aim of the study was to develop evidence-based guidelines for damage-control orthopedic (DCO) and early total care (ETC) of pelvic and long-bone fractures, closed or open, and mangled extremities in adult trauma patients with and without associated injuries. METHODS: The literature since 2000 to 2016 was systematically screened according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-analyses protocol. One hundred twenty-four articles were reviewed by a panel of experts to assign grade of recommendation and level of evidence using the Grading of recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system, and an International Consensus Conference, endorsed by several scientific societies was held. RESULTS: The choice between DCO and ETC depends on the patient's physiology, as well as associated injuries. In hemodynamically unstable pelvic fracture patient, extraperitoneal pelvic packing, angioembolization, external fixation, C-clamp, and resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta are not mutually exclusive. Definitive reconstruction should be deferred until recovery of physiological stability. In long bone fractures, DCO is performed by external fixation, while ETC should be preferred in fully resuscitated patients because of better outcomes. In open fractures early debridement within 24 hours should be recommended and early closure of most grade I, II, IIIa performed. In mangled extremities, limb salvage should be considered for non-life-threatening injuries, mostly of upper limb. CONCLUSION: Orthopedic priorities may be: to save a life: control hemorrhage by stabilizing the pelvis and femur fractures; to save a limb: treat soft tissue and vascular injuries associated with fractures, stabilize fractures, recognize, and prevent compartmental syndrome; to save functionality: treat dislocations, articular fractures, distal fractures. While DCO is the best initial treatment to reduce surgical load, ETC should be applied in stable or stabilized patients to accelerate the recovery of normal functions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Systematic review of predominantly level II studies, level II.

Symptomatic Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease and Incidence of Unexpected Abscess during Sigmoidectomy: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Study.

BACKGROUND: Symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease can affect patients' everyday routine. Considerable efforts have been made to identify clinical features that correlate to the severity of the disease. Unexpected intraoperative abscesses are reported in large retrospective series, showing how uncomplicated symptoms and presentations can underlie a complicated disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of pericolic or intramural abscess in patients undergoing elective sigmoidectomy for symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease and see if chronic symptoms correlate to the presence of an abscess. METHODS: Between January 2016 and June 2018, we prospectively collected data of patients who were given indication to elective sigmoidectomy for symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease. Patients were divided into 3 groups: acute resolving, smoldering, and atypical according to a previously described classification of uncomplicated diverticular disease. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-eight consecutive patients were enrolled in the study. The median age was 63 years (22- 88), and the mean body mass index was 26 (±7) kg/m2. There were 114 patients in the acute resolving group, 36 in the smoldering group, and 8 in the atypical group. An unexpected abscess was reported in 75 patients (47.5%) during surgery or pathological examination. The incidence of -abscess was greater for patient in the smoldering group (p = 0.0243). CONCLUSION: Our series of patients affected by symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease showed an incidence of unexpected pericolic or intramural abscess of 47.5%. Patients affected by smoldering diverticular disease presented a greater abscess rate.

Low Ligation of Inferior Mesenteric Artery in Laparoscopic Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer Reduces Genitourinary Dysfunction: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial (HIGHLOW Trial).

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to compare the incidence of genitourinary (GU) dysfunction after elective laparoscopic low anterior rectal resection and total mesorectal excision (LAR + TME) with high or low ligation (LL) of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). Secondary aims included the incidence of anastomotic leakage and oncological outcomes. BACKGROUND: The criterion standard surgical approach for rectal cancer is LAR + TME. The level of artery ligation remains an issue related to functional outcome, anastomotic leak rate, and oncological adequacy. Retrospective studies failed to provide strong evidence in favor of one particular vascular approach and the specific impact on GU function is poorly understood. METHODS: Between June 2014 and December 2016, patients who underwent elective laparoscopic LAR + TME in 6 Italian nonacademic hospitals were randomized to high ligation (HL) or LL of IMA after meeting the inclusion criteria. GU function was evaluated using a standardized survey and uroflowmetric examination. The trial was registered under the ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02153801. RESULTS: A total of 214 patients were randomized to HL (n = 111) or LL (n = 103). GU function was impaired in both groups after surgery. LL group reported better continence and less obstructive urinary symptoms and improved quality of life at 9 months postoperative. Sexual function was better in the LL group compared to HL group at 9 months. Urinated volume, maximum urinary flow, and flow time were significantly (P < 0.05) in favor of the LL group at 1 and 9 months from surgery. The ultrasound measured post void residual volume and average urinary flow were significantly (P < 0.05) better in the LL group at 9 months postoperatively. Time of flow worsened in both groups at 9 months compared to baseline. There was no difference in anastomotic leak rate (8.1% HL vs 6.7% LL). There were no differences in terms of blood loss, surgical times, postoperative complications, and initial oncological outcomes between groups. CONCLUSIONS: LL of the IMA in LAR + TME results in better GU function preservation without affecting initial oncological outcomes. HL does not seem to increase the anastomotic leak rate.

Reliability and validity assessment of administrative databases in measuring the quality of rectal cancer management.

PURPOSE: Measurement and monitoring of the quality of care using a core set of quality measures are increasing in health service research. Although administrative databases include limited clinical data, they offer an attractive source for quality measurement. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to evaluate the completeness of different administrative data sources compared to a clinical survey in evaluating rectal cancer cases. METHODS: Between May 2012 and November 2014, a clinical survey was done on 498 Lombardy patients who had rectal cancer and underwent surgical resection. These collected data were compared with the information extracted from administrative sources including Hospital Discharge Dataset, drug database, daycare activity data, fee-exemption database, and regional screening program database. The agreement evaluation was performed using a set of 12 quality indicators. RESULTS: Patient complexity was a difficult indicator to measure for lack of clinical data. Preoperative staging was another suboptimal indicator due to the frequent missing administrative registration of tests performed. The agreement between the 2 data sources regarding chemoradiotherapy treatments was high. Screening detection, minimally invasive techniques, length of stay, and unpreventable readmissions were detected as reliable quality indicators. Postoperative morbidity could be a useful indicator but its agreement was lower, as expected. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare administrative databases are large and real-time collected repositories of data useful in measuring quality in a healthcare system. Our investigation reveals that the reliability of indicators varies between them. Ideally, a combination of data from both sources could be used in order to improve usefulness of less reliable indicators.

Is laparoscopic surgery really effective for the treatment of colon and rectal cancer in very elderly over 80 years old? A prospective multicentric case-control assessment.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery (LCS) for colon and rectal cancer in the very elderly over 80 years old. METHODS: We performed a prospective multicentric analysis comparing patients over 80 years (Group A) and patients between 60 and 69 years (Group B) undergoing LCS for cancer from January 2008 to December 2013. Colon and rectal cancers were analyzed separately. Comorbidity and complications were classified using the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and the Clavien-Dindo system, respectively. Oncological parameters included tumor-free margins, number of lymph nodes harvested and circumferential resection margin. RESULTS: Group A included 96 and 33 patients, and Group B 220 and 82 for colon and rectal cancers, respectively. Groups were similar except for ASA score and CCI, as expected. There was no significant difference in operative time [colon; rectum] (180[IQR 150-200] vs 180[150-210] min; NS-180[160-210] vs 180[165-240] min; NS), estimated blood loss (50[25-75] vs 50[25-120] mL; NS-50[0-150] vs 50[25-108.7] mL; NS) and conversion rate (2.1 vs 2.7 %; NS-3.0 vs 2.4 %; NS). Timing of first stool (3[2-3.25] vs 3[2-5] dd; NS-3[2-4] vs 3[2-5] dd; NS), length of stay (7[6-8] vs 7[6-8] dd; NS-8[8-9] vs 8[7-9] dd; NS) and readmission rate (1.0 vs 0.45 %; NS-6.1 vs 1.2 %; NS) were similar. Tumor-free margins were appropriate, and positivity of CRM is poor (6.1 vs 4.9; NS). We did not record significant differences in complications rate (47.9 vs 43.6 %; NS-63.6 vs 52.4 %; NS). CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic surgery is effective for the treatment of colorectal cancer even in the very elderly. Age is not a risk factor or a limitation for LCS.

Effectiveness of elective laparoscopic treatment for colonic diverticulitis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy for the elective treatment of diverticular disease. METHODS: A consecutive unselected series of 94 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy for diverticular disease from 2008 to 2012 was analyzed. We collected patients-, surgery- and hospital stay-related data, as well as the short- and long-term outcomes. Operative steps, instrumentation, and postoperative cares were standardized. Comorbidity was assessed by Charlson comorbidity index. Complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo classification system. The qualitative long-term assessment was carried out by subjecting patients to the validated gastrointestinal quality of life index questionnaire before and after surgery. RESULTS: The mean age of our cohort was 61.3 ± 11.0 years with a Charlson comorbidity index of 1.2 ± 1.5. Mean operative time was 213.5 ± 60.8 minutes and estimated blood loss was 67.2 ± 94.3 mL. We had 3 cases (3.2%) of conversion to open laparotomy. The rates of postoperative complications were 35.1%, 6.3%, 2.1%, and 1.06%, respectively, for grades 1, 2, 3b, and 5 according to the Clavien-Dindo system. Length of hospital stay was 8.1 ± 1.9 days, and we have not recorded readmissions in patients discharged within 60 days after surgery. Median follow-up was of 9.6 ± 2.7 months. We observed no recurrence of diverticular disease, but there was evidence of 3 cases of incisional hernia (3.19%). The difference between preoperative and late gastrointestinal quality of life index score was statistically significant (97.1 ± 5.8 vs 129.6 ± 8.0). CONCLUSIONS: Elective laparoscopic treatment of colonic diverticular disease represents an effective option that produces adequate postoperative results and ensures a satisfactory functional outcome.

"High or low Inferior Mesenteric Artery ligation in Laparoscopic low Anterior Resection: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial" (HIGHLOW trial).

BACKGROUND: The position of arterial ligation during laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision can affect genito-urinary function, bowel function, oncological outcomes, and the incidence of anastomotic leakage. Ligation to the inferior mesenteric artery at the origin or preservation of the left colic artery are both widely performed in rectal surgery. The aim of this study is to compare the incidence of genito-urinary dysfunction, anastomotic leak and oncological outcomes in laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision with high or low ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery in a controlled randomized trial. METHODS/DESIGN: The HIGHLOW study is a multicenter randomized controlled trial in which patients are randomly assigned to high or low inferior mesenteric artery ligation during laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. Inclusion criteria are middle or low rectal cancer (0 to 12 cm from the anal verge), an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of I, II, or III, and a body mass index lower than 30. The primary end-point measure is the incidence of post-operative genito-urinary dysfunction. The secondary end-point measure is the incidence of anastomotic leakage in the two groups. A total of 200 patients (100 per arm) will reliably have 84.45 power in estimating a 20% difference in the incidence of genito-urinary dysfunctions. With a group size of 100 patients per arm it is possible to find a significant difference (α = 0.05, ß = 0.1555). Allowing for an estimated dropout rate of 5%, the required sample size is 212 patients. DISCUSSION: The HIGHLOW trial is a randomized multicenter controlled trial that will provide evidence on the merits of the level of arterial ligation during laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with total mesorectal excision in terms of better preserved post-operative genito-urinary function. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02153801 Protocol Registration Receipt 29/5/2014.

Totally laparoscopic resection of the splenic flexure for tumor.

Colonic tumors located at the splenic flexure are rare and show a higher occlusive risk than other colorectal cancers. The totally laparoscopic segmental resection of splenic flexure represents a challenging procedure that requires adequate technical skills and for this reason it is still not widespread and validated. Between October 2010 and March 2012, a consecutive unselected series of eight (N = 8) patients underwent totally laparoscopic splenic flexure resection at our Institute. Data on patients' demographics, disease features, operative details and short-term follow-up were prospectively recorded in a specific database and retrospectively analyzed. All the operations were performed or supervised by the same surgeon (I.S.). We used a four-port medial-to-lateral standardized technique with intracorporeal anastomosis. A selective vascular ligation was performed in all cases and the specimens were extracted through a protected incision. Perioperative care plan and surgical instrumentations were standardized. Complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo classification system. No conversion to open surgery was registered. All cases achieved an adequate number of lymph nodes harvested (22.9 ± 5.2) and an oncologically correct resection of the tumor (proximal margin 7.0 ± 2.4 cm, distal margin 7.1 ± 2.8 cm). The mean hospital stay was 6.1 ± 1.3 days. Postoperative complication rate according to the Clavien-Dindo system was 37.5 %, but all the complications reported were grade I. We did not observe any reoperation or readmission within 60 days after discharge. Totally laparoscopic splenic flexure resection is a feasible and reproducible technique. A correct surgical indication and a standardized technique allow to perform an oncologically safe and functionally effective treatment.

Totally laparoscopic versus laparoscopic assisted right colectomy for cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death all over the world and right-sided colon cancer represents approximately 15% of all cases of CRC. Laparoscopic colectomies produce advantages in short-term outcome compared to open procedures and have recently benefited by a long term oncologic validation. This study was designed to compare the short- and medium-term surgical outcomes of totally laparoscopic (TLRC) and laparoscopic-assisted right colectomy (LARC) for neoplasia, hypothesizing they may be at least similar. METHODS: A consecutive unselected series of 72 patients undergone elective surgery for right-sided colon cancer from April 2006 to April 2011 was retrospectively evaluated. All patients were treated by laparoscopic medial-to-lateral right colectomy. In 42 patients a TLRC was performed, in 30 a LARC. Perioperative care plan, operative steps and surgical instrumentations were standardized. All the operations were performed or supervised by the same Surgeon (I.S.). Data on the patients' demographics, disease features, operative details and follow up were recorded and analyzed. Complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo classification system. Continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation and analyzed with the Student t test. Categorical ones were expressed as percent value and analyzed with Fischer test or Chi-square test, where appropriate. P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in term of age, sex, body mass index and American Society of Anesthesiology score between the two groups. Comorbidities, site of tumor and stage of disease were similar too. No conversion to laparotomy was registered. Median operative time (186.3 ± 40.1 min vs 176.5 ± 40.0 min; not significant (NS)) and estimated blood loss (43.3 ± 89.8 ml vs 31.2 ± 51.3 ml; NS) were statistically comparable in both groups. Timing of first defecation (3.4 ± 0.9 dd vs 2.9 ± 0.9; P = 0.023) and length of hospital stay (7.2 ± 1.3 dd vs 6.2 ± 1.1 dd; P < 0.001) were statistically lower in TLRC cohort. A significantly longer length of skin incision characterized LARC group compared with TLRC group (71.0 ± 13.5 mm vs 48.2 ± 10.2 mm; P < 0.001). Both groups achieved an adequate number of lymph nodes harvested (22.0 ± 8.2 vs 25.9 ± 9.0; P = 0.036) and oncological resection of the tumor (proximal margin 7.6 ± 7.7 vs 6.1 ± 3.8; NS - distal margin 13.3 ± 7.7 vs 13.6 ± 5.8; NS). Post-operative complications according to Clavien-Dindo classification were statistically comparable in both cohorts. No readmission within 60 days of discharge was observed. The mean follow-up recorded was 27.7 ± 16.6 months. Late complications consisted in 1 case of incisional hernia (3.8%) in LARC group. CONCLUSIONS: Although more appropriate indications must be set by future studies, we encourage the choice of a TLRC for the treatment of cancer of the right colon. TLRC is actually a feasible and safe technique, which has resulted in an encouraging short-term outcome, low incidence of major complications and preservation of oncologic principles, without affecting operative times.

Delayed presentation of splenic injury following diagnostic colonoscopy.

Splenic injury (SI) is a rare complication after colonoscopy, but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain following this procedure. We report a case of delayed rupture and review pertinent literature. A 70-year-old patient on oral warfarin intake underwent colonoscopy that diagnosed obstructive rectal cancer and elongated colon conditioning the endoscope's passage. After 48 h, patient experienced sharp abdominal pain with mild peritoneal signs. Contrast-enhanced CT scan evidenced large amount of abdominal-free blood collection from grade II SI. Hypovolemic shock occurred following brief clinical observation. Urgent laparotomic splenectomy and contextual Hartmann's procedure were then carried out. Postoperative course was uneventful and definitive histology confirmed splenic subcapsular haematoma and locally advanced adenocarcinoma. Perforation and bleeding more likely occurred after colonoscopy, while few cases of SI are reported in literature since 1974. Traction on the splenocolic ligament and direct trauma has been advocated as possible causes. Peritoneal adhesions and splenic diseases usually are predisposing factors although not confirmed in our patient. Anticoagulant therapy favoured delayed filling up of subcapsular haematoma while bowel obstruction added further surgical challenge. Rapid onset of hemorrhagic shock required urgent splenectomy that remains the procedure of choice among the literature reviewed.

Outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer in elderly patients.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the short-term outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal surgery for cancer in the elderly compared with younger patients. METHODS: We retrospectively considered a consecutive unselected series of 159 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic procedures for colorectal cancer at our institution between January 2007 and December 2009. Of these patients, 101 (63.5%) were ≤ 70 years of age (Group A), and 58 (36.5%) were >70 (Group B). Operative steps and instrumentation were standardized. Demographics, disease-related, operative, and short-term data were analyzed for each group, and an appropriate statistical comparison was made. Comorbidity was quantified by using the Charlson Comorbidity Index. RESULTS: We reviewed right colectomies (29.5%), left colectomies (44.7%), rectal resections (19.5%), and other procedures (6.3%). There was no significant difference in sex ratio, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiology score, type of surgical procedures, and tumor stage between Group A and Group B. A statistically higher comorbidity according to the Charlson index characterized Group B (2.2 vs 3.8; P=.034). Median operative time (228 ± 78.1min vs 224.3 ± 97.6min; NS), estimated blood loss (50.0 ± 94.8mL vs 31.2 ± 72.7mL; NS), conversion rate (2.0% vs 1.7%; NS), and timing to canalization (4.5 ± 1.7dd vs 4.4 ± 1.3dd; NS) were statistically comparable in both Groups. Group B was associated with a significantly longer length of hospital stay compared with Group A (8.1 ± 2.8dd vs 10.8 ± 6.6dd; P<.01) There was no statistically significant difference in major postoperative complications (3.8% vs 3.4%; NS), reoperations (0.9% vs 1.7%; NS), and 30-day mortality (0% vs 1.7%; NS). CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic colorectal surgery appears feasible and safe in elderly patients with increased comorbidity.

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy: a retrospective review of 14 cases.

Although the role of minimally invasive techniques in pancreatic surgery remains controversial, resection of the left pancreas for benign or endocrine lesions has been universally adopted as a routine technique over the last few years. This study was undertaken to assess feasibility and safety of minimal access resections of distal pancreas in benign, endocrine, and malignant diseases. Operative time, conversion rate, adequacy of dissection, respect for oncologic principles, morbidity rate, and short-term outcomes were analyzed. From the years 2002 to 2007, 14 patients affected by pancreatic neoplasm of body/tail region were approached by minimally invasive technique. Nine patients were affected by malignant neoplasms and distal splenopancreatectomy was successfully achieved by laparoscopy in 6. Five patients were affected by endocrine neoplasms; distal pancreatectomy with preservation of spleen and splenic vessels was achieved laparoscopically in 3, whereas 2 needed conversion to laparotomy. Four patients developed pancreatic leak after transection by linear cutting stapler plus oversewing, whereas no leak was observed within 30 days from surgery after transection by linear stapler with Seamguard reinforcement of the staple line (P<0.05 with Fisher exact test).

[Video-laparoscopic excision of pancreatic insulinoma. Experience with 3 cases]. / Trattamento chirurgico videolaparoscopico dell'insulinoma pancreatico. Esperienza di tre casi.

Laparoscopic treatment of lesions of the distal pancreas has gained favour worldwide in the last decade. The objective of this study was to analyze 3 cases of insulinoma successfully treated with the laparoscopic approach. From 2000 to 2007 in our institution 3 patients with insulinoma of the left pancreas were treated with a laparoscopic approach. The insulinoma was diagnosed by helical CT scan, Two cases were treated by left pancreatectomy and one by enucleation. The resections were achieved by laparoscopy with no conversion to laparotomy. There were no intraoperative complications. Average blood loss was 180 mi (range: 150-350). Mean operative time was 232 minutes (range: 225-240). Morbidity consisted in one mild pancreatic fistula after left pancreatectomy that was healed by conservative treatment after 24 days. The mean hospital stay was 13 days (range: 10-20). During the follow-up insulinoma symptoms have disappeared in all patients. This study confirms the feasibility of laparoscopic resection for insulinoma. Operative times were quite acceptable and the conversion rate was nil. Times to oral intake and walking were shorter than after open surgery, as was the mean postoperative hospital stay.

Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy: a retrospective review of 19 cases.

The role of laparoscopic techniques in pancreatic surgery is still controversial especially regarding to exocrine malignancies. Operative time, conversion rate, adequacy of dissection, and morbidity do represent factors of major concern. Whereas laparoscopic resection of left sided pancreatic lesions requires no anastomosis and therefore has gained worldwide acceptance over the last years, excision of cephalic lesions by mimimal access has little place in surgeons' practice because of its technical complexity and duration of surgery. This study was designed to assess the feasibility and results of laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy for neoplasms of the pancreatic head, analyzing steps of learning curve, conversion rate, and short-term outcomes. From August 2002 to December 2006, 19 patients affected by pancreatic neoplasm of the head were approached by minimally invasive technique. A video-assisted procedure with pancreaticoduodenal resection and anastomoses fashioned through a midline minilaparotomy of 7 cm was achieved in 7 patients. Conversion to laparotomy was required in 6 patients, in 3 for bleeding and in 3 for difficulties in dissection. Cephalic pancreatoduodenectomy was achieved by thorough intracorporeal technique in 6 patients. Mortality was nil. Oncologic principles with adequate lymphadenectomy and resection margins were respected and short-term outcomes and mean survival were quite acceptable and equal to those of conventional surgery.

Laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia: Outcomes of 100 consecutive cases comprising 25 wall defects larger than 15 cm.

BACKGROUND: Minimal access surgery for incisional hernia repair is still debated, especially for large and giant wall defects. This study was undertaken to analyze the results of the use of the laparoscopic technique in incisional hernias smaller and larger than 15 cm of diameter. METHOD: From 2002 to 2007 a total of 100 patients with incisional hernia were operated on by laparoscopy and were included in this study. As much as 38 patients were obese, with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m(2). The mean follow-up span was 24 months (range = 2-58). The fascial defect was recurrent in 19 patients, in 13 after previous repair with mesh and in 6 after repair without mesh. The wall defect was larger than 15 cm in 25 patients and in 6 of them it was 20 cm or larger as measured from within the peritoneal cavity. RESULTS: The mean operating time was 152 +/- 25 min (range = 45-275), and for defects larger than 15 cm it was 205 +/- 101 min (range = 85-540). Two patients with massive adhesions needed conversion to open surgery, one after an intraoperative injury of an intestinal loop. Postoperative complications occurred in 23 patients; local complications were 10. Pulmonary embolism caused death in one obese patient. Morbidity and hospital stay were similar in obese and nonobese patients and the differences were not statistically relevant (p > 0.05). The outcomes in patients with wall defects larger than 15 cm showed no significant difference with outcomes of the remaining patients with smaller defects (p > 0.05). Recurrence occurred in three cases, and in one case local infection led to removal of the mesh. CONCLUSIONS: Minimal access procedures can provide good results in the repair of incisional hernia, even when the diameter is larger than 15 cm. Obesity is not a contraindication to laparoscopic repair. Further studies are expected to confirm these promising results.

Results of laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal adenocarcinoma: retrospective analysis of 157 cases.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic excision of rectal tumors has gained favor in the last decade and several issues have reported encouraging results: still, the use of laparoscopy remains open to debate. The aim of the current study is to assess the reliability of laparoscopic anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer analyzing short-term outcomes and long-term survival. METHODS: The charts of 157 patients were reviewed retrospectively after anterior resection for rectal adenocarcinoma performed by minimal access. Patients undergoing emergency surgery were excluded. LAR was excluded in presence of preoperative features at computed tomography (CT) scan suggesting bulky tumors unresectable by laparoscopy or in case of anesthesiologic contraindications. Conversion rate and functional and oncologic outcomes were analyzed. Data on long-term results and survival were evaluated. RESULTS: LAR was performed in 157 patients, and conversion to laparotomy was required in 12 cases. Mean operation time for nonconverted patients was 229 minutes (overall 238 minutes). Total mesorectal excision (TME) was performed in tumors of the mid and low rectum and a temporary ileostomy was performed in 56 patients. The mean length of hospital stay (LOS) was 10.5 days. Morbidity of anterior resection included 17 anastomotic leaks after laparoscopic surgery (LS; 5 in the converted patients). Conversion increased significantly the risk of leak (P < .005). Two leaks caused death. The mean number of nodes collected was 12. The incidence of local relapse was 4%, and the rate of anastomotic recurrence was nil. Survival probability with LS was .73 at 5 years. Patients in stage III took advantage of adjuvant treatment and had a better survival than patients in stage II (P = not significant [NS]). CONCLUSIONS: The outcomes of this study suggest that LAR for rectal cancer is a reliable procedure. Oncologic requirements were respected; parameters such as length of specimen, distal margin, and number of nodes retrieved were quite acceptable. Incidences of local recurrence and long-term survival were comparable with those of other series.