Cancer-specific uptake of a liganded protein nanocarrier targeting aggressive CXCR4+ colorectal cancer models.

Unliganded drug-nanoconjugates accumulate passively in the tumor whereas liganded nanoconjugates promote drug internalization in tumor cells via endocytosis and increase antitumor efficacy. Whether or not tumor cell internalization associates with enhanced tumor uptake is still under debate. We here compared tumor uptake of T22-GFP-H6, a liganded protein carrier targeting the CXCR4 receptor, and the unliganded GFP-H6 carrier in subcutaneous and metastatic colorectal cancer models. T22-GFP-H6 had a higher tumor uptake in primary tumor and metastatic foci than GFP-H6, with no biodistribution or toxicity on normal tissues. T22-GFP-H6 was detected in target CXCR4+ tumor cell cytosol whereas GFP-H6 was detected in tumor stroma. SDF1-α co-administration switched T22-GFP-H6 internalization from CXCR4+ tumor epithelial cells to the stroma. Therefore, the incorporation of a targeting ligand promotes selective accumulation of the nanocarrier inside target tumor cells while increasing whole tumor uptake in a CXCR4-dependent manner, validating T22-GFP-H6 as a CXCR4-targeted drug carrier.

Higher metastatic efficiency of KRas G12V than KRas G13D in a colorectal cancer model.

Although all KRas (protein that in humans is encoded by the KRas gene) point mutants are considered to have a similar prognostic capacity, their transformation and tumorigenic capacities vary widely. We compared the metastatic efficiency of KRas G12V (Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog with valine mutation at codon 12) and KRas G13D (Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog with aspartic mutation at codon 13) oncogenes in an orthotopic colorectal cancer (CRC) model. Following subcutaneous preconditioning, recombinant clones of the SW48 CRC cell line [Kras wild-type (Kras WT)] expressing the KRas G12V or KRas G13D allele were microinjected in the mouse cecum. The percentage of animals developing lymph node metastasis was higher in KRas G12V than in KRas G13D mice. Microscopic, macroscopic, and visible lymphatic foci were 1.5- to 3.0-fold larger in KRas G12V than in KRas G13D mice (P < 0.05). In the lung, only microfoci were developed in both groups. KRas G12V primary tumors had lower apoptosis (7.0 ± 1.2 vs. 7.4 ± 1.0 per field, P = 0.02), higher tumor budding at the invasion front (1.2 ± 0.2 vs. 0.6 ± 0.1, P = 0.04), and a higher percentage of C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4)-overexpressing intravasated tumor emboli (49.8 ± 9.4% vs. 12.8 ± 4.4%, P < 0.001) than KRas G13D tumors. KRas G12V primary tumors showed Akt activation, and ß5 integrin, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and Serpine-1 overexpression, whereas KRas G13D tumors showed integrin ß1 and angiopoietin 2 (Angpt2) overexpression. The increased cell survival, invasion, intravasation, and specific molecular regulation observed in KRas G12V tumors is consistent with the higher aggressiveness observed in patients with CRC expressing this oncogene.

Minimally invasive therapy for epiphrenic diverticula: Systematic review of literature and report of six cases.

INTRODUCTION: Epiphrenic diverticula (ED) are infrequent and conventional surgical treatment entails aggressive open or transthoracic surgery. Minimally invasive treatment has changed the surgical approach but some surgical controversies are not resolved. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to describe our experience in minimally invasive treatment of the ED and to perform a systematic review of the current literature in this subject. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed all data from the Hospital de Sant Pau, focusing on patients that underwent minimally invasive treatment for an ED since 1998 to date. Furthermore, we performed a systematic literature review focused on the minimally invasive approach for ED. RESULTS: A total of 6 patients have been treated (5 transhiatal and 1 with abdominal and thoracic approach). We found a predominance of males with a median age of 63. The diagnosis was made with an endoscopy, barium swallow and manometry. Half of the manometry results were pathologic. The surgical technique involved a diverticulectomy, myotomy and a Dor partial founduplication. Two patients that presented suture line leakage (SLL) were treated conservatively. No mortality was reported. The systematic review was carried out under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses scheme, with a total of 20 studies where 189 patients were found. No comparative or prospective randomised trials were found. Overall morbidity was 24%, with a SLL rate of 12%, hospital stay of 5 days and mortality of 1.5%. After a median follow-up of 42 months, 81.5% of the patients were asymptomatic. CONCLUSION: The minimally invasive approach for ED is a safe and feasible procedure.

Predicting the pathological features of the mesorectum before the laparoscopic approach to rectal cancer.

Pelvic anatomy and tumour features play a role in the difficulty of the laparoscopic approach to total mesorectal excision in rectal cancer. The aim of the study was to analyse whether these characteristics also influence the quality of the surgical specimen. We performed a prospective study in consecutive patients with rectal cancer located less than 12 cm from the anal verge who underwent laparoscopic surgery between January 2010 and July 2013. Exclusion criteria were T1 and T4 tumours, abdominoperineal resections, obstructive and perforated tumours, or any major contraindication for laparoscopic surgery. Dependent variables were the circumferential resection margin (CMR) and the quality of the mesorectum. Sixty-four patients underwent laparoscopic sphincter-preserving total mesorectal excision. Resection was complete in 79.1% of specimens and CMR was positive in 9.7%. Univariate analysis showed tumour depth (T status) (P = 0.04) and promontorium-subsacrum angle (P = 0.02) independently predicted CRM (circumferential resection margin) positivity. Tumour depth (P < 0.05) and promontorium-subsacrum axis (P < 0.05) independently predicted mesorectum quality. Multivariate analysis identified the promontorium-subsacrum angle (P = 0.012) as the only independent predictor of CRM. Bony pelvis dimensions influenced the quality of the specimen obtained by laparoscopy. These measurements may be useful to predict which patients will benefit most from laparoscopic surgery and also to select patients in accordance with the learning curve of trainee surgeons.

Abordaje laparoscópico de la acalasia. Resultados clínicos, de calidad de vida y funcionales a largo plazo / Laparoscopic approach of achalasia. Long-term clinical and functional results and quality of life

INTRODUCCIÓN: La miotomía laparoscópica se ha convertido en el tratamiento de elección en los pacientes con acalasia. Este estudio evalúa a largo plazo el estado clínico, de calidad de vida y los resultados funcionales posteriores a la miotomía de Heller laparoscópica. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se analizó a los pacientes diagnosticados de acalasia primaria e intervenidos mediante una miotomía de Heller laparoscópica con un procedimiento antirreflujo desde octubre de 1998 hasta diciembre de 2010. Previamente a la intervención, se evaluó la sintomatología de los pacientes mediante un cuestionario específico (escala DeMeester) y desde el 2002 se evaluó la calidad de vida mediante un test validado (GIQLI). En el año 2011 se reevaluó el estado clínico y de calidad de vida, y además se realizó una manometría y una pHmetría de 24h. En función del tiempo de seguimiento, los pacientes fueron divididos en 3 grupos (grupo 1: seguimiento entre 6 y 47 meses; grupo 2: seguimiento entre 48 y 119 meses y grupo 3, seguimiento superior a 120 meses). Además, 27 pacientes de la serie fueron evaluados con el mismo protocolo en 2003 y reevaluados en 2011. RESULTADOS: Noventa y cinco pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio. El 80% (n = 76) estuvieron disponibles para realizar el seguimiento. El tiempo de seguimiento medio fue de 56 meses (rango 6-143 meses). La mejoría global de la disfagia fue del 89%. Los valores estudiados mediante la escala de DeMeester descendieron significativamente en los 3 grupos y los índices de calidad de vida se normalizaron posteriormente a la cirugía. Las determinaciones manométricas mostraron la normalización mantenida en la presión del esfínter esofágico inferior en todos los grupos. Se detectó una incidencia de reflujo gastroesofágico del 10%. En el subgrupo de pacientes analizados prospectivamente en 2003 y 2011, no se demostró empeoramiento de los resultados a largo plazo. CONCLUSIONES: La miotomía de Heller laparoscópica mejora la clínica y la calidad de vida de los pacientes con acalasia primaria manteniendo las presiones del esfínter esofágico inferior normales a largo plazo, con una baja tasa de incidencia de reflujo gastroesofágico

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic Heller myotomy has become the gold standard procedure for patients with achalasia. This study evaluates the clinical status, quality of life, and functional outcomes after laparoscopic Heller myotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed patients who underwent laparoscopic Heller myotomy with an associated anti-reflux procedure from October 1998 to December 2010. Before surgery, we administered a clinical questionnaire and as of 2002, we also evaluated quality of life using a specific questionnaire (GIQLI). In 2011, we performed a follow up for all available patients. We administered the same clinical questionnaire and quality of life test as before surgery and performed manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring. According to the length of follow up, patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 with a follow-up between 6 and 47 months; group 2 follow-up between 48 and 119 months, and group 3 with a follow-up of more than 120 months). Moreover, 27 patients had already been evaluated with this same protocol in 2003. Pre- and postoperative data were compared for the 3 groups and for patients who completed follow up in 2003 and 2011. RESULTS: Ninety-five patients underwent laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Seventy-six (80%) were available for follow-up. Mean follow-up was 56 months (range 6-143). Global improvement in dysphagia was 89%. Total DeMeester score decreased in the 3 groups. GIQLI scores improved after surgery, reaching normal values. Manometric determinations showed normal LES pressures after myotomy in the 3 groups. Ten percent of overall 24-hour pH monitoring was abnormal. The group of patients followed up in 2003 and in 2011 showed no impairment in the variables studied in the long term. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term follow up of the laparoscopic approach to achalasia showed good results concerning clinical status and quality of life, with normal sphincteric pressures and a low incidence of gastroesophageal reflux

Subcutaneous preconditioning increases invasion and metastatic dissemination in mouse colorectal cancer models.

Mouse colorectal cancer (CRC) models generated by orthotopic microinjection of human CRC cell lines reproduce the pattern of lymphatic, haematological and transcoelomic spread but generate low metastatic efficiency. Our aim was to develop a new strategy that could increase the metastatic efficiency of these models. We used subcutaneous implantation of the human CRC cell lines HCT116 or SW48 prior to their orthotopic microinjection in the cecum of nude mice (SC+ORT). This subcutaneous preconditioning significantly enhanced metastatic dissemination. In the HCT116 model it increased the number and size of metastatic foci in lymph nodes, lung, liver and peritoneum, whereas, in the SW48 model, it induced a shift from non-metastatic to metastatic. In both models the number of apoptotic bodies in the primary tumour in the SC+ORT group was significantly reduced compared with that in the direct orthotopic injection (ORT) group. Moreover, in HCT116 tumours the number of keratin-positive tumour buddings and single epithelial cells increased at the invasion front in SC+ORT mice. In the SW48 tumour model, we observed a trend towards a higher number of tumour buds and single cells in the SC+ORT group but this did not reach statistical significance. At a molecular level, the enhanced metastatic efficiency observed in the HCT116 SC+ORT model was associated with an increase in AKT activation, VEGF-A overexpression and downregulation of ß1 integrin in primary tumour tissue, whereas, in SW48 SC+ORT mice, the level of expression of these proteins remained unchanged. In summary, subcutaneous preconditioning increased the metastatic dissemination of both orthotopic CRC models by increasing tumour cell survival and invasion at the tumour invasion front. This approach could be useful to simultaneously study the mechanisms of metastases and to evaluate anti-metastatic drugs against CRC.

[Laparoscopic approach of achalasia. Long-term clinical and functional results and quality of life]. / Abordaje laparoscópico de la acalasia. Resultados clínicos, de calidad de vida y funcionales a largo plazo.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic Heller myotomy has become the gold standard procedure for patients with achalasia. This study evaluates the clinical status, quality of life, and functional outcomes after laparoscopic Heller myotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed patients who underwent laparoscopic Heller myotomy with an associated anti-reflux procedure from October 1998 to December 2010. Before surgery, we administered a clinical questionnaire and as of 2002, we also evaluated quality of life using a specific questionnaire (GIQLI). In 2011, we performed a follow up for all available patients. We administered the same clinical questionnaire and quality of life test as before surgery and performed manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring. According to the length of follow up, patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 with a follow-up between 6 and 47 months; group 2 follow-up between 48 and 119 months, and group 3 with a follow-up of more than 120 months). Moreover, 27 patients had already been evaluated with this same protocol in 2003. Pre- and postoperative data were compared for the 3 groups and for patients who completed follow up in 2003 and 2011. RESULTS: Ninety-five patients underwent laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Seventy-six (80%) were available for follow-up. Mean follow-up was 56 months (range 6-143). Global improvement in dysphagia was 89%. Total DeMeester score decreased in the 3 groups. GIQLI scores improved after surgery, reaching normal values. Manometric determinations showed normal LES pressures after myotomy in the 3 groups. Ten percent of overall 24-hour pH monitoring was abnormal. The group of patients followed up in 2003 and in 2011 showed no impairment in the variables studied in the long term. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term follow up of the laparoscopic approach to achalasia showed good results concerning clinical status and quality of life, with normal sphincteric pressures and a low incidence of gastroesophageal reflux.

A novel orally available inhibitor of focal adhesion signaling increases survival in a xenograft model of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with central nervous system involvement.

Central nervous system dissemination is a relatively uncommon but almost always fatal complication in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients. Optimal therapy for central nervous involvement in this malignancy has not been established. In this paper, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of E7123, a celecoxib derivative that inhibits focal adhesion signaling, in a novel xenograft model of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with central nervous system involvement. Cells obtained after disaggregation of HT subcutaneous tumors (HT-SC cells) were intravenously injected in NOD/SCID mice. These mice received oral vehicle or 75 mg/kg of E7123 daily until they were euthanized for weight loss or signs of sickness. The antitumor effect of E7123 was validated in an independent experiment using a bioluminescent mouse model. Intravenously injected HT-SC cells showed higher take rate and higher central nervous system tropism (associated with increased expression of ß1-integrin and p130Cas proteins) than HT cells. The oral administration of E7123 significantly increased survival time in 2 independent experiments using mice injected with unmodified or bioluminescent HT-SC cells. We have developed a new xenograft model of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with central nervous system involvement that can be used in the pre-clinical evaluation of new drugs for this malignancy. E7123 is a new, well-tolerated and orally available therapeutic agent that merits further investigation since it may improve current management of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients with central nervous system involvement.

Long-term outcome and quality of life after laparoscopic treatment of large paraesophageal hernia.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopy has been widely used for surgical repair of large paraesophageal hernias (PEHs). The technique, however, entails substantial technical difficulties, such as repositioning the stomach in the abdominal cavity, sac excision, closure of the hiatal gap, and fundoplication. Knowledge of the long-term outcome (>10 years) is scarce. The aim of this article was to evaluate the long-term results of this approach, primarily the anatomic hernia recurrence rate and the impact of the repair on quality of life. METHODS: We identified all patients who underwent laparoscopic repair for PEH between November 1997 and March 2007 and who had a minimum follow-up of 48 months. In March 2011, all available patients were scheduled for an interview, and a radiologic examination with barium swallow was performed. During the interview the patients were asked about the existence/persistence of symptoms. An objective score test, the gastrointestinal quality of life index (GIQLI), was also administered. RESULTS: A total of 77 patients were identified: 17 men (22 %) and 60 women (78 %). The mean age at the time of fundoplication was 64 years (range 24-87 years) and at the review time 73 years (range 34-96 years). The amount of stomach contained within the PEH sac was <50 % in 39 patients (50 %), >50 % in 31 (40 %), and 100 % (intrathoracic stomach) in 7 (9.5 %). A 360º PTFe mesh was used to reinforce the repair in six cases and a polyethylene mesh in three. In May 2011, 55 of the 77 patients were available for interview (71 %), and the mean follow-up was 107 months (range 48-160 months). Altogether, 43 patients (66 %) were asymptomatic, and 12 (21 %) reported symptoms that included dysphagia in 7 patients, heartburn in 3, belching in 1, and chest pain in 1. Esophagography in 43 patients (78 %) revealed recurrence in 20 (46 %). All recurrences were small sliding hernias (<3 cm long). In all, 37 patients (67 %) answered the GIQLI questionnaire. The mean GIQLI score was 111 (range 59-137; normal 147). Patients with objective anatomic recurrence had a quality of life index of 110 (range 89-132) versus 122 in the nonrecurrent hernia group (range 77-138, p < 0.01). Mesh was used to buttress the esophageal hiatus in nine patients. One patient died during the follow-up period. Five of the remaining eight patients (62 %) developed dysphagia, a mesh-related symptom. Three patients required reoperation because of mesh-related complications. Esophagography revealed recurrence in four (50 %) of the eight patients. GIQLI scores were similar in patients with recurrence (126, range 134-119) and without it (111, range 133-186) (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Long-term follow-up (up to 160 months) in our study showed that laparoscopic PEH repair is clinically efficacious but is associated with small anatomic recurrences in ≤50 % of patients. Further studies are needed to identify the anatomic, pathologic, and physiological factors that may impair outcome, allowing the procedure to be tailored to each patient.

Resección hepática por hepatocarcinoma: estudio comparativo entre pacientes menores y mayores de 70 años / Hepatic resection in hepatocarcinoma: A comparative study between patients under and over 70 years-old

Introducción: El manejo quirúrgico agresivo de ciertos tipos de tumores es cuestionado en el paciente anciano debido a la posibilidad de tener un aumento en la morbimortalidad. Este es el caso del paciente anciano con carcinoma hepatocelular. Comparamos los resultados obtenidos con la resección hepática entre pacientes mayores y menores de 70 años de edad con hepatocarcinoma. Material y métodos Se realizaron 36 resecciones hepáticas curativas para tratar cáncer hepatocelular. Dividimos nuestra población en 2 grupos (14 pacientes < 70 años y 22 pacientes ≥ 70 años de edad) y comparamos su morbimortalidad, periodo libre de enfermedad y sobrevida global utilizando curvas de Kaplan-Meir y prueba de log rank. Además buscamos factores de mal pronóstico en la población. Resultados Ambos grupos son similares en cuanto al estado pre-operatorio. El tiempo quirúrgico, tipo de procedimiento, estancia hospitalaria y morbimortalidad fueron similares. La sobrevida global para los pacientes jóvenes y seniles a 3 y 5 años fue de 85,7 vs. 68,7% y 47,6 vs. 60% respectivamente (p=0,813). El periodo libre de enfermedad a 3 y 5 años fue de 69,3 vs. 35,2% y 39,6 vs. 23,4% respectivamente (p=0,539). El análisis multivariado reveló la enfermedad multicéntrica y la alfa-feto-proteína elevada como factores pronósticos independientes de una sobrevida libre de enfermedad y global más cortas. Conclusión Los pacientes mayores de 70 años con carcinoma hepatocelular deben ser manejados en una manera similar a pacientes más jóvenes. Hay que tomar en cuenta factores de mal pronóstico como la multicentricidad y la alfa-feto-proteína elevadas (AU)

Introduction: The ageing population raises concerns about the adequacy of aggressive surgical procedures and their outcomes. The treatment of the elderly with hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the diseases that involve complicated management decisions. We set out to compare the results between an older and younger patient cohort with this disease are compared. Material and methods: A total of 36 hepatic resections were performed on patients with hepatocellular carcinoma between 2000 and 2011. The cohort was divided into 2 groups (14patients < 70 and 22 patients 70 years of age), and their results, disease free and overall survival were compared using Kaplan-Meir curves and log rank test. An attempt was also made at determining the predictive factors of a poor outcome among this patient cohort. Results: Both groups were similar with regards to their pre-operative status. Operation time, procedure, hospital stay, and morbidity and mortality were similar. Overall survival at 3and5 years comparing the younger vs. the elderly group was 85.7% vs. 68.7% and 47.6% vs. 60%,respectively (P =.813). Disease free survival at 3 and 5 years comparing the younger vs. the elderly group was 69.3% vs. 35.2% and 39.6% vs. 23.4%, respectively (P =.539). Multivariate analysis of the whole cohort revealed multicentric diseases and elevated alpha-fetoproteinas independent factors of poor disease free survival and overall survival, respectively. Conclusions: Elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma should be managed in a similar fashion to younger patients. Surgeons should expect similar post-operative complications, disease free and overall survival (AU)

Single incision versus reduced port splenectomy--searching for the best alternative to conventional laparoscopic splenectomy.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) is a well accepted approach for the treatment of multiple hematologic diseases. Single port access splenectomy (SPAS) emphasizes the concept of surgery through one small incision. The reduced port access splenectomy (RPAS) entails the use of fewer trocars of smaller sizes. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes after LS, SPAS, and RPAS, and to analyze the aesthetic result and patient satisfaction. METHODS: We included patients who underwent LS (group 1, n = 15), SPAS (group 2, n = 8), and RPAS (group 3, n = 10) between June 2008 and February 2012, whose final spleen weight was less of 500 g. The outcome parameters analyzed were operative time, need of additional trocars, blood loss, blood transfusion, weight of the spleen, postoperative complications, and duration of hospital stay. To evaluate the cosmetic result, patients were asked to take the Body Image Questionnaire. RESULTS: Patients in group 3 were younger than group 1. Operative time was significantly longer in group 2 compared to groups 1 and 3 (83 ± 19 vs. 131 ± 43 vs. 81 ± 22 min, p = 0.01). There was no need to convert to open surgery in any group, nor were there differences in intra- or postoperative outcome. There were no differences between the groups in relation to the analgesic requirements. Twenty-two out of the 33 patients answered the questionnaire. There was a significant advantage in group 2 and 3 in the body image index with respect to group 1. There were no differences between groups 2 and 3 (7.3 ± 2.8 vs. 5.8 ± 1.3 vs. 5.1 ± 0.4, p < 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: RPAS is a good alternative to LS and SPAS. It improves the aesthetic results as compared to LS, whereas minimizes the technical challenges faced with SPAS.

[Hepatic resection in hepatocarcinoma: a comparative study between patients under and over 70 years-old]. / Resección hepática por hepatocarcinoma: estudio comparativo entre pacientes menores y mayores de 70 años.

INTRODUCTION: The ageing population raises concerns about the adequacy of aggressive surgical procedures and their outcomes. The treatment of the elderly with hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the diseases that involve complicated management decisions. We set out to compare the results between an older and younger patient cohort with this disease are compared. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 36 hepatic resections were performed on patients with hepatocellular carcinoma between 2000 and 2011. The cohort was divided into 2 groups (14 patients < 70 and 22 patients ≥ 70 years of age), and their results, disease free and overall survival were compared using Kaplan-Meir curves and log rank test. An attempt was also made at determining the predictive factors of a poor outcome among this patient cohort. RESULTS: Both groups were similar with regards to their pre-operative status. Operation time, procedure, hospital stay, and morbidity and mortality were similar. Overall survival at 3 and 5 years comparing the younger vs. the elderly group was 85.7% vs. 68.7% and 47.6% vs. 60%, respectively (P=.813). Disease free survival at 3 and 5 years comparing the younger vs. the elderly group was 69.3% vs. 35.2% and 39.6% vs. 23.4%, respectively (P=.539). Multivariate analysis of the whole cohort revealed multicentric diseases and elevated alpha-fetoprotein as independent factors of poor disease free survival and overall survival, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma should be managed in a similar fashion to younger patients. Surgeons should expect similar post-operative complications, disease free and overall survival.

[Laparoscopic fundoplication results in the treatment of the non-gastrointestinal symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux]. / Resultados de la funduplicatura laparoscópica en el tratamiento de los síntomas extradigestivos del reflujo gastroesofágico.

INTRODUCTION: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can trigger typical and atypical symptoms (cough, dysphonia, asthma…). GERD with typical symptoms has well established surgical indications, but it is not the case when the symptoms are atypical. Our aim is to assess the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery in those patients in whom the surgical indication was mainly due to atypical symptoms. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 1998 and 2011 laparoscopic fundoplication was performed on of 318 patients with GERD, of whom 14 (4%) had atypical symptoms as the main indication. Typical symptoms were present in 12 (86%) cases, and atypical symptoms were: cough in 5 (36%) cases, respiratory symptoms 5 (36%), dysphonia 2 (14%), vocal chords granuloma 1 (7%) and larynx spasm 1 (7%). The GERD diagnosis was established due to evidence of an anatomical or functional alterations of the gastroesophageal junction (hiatus hernia, pathological manometry or pH-metry). The clinical histories of the patients were reviewed and they were given a gastrointestinal quality of life (Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index [GIQoL]) questionnaire was completed, as well as a subjective assessment (0 to 4) of the modification of their atypical symptoms. RESULTS: A clinical improvement was observed in both the atypical and typical GERD in 12 patients (86%), with the symptoms score decreasing from 3.7 to 0.7. A significant improvement (P<.05) from the pre-surgical value 107(±26) to 122 (±10) points was obtained in the quality of life (GIQoL) in 11 patients (79%). CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic fundoplication is an effective technique in the treatment of the atypical symptoms of GERD.

Resultados de la funduplicatura laparoscópica en el tratamiento de los síntomas extradigestivos del reflujo gastroesofágico / Laparoscopic fundoplication results in the treatment of the non-gastrointestinal symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux

Introducción La enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) puede desencadenar síntomas típicos y atípicos (tos, disfonía, asma...). La ERGE con síntomas típicos tiene indicaciones quirúrgicas bien establecidas, no es así cuando los síntomas son atípicos. Nuestro propósito es valorar la efectividad de la cirugía laparoscópica en aquellos pacientes en los que la indicación quirúrgica fue principalmente por sintomatología atípica. Material y métodos Entre 1998 y 2011 se intervinieron por ERGE mediante funduplicatura laparoscópica 318 pacientes de los cuales 14 (4%) tuvieron como indicación principal un síntoma atípico. La sintomatología típica se presentó en 12 casos (86%) y la atípica fue: tos 5 casos (36%), síntomas respiratorios 5 (36%), disfonía 2 (14%), granuloma de cuerdas vocales 1 (7%) y laringoespasmo 1 (7%). El diagnóstico de ERGE se estableció ante la evidencia de una alteración anatómica o funcional de la unión gastroesofágica (hernia de hiato, manometría o pH-metría patológica). Se revisó el historial clínico de los pacientes y se pasó un cuestionario de calidad de vida gastrointestinal (Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index [GIQLI]) así como una valoración subjetiva (0 a 4) de la modificación de su sintomatología atípica. Resultados En la evaluación se observó una mejoría tanto de la clínica típica como de la atípica de ERGE en 12 pacientes (86%), disminuyendo el score sintomático de 3,7 a 0,7. Se obtuvo el test de calidad de vida (GIQLI) en 11 pacientes (79%), con una mejoría significativa (p<0,05) del valor prequirúrgico 107(±26) a 122 (±10) puntos. Conclusión La funduplicatura laparoscópica es una técnica efectiva en el tratamiento de la sintomatología atípica de la ERGE (AU)

Introduction Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can trigger typical and atypical symptoms (cough, dysphonia, asthma...). GERD with typical symptoms has well established surgical indications, but it is not the case when the symptoms are atypical. Our aim is to assess the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery in those patients in whom the surgical indication was mainly due to atypical symptoms. Material and methods Between 1998 and 2011 laparoscopic fundoplication was performed on of 318 patients with GERD, of whom 14 (4%) had atypical symptoms as the main indication. Typical symptoms were present in 12 (86%) cases, and atypical symptoms were: cough in 5 (36%) cases, respiratory symptoms 5 (36%), dysphonia 2 (14%), vocal chords granuloma 1 (7%) and larynx spasm 1 (7%). The GERD diagnosis was established due to evidence of an anatomical or functional alterations of the gastroesophageal junction (hiatus hernia, pathological manometry or pH-metry). The clinical histories of the patients were reviewed and they were given a gastrointestinal quality of life (Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index [GIQoL]) questionnaire was completed, as well as a subjective assessment (0 to 4) of the modification of their atypical symptoms. Results A clinical improvement was observed in both the atypical and typical GERD in 12 patients (86%), with the symptoms score decreasing from 3.7 to 0.7. A significant improvement (P<.05) from the pre-surgical value 107(±26) to 122 (±10) points was obtained in the quality of life (GIQoL) in 11 patients (79%).Conclusion Laparoscopic fundoplication is an effective technique in the treatment of the atypical symptoms of GERD (AU)

Resultados a medio plazo en la implementación de la cirugía laparoscópica colorrectal en la práctica clínica tras la realización de un curso intensivo / Medium term results on introducing colorrectal laparoscopic surgery into clinical practice after having an intensive training course

Introducción La cirugía endoscópica posee características que incrementan las dificultades de su aprendizaje. Hace 5 años, se diseñó un curso en cirugía laparoscópica colorrectal para ofrecer de forma intensiva las bases técnicas de este tipo de cirugía. El objetivo de este artículo es conocer el impacto sobre la práctica clínica de un curso de cirugía colorrectal, investigar los factores que limitan su aplicabilidad y las preferencias formativas de los cirujanos. Material y métodos Entre junio de 2005 y diciembre de 2010 se efectuaron 22 cursos, de 4 días de duración, 36 horas lectivas (4 en forma de seminarios y 32 en quirófano) dirigidos a 7 alumnos. En diciembre de 2010 se envió una encuesta para evaluar el impacto del curso sobre la actividad en cirugía laparoscópica colorrectal del alumno, conocer las dificultades encontradas en su aplicación y evaluar las expectativas formativas en cirugía endoscópica de este colectivo de cirujanos. Resultados La encuesta se remitió a 148 cirujanos, obteniendo 74 respuestas (50%). El periodo medio tras el curso fue de 26,5 meses (2-60). Se observó un incremento mensual en más de 5 casos en el 70% de los centros. El curso permitió consolidar la actividad en hospitales comarcales, mientras que en hospitales universitarios y generales sirvió para relanzar una experiencia inicial (..) (AU)

Introduction: Endoscopic surgery has characteristics that increase the difficulties of learning. Five years ago, an intensive colorectal laparoscopic surgery course was designed to offer training in the technical bases of this type of surgery. The aim of this article is to determine the impact of the colorectal surgery course on clinical practice, and to investigate the factors that limit its applicability and the training preferences of the surgeons. Material and methods: Twenty-two courses of four days duration, with 36 hours of lessons (4in seminar form and 32 in the surgery), and with 7 trainees, were held between June 2005 and December 2010. A survey was sent out in December 2010 to assess the impact of the course on the colorectal laparoscopic surgery activity of the trainee, to find out the difficulties encountered in its application, and to evaluate the training expectations in endoscopic surgery in this group of surgeons. Results: The questionnaire was sent to 148 surgeons, with 74 (50%) responses received. The mean period after the course was 26.5 (2-60) months. A monthly increase of more than 5 cases was observed in 70% of the centres. The course enabled them to consolidate the activity in local hospitals, while in university and general hospitals it served to re-launch aninitial experience. Among the obstacles that made it difficult to introduce were care load and the availability of a surgeon, particularly in general and university hospitals (P=.001), and in local hospitals it was the availability of patients. The majority of surgeons (70%) believed that specific training was required, preferring a short period in a hospital with experience. Conclusions: An intensive course on colorectal laparoscopic surgery enabled the activity to be consolidated or increased in this area. Training in colorectal laparoscopic surgery requires additional teaching efforts, which are currently unstructured (AU)

[Medium term results on introducing colorrectal laparoscopic surgery into clinical practice after having an intensive training course]. / Resultados a medio plazo en la implementación de la cirugía laparoscópica colorrectal en la práctica clínica tras la realización de un curso intensivo.

INTRODUCTION: Endoscopic surgery has characteristics that increase the difficulties of learning. Five years ago, an intensive colorectal laparoscopic surgery course was designed to offer training in the technical bases of this type of surgery. The aim of this article is to determine the impact of the colorectal surgery course on clinical practice, and to investigate the factors that limit its applicability and the training preferences of the surgeons. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-two courses of four days duration, with 36 hours of lessons (4 in seminar form and 32 in the surgery), and with 7 trainees, were held between June 2005 and December 2010. A survey was sent out in December 2010 to assess the impact of the course on the colorectal laparoscopic surgery activity of the trainee, to find out the difficulties encountered in its application, and to evaluate the training expectations in endoscopic surgery in this group of surgeons. RESULTS: The questionnaire was sent to 148 surgeons, with 74 (50%) responses received. The mean period after the course was 26.5 (2-60) months. A monthly increase of more than 5 cases was observed in 70% of the centres. The course enabled them to consolidate the activity in local hospitals, while in university and general hospitals it served to re-launch an initial experience. Among the obstacles that made it difficult to introduce were care load and the availability of a surgeon, particularly in general and university hospitals (P=.001), and in local hospitals it was the availability of patients. The majority of surgeons (70%) believed that specific training was required, preferring a short period in a hospital with experience. CONCLUSIONS: An intensive course on colorectal laparoscopic surgery enabled the activity to be consolidated or increased in this area. Training in colorectal laparoscopic surgery requires additional teaching efforts, which are currently unstructured.

Laparoscopic approach to retrorectal tumors: review of the literature and report of 4 cases.

BACKGROUND: Retrorectal or presacral tumors are extremely rare and their histologic origin varies greatly. Surgical excision is indicated to prevent complications or to rule out malignancy. A laparoscopic approach has been infrequently reported to date. The aim of this article is to report our experience in 4 cases, and to review the current world experience on laparoscopic approach to retrorectal tumors. METHODS: Between 1998 and 2009, we operated 4 cases in which a presacral tumor was diagnosed. A pure laparoscopic procedure was performed in 3 cases and a combined laparoscopic/transacral approach in a fourth. In addition, a systematic literature review and relevant reports on laparoscopic approach of these tumors were analyzed. RESULTS: All patients underwent laparoscopic dissection of the tumor with extraction through a Phannestiel incision except in 1 case that was performed transsacrally. Simultaneously, the literature review showed 11 articles with a total number of 18 patients approached by laparoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: The laparoscopic approach of retrorectal tumors is feasible. The advantages are an enhanced access and visualization of the pelvic structures and a more controlled preservation of nerve and vascular integrity. It seems to be a safe procedure and can be combined with a posterior approach if needed.