Robotic radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy: our early experience.

INTRODUCTION: Robotic surgery overcomes some limitations of laparoscopic surgery for prostate, rectal and uterine cancer. In this study we analyze the feasibility of robotic radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy in gynecological cancers in a developping program of robotic surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective study started the 1st of March 2008. Since then, 250 cases of robotic surgery were performed out of which 29 cases addressed gynecological conditions. We selected all radical interventions summing up to 19 cases. RESULTS: Our final group consisted of 19 patients, a gedbetween 30 and 78 years old, with an average age of 53.22 years (+/- 10.03). Twelve patients were diagnosed with cervical cancer, the rest of them with endometrial cancer. Mean operative time was 180 +/- 23.45 min. Oral intake were started the next day after the operation and the patients were discharged 3.5 (+/- 1.2) days postoperatively. There were 3 urinary complications in patients with tumors adherent to the urinary bladder. CONCLUSIONS: We believe that robotic radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy in gynecological cancers is a rapid, feasible, and secure method that should be used whenever available. However further prospective studies and late follow-up results are needed in order to fully assess the value of this new technology.

Process balance and product quality in the production of natural indigo from Polygonum tinctorium Ait. applying low-technology methods.

Indigo is the most important blue component in the class of natural dyes for cellulose and protein fibres. In the moderate European climate Polygonum tinctorium Ait. could be an interesting source for natural indigo (Vat blue 1). Following a cultivation of the plant material a simple procedure for the extraction of the indigo precursor indican was investigated with regard to crop and quality of dye obtained. The dependence of the crop on the storage conditions of the harvested plant material was investigated. The results quantify the distinct sensitivity of the fresh material to the time of storage before extraction with regard to the amount of natural indigo obtained, the photometrically determined indigo content in the product and the shade and colour depth observed in standardised dyeing experiments. A basic set of data is presented, which describes the process in terms of consumption of energy, water and chemicals and organic waste released from the extraction step.