Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy: a most helpful procedure.
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Herniorrhaphy↗
Biomedical subjects
C J Filipi
Publications and source records attributed to C J Filipi.
Gastric endo-organ access: technique and complications.
Since laparoscopic cholecystectomy was introduced in 1987 by Phillipe Mouret, a variety of gastrointestinal operations such as laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, herniorrhaphy, splenectomy, vagotomy, adrenalectomy, appendectomy, nephrectomy, staging of intra-abdominal neoplasms, and laparoscopic colectomy have gained popularity. The minimal invasive nature of these procedures and the reported benefits of a short hospital stay, reduced postoperative pain, and better cosmesis have encouraged investigation of new methods of access for gastric and colonic pathology untreatable by endoscopic or standard laparoscopic techniques.
Journal Article↗
Laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair.
BACKGROUND: Paraesophageal hernias require surgery to avoid potentially serious complications. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate paraesophageal hernia repair using the laparoscopic approach. DESIGN: Case series. SETTING: University hospital and foregut testing laboratory. SUBJECTS: Sixty-five consecutive patients (mean age, 63.6 years; range, 26-90 years). Preoperative evaluation included barium esophagogram, endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and 24-hour pH monitoring. OUTCOME MEASURES: Operative complications, postoperative morbidity, follow-up symptoms (53 patients; mean, 18 months; range, 2-54 months) and barium esophagogram (46 patients). RESULTS: Fifty-six patients (86%) had a type III hernia and 9 (14%) had a type II hernia. Twenty (65%) of 31 patients who underwent pH monitoring had a positive 24-hour pH score, and 24 (56%) of 43 patients who underwent manometry had an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter. Four patients had a gastric volvulus and 21 patients had more than 50% of their stomach in the chest. All patients underwent hernia reduction, crural repair, and fundoplication (64 Nissen procedures and 1 Toupet procedure). The average duration of surgery was 2 hours. There were 2 conversions: gastric perforation and a difficult dissection because of a large fibrotic sac. Other complications, all managed intraoperatively, were 2 gastric perforations and bleeding in 6 patients. Average length of hospital stay was 2 days (range, 1-23 days). Early re-operation was required in 3 patients: slipped Nissen; small-bowel obstruction due to trocar-site hernia; and organo-axial rotation with gastroduodenal obstruction. Four patients required esophageal dilatation after surgery. Forty-nine of 53 patients available for long-term follow-up were satisfied with the results of surgery. Time to full recovery was 3 weeks (range, 1 week to 2 months). Seven of 46 patients experienced small type I hernias observed on routine follow-up esophagograms. CONCLUSIONS: Most paraesophageal hernias are type III. A concomitant antireflux procedure is recommended. Paraesophageal hernias can be managed successfully by the laparoscopic route with good outcome.
Adult↗
Esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH testing in the management of gastroesophageal reflux patients.
BACKGROUND: With rising interest in gastroesophageal reflux disease, an evaluation of the importance of manometry (M) and 24-hour pH testing (pH) for decisions regarding these patients is appropriate. METHODS: Two gastroenterologists and two surgeons were presented with history and physical examination, endoscopy, histology, and esophagram data ("DATA") from 100 patients and asked to make a treatment decision. After some time, either pH or M was added to DATA, and a further decision requested. Finally, DATA plus pH plus M was presented, and a decision was requested. Decisions were evaluated for changes in medical therapy, changes between medical and surgical therapy, and changes in type of surgery offered. RESULTS: Overall, 43% (173 of 400) of decisions were altered by the addition of both M and pH to DATA, with 28.5% (114 of 400) of decisions changed from medical therapy to surgery or vice versa by the addition of both tests to DATA. The addition of M alone changed decisions more often than pH alone especially with regard to the type of surgery offered (P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Together, M and pH alter clinical decisions and often alter the decision regarding surgery. Both tests appear important, but M more frequently alters overall management decisions and the type of surgery offered. Despite the need for cost containment, these clinical tools are essential to important decisions regarding the care of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Decision Making↗
A new intraluminal antigastroesophageal reflux procedure in baboons.
BACKGROUND: A new endoscopic intraluminal procedure (valvuloplasty) was designed to provide a simple, easy approach to the cardia and to correct and augment any mechanical deficiencies present. The feasibility, durability, and efficacy of this procedure was tested in 13 baboons. METHODS: The valvuloplasty consisted of an intussusception of the gastroesophageal junction into the stomach to create a nipple-type valve. The configuration of the valve was maintained with eight staples and stability was aided by an intramural injection of sodium morrhuate. Gastrointestinal endoscopy and esophageal manometry were performed before and after the procedure. Competency was determined as the intragastric pressure (yield pressure) and volume (yield volume) needed to result in equalization of gastric and esophageal pressure while distending the stomach with water. Comparisons were made with a group of normal baboons (n = 10). RESULTS: All baboons had a normal eating pattern with none showing any evidence of vomiting or regurgitation. Endoscopic circumferential integrity of the valves was 86% at 6 months. The median lower esophageal sphincter length in the valvuloplasty group was significantly (p < 0.01) increased after the procedure from 21 mm to 30 mm. The median yield pressure (22.1 mm Hg) and yield volume (1,525 ml) of the valvuloplasty group was significantly (p < 0.01) greater than the controls (14 mm Hg and 859 ml). CONCLUSIONS: The valvuloplasty is simple, safe, and durable. It augments mechanical function of the cardia and improves competency.
Animals↗
Mechanisms of hernia recurrence after preperitoneal mesh repair. Traditional and laparoscopic.
OBJECTIVE: The authors provide an assessment of mechanisms leading to hernia recurrence after laparoscopic and traditional preperitoneal herniorrhaphy to allow surgeons using either technique to achieve better results. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The laparoscopic and traditional preperitoneal approaches to hernia repair are analogous in principle and outcome and have experienced a similar evolution over different time frames. The recurrence rate after preperitoneal herniorrhaphy should be low (< 2%) to be considered a viable alternative to the most successful methods of conventional herniorrhaphy. METHODS: Experienced surgeons supply specifics regarding the mechanisms of recurrence and technical measures to avoid hernia recurrence when using the preperitoneal prosthetic repair. Videotapes of laparoscopic herniorrhaphy in 13 patients who subsequently experienced a recurrence also are used to determine technical causes of recurrence. RESULTS: Factors leading to recurrence include surgeon inexperience, inadequate dissection, insufficient prosthesis size, insufficient prosthesis overlap of hernia defects, improper fixation, prosthesis folding or twisting, missed hernias, or mesh lifting secondary to hematoma formation. CONCLUSIONS: The predominant factor in successful preperitoneal hernia repair is adequate dissection with complete exposure and coverage of all potential groin hernia sites. Hematoma mesh lifting and inadequate lateral inferior and medial inferior mesh fixation represent the most common causes of recurrence for surgeons experienced in traditional or laparoscopic preperitoneal hernia repair.
Clinical Protocols↗
Heller myotomy via minimal-access surgery. An evaluation of antireflux procedures.
BACKGROUND: Myotomy offers the best known cure for achalasia and can now be performed via minimal-access surgery. OBJECTIVE: To examine the questions of surgical approach for Heller myotomy and choice of fundoplication in the setting of minimal-access surgery. DESIGN: Thirty-nine patients with achalasia underwent Heller myotomy via either thoracoscopy or laparoscopy, with either a Dor or a Toupet fundoplication (Heller-Dor and Heller-Toupet procedures, respectively). Manometry, pH analysis, and clinical course were evaluated 3 to 9 months after surgery. Clinical course was reviewed at 11 to 46 months after surgery. SETTING: University hospitals. PATIENTS: Diagnosis of achalasia was based on history and physical examination, contrast radiography, stationary manometry, and 24-hour pH analysis. All patients participated in the clinical evaluations. Twenty-two patients consented to postoperative manometry and 18 to postoperative pH analysis. INTERVENTIONS: Thoracoscopic Heller-Dor procedures (n = 4), laparoscopic Heller-Dor procedures (n = 6), and laparoscopic Heller-Toupet procedures (n = 29). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Hospital stay and recovery time were compared between thoracoscopic and laparoscopic groups. Decrease in the lower esophageal sphincter pressure, 24-hour esophageal pH, postoperative symptoms, and overall satisfaction were compared between the Dor and Toupet groups. RESULTS: Only 1 patient was dissatisfied with the experience. Patients undergoing thoracoscopy had a longer convalescence. No postoperative reflux was identified, although some patients complained of heartburnlike symptoms. Dysphagia and heartburn were more prevalent among patients with Dor fundoplication than among patients with Toupet fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: Minimal-access myotomy is an excellent intervention for achalasia. The preferred approach is via laparoscopy. Our experience has led us to favor the Toupet over the Dor fundoplication after myotomy.
Cardia↗
Mechanisms and avoidance of esophageal perforation by anesthesia personnel during laparoscopic foregut surgery.
BACKGROUND: This study retrospectively assesses the mechanisms of 13 esophageal or gastric injuries resulting from dilator or nasogastric tube placement during laparoscopic foregut surgery and is intended to assist in determining methods of prevention. METHODS: Information regarding esophageal or gastric injury during laparoscopic foregut surgery was obtained from six experienced laparoscopic surgeons. The specific mechanisms of injury were determined by discussion with the operating surgeon and review of the operative reports. RESULTS: Eleven cases of esophageal or gastric perforation occurred during bougie insertion and two perforations occurred secondary to nasogastric tube placement during Nissen fundoplication or Heller myotomy. Five perforations required conversion to open operation for repair including two delayed thoracotomies. The 13 injuries occurred during the performance of 1,620 laparoscopic foregut operations for an overall incidence of 0.8%. CONCLUSION: Foregut injury resulting from esophagogastric intubation during laparoscopic surgery is more common than expected. Risk factors include esophageal anatomy, intrinsic pathologic changes of the esophagus, and inexperience. Prevention must focus on close communication between the surgeon and anesthesiologist and safe techniques of dilator insertion.
Adult↗
An assessment of pain and return to normal activity. Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy vs open tension-free Lichtenstein repair.
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy is controversial and deserves critical evaluation. METHODS: In a randomized prospective study transabdominal preperitoneal laparoscopic herniorrhaphy (n = 24) was compared in patients to the tension-free Lichtenstein repair (n = 29) utilizing validated and reliable pain and activity assessment tools. The Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) was used to compare preoperative normal activity to postoperative activity. A Pain-O-Meter (visual analogue scale plus affective and sensory pain descriptors) assessed intensity of pain. The total pain assessment score and SIP were compared across time (postoperative day 1-42). Analgesic medication was used as a covariate. RESULTS: The total pain score was less for laparoscopic herniorrhaphy but this did not reach statistical significance. Similarly, the SIP showed modest improvement for laparoscopic herniorrhaphy. No differences between groups were noted for morphine equivalents of administered analgesics or length of hospitalization. CONCLUSION: Further investigation of laparoscopic herniorrhaphy is warranted.
Adult↗
A new concept for implementation of a required general surgery clerkship.
BACKGROUND: Two years ago our institution abbreviated the junior internal medicine and general surgery clerkships to accommodate a 4-week family practice clerkship and a 4-week elective clerkship. As a consequence, 1-month mandatory internal medicine and general surgery clerkships were placed in the senior year. METHODS: The surgical disorders most commonly encountered by the generalist are discussed. The senior students spend 4 weeks with a community-based surgeon. All lectures are presented by full-time faculty and adhere to the student manual, which is designed to coincide with examination material. Three histories and physicals are reviewed by the course director to determine utilization of critical thinking skills. The development of healthy interpersonal and professional relationships is addressed by a 2-hour module on the essentials of integrity, compassion, humility, and self-knowledge. A faculty development seminar provides an awareness of course objectives and logistics. Student grades are determined by the preceptor's evaluation (50%), an in-house written examination (50%), and submission of adequate history and physicals. RESULTS: Subjective reviews by students (n = 115) reveal that although only 27% of the students care to pursue a surgical practice, 85% feel that their time was effectively spent and 83% feel that the clerkship should be offered to future fourth year medical students. Seventy percent of submitted history and physicals (n = 420) exhibit appropriate critical thinking skills. CONCLUSIONS: We are currently in the midst of our third year of implementation. The students are receiving insight into a surgical approach to common disease processes. History and physical examination skills and healthy interpersonal relationships are reinforced. Although change is often difficult to accomplish and accept, the positive response to the newly formatted senior curriculum has exceeded expectations.
Clinical Clerkship↗
An alternative technique for treatment of choledocholithiasis found at laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
OBJECTIVE: To introduce a new strategy for dealing with abnormal cholangiograms at laparoscopic cholecystectomy that makes postoperative cholangiograms possible and facilitates stone extraction by assuring access to the duct for a guide-wire-assisted endoscopic retrograde sphincterotomy. DESIGN: Retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database. PATIENTS: Twenty-four patients with abnormal cholangiograms had a percutaneously placed double-lumen catheter threaded through the cystic duct and advanced into the duodenum. RESULTS: Ten successful guide-wire-assisted endoscopic retrograde sphincterotomies were performed without complications. Eleven normal postoperative cholangiograms suggested spontaneous stone passage or false-positive intraoperative cholangiograms. There were three technical failures in the early part of the series. CONCLUSIONS: This strategy is a reasonable alternative to laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (1) when the cholangiogram is questionably positive, (2) when prolonged anesthesia (poor-risk patient) should be avoided, (3) when the equipment for laparoscopic common bile duct exploration is not available, and (4) when spontaneous stone passage seems likely. Postoperative endoscopic retrograde sphincterotomy with stone extraction is facilitated when it becomes necessary because a guide wire can be introduced through the catheter.
Adult↗
An intraluminal surgical approach to the management of gastric bezoars.
Trichobezoars are difficult to remove endoscopically, often cause nausea and vomiting, and can result in small-bowel obstruction. A patient with a trichobezoar presented to our clinic with symptoms of partial small-bowel obstruction. Multiple attempts at flexible endoscopic removal were unsuccessful. Two large-diameter percutaneous gastrostomies with an inflatable balloon and distal foam-rubber stent to assure intragastric positioning were introduced under general anesthesia. Visualization was provided by a 0 degree panavision laparoscope placed through one of the gastrostomies. The bezoar was removed through the second gastrostomy using standard laparoscopic instruments. The patient made an uneventful recovery. This is the first reported case of percutaneous removal of a trichobezoar. We conclude large-diameter gastrostomies may serve as a port of access for numerous other intraluminal procedures.
Bezoars↗
Laparoscopic ultrasonography as compared with static or dynamic cholangiography at laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A prospective multicenter trial.
We compared laparoscopic ultrasonography (LICU) with static (S) or dynamic (D) cholangiography (IOC) for assessment of duct anatomy an calculi in 209 patients. LICU visualized ducts in 88% compared with 93% for IOC (P = 0.046). Nineteen patients (9%) had stones: 17 were found by LICU (89%) and 10 (53%) by IOC (P = 0.032). Time to perform LICU (7 +/- 3 min) was less than IOC (13 +/- 6 min) (P < 0.0001). Time to perform SIOC (12 +/- 5 min) and DIOC (14 +/- 6 min) did not differ (P = 0.48), nor did these tests differ in accuracy. LICU provided useful anatomical information but IOC better defined anatomic anomalies. LICU required less time but was less reliable at defining anatomy and complete duct visualization. LICU was more sensitive for stones. SIOC and DIOC did not differ objectively. LICU and IOC are complementary.
Bile Duct Diseases↗
The technique of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
Patients with severe GERD resistant to medical therapy are benefited greatly by laparoscopic fundoplication provided that there is careful preoperative patient selection and evaluation. Preoperative evaluation should include contrast esophagography, EGD with biopsies, stationary manometry, and 24-hour pH analysis. Significant esophageal shortening or severe dysplasia are contraindications to laparoscopic fundoplication. A short, loose Nissen fundoplication should be performed in patients with adequate esophageal body function, whereas patients with esophageal dysmotility should be offered a partial fundoplication such as the Toupet procedure. If these guidelines are followed, long-term good results can be expected, with minimal complications, and all of the advantages of the minimally invasive approach.
Follow-Up Studies↗
Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
Most patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be treated effectively with medical therapy; however, in patients with severe GERD who are unresponsive to medical therapy, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is often found to be mechanically incompetent. Surgical therapy, which improves the LES antireflux barrier, may then be a good option. A very effective and popular antireflux procedure is the Nissen fundoplication, which can be safely done via the laparoscopic route. Preoperative evaluation should include contrast radiography, esophagoduodenoscopy (EGD) with biopsies, esophageal manometry, and 24-hour pH monitoring. Indications for surgery include failure or inability to continue on medical therapy, GERD-related respiratory symptoms, and severe complications of GERD, such as ulceration, stricture, and Barrett's esophagus. A short, loose Nissen fundoplication is ideal for patients with normal esophageal body motility. Operative complications are infrequent, and they include gastric perforation, bleeding, and pneumothorax. Following the laparoscopic approach, nearly all patients can leave the hospital on the first or second postoperative day. Follow-up esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring show the same good long-term results as seen after open Nissen fundoplication. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication can be performed safely and effectively with all of the advantages of a minimally invasive approach.
Esophagus↗
The laparoscopic management of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
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Gastroesophageal Reflux↗
Self-expanding prosthesis--a comment.
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Hernia, Inguinal↗
Thoracoscopic esophageal myotomy--a surgical technique for achalasia diffuse esophageal spasm and "nutcracker esophagus".
Thoracoscopic myotomy has been performed for diffuse esophageal spasm "nutcracker esophagus" and achalasia. Technical considerations for thoracoscopic long myotomy such as trocar placement, length of myotomy, extent of myotomy distal to the gastroesophageal junction, hiatal closure, fundoplication and degree of esophageal mobilization are discussed.
Esophageal Achalasia↗