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Biomedical subjects

M Gagner

Publications and source records attributed to M Gagner.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

Laparoscopic pancreatic resection: single-institution experience of 19 patients.

BACKGROUND: The number of laparoscopic pancreatic resections reported in the surgical literature has been remarkably low. Few substantive data are available concerning current indications and outcomes after laparoscopic pancreatectomy. The purpose of this article is to review the recent indications, complications, and outcomes after laparoscopic pancreatic resection. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective analysis of the Mount Sinai hospital records was performed for all patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy or enucleation between the time of the first resection in November 1993 until the time of this study in March 2000. RESULTS: In the 19 patients (6 men) the mean age was 53 years (range 22 to 83 years). In 16 patients (84%) the entire procedure was done by laparoscopy; one operation was converted to a hand-assisted technique; and two cases were converted to open. Median operating time was 4.4 hours (range 1.6 to 6.6 hours), and median intraoperative blood loss was 200 mL. Postoperative complications included three pancreatic leaks (16%), one case of superficial phlebitis, and one prolonged ileus for 7 days (total morbidity of 26%). There were no deaths. The median length of postoperative hospital stay was 6 days (range 1 to 26 days). CONCLUSIONS: This represents the largest single-institution experience with laparoscopic pancreatic resection. The considerable morbidity rate is comparable to recently published open series, and is likely inherent in pancreatic surgery, rather than the technical approach. Laparoscopic pancreatic surgery resulted in shorter hospital stays and appears to be safe for benign diseases.

Adult↗

Endoscopic thyroidectomy for solitary thyroid nodules.

Conventional thyroidectomy often leaves an undesirable scar on the anterior neck. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of endoscopic thyroidectomy, a new minimally invasive technique for thyroid surgery. Between September 1998 and February 2000, 18 patients with a solitary thyroid nodule underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy utilizing CO2 insufflation. There were 16 females and 2 males with a mean age of 43 years (range 17-66 years). Indications for surgery included indeterminate cytology (n = 8), follicular neoplasm (n = 8), Hürthle cell neoplasm (n = 1), and toxic thyroid nodule (n = 1). The mean nodule diameter was 2.7 cm (0.6-7 cm). Analgesic requirement, return to normal activity, and cosmetic results were compared to 18 consecutive patients who had conventional thyroidectomy. Sixteen of 18 cases were successfully completed endoscopically with a mean operating time of 220 minutes (range, 120-330 minutes). There were no major complications, but 3 patients developed mild hypercarbia and 1 patient had an incidental parathyroidectomy. When compared to conventional thyroidectomy, patients undergoing endoscopic thyroidectomy had a significantly superior cosmetic result (p < 0.005) and a quicker return to normal activity (p < 0.05), but there was no difference in analgesic requirement. Endoscopic thyroidectomy is a technically feasible and safe procedure that leads to an improved cosmetic result and a quicker recovery. Open completion thyroidectomy is recommended for thyroid carcinoma until more data are available.

Adolescent↗

Laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch for morbid obesity: a feasibility study in pigs.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch is an emerging open procedure that appears as effective as other bariatric operations. Our goal was to determine the safety and feasibility of performing this procedure using a laparoscopic approach in a porcine model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six 50-kg pigs underwent surgery. Intake was restricted with a sleeve gastrectomy, and malabsorption was obtained by creating a Roux-en-Y. The Roux limb served as a 150-cm alimentary channel following anastomosis to a transected proximal duodenum, while the other limb, or biliopancreatic channel, transported digestive juices. Where the two limbs joined, a 100-cm common channel was formed. RESULTS: The operation was completed in a mean time of 4.5 hours. Two of the six pigs had an intraoperative duodenoenterostomy anastomotic leak detected on methylene blue testing. This leakage was thought to be related to pig anatomy and is not expected to be a problem in humans. At necropsy, all anastomoses were patent, and there were no enteroenterostomy leaks or mesenteric torsions. CONCLUSION: On the basis of the porcine model, laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch is anticipated to be feasible and safe in humans. Substantial weight loss combined with the benefits of laparoscopic surgery can be expected.

Anastomosis, Roux-en-Y↗

Laparoscopic aortorenal bypass using a PTFE graft: survival study in the porcine model.

PURPOSE: To verify the technical feasibility of laparoscopic aortorenal bypass in a porcine model and to evaluate renal pathologic findings after a short survival time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Laparoscopic aorta-to-left-renal artery bypass using an interposition Gore-Tex graft was performed in five animals. Renal function was assessed 1 week postoperatively and euthanasia performed after 14 days for histologic examination. RESULTS: The median surgical time was 210 minutes (range 160-260 minutes). The median time needed to perform the aorta-to-graft anastomosis was 65 minutes (range 50-75 minutes), and the median time required to create the graft-to-renal artery anastomosis was 50 minutes (range 45-60 minutes). No conversion to open surgery was needed. Two intraoperative complications were observed: one large-bowel perforation, which was managed laparoscopically, and one obstruction of the aorta-to-graft anastomosis caused by clots, which was managed by removal of clots with a balloon catheter. No major postoperative complications were observed. The mean preoperative and postoperative serum creatinine concentrations were 0.8 +/- 1.2 and 0.7 +/- 1.6 mg/dL, respectively. At autopsy, all but one of the pigs were found to have a patent aortorenal bypass. In one pig, we found a partially clotted graft. Histologic examination demonstrated an unremarkable kidney in four cases and a kidney showing aspects of coagulative necrosis with viable cells in the animal with the partially clotted graft. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic aortorenal bypass is feasible. The short-term effect of the bypass on kidney vascularization seems promising, as demonstrated by pathologic findings. Laparoscopic aortorenal bypass could extend the indications for renal revascularization surgery.

Anastomosis, Surgical↗

A biodegradeable membrane from porcine intestinal submucosa to reinforce the gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: preliminary report.

BACKGROUND: A Silastic ring has been used to prevent dilation of the gastrojejunostomy in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). The use of a bio-membrane may prevent dilation of the anastomosis without the risks associated with prostheses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of applying such a bio-membrane around the gastrojejunostomy in Laparoscopic RYGBP (LRYGBP). METHODS: We used a new bio-membrane, that is derived from porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) and acts as a scaffolding for the ingrowth of connective tissue. Over a 4-month period, 14 LRYGBP patients had their proximal anastomosis wrapped with 10 x 2.5 cm SIS by a single surgeon. We compared these patients to a control group of LRYGBP patients matched for BMI. RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 35.0 years (control group: 45.1 years). The patients had a mean initial BMI of 44.7 kg/m2 (+/- 5.9) standard error, and the control subjects had a mean initial BMI of 46.7 kg/m2 (+/- 6.5). SIS application took a mean time of 11 (+/- 3) minutes without any intraoperative complication. The median hospital stay was 3.5 days in the experimental group and 3.7 days in controls. Three patients developed a symptomatic stenosis at the gastrojejunostomy following surgery. In the control group there were two stenoses. At an average follow-up of 87 days (controls: 95 days), the mean reduction in BMI was 7.8 (+/- 0.8) kg/m2 [controls 8.6 kg/m2 (+/- 1.5)]. CONCLUSION: Application of SIS around the gastrojejunostomy in patients undergoing LRYGBP is feasible and safe. Further follow-up is required, however, to evaluate the effectiveness in preventing dilation of the anastomosis.

Adult↗

Hand-assisted laparoscopic pancreatic resection.

The extent of reported laparoscopic pancreatic resections vary from enucleation to pancreaticoduodenectomy. Nevertheless, most patients with pancreatic disease who require resection are still treated with a traditional approach. Technological advancements in recent years may play an important role for the future diffusion of laparoscopic pancreatectomy. In hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon inserts a hand into the abdomen through a small laparotomy while pneumoperitoneum is maintained, and uses the hand to assist with dissection, palpation and retraction, control of blood vessels, manipulation of organs, and removal of the specimen. We present a review of our experience and of the world literature on hand-assisted laparoscopic pancreatic resection. Based on the first encouraging results, we believe that the hand-assisted technique should allow for substantial advantages to laparoscopic pancreatic surgery in the future.

Dissection↗

Laparoscopic exclusion of a splenic artery aneurysm using a lateral approach permits preservation of the spleen.

Splenic artery aneurysms have commonly accepted therapeutic indications. Operative therapy for splenic artery aneurysms has traditionally consisted of aneurysm resection with a possible splenectomy. Recently, laparoscopic splenic artery aneurysm exclusion has been shown to provide adequate therapy without incurring the morbidity associated with aneurysmectomy and splenectomy. However, an anterior approach to exclusion may result in short gastric and left gastroepiploic artery disruption leading to splenic infarction. Preservation of the spleen can best be assured by a lateral approach, which preserves collateral splenic perfusion. A 51-year-old woman with a distal splenic artery aneurysm, who underwent an uncomplicated laparoscopic splenic artery aneurysm exclusion using a lateral approach, is described.

Aneurysm↗

Surgery of the adrenal glands.

Because widespread use of imaging techniques has led to the frequent detection of incidentalomas, radiologists, endocrinologists, and endocrine surgeons must be knowledgeable about the appropriate evaluation of patients, and the selection of the appropriate surgical approach, including conventional open and laparoscopic adrenalectomy. This article reviews the authors' preferences based on experience with nearly 200 laparoscopic adrenalectomies.

Adrenal Cortex Hormones↗

Endoscopic endocrine neck surgery with carbon dioxide insufflation: the effect on intracranial pressure in a large animal model.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic endocrine neck surgery requires insufflation with carbon dioxide (CO(2)) at 10 to 15 mm Hg, which may decrease the cerebral venous return and increase intracranial pressure. This study evaluated the effect of CO(2) neck insufflation on intracranial pressure (ICP) and hemodynamic parameters. METHODS: Fifteen pigs underwent endoscopic thyroid dissection. Insufflation was performed with CO(2) at 0 (sham), 10, 15, and 20 mm Hg and with helium at 20 mm Hg with 3 pigs in each group. ICP, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure (CVP), cardiac output, and blood gas were measured at baseline, 30, 60, and 120 minutes. RESULTS: There were no differences in mean ICP between the sham group and CO(2) insufflation at 10 mm Hg. Mean ICP increased significantly with CO(2) at 15 and 20 mm Hg and with helium at 20 mm Hg. A significant increase in CVP occurred in pigs operated with CO(2) at 20 mm Hg. We observed jugular vein collapse under all insufflation pressures; however, pigs operated at 10 mm Hg were able to maintain an intermittent blood flow. CONCLUSIONS: A severe increase in ICP occurs with insufflation pressures higher than 15 mm Hg, possibly as a result of decreased cervical venous blood flow. Carbon dioxide insufflation up to 10 mm Hg does not alter ICP and is recommended for clinical application in endoscopic neck surgery.

Animals↗

Laparoscopic release of celiac artery compression syndrome facilitated by laparoscopic ultrasound scanning to confirm restoration of flow.

A 43-year-old woman presented with symptomatic mesenteric ischemia caused by median arcuate ligament compression of her celiac artery. Magnetic resonance angiography clearly demonstrated stenosis of the proximal celiac artery. She underwent laparoscopic decompression by division of the ligament and excision of the celiac plexus. Laparoscopic Doppler ultrasound scanning demonstrated markedly improved flow in the artery. She was discharged in 15 hours and reported complete resolution of her symptoms at the 3-month postoperative visit. Laparoscopy provides a less invasive but equally effective method for decompressing the celiac artery as well as assessing adequacy of flow after its release.

Adult↗

Minimally invasive spine surgery: an animal model for endoscopic approach to the anterior cervical and upper thoracic spine.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive video-assisted techniques are currently used for thoracic and lumbar spine surgery with the aim of reducing the morbidity. Recently, an endoscopic approach has been used for endocrine neck surgery, with reduced pain and improved cosmetic results. PURPOSE: To develop an animal model for an endoscopic neck approach to the anterior cervical and upper thoracic spine. METHODS: Five pigs were used. A combination of one 5- and two 3-mm laparoscopic instruments was used to dissect the spine, and dedicated instrumentation was then used to perform discectomies. Carbon dioxide was insufflated at 10 mm Hg. Dissection was carried out upward and downward on the anterior aspect of the spine; discectomy was performed at various levels and evaluated at autopsy. RESULTS: All pigs tolerated the procedure well. Visibility of the cervical spine was excellent, and exposure from C1 to T3 was obtained. For discectomy, an additional 10-mm trocar was inserted, and discectomy of C3-C4 and C4-C5 was performed. Proper location and adequacy were confirmed at autopsy. CONCLUSION: The endoscopic neck approach allows exposure of the entire cervical spine and the upper thoracic spine in the porcine model. This approach has the potential to reduce the morbidity associated with the open cervical approach and provides a wider view and exposure than conventional open surgery. The availability of the porcine model allows the acquisition of the necessary technical skills before introducing this advanced procedure in humans.

Animals↗

Early results of laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch: a case series of 40 consecutive patients.

BACKGROUND: Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) is an operation which provides one of the greatest maintained weight losses of any bariatric procedure. We looked at the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic BPD-DS for morbid obesity. METHODS: A 150-200 ml sleeve gastrectomy was created and anastomosed to the distal 250 cm of divided ileum. The median length of the common channel was 100 cm. All patients were prospectively followed up to 12 months. RESULTS: 40 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic BPD-DS as a primary procedure for morbid obesity. Median patient body mass index (BMI) was 60 kg/m2 (range 42-85 kg/m2). Mean age was 43 +/- 1 years (+/- SEM), with 12 males and 28 females. One patient was converted to open laparotomy (2.5%). Median operative time was 210 +/- 9 minutes (range 110-360 minutes) with a significant correlation between BMI and operative time (p = 0.04). Median length of stay was 4 days (range 3-210 days). There was one 30-day mortality (2.5%). Major morbidities occurred in 6 patients (15%), including 1 anastomotic leak (2.5%), 1 venous thrombosis (2.5%), 4 staple-line hemorrhages (10%) and 1 subphrenic abscess (2.5%). Median follow-up at 6 months (range 1-12 months) resulted in 46% +/- 2% excess weight loss (EWL) and at 9 months 58% +/- 3% EWL. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic BPD-DS is a complex, yet feasible, procedure resulting in effective weight loss with an acceptable morbidity. A BMI >65 was associated with increased morbidity and mortality. A long-term study is needed to confirm efficacy and proper patient selection.

Adult↗

Hand-assisted laparoscopic digestive surgery provides safety and tactile sensation for malignancy or obesity.

BACKGROUND: Some of the persistent problems associated with laparoscopic surgery stem from the inability of the surgeon to palpate the abdominal contents during the operation. This lack of tactile sensation can lead to poor abdominal exploration, difficulty in extracting the organs, and a relatively long operation time compared to conventional procedures. The Dexterity Pneumo Sleeve is a new device that allows the surgeon to insert his or her hand into the abdominal cavity through a small incision while preserving the pneumoperitoneum. METHODS: Recently, 13 of our patients underwent hand-assisted advanced laparoscopic surgery using this device. In this series, we had two cases of gastrectomy, two cases of gastric bypass for morbid obesity, two Whipple cases for periampullary tumor, and seven cases of bowel resection. On the basis of this series, we were able to assess the utility of this device. RESULTS: Satisfactory pneumoperitoneum was maintained in 12 of 13 cases. The length of the skin incision was 7.8 cm on average, which was almost the same size as surgeon's glove. The device proved to be very useful for tissue retraction and abdominal exploration in all cases and for intracorporeal knot tying in some cases. CONCLUSIONS: We found that the device permitted an easier dissection, resection, and anastomosis. It also helped to decrease the operation time.

Adult↗

Laparoscopic side-to-side pancreaticojejunostomy (Partington-Rochelle) for chronic pancreatitis.

Intractable pain in chronic pancreatitis has been treated by several different procedures, including resection and drainage, or a combination of the two. We describe the technique of laparoscopic side-to-side pancreaticojejunostomy for chronic pancreatitis in five patients. The procedure is performed using five trocars. Stapling and direct suturing are required. Careful selection of patients is important. Preoperative and intraoperative ultrasound is necessary to assess the dilated pancreatic duct. In one of the five patients, the laparoscopic technique was converted to an open procedure because the preoperative findings were not confirmed at exploration. Four of the five patients are pain-free, with 5- to 30-month follow-up. Laparoscopic pancreaticojejunostomy can be performed safely, and it is a procedure that should be considered in the treatment of appropriate patients with chronic pancreatitis.

Anastomosis, Roux-en-Y↗

Splenic artery aneurysms: methods of laparoscopic repair.

PURPOSE: Surgical therapy for splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) has traditionally consisted of a laparotomy with resection of the aneurysm and possibly a splenectomy. Our early experience with the laparoscopic approach to treat SAAs is reported. METHODS: A retrospective review of medical records was conducted on all patients who underwent laparoscopic resection of SAAs at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation from May 1996 to August 1997. RESULTS: Four patients with SAAs, three women and one man, with an average age of 55 years (range, 37 to 63 years), underwent successful laparoscopic SAA repair. The average size of the aneurysm was 3.2 cm (range, 2.5 to 5.0 cm). Three patients underwent an aneurysm resection, whereas one patient underwent simple ligation. Intraoperative ultrasound scanning with Doppler was used in three cases as a means of localizing the aneurysm and identifying all feeding vessels; the complete cessation of flow within the aneurysm in the case in which the feeding vessels were simply ligated was also documented. The average intraoperative time was 150 minutes (range, 100 to 190 minutes). The mean estimated blood loss was 105 mL (range, 20 to 300 mL). There were no intraoperative complications. The average hospital stay was 2.2 days (range, 1 to 4 days). CONCLUSION: The laparoscopic approach to splenic artery aneurysm by aneurysmectomy or splenic artery ligation can be safe and effective. The laparoscopic approach affords a short hospital stay and an effective result.

Aneurysm↗

Laparoscopic cryotherapy of the liver, pancreas and ardenal gland.

Laparoscopic hepatic cryotherapy, using intraoperative ultrasound monitoring, was introduced in the 1980s by Onik who combined the freezing process with intraoperative ultrasound for monitoring the extent of freezing. The results of open cryotherapy of the liver have been reported for more than 900 patients, the majority having received cryotherapy for liver metastases from colorectal carcinoma and primary hepatocellular carcinoma. While data on the long-term outcome of patients treated with cryotherapy are limited, some authors have documented survival comparable to that for hepatic resecrion. This is remarkable, considering these patients are often deemed unresectable and most do not even survive 1 year.

Journal Article↗