Surgical endoscopy
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Laparoscopic cholecystectomy currently is the gold standard technique for gallbladder removal. The use of routine intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) is widely practiced during conventional four-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (4PLC) to confirm biliary anatomy and allow for immediate management of unexpected choledocholithiasis. Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) offers a more aesthetic technique for gallbladder removal and has been reported by several groups. However, no series to date have included routine IOC without a separate incision. This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of the SILS technique for cholecystectomy with routine IOC (LCIOC) and common bile duct (CBD) exploration as needed via the umbilical port. ⋯ This study represents the largest series to date of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomies with routine IOC via the umbilical port and is the first study to demonstrate that the laparoscopic management of choledocholithiasis during SILC is feasible.
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During laparoscopic colectomy, the specimen is retrieved through substantial incisions, which increase postoperative pain, wound infections, and incisional hernias. In the era of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), incisionless transrectal approaches for colon resections have been investigated with promising results [4-6]. Transanal retrieval of the colonic specimen in laparoscopic colectomy has been described but not widely adopted, although it seems to be an appealing step towards NOTES colectomy. We have used the TEM rectoscope (Richard Wolf Medical Instruments Corporation, Vernon Hills, IL, USA) as a retrieval conduit, which facilitates transanal extraction of the specimen, and protects the rectal edge and anal sphincter during laparoscopic left colectomy. ⋯ Use of the TEM system facilitates transanal removal of the specimen and protects the anorectum during laparoscopic colectomy.
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Chylothorax after esophagectomy is a potentially life-threatening complication, with a reported incidence rate of 1-4%. Two cases of postoperative chylothorax successfully managed thoracoscopically are reported. ⋯ The thoracic duct is exposed to injuries during esophagectomies, especially in cases of cancer and postcaustic injuries, leading to fibrotic reaction of the surrounding tissue. Early and delayed chylothorax can be managed efficiently by a thoracoscopic approach replicating the sealing techniques used in thoracotomy.
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Dysejaculation and pain from the groin and genitals during sexual activity represent a clinically significant problem in up to 4% of younger males after open inguinal herniorrhaphy. The aim of this questionnaire study is to assess the prevalence of dysejaculation and pain during sexual activity after laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy on a nationwide basis. ⋯ Dysejaculation and pain-related impairment of sexual activity is a significant problem after laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy. The role of improved laparoscopic technique with use of glue fixation of lightweight meshes to reduce the risk of developing these complications needs to be evaluated.