Search

ZusammenfassungDie postoperative Delayed Graft Function (DGF) nach Nierentransplantationen ist definiert als eine Einschränkung der Nierenfunktion nach Nierentransplantation und ist Risikofaktor für ein Transplantatversagen und verkürztes Transplantatüberleben. Ziel dieser Studie war es, die quantitative Perfusion von Nierentransplantaten während der Nierentransplantation zu erfassen und zu untersuchen, ob die gemessene Perfusion Rückschlüsse auf das postoperative Auftreten einer DGF erlaubt. In einem Zeitraum von 1 Jahr wurde bei den Patienten, bei denen ein Einverständnis für die ICG-Perfusionsmessung vorlag, die intraoperative quantitative ICG-Perfusionsmessung mithilfe der Kamera IC-View der Firma Pulsion® durchgeführt. Es erfolgte die Gruppeneinteilung nach postmortaler Spende und Lebendspenden und nach Auftreten bzw. Ausbleiben einer DGF. Intraoperativ erfolgte die Festlegung eines Areals mit starker und geringer ICG-Perfusion. Es wurden die maximale Perfusion, die Anflutzeit der Fluoreszenz und der absolute Anstieg der Fluoreszenz in diesen Arealen dokumentiert. Zusätzlich erfolgte die Berechnung der maximalen Perfusion im Verhältnis zu einem Standardareal. Postoperativ erfolgte die Auswertung durch die Software IC-Calc der Firma Pulsion. Insgesamt konnten 36 Patienten in die Studie eingeschlossen werden. Komplikationen durch die ICG-Applikation traten nicht auf. Bei 10 Patienten, die eine postmortale Nierentransplantatspende erhielten, wurde eine DGF festgestellt (DGF-Gruppe). In der Gruppe der Lebendspende trat eine DGF nicht auf. In den Arealen mit starker ICG-Fluoreszenz fand sich ein signifikanter Unterschied in der maximalen Fluoreszenz zwischen der DGF-Gruppe und Nierenlebendspenden. Die schwach perfundierten Areale wiesen signifikante Unterschiede zwischen der maximalen Perfusion, dem absoluten Anstieg der Perfusion sowie zur Ratio zum Standardareal zwischen DGF und Lebendspenden auf. Ein Unterschied zwischen postmortalen Nierentransplantatspenden ohne DGF und DGF-Gruppe konnte nicht nachgewiesen werden. In dieser Studie zeigte sich, dass sich die quantitative Perfusionsbestimmung von Nierentransplantaten intraoperativ sicher durchführen lässt. Die aktuelle Datenlage deutet eine mögliche zuverlässige Vorhersage der DGF an.

Hintergrund: Neuroendokrine Neoplasien (NEN) sind seltene und heterogene Tumoren. Die mit unklarem Primarius (N-CUP) stellen eine Untergruppe mit schlechter Prognose dar. Die Resektion des Primarius ist die Voraussetzung fur einen kurativen Ansatz, sodass sich die Frage nach dem sinnvollsten diagnostischen und therapeutischen Vorgehen bei N-CUP stellt. Patienten/Methoden: Die Datenbankauswertung von 03/1990 bis 03/2011 ergab 35 N-CUP aus 261 Fallen mit NEN. Es wurde unterteilt in Patienten, bei denen nach operativer Exploration ein Primarius gesichert wurde (Kollektiv 1 = K1, n = 10), durch operative Exploration kein Primarius gesichert wurde (K2, n = 10) und in Patienten, die nicht operativ exploriert wurden (K3, n = 13). Ergebnisse: Die N-CUP-Rate betragt bei Erstvorstellung 13,4 % (35/261), nach erneuter Diagnostik im Zentrum 12,7 % (33/261) und nach operativer Exploration 8,8 % (23/261). Das Geschlechterverhaltnis ist ausgeglichen, das mittlere Alter ist mit 63,8 Jahren (J) in der CUP-Gruppe signifikant hoher als in der Gesamtgruppe (55,9 J, p = 0,004). Das 5-Jahres-Uberleben (JUL) ist 58 % (Gesamtgruppe: 72 %, n. s.). Operativ exploriert wurden 60,6 % (20/33), von denen 30 % (6/20) inoperabel waren. Bei 20 % (4/20) erfolgte die R0-Resektion von solitaren Metastasen ohne Primariusdarstellung und bei 50 % (10/20) konnte der Primarius intraoperativ lokalisiert werden (8 × Dunndarm, 2 × Pankreas). Hier erfolgte in 70 % (7/10) eine R0-Resektion und in 30 % eine Primariusresektion mit Debulking von Lebermetastasen. In der nicht operierten Gruppe (39,4 %, 13/33) erhielten 69,2 % (9/13) eine Chemotherapie. Das mittlere Alter ist signifikant niedriger in K1 mit 54,9 J, im Vergleich zu K3 mit 68,3 J (p = 0,028), eine mannliche Dominanz ist in K3 mit 3,3 : 1 (m : w, n. s.) zu sehen. Der mittlere Ki-67-Index betragt 4,3, 23,8 und 53 % in K1, K2 und K3 und ist hochsignifikant zwischen (zw.) K1 und K3 (p

Einleitung: Die Magen- und Duodenalperforation stellt eine lebensbedrohliche Komplikation der Ulkuskrankheit mit der sofortigen Indikation zur operativen Versorgung dar. Inwieweit die Laparoskopie in dieser Akutsituation ein geeignetes Verfahren darstellt, soll die vorliegende Untersuchung zeigen. Material und Methoden: Die Daten aller Patienten, die innerhalb eines Zeitraums von 15 Jahren (01/1996–12/2010) wegen eines perforierten Magen- oder Duodenalulkus laparoskopisch operiert worden waren, wurden prospektiv erfasst und hinsichtlich Alter, Geschlecht, Perforationslokalisation, Diagnostik, Klinik, Operationsverfahren, intra- und postoperativen Komplikationen sowie postoperativem Verlauf retrospektiv analysiert. Ergebnisse: Im Beobachtungszeitraum wurden 45 Patienten mit einer Magen- oder Duodenalperforation laparoskopisch operiert. Das mediane Lebensalter bei Operation betrug 58 (18–91) Jahre. Eine NSAR-Medikation bestand bei 11 (24,4 %) Patienten. Die Perforation lag bei 12 (26,7 %) Patienten prapylorisch, bei 10 (22,2 %) postpylorisch, bei je 1 (2,2 %) Patienten an der kleinen und an der grosen Kurvatur, bei 18 (40,0 %) an der Vorder- und 3 (6,7 %) an der Hinterwand. In 2 Fallen bestand eine vorangegangene operative Versorgung im Oberbauch. Nach primarer diagnostischer Laparoskopie wurde bei 20 (44,4 %) Patienten die Indikation zur Konversion gestellt. Im Verlauf der laparoskopisch beendeten Operationen wurden bei 18/25 (72,0 %) Patienten eine Ubernahung und bei 7/25 (37,8 %) Patienten eine Ulkusexzision durchgefuhrt. Nach Konversionen wurde bei 7/20 (35,0 %) Patienten eine Ubernahung, bei 10/20 (50,0 %) Patienten eine Ulkusexzision und bei 3/20 (15,0 %) Patienten ein resezierender Eingriff durchgefuhrt. Die mediane Operationszeit betrug 105 (40–306) Minuten und die mittlere Verweildauer 11 (4–66) Tage. Der Intensivaufenthalt lag im Median bei 2 (0–37) Tagen. Majorkomplikationen bestanden bei 11 (24,4 %) Patienten. Hierbei sind im Wesentlichen Relaparotomien (n = 7; 15,6 %) und Nachblutungen (n = 4; 8,9 %) zu nennen. Minorkomplikationen waren in 8 (17,8 %) Fallen zu beobachten. Die Letalitat betrug 11,1 % (n = 5). Schlussfolgerung: Die laparoskopische Versorgung von Magen- und Duodenalperforationen stellt eine minimalinvasive therapeutische Option fur die definitive Versorgung dieser lebensbedrohlichen Erkrankung dar. Die Indikation fur ein laparoskopisches Vorgehen ist jedoch individuell zu stellen und wird in entscheidendem Mas von der laparoskopischen Erfahrung des Operateurs bestimmt.

Presently, no markers exist to predict metachronous metastasis at the time a primary colorectal cancer is diagnosed. While aneuploidy indicates poor survival prognosis and elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels the presence of recurrent disease, the predictive value of both markers regarding imminent metachronous metastases is unclear. Sixty patients with distant recurrence throughout a 5-year follow-up (TM+) were randomly chosen and 60 patients without metastasis matched to this cohort (TM−). In addition, an enlarged collective (n = 217; n TM+ = 85, n TM- = 132) with median follow-up of 79.2 months was assessed by logistic regression regarding metachronous metastases. Univariate and stepwise regression analyses included clinicopathological characteristics, preoperative CEA levels and aneuploidy assessed by DNA image cytometry. The matched-pair collective showed aneuploidy in 71.1 % (TM−) and 85.0 % (TM+; p = 0.076), and elevated CEA in 24.5 % (TM−) and 52.2 % [TM+; odds ratio (OR), 3.414; p = 0.007]. The enlarged collective presented aneuploidy in 71.2 % (TM−) and 83.5 % (TM+; OR 2.050, p = 0.038), and elevated CEA in 28.6 % (TM−) and 48.9 % (TM+; OR 2.391, p = 0.020). Elevated CEA and aneuploidy did not show any association (p = 0.919). In contrast, logistic regression analyses demonstrated that besides increased T category (OR 1.745, p = 0.019), both elevated CEA level (OR 2.633, p = 0.015) and aneuploidy (OR 1.929, p = 0.058) were independent predictive markers for metachronous metastasis. Our data show that aneuploidy and elevated CEA levels besides increased T category could serve for individual risk assessment to predict metachronous metastases. The fact that still aneuploidy missed the significance level by a small margin emphasizes the need for larger validation studies.

Hintergrund: Neuroendokrine Tumoren (NET) des Verdauungstrakts sind seltene und heterogene Tumoren. Die Erhebung valider Daten zu Epidemiologie, Diagnostik, Therapie, Prognose und Risikofaktoren ist das Ziel des deutschen NET-Registers. Patienten/Methode: Das deutsche NET-Register erfasst bundesweit die Daten histologisch gesicherter NET-Patienten. Der hier dargestellte Erfassungszeitraum umfasst die Zeit von 1999 bis 2010 und wird seit 2004 prospektiv fortgefuhrt. Ergebnisse: 2009 Patienten aus 35 Zentren wurden von 1999–2010 analysiert. Das mittlere Follow-up betrug 34,5 Monate. Das Durchschnittsalter bei Erstdiagnose lag bei 56,4 Jahren. Haufigste Primartumorlokalisationen waren Pankreas (34,2 %), Dunndarm (25,8 %), Magen (6,5 %), Kolon (6,9 %) und Duodenum (4,8 %). Ein neuroendokrines CUP lag bei 12,6 % der Patienten vor. Eine synchrone Metastasierung fand sich bei 46 % der Erkrankten. Zweittumoren fanden sich bei 12 % der Patienten. Von 860 Patienten wurden 402 (46,7 %) als funktionell aktiv eingestuft. Es handelt sich um folgende endokrinologische Syndrome: Karzinoidsyndrom (19,1 %; n = 164), persistierende hyperinsulinamische Hypoglykamie (17,7 %; n = 152), Zollinger-Ellison-Syndrom (7,1 %; n = 61), Glukagonom (0,7 %; n = 15), Verner-Morrison-Syndrom (0,4 %; n = 8) sowie Somatostatinomsyndrom (0,1 %; n = 2). Eine chirurgische Therapie erhielten 78 % der Patienten, 28 % eine Therapie mit Somatostatinrezeptoranaloga (SSA), 19 % eine Peptidrezeptor-Radionuklidtherapie (PRRT), 18 % eine Chemotherapie (CTX) und 6,5 % eine Interferontherapie (IFN-Tx). Ausschlieslich operativ behandelt wurden 47 % der Patienten, 53 % der Patienten erhielten mindestens eine 2. Therapieform. Wahrend des Beobachtungszeitraums verstarben 14,9 % der Patienten. Die 2-, 5- und 10-Jahres-Uberlebensraten (JULR) waren 94, 85 und 70 % fur das tumorspezifische Uberleben. Die 5-JULR korreliert hochsignifikant mit der Therapieform Operation (OP) versus (vs.) Nicht-OP (82 vs. 61 %, p

Die Outlet Obstruction ist eine Unterform der chronischen Obstipation. Fast immer sind Kombinationen von morphologischen Veranderungen des Beckens, des Beckenbodens und des Kolorektums nachzuweisen. Im Rahmen der Diagnostik gilt es, diejenigen Patienten zu identifizieren, die von einer operativen Therapie profitieren. Die Resektionsrektopexie versucht, die physiologische Anatomie und damit das funktionelle Zusammenspiel der beteiligten Strukturen wiederherzustellen, wobei die laparoskopische Technik die Vorteile der minimalinvasiven Chirurgie mit sich bringt. Neben der Erlauterung des eigenen operativen Vorgehens und des Algorithmus zur Indikationsstellung werden die Ergebnisse nach 19 Jahren eigener Erfahrung dargestellt. Innerhalb dieses Zeitraums wurden 264 Resektionsrektopexien in laparoskopischer Technik aufgrund einer Outlet Obstruction durchgefuhrt. Bei einer mittleren Dauer der Nachbeobachtung von 58,2 Monaten betrug die Rate der Besserung der Obstruktionsbeschwerden 79,5 % (n = 128 von n = 161 Nachbeobachtungen). Die vorliegenden Studien deuten darauf hin, dass die (laparoskopische) Resektionsrektopexie gegenuber nicht resezierenden Verfahren und Verfahren mit Implantation allogenen Materials zu besseren Ergebnissen fuhrt. Voraussetzung ist hierbei eine korrekte Selektionierung der Patienten und die laparoskopische Expertise. Sowohl die perioperativen als auch die funktionellen Ergebnisse des eigenen Kollektivs untermauern die Vorteile der laparoskopischen Resektionsrektopexie bei Patienten mit einer Outlet Obstruction.

Verletzungen der Bauchhohle konnen durch stumpfe Gewalteinwirkung oder durch penetrierende Traumen entstehen. Im Vordergrund stehen das fruhe Erkennen und Behandeln einer vitalen Bedrohung, wobei die Diagnostik insbesondere bei Verletzungen der Hohlorgane Schwierigkeiten bereiten kann. Bei perforierenden Verletzungen kann die Eviszeration von Darmanteilen oder Entleerung von Darminhalt unmittelbar auf eine Hohlorganperforation hinweisen. Beim haufigeren stumpfen Abdominaltrauma offenbart sich die Verletzung von Hohlorganen haufig erst im Verlauf durch septische Entgleisung oder Peritonismus, insbesondere, wenn der Nachweis von freier abdominaler Luft initial fehlt. Bei Hohlorganverletzungen besteht die primare Herausforderung in der Beherrschung septischer Komplikationen. Hierbei gilt es, die chirurgische Therapie dem Verletzungsmuster sowie der Allgemeinsituation des Patienten anzupassen. Das Abdominaltrauma stellt nach wie vor eine Herausforderung in der Notfallversorgung dar. Es erfordert ein strukturiertes Management mit dem Ziel einer raschen Diagnostik und Therapie zur Senkung der Morbiditat und Letalitat. Insbesondere die Verletzung der parenchymatosen Organe bestimmt dabei entscheidend die Prognose und den Verlauf des Patienten. Bei Leber- und Milzverletzungen besteht die primare Herausforderung in der Beherrschung vital bedrohlicher Blutungen. Bei Pankreasverletzungen mussen insbesondere septische Komplikationen vermieden werden. Hierbei gilt es, die chirurgische Therapie dem Verletzungsmuster sowie der Allgemeinsituation des Patienten anzupassen.

Hintergrund Bis dato ist die Technik der laparoskopischen Leberchirurgie lediglich in einzelnen Zentren bei einem hoch selektierten Patientenkreis etabliert. In einer Umfrage wurde der Stand der laparoskopischen Leberchirurgie in Deutschland im Jahr 2008 ermittelt.

Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a safe and effective method for tumor destruction in patients with unresectable liver tumors. However, accurate probe placement using laparoscopic ultrasound guidance is required to achieve complete tumor ablation. This study aimed to develop a perfusable ex vivo tumor-mimic model for laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation training. After rinsing the prepared liver vessels with anticoagulants, porcine livers were perfused. Tumor-mimics were created by injecting a mixture consisting of 3% agarose, 3% cellulose, 7% glycerol, and 0.05% methylene blue, creating hyperechoic lesions in ultrasound. Heparinized porcine blood was used as perfusion medium. Continuous perfusion of the porcine liver was provided by connection of a pump system to the portal vein and the vena cava inferior. Laparoscopic RFA techniques were taught using a laparoscopic pelvi-trainer. A total of 30 laparoscopic ablations were performed in four porcine livers. The simulated “tumors” were clearly visible on laparoscopic ultrasound and not felt during placement of the RFA probe. In addition, color duplex ultrasound showed clear signals indicating for a sufficient liver perfusion. Laparoscopic RFA requires advanced laparoscopic ultrasound skills for an accurate placement of the RFA probe. The perfused tumor-mimic model presented is a safe, easy, effective, and economic method to improve and train laparoscopic RFA skills on porcine liver tissue.

Neuroendocrine neoplasia (NEN) with unknown primary site (NEN-CUP tumors) may have a poor prognosis. We evaluated the clinical presentation, therapy, outcome, and risk factors for adverse outcomes in patients who had these tumors.In 243 patients who had NEN, a retrospective review was performed in 38 patients who had NEN-CUP tumors. The 38 patients who had NEN-CUP tumors were evaluated in three groups: group 1 (surgery; primary tumor detected; ten patients); group 2 (surgery; no primary tumor detected; ten patients); and group 3 (no surgery; 18 patients). Risk factors were evaluated with univariate and multivariate analyses.Most patients who had NEN-CUP tumors [32 patients (84%)] had World Health Organization (WHO) performance score of 0 or 1, and most tumors [24 patients (63%)] were well differentiated (WHO grade, G1 or G2; Ki-67 index, ≤20%). Univariate analysis showed that greater survival was significantly associated with lower patient age, lower WHO performance score, lower WHO grade, lower number of metastatic sites, treatment with surgery, and no treatment with chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis showed that low WHO performance score (hazard ratio 7.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.63-22.19) and treatment with surgery (hazard ratio 0.10, CI 0.028-0.381) were significant independent predictors of improved survival.In patients with NEN-CUP tumors, surgical treatment is an independent predictor of better survival. Therefore, surgical treatment may be indicated in patients with good general health status and well-differentiated NEN-CUP tumors.

Aims Radiofrequency ablation is gaining popularity as the interventional therapy of choice for unresectable hepatic malignancies. However, little attention has been paid to the importance of operator experience in this therapy. This study aims to evaluate the results of RFA treatment dependent on operator experience and learning curve. Patients and methods Between 2/2000 and 11/2004 we have undertaken 116 RFA procedures to ablate 404 unresectable primary or metastatic liver tumours in 84 patients. The clinical data of all patients were recorded prospectively and treatment results of the first 42 patients (group I) and the second 42 patients (group II) were compared. All patients were treated by the same surgeon or interventional radiologist. Results RFA was performed percutaneously in 44 procedures (group I n =35, group II n =9), via laparotomy in 64 procedures (group I n =27, group II n =37) and via laparoscopy in eight procedures (group I n =1, group II n =7). The complication rate was comparable in both groups with 7.9% in group I and 7.5% in group II. Group II had a higher complete ablation rate (96.2 vs 93.7%) than group I. One- and two-year survival rates of 92 and 89% in group II were significantly higher than in group I with 69 and 46% ( p =0.015). Conclusion By the experience conditional optimization of indication and performance by a specialized RFA team the results could be improved significantly. The data on hand speak for a considerable learning curve in the RFA and demonstrate the importance of the experience of the therapist for the outcome of the patients.

Hydro-jet technology has long been used to cut various materials, such as metal and wood, in the industrial field. In the medical field, this technology has been applied successfully in selective cutting of the parenchyma of the liver. However, to our knowledge, no data are available on the use of the hydro-jet technique for pneumonectomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new dissection technique in which a high-pressure water stream (hydro-jet) and a new dissection probe for pulmonary resection are used.Thirty pigs underwent right pneumonectomy. Pigs were randomized to either the conventional or hydro-jet-assisted dissection technique. The feasibility of this technique and the features of surgical dissection were evaluated and compared between the two groups.Pneumonectomy was successful in all animals. The mean operative times were 55 and 65 minutes and the mean volumes of blood loss were 37 and 65 mL for the hydro-jet and conventional dissection techniques, respectively. Complications included vascular injury in 6% and 20% of cases with the hydro-jet and conventional techniques, respectively. The use of hydro-jet for pneumonectomy had clear technical advantages over the conventional dissection. Hydro-jet resulted in a selective dissection of fibrous and connective tissue, preserving blood vessels for later ligation. Therefore, the dissection was performed in a relatively bloodless field. The ease of dissection with the bent-tip dissector represents another advantage. The continuous water flow allows a clear view for the operator.This study shows that hydro-jet dissection represents an excellent alternative to the conventional technique for pulmonary resection. The improved anatomic dissection combined with an almost bloodless operating field secondary to continuous water flow may decrease dissection-related complications.

BACKGROUND The swallowing function can be restored after large oncologic resections in the upper aerodigestive tract with microvascular anastomosed transplants. PATIENTS AND METHODS With the help of the perfusion manometry we would like to demonstrate the functional advantages of this reconstruction method. We examined three reconstructed regions: tongue with 15 patients, soft palate with 11 patients, and the laryngeal and pharyngeal complex after total laryngopharyngectomy with 17 patients. RESULTS Patients with reconstructed tongue or soft palate reached 69% or 74% of their pressure compared to normal values. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that although normal pressure values were not reached after reconstruction of large defects with microvascular anastomosed transplants; these reconstruction methods restored the pressure gradient essential for swallowing, with a higher pressure of the soft palate and a lower pressure of the base of tongue.

The gastric and duodenal perforations are a life-threatening complication of peptic ulcer disease with the indication for immediate surgical intervention. To which extent laparoscopy is a suitable method in an acute situation was examined in the present investigation.The data of all patients within a period of 15 years (01/1996-12/2010) who were operated laparoscopically because of a perforated gastric or duodenal ulcer, were collected prospectively in terms of age, gender, localisation of perforation, diagnostics, symptoms, surgical procedures, intraoperative and postoperative complications and postoperative course, and were analysed retrospectively.During the observation period 45 patients were operated laparoscopically due to gastric or duodenal perforation. The median age at operation was 58 (18-91) years. An NSAID medication was present in 11 (24.4 %) patients. The perforation was juxtapyloric in 12 (26.7 %) patients, postpyloric in 10 (22.2 %) patients, one (2.2 %) patient in each small and greater curvature, in 18 (40.0 %) at the front and in three (6.7 %) patients on the rear wall. In two cases, previous surgical treatment in the upper abdomen was performed. After primary diagnostic laparoscopy, an indication for conversion was seen in 20 (44.4 %) patients. During laparoscopically completed operations simple suturing was done in 18/25 (72.0 %) patients and excision and suturing was performed in 7/25 (37.8 %) patients. After conversion simple suturing was observed in 7/20 (35.0 %) patients, whereas in 10/20 (50.0 %) patients excision and suturing was performed. 3/20 (15.0 %) patients underwent a resective operation. The median operative time was 105 (40-306) minutes and mean hospitalisation 11 (4-66) days. The ICU stay was in median 2 (0-37) days. Major complications were seen in 11 (24.4 %) patients, namely re-laparotomy (n = 7; 15.6 %) and haemorrhage (n = 4; 8.9 %). Minor complications were observed in 8 (17.8 %) of cases. The mortality rate was 11.1 % (n = 5).The laparoscopic treatment of gastric and duodenal perforations is a minimally invasive therapeutic option for the definitive treatment of this life-threatening disease. The indication for a laparoscopic approach has to be considered individually and depends to a decisive extent on the experience of the laparoscopic surgeon.

A rapid immunochemical test system (immunofiltration, flow-through test) was developed for the simultaneous detection of seven mycotoxins, namely aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), fumonisin B1 (FB1), ochratoxin A (OA), deoxynivalenol (DON), T-2 toxin (T-2), diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS), and roridin A (RoA), respectively. A reusable test device, containing seven sample wells and one control well was produced. Sample extract solutions were dropped onto each sample well and the controll well, followed by toxin-enzyme conjugate solution, wash solution and colour delevoper solution. The test results were evaluated by visual comparison of colour intensity of sample wells and control well. The detection limits in buffer solution were at 0.5 ng/ml (AFB1), 5 ng/ml (FB1), 5 ng/ml (OA), 500 ng/ml (DON), 10 ng/ml (T-2), 0.5 ng/ml (DAS), and 25 ng/ml (RoA), respectively. Employing a simple extraction procedure, artificially contaminated cereal samples (wheat, maize) were analysed, with detection limits of 10 ng/g (AFB1), 50 ng/g (FB1), 50 ng/g (OA), 3500 ng/g (DON), 100 ng/g (T-2), 5 ng/g (DAS), and 250 ng/g (RoA), respectively.

Anorectal outlet obstruction constitutes one form of chronic constipation. Combinations of morphological alterations of the pelvis, the pelvic floor and the colorectum are nearly always evident. The goal of the diagnostic work-up is to identify those patients who will profit from a surgical intervention. Resection rectopexy aims at restoring the physiological anatomy thereby ameliorating the functional interaction of structures effected with the laparoscopic approach entailing all advantages of minimally invasive surgery. Besides a detailed description of the surgical technique used and an algorithm for indications to operate we present our results after 19 years of experience. Throughout this period, 264 laparoscopic resection rectopexies for outlet obstruction were performed. With a mean follow-up of 58.2 months the rate of improvement of obstructive symptoms was 79.5 % (n = 128 of 161 available for follow-up). Present studies suggest that (laparoscopic) resection rectopexy entails better results in comparison to non-resecting procedures and procedures with the implantation of allogenic material. Certainly, in order to achieve these results a correct patient selection and an expertise in laparoscopic surgery are essential. Both the perioperative and the functional results of our own collective fortify the advantages of laparoscopic resection rectopexy in patients with an outlet obstruction.

Background: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the Western world. A wide variety of prognostic factors for colorectal cancer have been identified. There is, however, a paucity of literature addressing the influence of multiple primary carcinomas on prognosis. We conducted the present study in order to investigate the influence of second or multiple primary tumours on the prognosis of colorectal cancer patients. Patients and Methods: From 1992 to 2005, 1500 patients underwent surgery for colorectal cancer at the University Hospital of Luebeck. Of these, 276 patients (19%) had multiple primary malignant tumours. We performed statistical analyses only on patients who underwent surgery with curative intent in order to minimise additional prognostic factors. The patients were divided into groups according to the time of multiple primary tumour occurrence. Data were analyzed for various variables. Results: We did not detect any significant differences in survival either between the various groups or between patients with and without multiple primary tumours. Conclusion: The presence of multiple primary carcinomas is not an independent prognostic factor in patients with an index tumour of the colorectum. Multiple primary tumours are thus not necessarily associated with a poorer outcome and patients should receive curative intent surgery and appropriate follow-up care.

In obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) combinations of morphologic alterations of the pelvic floor and the colorectum are nearly always evident. Laparoscopic resection rectopexy (LRR) aims at restoring physiological function. We present the results of 19 years of experience with this procedure in patients with ODS.Between 1993 and 2012, 264 patients underwent LRR for ODS at our department. Perioperative and follow-up data were analyzed.The female/male ratio was 25.4:1, mean age was 61.3 years (±14.3 years), and mean body mass index (BMI) was 25.2 kg/m(2) (±4.2 kg/m(2)). The pathological conditions most frequently found in combination were a sigmoidocele plus a rectocele (n = 79) and a sigmoidocele plus a rectal prolapse or intussusception (n = 69). The conversion rate was 2.3 % (n = 6). The mortality rate was 0.75 % (n = 2), the rate of complications requiring surgical re-intervention was 4.3 % (n = 11), and the rate of minor complications was 19.8 % (n = 51). Follow-up data were available for 161 patients with a mean follow-up of 58.2 months (±47.1 months). Long-term results showed that 79.5 % of patients (n = 128) reported at least an improvement of symptoms. In cases of a sigmoidocele (n = 63 available for follow-up) or a rectal prolapse II°/III° (n = 72 available for follow-up), the improvement rates were 79.4 % (n = 50) and 81.9 % (n = 59), respectively.LRR is a safe and effective procedure. Our perioperative results and long-term functional outcome strengthen the evidence regarding benefits of LRR in patients with an outlet obstruction. However, careful patient selection is essential.

Background: New findings on immunological und haematological functions of the spleen, the postoperative risks following splenectomy, as well as improved surgical techniques resulted in an increased interest in organ preservative surgery after traumatic spleen injury in recent years. Material and Methods: The data of all patients who un-derwent surgery for traumatic spleen injuries between 1995 - 2009 were recorded prospectively and analyzed concerning type of operation, intra-and postoperative complications and the postoperative course. Results: A total of 214 patients with splenic trauma underwent surgery. The spleen could be preserved in 80 patients (37,4 %, group 1), using thermocoagulation, suture, glue sealant, splenorhaphy and partial spleen resection or combined techniques. 4 of those patients (5 %) required a revision operation, in which two spleens co-uld be salvaged by application of glue sealant. Eight of the patients of group 1 could be treated laparoscopically (10 %). Conclusion: Under consideration of the surgical segment anatomy of the spleen and the surgical techniques presented, organ preservation is possible with high success rates, even in patients with severe splenic damage. In stable patients with minor splenic injury, laparoscopic or conservative treatment can be considered. Splenectomy should be reserved for patients with complete shattering of the spleen or instable patients.

Background Lymphadenectomy is performed to assess patient prognosis and to prevent metastasizing. Recently, it was questioned whether lymph node metastases were capable of metastasizing and therefore, if lymphadenectomy was still adequate. We evaluated whether the nodal status impacts on the occurrence of distant metastases by analyzing a highly selected cohort of colon cancer patients. Methods 1,395 patients underwent surgery exclusively for colon cancer at the University of Lübeck between 01/1993 and 12/2008. The following exclusion criteria were applied: synchronous metastasis, R1-resection, prior/synchronous second carcinoma, age < 50 years, positive family history, inflammatory bowel disease, FAP, HNPCC, and follow-up < 5 years. The remaining 421 patients were divided into groups with (TM+, n = 75) or without (TM-, n = 346) the occurrence of metastasis throughout a 5-year follow-up. Results Five-year survival rates for TM + and TM- were 21% and 73%, respectively (p < 0.0001). Survival rates differed significantly for N0 vs. N2, grading 2 vs. 3, UICC-I vs. -II and UICC-I vs. -III (p < 0.05). Regression analysis revealed higher age upon diagnosis, increasing N- and increasing T-category to significantly impact on recurrence free survival while increasing N-and T-category were significant parameters for the risk to develop metastases within 5-years after surgery (HR 1.97 and 1.78; p < 0.0001). Conclusions Besides a higher T-category, a positive N-stage independently implies a higher probability to develop distant metastases and correlates with poor survival. Our data thus show a prognostic relevance of lymphadenectomy which should therefore be retained until conclusive studies suggest the unimportance of lmyphadenectomy.

To date laparoscopic hepatic surgery is only common in a few centres for a specific selected patient group. The intention of this survey was to estimate the current state of affairs for laparoscopic hepatic surgery in Germany at 2008.A questionnaire was prepared and sent out by e-mail in May 2009 to the members of the DGAV (German Society of General and Visceral Surgery). The feedback was evaluated anonymously.A total of 181 answers were received by 31st July 2009 (return rate of 15.9%). The return rate of basic and standard care hospitals was 9.2%, specialized hospitals 23.6%, hospitals with maximum care 50% and university hospitals had a return rate of 71.9%. The question whether laparoscopic hepatic surgery had been performed in 2008 was answered with YES by 125 (69.1%) and NO by 54 (29.8%) members. The number of laparoscopic hepatic surgery interventions (laparoscopic ultrasound, laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation and resection) in 2008 was given as more than 50 by 4 (2.2%) hospitals, between 20 and 50 by 11 (6.1%) hospitals, between 10 and 20 by 23 (12.7%) hospitals, between 5 and 10 by 45 (24.9%) hospitals and between 0 and 5 by 54 (29.8%) hospitals. In 2008 the frequency of laparoscopic ultrasound during intraoperative staging to confirm the diagnosis ranged from 2 to 250, whereby 96.4% of the hospitals had less than 50 and only 2 hospitals (2.7%) had 211 and 250 examinations, respectively. 50 hospitals carried out laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA). 69 (38.1%) of the interviewed hospitals reported hepatic laparoscopic resections (n=551).Laparoscopic liver surgery has been done in Germany in patients with benign or malignant liver lesions. Pure laparoscopy is the most common access. Atypical resections are the primarily indication followed by left lateral resections. All further types of resection have been done in a very small number. Laparoscopic liver surgery has been performed in all types of hospitals.

Laparoscopic Radiofrequency-ablation is a safe and effective method for tumor destruction in patients with unresectable liver tumors. However, accurate probe placement using laparoscopic ultrasound guidance is required to achieve complete tumor ablation. After development and evaluation of laparoscopic navigation tools for radiofrequency ablation, we are now presenting a prototype of a navigation- and documentation-system for laparoscopic RFA.An image-guided surgery system for laparoscopic liver treatments (LapAssistent) based on a 3D-navigation scene was developed. A laparoscopic ultrasound probe and a RFA needle could be navigated using an electromagnetic tracking system. The system was studied using a perfused tumour-mimic-model of a porcine liver.The study showed that laparoscopic ultrasound-guided navigation is technically feasible. The system enables the surgeon to intraoperatively update the three-dimensional planning data in case of new findings. The RFA needle could be placed accurately in a targeted tumour with a targeting error ranging from 5 - 7 mm, even out of the ultrasound plane. In case of multiple tumours lying in close spatial relationship, the documentation module helps to keep track of the already ablated tumours and those that still need to be treated.Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation requires advanced laparoscopic ultrasound skills for accurate placement of the RFA probe. The system adds benefit to laparoscopic RFA enabling the surgeon to place the needle accurately inside the targeted tumours using the navigation scene. The possibility to update the three-dimensional model with new intraoperative findings enables the surgeon to adapt to a new intraoperative situation.

Background: Laparoscopic Radiofrequency-ablation (RFA) is an effective method for tumor destruction in patients with unresectable liver tumors. However, accurate placement of the RFA-needle using laparoscopic ultrasound guidance is the prerequisite for complete tumor ablation. After development and evaluation of laparoscopic navigation tools for radiofrequency ablation, we are now presenting a prototype of a navigation- and documentation-system for laparoscopic RFA.

Fournier’s gangrene is a necrotizing fasciitis involving the perineal and genital regions. Even today, this often polymicrobial infection still carries a high mortality rate and continues to be a major challenge to the medical community. The purpose of this study was to report our experience with this condition and to compare it with those reported in published studies. We also introduce our approach to treatment. We analyzed data from 33 patients with Fournier’s gangrene who were managed in our hospital from 1996 to 2007, focusing on patient gender, age, etiology, predisposing conditions, comorbidities, bacteriology, sepsis, blood results, mortality, and spread of gangrene. 18 (54.5%) of the 33 patients had been referred to our department by smaller district hospitals. The patient cohort consisted of 23 men and ten women with a median age of 59 years (range 40–79 years). The median time between the onset of symptoms and progression to gangrene was 6 days (range 2–28 days). An underlying cause was identified in 27 patients (81.8%). The commonest etiological events were perianal and perirectal abscesses (n = 13; 39.4%). Predisposing factors included diabetes mellitus in 12 cases (36.4%), chronic alcoholism in ten cases (30.3%), immunosuppression in six cases (18.2%), and prolonged immobilization in five cases (15.2%). 17 patients (51.5%) had a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher, and 13 patients (39.4%) had a BMI of 30 or higher. Positive cultures were obtained in 30 cases (90.9%). In 26 cases (78.8%), multiple microorganisms were recovered, including nine cases (27.3%) with both aerobes and anaerobes. Sepsis was present in 26 patients (78.8%). The mortality rate was 18.2%. Fournier’s gangrene remains a major challenge with a high mortality. Our results suggest that women are more commonly affected than has generally been assumed. Contrary to published reports, we found that anorectal sources appear to account for more cases of Fournier’s gangrene than urological sources.

Aims Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an accepted approach to treat unresectable liver tumours, distinguishing itself from other techniques by combining minimal invasiveness and the advantages of a surgical approach. The major task of laparoscopic RFA is the accurate needle placement according to preoperative planning to achieve complete tumour ablation. This study investigates the value of an image-guided surgery system to accomplish this task. Methods An image-guided surgery system for laparoscopic liver treatments (LapAssistent) based on a 3D-navigation scene was developed. A laparoscopic ultrasound probe and a RFA needle could be navigated using an electromagnetic tracking system. The system was studied using a perfused tumour-mimic-model of a porcine liver. Navigating the RFA needle, the tumours were ablated. Results The system enables the surgeon to intraoperatively update the three-dimensional planning data in case of new findings. The RFA needle could be placed accurately in a targeted tumour, even out of the ultrasound plane. In case of multiple tumours lying in close spatial relationship, the documentation module helps to keep track of the already ablated tumours and those that still need to be treated. Conclusion The system adds benefit to laparoscopic RFA enabling the surgeon to place the needle accurately inside the targeted tumours using the navigation scene. A manual alignment of the preoperative data to the physical space produces a feasible result for a restricted region. A precise measurement of the accuracy of this process has to be done. The possibility to update the three-dimensional model with new intraoperative findings enables the surgeon to adapt to a new intraoperative situation. Furthermore the possibility to mark ablated tumours helps to keep track of the operation plan.

Uretero-arterial fistulae are rare. Immediate diagnosis and treatment are crucial in this life-threatening disorder and thus a uretero-arterial fistula in a patient with persistent hematuria should be taken into consideration. The authors report a case of a fistula between the right ureter and right common iliac artery.

Hemostasis represents a challenge when performing laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Hydro-Jet cutting is an advanced technology that has been used to create an ultra-coherent water force that functions like a sharp knife. In the surgical field, it has mainly been used for liver surgery and initial clinical experience with laparoscopic cholecystectomies has been favorable. This technique allowed selective parenchymal cutting with preservation of vessels and bile ducts. We describe a novel Hydro-Jet assisted dissection technique for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy in a porcine model.Ten partial nephrectomies were performed in 5 pigs using a Muritz 1000 (Euromed Medizintechnik, A. Pein, Schwerin, Germany) Hydro-Jet generator. A thin stream of ultra coherent fluid is forced at a high velocity through a small nozzle. A modified probe allows both blunt dissection concomitantly with high-pressure water application. Coagulation can be applied via a bipolar thermoapplicator as needed.Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy was successful in all animals. Water-jet cutting through the parenchyma was virtually bloodless and preserved the vasculature and the collecting system. The vessels were then ligated or coagulated under direct vision. The continuous water flow established a bloodless operating field and a clear view for the surgeon. The mean dissection time and warm ischemia time were 45+/-9 and 17+/-3 minutes, respectively.This preliminary study supports the suitability of this technique for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy to improve hemostasis. The improved anatomical dissection and hemostasis may further decrease morbidity and operative time. Further studies are underway to compare this technique with laser coagulation for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

The swallowing function can be restored after large oncologic resections in the upper aerodigestive tract with microvascular anastomosed transplants.With the help of the perfusion manometry we would like to demonstrate the functional advantages of this reconstruction method. We examined three reconstructed regions: tongue with 15 patients, soft palate with 11 patients, and the laryngeal and pharyngeal complex after total laryngopharyngectomy with 17 patients.Patients with reconstructed tongue or soft palate reached 69% or 74% of their pressure compared to normal values.We demonstrated that although normal pressure values were not reached after reconstruction of large defects with microvascular anastomosed transplants; these reconstruction methods restored the pressure gradient essential for swallowing, with a higher pressure of the soft palate and a lower pressure of the base of tongue.

Uretero-arterial fistulae are rare. Immediate diagnosis and treatment are crucial in this life-threatening disorder and thus a uretero-arterial fistula in a patient with persistent hematuria should be taken into consideration. The authors report a case of a fistula between the right ureter and right common iliac artery.

Background. Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a safe and effective method for tumor destruction in patients with unresectable liver tumors. However, accurate probe placement using laparoscopic ultrasound guidance is required to achieve complete tumor ablation. After evaluation of an ultrasound navigation system for transcutaneous and open RFA, we now intend to tranfer this technique to laparoscopic liver surgery. This study aimed to evaluate an electromagnetic navigation system for laparoscopic interventions using a perfusable ex vivo artificial tumor model. Materials and methods. First a special adapter was developed to attach the ultrasound and electromagnetic tracking-based navigation system to a laparoscopic ultrasound probe. The laparoscopic online navigation system was studied in a laparoscopic artificial tumor model using perfused porcine livers. Artificial tumors were created by injection of a mixture of 3% agarose, 3% cellulose, and 7% glycerol, creating hyperechoic lesions in ultrasound. Results. This study showed that laparoscopic ultrasound-guided navigation is technically feasible. Even in cases of angulation of the ultrasound probe no disturbances of the navigation system could be detected. Artificial tumors were clearly visible on laparoscopic ultrasound and not felt during placement of the RFA probe. Anatomic landmarks and simulated ‘tumors’ in the liver could be reached safely. Discussion. Laparoscopic RFA requires advanced laparoscopic ultrasound skills for accurate placement of the RFA probe. The use of an ultrasound-based, laparoscopic online navigation system offers the possibility of out-of-plane needle placement and could increase the safety and accuracy of punctures. The perfused artificial tumor model presented a realistic model for the evaluation of this new technique.