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Background: The Lichtenstein repair has long been heralded as the gold standard for unilateral primary inguinal hernias. However, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) repairs have gained popularity ove...

Abdominal wall (AW) hernias are a common problem faced by general surgeons. With an essentially clinical diagnosis, abdominal hernias have been considered a simple problem to be repaired. However, long-term follow-up of patients has shown disappointing results, both in terms of complications and recurrence. In this context, preoperative planning with control of comorbidities and full knowledge of the hernia and its anatomical relationships with the AW has gained increasing attention. Computed tomography (CT) appears to be the best option to determine the precise size and location of abdominal hernias, presence of rectus diastase and/or associated muscle atrophy, as well as the proportion of the hernia in relation to the AW itself. This information might help the surgeon to choose the best surgical technique (open vs MIS), positioning and fixation of the meshes, and eventual need for application of botulinum toxin, preoperative pneumoperitoneum or component separation techniques. Despite the relevance of the findings, they are rarely described in CT scans as radiologists are not used to report findings of the AW as well as to know what information is really needed. For these reasons, we gathered a group of surgeons and radiologists to establish which information about the AW is important in a CT. Finally, a structured report is proposed to facilitate the description of the findings and their interpretation. RESUMO Hérnias da parede abdominal são um problema bastante comum enfrentado pelo cirurgiões gerais. De diagnóstico essencialmente clínico, as hérnias abdominais durante muito tempo têm sido consideradas um problema de simples reparo. Entretanto, o acompanhamento de longo prazo dos pacientes têm demonstrado resultados desapontadores, tanto em termos de complicações quanto risco de recidiva da hérnia. Neste contexto, o planejamento pré-operatório com controle de comorbidades e pleno conhecimento da hérnia e suas relações anatômicas com a parede abdominal têm ganho cada vez mais atenção. A tomografia de abdome parece ser a melhor opção para determinar o tamanho e localização precisos das hérnias abdominais, presença de diastase de músculo reto e/ou atrofia da parede associada, assim como proporção da hérnia em relação a parede abdominal. Essas informações podem auxiliar o cirurgião na escolha da melhor técnica cirúrgica (aberta vs. MIS), posicionamento e fixação das telas, e eventual necessidade de aplicação de toxina botulínica, pneumoperitônio pré-operatório ou técnicas de separação de componentes. Apesar da relevância dos achados, eles são raramente descritos em exames de tomografia uma vez que os radiologistas não estão acostumados a olhar para a parede abdominal assim como não sabem quais as informações são realmente necessárias. Por estes motivos, nós reunimos um grupo de cirurgiões e radiologistas visando estabelecer quais são as informações da parede abdominal mais importantes em um exame de tomografia assim como propor um laudo estruturado para facilitar a descrição dos achados e sua interpretação.

RESUMO Hérnias da parede abdominal são um problema bastante comum enfrentado pelo cirurgiões gerais. De diagnóstico essencialmente clínico, as hérnias abdominais durante muito tempo têm sido consideradas um problema de simples reparo. Entretanto, o acompanhamento de longo prazo dos pacientes têm demonstrado resultados desapontadores, tanto em termos de complicações quanto risco de recidiva da hérnia. Neste contexto, o planejamento pré-operatório com controle de comorbidades e pleno conhecimento da hérnia e suas relações anatômicas com a parede abdominal têm ganho cada vez mais atenção. A tomografia de abdome parece ser a melhor opção para determinar o tamanho e localização precisos das hérnias abdominais, presença de diastase de músculo reto e/ou atrofia da parede associada, assim como proporção da hérnia em relação a parede abdominal. Essas informações podem auxiliar o cirurgião na escolha da melhor técnica cirúrgica (aberta vs. MIS), posicionamento e fixação das telas, e eventual necessidade de aplicação de toxina botulínica, pneumoperitônio pré-operatório ou técnicas de separação de componentes. Apesar da relevância dos achados, eles são raramente descritos em exames de tomografia uma vez que os radiologistas não estão acostumados a olhar para a parede abdominal assim como não sabem quais as informações são realmente necessárias. Por estes motivos, nós reunimos um grupo de cirurgiões e radiologistas visando estabelecer quais são as informações da parede abdominal mais importantes em um exame de tomografia assim como propor um laudo estruturado para facilitar a descrição dos achados e sua interpretação.

Background: Since publication of our paper “Ten Golden Rules for a Safe MIS Inguinal Hernia Repair” we have received many questions. As the authors, we feel it is important to address these topics as a follow-up to our paper. Aim: To discuss in more details the main points of controversy, review the rules and update de recommendations. Method: The questions and discussions came mainly over five rules, numbered 3, 5, 6, 7, 10. We analyzed all the comments about recommendations and update some technical principles. Results: Rule 3 - Removing normal fat plugs from the obturator canal is unnecessary and therefore is not recommended; Rule 5 - transection of the uterine round ligament (1 cm proximal to the deep ring) facilitates adequate dissection. When performed in this way it does not appear to be associated with complications; Rule 6 - transection of huge sacs are safer than over-dissection of the cord structures. Whether dissecting completely the sac or abandon the distal part it results in less postoperative seromas is an ongoing debate; Rule 7 - any retroperitoneal structure traversing the internal ring is or play a role like a hernia. Failing to identify and remove the lipoma will ultimately result in the patient experiencing a recurrence; Rule 10 - in TAPP peritoneum should preferably be closed with suture than tackes. Conclusion: 10 Golden Rules emphasize the most important surgical tips and technical steps that allow the safe performance of MIS repairs of inguinal hernias, regardless the technique. RESUMO Racional: Desde a publicação de nosso artigo “Dez Regras de Ouro para o Reparo Seguro de Hérnia Inguinal MIS”, recebemos muitos questionamentos. Como autores, sentimos que é importante abordar esses tópicos como seguimento do artigo Objetivo: Discutir com mais detalhes os principais pontos de controvérsia, revisar as regras e atualizar as recomendações. Método: As dúvidas e discussões surgiram principalmente sobre cinco regras, numeradas 3, 5, 6, 7, 10. Analisamos todos os comentários sobre as recomendações e atualizamos alguns dos princípios técnicos. Resultados: Regra 3 - remoção dos plugs de gordura normais do canal obturador é desnecessária e, portanto, não é recomendada; Regra 5 - transecção do ligamento redondo do útero (1 cm proximal ao anel profundo) facilita a dissecção adequada e quando realizado dessa forma, não parece estar associada com complicações; Regra 6 - transecção de grandes sacos herniários é mais segura do que a dissecção excessiva das estruturas do cordão espermático e, se dissecar completamente o saco ou abandonar a parte distal, resulta em menos seromas pós-operatórios ainda é motivo de debate; Regra 7 - qualquer estrutura retroperitoneal que atravessa o anel interno é ou desempenha o papel como uma hérnia e deixar de identificar e remover o lipoma acabará resultando em recorrência; Regra 10 - na TAPP o peritônio deve ser fechado preferencialmente com sutura do que com tacks. Conclusão: As 10 Regras de Ouro enfatizam as dicas cirúrgicas e etapas técnicas mais importantes que permitem a realização segura de reparos MIS de hérnias inguinais, independentemente da técnica.

Background: Although the laparoscopic access is becoming the preferable treatment for femoral hernia, there are only few studies on this important subject. Aim: To assess the outcomes of the totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic (TEP) access in the treatment of femoral hernia. Methods: Data of 62 patients with femoral hernia who underwent herniorrhaphy were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnosis of femoral hernia was established by clinical and/or imaging exams in 55 patients and by laparoscopic findings in seven. Results: There were 55 (88.7%) females and 7 (11.3%) males, with female to male ratio of 8:1. The mean age was of 58.9±15.9 years, ranging from 22 to 92 years. Most patients (n=53; 85.5%) had single hernia and the remaining (n=9; 14.5%) bilateral, making a total of 71 hernias operated. Prior lower abdominal operations were recorded in 21 (33.9%) patients. Conversion to laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal procedure was performed in four (6.5%). Open herniorrhaphy was needed in two (3.2%), one with spontaneous enterocutaneous fistula in the groin region (Richter’s hernia) and the another with incidental perforation of the adjacent small bowel that occurred during dissection of hernia sac. There was no mortality. Conclusion: Femoral hernia is uncommon, and it may be associated with potentially severe complications. Most femoral hernias may be successfully treated with totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic access, with low conversion and complication rates. RESUMO Racional: Embora o acesso laparoscópico esteja se tornando o tratamento preferencial para a hérnia femoral, poucos são os estudos sobre esse importante assunto. Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados do acesso laparoscópico totalmente extraperitoneal no tratamento da hérnia femoral. Métodos: Os dados de 62 pacientes com hérnia femoral que foram submetidos a herniorrafia foram revisados retrospectivamente. O diagnóstico foi estabelecido por exames clínicos e/ou de imagem em 55 pacientes e por achados laparoscópicos em sete. Resultados: Havia 55 (88,7%) mulheres e 7 (11,3%) homens, com proporção feminino/masculino de 8: 1. A média de idade foi de 58,9±15,9 anos (22-92). A maioria (n=53, 85,5%) apresentava hérnia única e o restante (n=9, 14,5%) bilaterais, perfazendo um total de 71 hérnias femorais operadas. Operações prévias no abdome inferior foram registradas em 21 (33,9%) pacientes. A conversão para procedimento pré-peritoneal transabdominal laparoscópico foi realizada em quatro (6,5%). Herniorrafia aberta foi necessária em dois pacientes (3,2%), um com fístula enterocutânea espontânea na região da virilha (hérnia de Richter) e o outro com perfuração incidental do intestino delgado adjacente que ocorreu durante a dissecção do saco herniário. Não houve mortalidade. Conclusão: A hérnia femoral é incomum e pode estar associada a complicações potencialmente graves. A maioria das hérnias femorais pode ser tratada com sucesso através do acesso laparoscópico totalmente extraperitoneal, com baixas taxas de conversão e complicações.

Background and objectives There is a dearth of studies on laparoscopic treatment of female groin hernia. Our study assessed the outcome of groin hernia repair in females employing the totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic (TEP) access. Methods Data of all females who were subjected to laparoscopic groin herniorrhaphy, from August 1998 to February 2020 were retrospectively obtained. Groin hernia repair was routinely started with TEP access. Results A total of 2,399 patients who underwent laparoscopic groin herniorrhaphy, 254 (10.6%), were females. Most females (n = 191; 75.2%) had single hernia and the remaining (n = 63; 24.8%) had bilateral hernias, making a total of 317 hernias operated. Indirect inguinal hernia was the most common hernia type (72.5%), followed by femoral hernia (17.4%) and direct hernia (10.1%). Prior lower abdominal operations were recorded in 97 (38.2%) patients. Conversion to a laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal procedure was performed due to technical difficulties to dissect the preperitoneal space in 17 patients (6.7%) and to open procedure in only one patient (0.4%) with incarcerated femoral hernia in whom an incidental perforation of the small bowel occurred. Intra- and postoperative complications occurred in 12 (4.7%) and 15 (5.9%) patients, respectively. There was no mortality. Most patients (n = 221; 87%) were discharged on the same day of the operation. Hernia recurrence was diagnosed in 6 patients (2.4%). Conclusion It is concluded that females with groin hernia may be successfully treated with totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic access, with low conversion and complication rates.

A subcutaneous endoscopic onlay repair for ventral hernia with an anterior plication of diastasis recti (DR) has been published under different names in different countries. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the safety and feasibility of different named techniques with the same surgical concept. The PRISMA guidelines were followed during all stages of this systematic review. The MINORS score system was used to perform qualitative assessment of all studies included in this review. Recommendations were then summarized for the following pre-defined key items: protocol, research question, search strategy, study eligibility, data extraction, study designs, risk of bias, publication bias, heterogeneity, and statistical analysis. The systematic literature search found 2548 articles, 317 of which were duplicates and excluded from analysis. The titles and abstracts from the remaining 2231 articles were assessed. After careful evaluation, 2125 articles were determined to be unrelated to our study and subsequently excluded. The full text of the remaining 106 articles was thoroughly assessed. Case reports, editorials, letters to the editor, and general reviews were then excluded. A total of 13 articles were ultimately included for this review, describing a similar subcutaneous endoscopic approach for repair of concomitant ventral hernias and rectus diastasis defined under nine different named techniques on 716 patients. The number of patients in those studies varied from 10 to 201. The mean operative time varied from 68.5 to 195 min. The most common complication was seroma, followed by pain requiring intervention, hematoma, and surgical site infection. There are a few technique variations described in different studies, but with no significant differences in outcomes. We, therefore, propose to unify these procedures under one term, ENDoscopic Onlay Repair (ENDOR). This technique has shown to be effective and safe, with seroma being the most common complication.

Compression of the celiac axis by the median arcuate ligament of the diaphragm can cause nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and weight loss. There is a known association between stenosis or occlusion of the celiac trunk and aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal artery. Treatment strategies for patients who have this association should be selected on a case-by-case basis. We describe the case of a patient with pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm associated with compression of the celiac trunk by the arcuate ligament, which were managed with endovascular and laparoscopic techniques, respectively.

Although laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair was described about 30 years ago and advantages of the technique have been demonstrated, the utilization of this approach has not been what we would expect. Some reasons may be the need for surgeons to understand the posterior anatomy of the groin from a new vantage point, as well as to acquire advanced laparoscopic skills. Recently, however, the introduction of a robotic approach has dramatically increased the adoption of minimally invasive techniques for inguinal hernia repair. Important recent contributions to this evolution have been the establishment of a new concept known as the critical view of the Myopectineal Orifice (MPO) and the description of a new way of understanding the posterior view of the antomy of the groin (inverted Y and the five triangles). In this paper, we describe 10 rules for a safe MIS inguinal hernia repair (TAPP, TEP, ETEP, RTAPP) that combines these two new concepts in a unique way. As the critical view of safety has made laparoscopic cholecystectomy safer, we feel that following our ten rules based on understanding the anatomy of the posterior groin as defined by zones and essential triangles and the technical steps to achieve the critical view of the MPO will foster the goal of safe MIS hernia repair, no matter which minimally invasive technique is employed.

Inguinal hernias are a frequent problem and their repair is the most commonly performed procedure by general surgeons. In the last years, new principles, products and techniques have changed the routine of surgeons, who need to recycle knowledge and perfect new skills. In addition, old concepts regarding surgical indication and risk of complications have been reevaluated. In order to create a guideline for the management of inguinal hernias in adult patients, the Brazilian Hernia Society assembled a group of experts to review various topics, such as surgical indication, perioperative management, surgical techniques, complications and postoperative guidance.As hérnias inguinais são um problema frequente e o seu reparo representa a cirurgia mais comumente realizada por cirurgiões gerais. Nos últimos anos, novos princípios, produtos e técnicas têm mudado a rotina dos cirurgiões que precisam reciclar conhecimentos e aperfeiçoar novas habilidades. Além disso, antigos conceitos sobre indicação cirúrgica e riscos de complicações vêm sendo reavaliados. Visando criar um guia de orientações sobre o manejo das hérnias inguinais em pacientes adultos, a Sociedade Brasileira de Hérnias reuniu um grupo de experts com objetivo de revisar diversos tópicos, como indicação cirúrgica, manejo perioperatório, técnicas cirúrgicas, complicações e orientações pós-operatórias.

Simulators are useful tools in the development of laparoscopic skills. However, little is known about the effectiveness of short laparoscopic training sessions and how retention of skills occurs in surgical trainees who are naive to laparoscopy. This study analyses the retention of laparoscopic surgical skills in medical students without prior surgical training. A group of first- and second-year medical students (n = 68), without prior experience in surgery or laparoscopy, answered a demographic questionnaire and had their laparoscopic skills assessed by the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) training protocol. Subsequently, they underwent a 150-minute training course after which they were re-tested. One year after the training, the medical students’ performance in the simulator was re-evaluated in order to analyse retention. Of the initial 68 students, a total of 36 participated throughout the entire study, giving a final participation rate of 52 %. Thirty-six medical students with no gender predominance and an average age of 20 years were evaluated. One year after the short training programme, retention was 69.3 % in the peg transfer (p

This article proposes the use of a safe surgical checklist in the teaching of the discipline of Ambulatory Surgery during medical graduation. It discusses its benefits and potential implementation and adherence difficulties. It underscores the importance of developing a patient safety culture and active learning methodologies to train students for greater commitment and accountability with the quality of care provided to the community in the academic outpatient clinic of the school hospital.Este artigo propõe a utilização de um checklist de cirurgia segura no ensino da disciplina de Cirurgia Ambulatorial durante a graduação em Medicina. Discorre sobre seus benefícios e potenciais dificuldades de implantação e adesão. Ressalta a importância do desenvolvimento da cultura de segurança do paciente e das metodologias ativas de aprendizagem para treinar os estudantes para maior compromisso e responsabilidade com a qualidade da assistência prestada à comunidade no ambulatório acadêmico do hospital escola.

Background: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has been shown to be superior than open repairs with faster return to daily activities and decrease in the occurrence of chronic pain. However, higher direct costs and mandatory use of general anesthesia are arguments against their use. In addition, increased complexity of surgery resulting from an anatomy that is unusual to general surgeons prevents the widespread adoption of laparoscopic approach. Aim: To propose a technical systematization for transabdominal laparoscopic repair (TAPP) of inguinal hernias based on anatomical concepts. Method: To offer a systematization of TAPP repair based on well defined anatomic landmarks, describing the concept of “inverted Y”, identification of five triangles and three zones of dissection, to achieve the “critical view of safety” for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Results: Since this standardization was developed five years ago, many surgeons were trained following these precepts. Reproducibility is high, as far as, it´s rate of adoption among surgeons. Conclusion: The concept of the “inverted Y”, “Five triangles” and the dissection based in “Three Zones” establish an effective and reproducible standardization of the TAPP technique. RESUMO Racional: O reparo laparoscópico da hérnia inguinal tem se mostrado superior aos reparos abertos, com retorno mais rápido às atividades diárias e diminuição na ocorrência de dor crônica. No entanto, custos diretos mais altos e o uso obrigatório de anestesia geral são argumentos contra seu uso. Além disso, o aumento da complexidade da operação resultante de uma anatomia incomum aos cirurgiões gerais impede a ampla adoção da abordagem laparoscópica. Objetivo: Propor uma sistematização técnica para reparo laparoscópico transabdominal (TAPP) de hérnias inguinais com base em conceitos anatômicos. Método: Oferecer sistematização do reparo do TAPP baseado em pontos anatômicos bem definidos, descrevendo o conceito de “Y invertido”, identificação de cinco triângulos e três zonas de dissecação, para alcançar a “visão crítica de segurança” para o reparo de hérnia inguinal laparoscópica. Resultados: Desde que essa padronização foi desenvolvida há cinco anos, muitos cirurgiões foram treinados seguindo esses preceitos. A reprodutibilidade é muito alta, assim como a taxa de adoção entre cirurgiões. Conclusão: O conceito de “Y invertido”, dos “Cinco triângulos” e a dissecção baseada em “Três Zonas” estabelecem uma padronização efetiva e reprodutível da técnica TAPP.

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the preferable treatment for chronic or acute cholecystitis. Some factors may increase the rate of laparoscopic conversion to open cholecystectomy and perioperative complications. The role of gender as a risk factor for laparoscopic cholecystectomy is controversial. Aim: To evaluate the role of the gender on the operative findings and outcome of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Method: All patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for chronic or acute cholecystitis were included. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, imaging exams, intraoperative and postoperative data were obtained and analyzed. The data was obtained retrospectively from electronic medical records and study protocols. Results: Of a total 1,645 patients who were subjected to laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 540 (32.8%) were men and 1,105 (67.2%) were women. Mean age was similar in both genders (p=0.817). Operative time has longer in the male (72.48±28.50) than in the female group (65.46±24.83, p

Repair of inguinal hernia is one of the most common elective operations performed in general surgery practice. Mesh hernia repair became the gold standard because of its low recurrence rate in comparison with non-tension-free repair. Laparoscopic approach seems to have potential advantages over open techniques, including faster recovery and reduced acute and chronic pain rate. Laparoscopic mesh fixation is usually performed using staples, which is associated with higher cost and risk for chronic pain. Recently, the role of mesh fixation has been questioned by several surgeons. To evaluate mesh displacement in patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair comparing mesh fixation with no fixation. From January 2012 to May 2014, 60 consecutive patients with unilateral inguinal hernia were randomized into two groups: control group—10 patients underwent totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair with mesh fixation; NO FIX group—50 patients underwent TEP repair with no mesh fixation. Mesh was marked with three 3-mm surgical clips at its medial inferior, medial superior and lateral inferior corners. Mesh displacement was measured by comparing an initial X-ray, performed in the immediate postoperative period, with a second X-ray obtained 30 days later. The mean displacement of all three clips in control group was 0.1–0.35 cm (range 0–1.2 cm), while in NO FIX group was 0.1–0.3 cm (range 0–1.3 cm). The overall displacement of control and NO FIX group did not show any difference (p = 0.50). Fixation of the mesh for TEP repair is unnecessary. TEP repair with no mesh fixation is safe and is not associated with increased risk of mesh displacement.

Background and objectives Although solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) of the pancreas is rare, its diagnosis has increased severalfold in the past decades. We present our experience in the management of SPT, including a patient who experienced tumor rupture during laparoscopy pancreatic resection. Methods Data on all patients with SPT who were subjected to surgical treatment were retrospectively obtained. Results Of 20 patients evaluated, 17 (85%) were females. The mean age was 31 years. Tumor size varied from 2.7 × 1.5 to 13.5 × 10.0 cm, with a mean of 6.4 × 7.6 cm. The most common location was the tail and/or body of the pancreas (14 patients [70%]). Pancreatic tumor resection was performed in 19 patients (50%). The type of resection depended on tumor location and size: distal pancreatectomy (n = 13), pancreatoduodenectomy (n = 5), and central pancreatectomy (n = 1) Pancreatic resection was performed via laparoscopy in 7 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy. Tumor resection was not performed in only 1 patient (5%), due to invasion of mesenteric vessels and presence of liver metastases. One patient had tumor rupture during laparoscopic resection, with no apparent macroscopic dissemination of the tumor. All 19 patients who underwent SPT resection had no tumor recurrence, including a patient with capsule invasion and another patient with tumor rupture during surgical dissection. The mean follow-up time was 38 months (range, 6-72 months). Conclusion Complete SPT resection is possible in most patients, with a low recurrence rate. Because of its large size, laparoscopic resection of SPT's should be performed only by experienced surgeons to avoid tumor rupture.

Background and objectives About 20% of patients with inguinal hernia present bilateral hernias in the diagnosis. In these cases, laparoscopic procedure is considered gold standard approach. Mesh fixation is considered important step toward avoiding recurrence. However, because of cost and risk of pain, real need for mesh fixation has been debated. For bilateral inguinal hernias, there are few specific data about non fixation and mesh displacement. We assessed mesh movement in patients who had undergone laparoscopic bilateral inguinal hernia repair without mesh fixation and compared the results with those obtained in patients with unilateral hernia. Methods From January 2012 through May 2014, 20 consecutive patients with bilateral inguinal hernia underwent TEP repair with no mesh fixation. Results were compared with 50 consecutive patients with unilateral inguinal hernia surgically repaired with similar technique. Mesh was marked with 3 clips. Mesh movements were measured by comparing initial radiography performed at the end of surgery, with a second radiographic scan performed 30 days later. Results Mean movements of all 3 clips in bilateral nonfixation (NF) group were 0.15-0.4 cm compared with 0.1-0.3 cm in unilateral NF group. Overall displacement of bilateral and unilateral NF groups did not show significant difference. Mean overall displacement was 1.9 cm versus 1.8 cm in the bilateral and unilateral NF groups, respectively (P = .78). Conclusions TEP with no mesh fixation is safe in bilateral inguinal repairs. Early mesh displacement is minimal. This technique can be safely used in most patients with inguinal hernia.

Despite inguinal hernia repair being one of the most common elective operations performed in general surgical practice, there are many controversies including indications for repair and selection of the surgical technique. In recent years, laparoscopic repair has gained wider acceptance because it is associated with fewer postoperative complications and less chronic pain when compared with conventional approaches with similar recurrence rate. However, patients with lower abdominal surgery are contraindicated for laparoscopic approach. There are few studies that evaluated whether patients who have been subjected to radical prostatectomy might be subjected to laparoscopic hernia repair with the same benefits as those without previous radical prostatectomy.Between March 2010 and March 2013, 20 consecutive patients, who had been subjected to prior radical prostatectomy, underwent laparoscopic transabdominal inguinal repair and were followed prospectively. Surgical procedure was performed using a standard technique.Mean operative time was 67.5 min. There was only one (5%) intraoperative minor complication, an injury to the inferior epigastric vessels, which was managed by clipping of the vessels. There were no major postoperative complications. After 24 h and on the seventh postoperative day, 85 and 90% of patients had no pain or only complained of discomfort, respectively. Nine patients (45%) did not need any analgesics postoperatively. The mean time to return to leisure activities and to work was 3.1 and 5.6 days, respectively. There was no conversion to open surgery. All patients were discharged within 24 h. After a mean follow-up of 14 months, none of the patients presented recurrence.TAPP after prostatectomy is safe and effective. It seems that patients undergoing laparoscopic repair after radical prostatic resection have the same benefits as those without prostatectomy.

Esophageal leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors of the esophagus. Surgical enucleation is warranted for symptomatic patients. Thoracoscopic enucleation is the preferable approach for being less invasive by avoiding the discomfort and complications associated to larger thoracic incisions. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with enucleation of esophageal leiomyoma using a prone-position thoracoscopy technique. Between January 2009 and July 2012, ten patients underwent resection of esophageal leiomyoma by thoracoscopy approach in prone position. Indications for surgical treatment were symptomatic tumors (dysphagia). All patients were followed postoperatively for at least 3 months with contrast x-ray of the esophagus. After single-lumen endotracheal intubation (nonselective intubation) in supine, patients were placed in prone position. Pneumothorax was kept at 6 to 8 mmHg using CO2 insufflation. A myotomy was performed over the tumor using hook cautery carefully protecting the mucosa from injuries. The myotomy was closed with continuous sutures. The procedures were completed in the prone position in all cases, without any conversion. Mean operative time was 89.2 ± 28.7 minutes. Bleeding was negligible, and there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. No intensive care unit support was needed for any patient. Chest x-ray in the first postoperative day showed no significant changes in any patient. The mean hospital stay was 3.2 days. Contrast x-ray of the esophagus was normal in all patients at 3 months postoperatively. Thoracoscopic enucleation of esophageal leiomyoma is a feasible, simple, and safe procedure. Thoracoscopy in the prone position with CO2 insufflation allows the use of usual technique of intubation and also provides optimal operative field. The advantages of the thoracoscopic approach are less postoperative discomfort and lower risk of complications from open thoracotomy (especially pulmonary).

Background: Lumbar hernias are rare. Usually manifest with reducible volume increase in the post-lateral region of the abdomen and may occur in two specific anatomic defects: the triangles of Grynfelt (upper) and Petit (lower). Despite controversies with better repair, laparoscopic approach, following the same principle of the treatment of inguinal hernias, seems to present significant advantages compared to conventional/open surgeries. However, some technical and anatomical details of the region, non usual to general surgeons, are fundamental for proper repair. Aim: To present systematization of laparoscopic transabdominal technique for repair of lumbar hernias with emphasis on anatomical details. Method : Patient is placed in the lateral decubitus. Laparoscopic access to abdominal cavity is performed by open technique on the left flank, 1.5 cm incision, followed by introduction of 11 mm trocar for a 30º scope. Two other 5 mm trocars, in the left anterior axillary line, are inserted into the abdominal cavity. The peritoneum of the left paracolic gutter is incised from the 10th rib to the iliac crest. Peritoneum and retroperitoneal is dissected. Reduction of all hernia contents is performed to demonstrate the hernia and its size. A 10x10 cm polypropylene mesh is introduced into the retroperitoneal space and fixed with absorbable staples covering the defect with at least 3-4 cm overlap. Subsequently, is carried out the closure of the peritoneum of paracolic gutter. Results: This technique was used in one patient with painful increased volume in the left lower back and bulging on the left lumbar region. CT scan was performed and revealed left superior lumbar hernia. Operative time was 45 min and there were no complications and hospitalization time of 24 h. Conclusion: As in inguinal hernia repair, laparoscopic approach is safe and effective for the repair of lumbar hernias, especially if the anatomical details are adequately respected. RESUMO Racional: As hérnias lombares são raras. Geralmente se manifestam com aumento de volume redutível na região póstero-lateral do abdome e podem ocorrer em dois defeitos anatômicos específicos: os triângulos de Grynfelt (superior) e Petit (inferior). Apesar de controvérsias com relação a melhor forma de reparo, a abordagem laparoscópica, seguindo o mesmo princípio do tratamento das hérnias inguinais, parece apresentar vantagens significativas em relação às operações convencionais/abertas. Entretanto, alguns detalhes técnicos e anatômicos desta região, não usual aos cirurgiões gerais, são fundamentais para o adequado reparo. Objetivo: Apresentar sistematização da técnica laparoscópica transabdominal para a correção das hérnias lombares com ênfase nos detalhes anatômicos. Método: Paciente é colocado em decúbito lateral. O acesso laparoscópico à cavidade abdominal é realizado pela técnica aberta no flanco esquerdo, incisão de 1,5 cm, seguida pela introdução de trocárteres de 11 mm para ótica de 30º. Dois outros trocárteres de 5 mm, na linha axilar anterior esquerda, são inseridos na cavidade abdominal. O peritônio da goteira paracólica esquerda é incisado desde a 10ª costela até a crista ilíaca. O peritônio e o retroperitoneal são dissecados. A redução de todo o conteúdo de hérnia é realizada para demonstrar a hérnia e seu tamanho. Tela de polipropileno de 10x10 cm é introduzida no espaço retroperitoneal e fixada com grampos absorvíveis cobrindo o defeito com pelo menos 3-4 cm de sobreposição. Posteriormente, realiza-se o fechamento do peritônio da goteira paracólica. Resultados: Esta técnica foi utilizada em um paciente com aumento doloroso de volume na região lombar esquerda e abaulamento na região lombar esquerda. Tomografia computadorizada foi realizada e revelou hérnia lombar superior esquerda. O tempo operatório foi de 45 min e não houve complicações; o tempo de hospitalização de 24 h. Conclusões: Assim como no reparo das hérnias inguinais, a abordagem laparoscópica é segura e efetiva para as hérnias lombares, especialmente se os detalhes anatômicos forem adequadamente respeitados.

A minilaparoscopic combined approach for inguinal hernia appears to be safe and feasible for a more simple endoscopic hernia repair., Introduction: Endoscopic surgical repair of inguinal hernia is currently conducted using 2 techniques: the totally extraperitoneal (TEP) and the transabdominal (TAPP) hernia repair. The TEP procedure is technically advantageous, because of the use of no mesh fixation and the elimination of the peritoneal flap, leading to less postoperative pain and faster recovery. The drawback is that TEP is not performed as frequently, because of its complexity and longer learning curve. In this study, we propose a hybrid technique that could potentially become the gold standard of minimally invasive inguinal hernia surgery. This will be achieved by combining established advantages of TEP and TAPP associated with the precision and cosmetics of minilaparoscopy (MINI). Materials and Surgical Technique: Between January and July 2011, 22 patients were admitted for endoscopic inguinal hernia repair. The combined technique was initiated with TAPP inspection and direct visualization of a minilaparoscopic trocar dissection of the preperitoneum space. A10-mm trocar was then placed inside the previously dissected preperitoneal space, using the same umbilical TAPP skin incision. Minilaparoscopic retroperitoneal dissection was completed by TEP, and the surgical procedure was finalized with intraperitoneal review and correction of the preperitoneal work. Discussion: The minilaparoscopic TEP-TAPP combined approach for inguinal hernia is feasible, safe, and allows a simple endoscopic repair. This is achieved by combining features and advantages of both TAPP and TEP techniques using precise and sophisticated MINI instruments. Minilaparoscopic preperitoneal dissection allows a faster and easier creation of the preperitoneal space for the TEP component of the procedure.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os tumores hepáticos benignos ocorrem em 9% da população. A grande maioria dessas neoplasias é diagnosticada em pacientes assintomáticos durante a realização de exames de imagem de rotina. OBJETIVO: Apresentar os principais aspectos das indicações e tratamento dos tumores hepáticos benignos. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada revisão de literatura baseada em pesquisa no PubMed, Bireme e Scielo cruzando os descritores neoplasia hepática, hemangioma, adenoma e hiperplasia nodular focal. Foram selecionados, estudos de técnicas cirúrgicas e acrescentada a experiência dos autores. O hemangioma é o tumor hepático mais comum, sendo identificado entre 5% e 7% das necropsias. É mais comum nas mulheres entre as 3ª e 5ª décadas da vida e pode aumentar de tamanho na gravidez e com a administração de estrogênios. Apesar de não estabelecida, a sua causa está relacionada com os hormônios sexuais. As complicações incluem inflamação, coagulopatia, sangramento e compressão de estruturas vizinhas. Rotura espontânea é excepcional, com somente 35 casos descritos na literatura internacional. O adenoma e a hiperplasia nodular focal predominam no sexo feminino e na faixa etária de 20 a 40 anos. Enquanto o primeiro requer ressecção hepática pelo risco de sangramento e malignização, o segundo deve ter conduta expectante. CONCLUSÕES: Os tumores hepáticos benignos mais comuns são em ordem decrescente de frequência o hemangioma, hiperplasia nodular focal e o adenoma. A diferenciação entre tumores benignos e malignos é geralmente realizada com segurança com base nos dados clínicos e nos exames de imagem. O hemangioma e a hiperplasia nodular focal geralmente tem conduta expectante, enquanto que o adenoma requer ressecção pelo risco de hemorragia e de transformação em carcinoma.

Background: Inguinal hernia is the most prevalent surgical disease in clinical practice. Endoscopic inguinal hernia repair has been shown to be slightly superior to open approaches. Recent modifications in the minilaparoscopic technique may improve the totally extraperitoneal repair (TEP) results. Objectives: We have performed a prospective study to analyze the feasibility of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using mini instruments. Main measured outcomes included postoperative pain, return to work activities and aesthetics. Technical aspects, including operative time and intraoperative and postoperative complications were also analyzed. Patients and Methods: From October, 2009 to May, 2011 consecutive patients undergoing TEP inguinal hernia repair using mini-instruments were included in the study protocol. Exclusion criteria was the same as for standard laparoscopic hernia repair. In all cases, a standardized laparoscopic technique using mini instruments was performed. A study protocol was applied prospectively for data collection, including operative time, hospital stay, need for pain medication, return to work and, patients aesthetic evaluation of the scars. Results were expressed in Mean SD. Results: Sixty consecutive patients diagnosed with inguinal hernia underwent TEP inguinal hernia repair using mini instruments. Of these, 53 were men and seven were women. The mean age was 50 32 years. In eight cases, the hernias were recurrent and ten were bilateral. A total of 70 hernias were treated. The average operative time was 35 min. The mean hospital stay was 18 6 hours. Analgesia was necessary for more than 2 days in 8 patients (13.3 %). There was one conversion to open surgery. Sixteen of the male workers (37 %) had to take 1 week off work. In total, 58 (96 %) of the patients considered the aesthetic outcome to be excellent. Patients were followed for 30 days. No recurrences were noted in this period. Conclusions: Totally extraperitoneal endoscopic inguinal hernia repair using mini instruments is feasible, and applicable to routine surgical practice with good short-term clinical and aesthetic results. Further comparative studies with standard laparoscopic extraperitoneal and open hernia repair are needed to access its long term results.

CONTEXT: Gastroesophageal reflux diasease (GERD) is a highly prevalent disease. Treatment is divided into lifestyle modifications, medical and surgical treatment. Surgical laparoscopy is the gold standard treatment. In the last decade, there were an extensive research on procedures, less aggressive than laparoscopy and with better esthetic results. Minilaparoscopy is "reemerging" as a safe, effective and with excellent cosmetic results in selected patients treated for gastroesophageal reflux diasease. We present a serie of 27 patients treated for GERD by minilaparoscopic laparoscopy. MATERIAL: Between October 2009July 2011 a total of 27 patients underwent fundoplication by minilaparoscopy. It is used one 10mm trocar, a telescope of 30 degrees and four 3 mm trocars at regular positions. Regular surgical steps are done with no modifications. Cardiac tape, suture needles, and eventually extracting bag, gauze, are placed and taked out through the umbilical port. With these technical adjustments, we can perform the procedure safely and effectively, similarly to standard laparoscopic technique. RESULTS: Of the 27 patients, 22 were female and 5 male. The average body mass index was 25.5 kg/m². Hiatal hernias were small (

Bacterial contamination from viscerotomy is a barrier to natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). The aim of this survival study is to evaluate pure (totally) transvaginal NOTES bacterial contamination compared with laparoscopy in pigs. Twelve adult female pigs underwent peritoneoscopy with liver and peritoneal biopsies, using either laparoscopy (Glap, six animals) or pure transvaginal (GNOTES) access, and were maintained alive for 7 days. In all animals, blood cultures were taken at baseline, and after 24 h and 7 days postoperatively. Swab cultures from vagina (GNOTES) and skin (Glap) were obtained pre- and post-antisepsis. Peritoneal fluid culture was obtained at necropsy. For statistical analysis, Glap and GNOTES were compared for presence of positive bacterial cultures (qualitative bacterial analysis) using Fisher’s test, with level of significance set at p

INTRODUÇÃO: Hérnia incisional é uma complicação freqüente da laparotomia. O reparo por sutura simples tem elevadas taxas de recorrência, e apesar do uso de prótese diminuir o risco de recidiva, ainda é elevado. Na década de 1990, o reparo laparoscópico da hérnia incisional ganhou popularidade. Os benefícios incluem redução no risco de complicações, menos dor e rápido retorno às atividades. Além disso, pode diminuir a taxa de recorrência. OBJETIVO: Apresentar experiência com o tratamento laparoscópico das hérnias incisionais. MÉTODO: Entre janeiro de 2007 e julho de 2010, 45 pacientes foram submetidos à reparo laparoscópico de hérnia incisional. Indicações incluíram espaço suficiente para posicionamento dos trocarteres e adequada sobreposição da prótese em relação ao defeito herniário. As contra-indicações foram: co-morbidades severas que limitavam o uso de pneumoperitônio e/ou anestesia geral, assim como histórico de peritonite difusa devido ao risco elevado de aderências intra-abdominais. RESULTADOS: O tempo operatório médio foi de 76 minutos. Houve apenas uma (2,2%) complicação intra-operatória. Não houve nenhuma conversão. O tempo de internamento hospitalar foi igual ou inferior a 24 horas em 38 pacientes (84,4%). Quinze pacientes (33%) apresentaram complicações. Entretanto, 14 foram complicações menores (11 seromas indolores e 3 dor prolongada) e apenas uma complicação maior (perfuração tardia de ceco). Houve apenas uma recidiva (2,2%) após seguimento médio de 24,6 meses. CONCLUSÕES: O reparo laparoscópico das hérnias incisionais é alternativa segura, viável e eficaz. Parece estar associado a menores taxas de complicações perioperatórias e tempo de internamento quando comparado ao reparo aberto. INTRODUCTION: Incisional hernia is a frequent complication of laparotomy. Repair by simple suture has high relapse rates, and despite the use of prosthesis, risk of recurrence is still high. In the 1990s, laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia gained popularity. Benefits include reduced risk of complications, less pain and faster return to daily activities. Moreover, it can decrease the recurrence rate. AIM: To present our experience with laparoscopic treatment of incisional hernias. METHODS: Between January 2007 and July 2010, 45 patients underwent laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia. Indications included sufficient space for placement of trocars and adequate overlap of the prosthesis over the hernia defect. Contraindications were severe comorbidities that limited the use of pneumoperitoneum and/or general anesthesia, as well as history of diffuse peritonitis due to high risk of intra-abdominal adhesions. RESULTS: Mean operative time was 76 minutes. There was only one (2.2%) intraoperative complication. There was no conversion. Duration of hospitalization was equal to or less than 24 hours in 38 patients (84.4%). Fifteen patients (33%) had complications. However, 14 were minor complications (11 painless seromas and 3 prolonged pain) and only one major complication (late perforation of cecum). There was only one recurrence (2.2%) after a mean follow up of 24.6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia is safe, feasible and effective. Seems to be associated with lower rates of perioperative complications and length of stay compared to open repair.

To evaluate the impact of NOTES compared to laparoscopic surgery, through the analysis of physiological parameters as well as surgical complications and postoperative outcome, for liver biopsy.12 female pigs were divided into two groups: laparoscopy group (GLap) and NOTES group (GNote). The animals underwent liver biopsy by peritoneal laparoscopy or transvaginal endoscopy. The respiratory rate, heart rate, O2 saturation and expiratory concentrations of CO2 were recorded every 10 minutes. In the seventh postoperative day, the animals underwent laparotomy for evaluation of intra-abdominal complications.Most of the animals showed weight loss after the procedure, however in no case more than 5%. There was no difference in percentage change in weight between the groups (p = 0.7535). Also, no differences were observed when comparing the averages of ETCO2 (p = 0.4762), and average heart rate (p = 0.6035). However, the GLap showed higher respiratory rate than the GNote (p = 0.0043), as well as the average O2 saturation (p = 0.0080). However, no animal showed SatO2 less than 87% and this difference was not considered clinically significant. Only one GNote animal presented with an operative complication.NOTES is associated with physiological parameters similar to those found in operative laparoscopy. Performing transvaginal peritonioscopy is not associated with increased postoperative complications when compared to laparoscopy.

CONTEXT: Diagnosis and treatment of cystic neoplasms of the pancreas increased significantly in the last decades. There are only a few Brazilian publications on these tumors. The majority of them are limited to reports of one or few cases. OBJECTIVE: To present our experience with 27 patients with cystic neoplasms of the pancreas. METHODS: Demographic data, clinical manifestations, diagnostic exams, surgical procedures, postoperative complications, and follow-up data of 27 patients with cystic neoplasms of the pancreas were analyzed, according to the histological type of the tumor. RESULTS: There were 10 (37%) serous cystic tumors, 10 (37%) mucinous cystic tumors, 4 (15%) intraductal papillary mucinous tumors, and 3 (11%) solid pseudopapillary tumors or Frantz tumor. All serous cystic tumors, 6 (60%) mucinous tumors, 2 (50%) intraductal papillary mucinous tumors, and 2 (67%) solid pseudopapillary tumors were benign. The age of the patients varied from 31 to 82 years and all tumors were more common in female. Two patients had been treated previously as a pseudocyst. Surgical procedures depended on the location and extension of the tumor. Two patients underwent only laparotomy with tumor biopsy, one cholecystectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy for jaundice treatment, 6 pancreatoduodenectomy, and 18 partial pancreatectomy. The most common postoperative complication was pancreatic fistula (n = 5; 19%). One patient died of necrotic pancreatitis. Of the 10 patients with serous cystic tumor, only 1 had tumor recurrence at the section border. The three patients with mucinous cystoadenocarcinoma in which was not possible to resect the tumor, died 6 to 24 months after laparotomy. The six patients with benign mucinous tumors did not have tumor recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: The most common cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are serous and mucinous cysts. These tumors are more frequent in female. Although almost all serous cysts are benign, 40% of mucinous cysts are malign. Misdiagnosis may delay appropriate treatment and increase mortality. RACIONAL: O diagnóstico e tratamento das neoplasias císticas do pâncreas aumentaram significativamente nas últimas décadas. Existem poucas publicações brasileiras sobre estes tumores, sendo que a maioria é limitada à descrição de um ou poucos casos. OBJETIVO: Apresentar a experiência com 27 pacientes com neoplasia cística do pâncreas. MÉTODOS: Os dados demográficos, quadro clínico, exames complementares, procedimento cirúrgico com as suas complicações e a evolução pós-operatória de 27 pacientes com neoplasia cística do pâncreas foram analisados, conforme o tipo histológico do tumor. RESULTADOS: O exame anatomopatológico evidenciou 10 (37%) casos de tumor seroso, 10 (37%) de tumor mucinoso, 4 (15%) de neoplasia intraductal papilar mucinosa e 3 (11%) de neoplasia sólida pseudopapilar ou tumor de Frantz. Todos os tumores serosos, seis (60%) mucinosos, dois (50%) tumores intraductais papilares mucinosos e dois (67%) tumores sólidos pseudopapilares eram benignos. A idade dos pacientes variou amplamente de 31 a 82 anos e o sexo feminino predominou em todos os tipos de tumores. Dois pacientes tinham sido tratados previamente como pseudocisto de pâncreas. As operações realizadas dependiam da localização e extensão do tumor. Dois pacientes foram submetidos somente a laparotomia com biopsia do tumor, 1 a colecistectomia e hepaticojejunostomia em Y-de-Roux para aliviar a icterícia, sem ressecção da neoplasia, 6 a pancreatoduodenectomia e 18 a pancreatectomia parcial. A complicação pós-operatória mais comum foi fístula pancreática (n = 5; 19%). Um paciente morreu no pós-operatório imediato por pancreatite necrótica. Dos 10 pacientes com cistoadenoma seroso, apenas 1 apresentou recidiva próxima à borda de secção do tumor. Os três pacientes com cistoadenocarcinomas mucinosos em que não foi realizada a ressecção do tumor foram a óbito de 6 a 24 meses após a operação. Os seis pacientes com tumores mucinosos benignos não apresentaram recidiva. CONCLUSÕES: As neoplasias císticas pancreáticas mais comuns são os cistos serosos e os mucinosos. Estes tumores ocorrem predominantemente no sexo feminino. Apesar de quase todos os tumores serosos serem benignos, uma percentagem elevada (40%) de tumores mucinosos é maligna. O não reconhecimento desses tumores pode retardar o tratamento adequado e ser associado à elevada mortalidade.

Although laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy is considered safe, several complications may occur. This study aimed to evaluate the complications observed in 780 laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphies at the authors’ hospital. All the patients who underwent laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy at the authors’ hospital during a period of 11 years were enrolled retrospectively in this study. Patient demographics, operative data, and intra- and postoperative complications were evaluated. A total of 569 patients underwent 780 laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphies. The male-to-female ratio was 8.8 to 1, and the mean age was 54.8 ± 15.7 years. Hernia recurrence was recognized in 14 patients (2.5%). Intra- and postoperative complications were diagnosed in 28 (4.9%) and 35 (6.2%) patients respectively. There was no mortality. The most common intraoperative complication was extensive subcutaneous emphysema. Two patients with extensive subcutaneous emphysema had cardiac arrhythmia. Small bowel perforation and bladder perforation occurred in one patient each. One patient had extensive preperitoneal infection caused by Mycobacterium massiliense, which required mesh removal, tissue debridement, and prolonged antibiotic therapy. Although the mortality rate is low, potentially life-threatening complications such as small bowel and bladder perforation may be experienced by patients subjected to laparoscopic herniorrhaphy.

Umbilical hernia occurs in 20% of the patients with liver cirrhosis complicated with ascites. Due to the enormous intraabdominal pressure secondary to the ascites, umbilical hernia in these patients has a tendency to enlarge rapidly and to complicate. The treatment of umbilical hernia in these patients is a surgical challenge. Ascites control is the mainstay to reduce hernia recurrence and postoperative complications, such as wound infection, evisceration, ascites drainage, and peritonitis. Intermittent paracentesis, temporary peritoneal dialysis catheter or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt may be necessary to control ascites. Hernia repair is indicated in patients in whom medical treatment is effective in controlling ascites. Patients who have a good perspective to be transplanted within 3-6 mo, herniorrhaphy should be performed during transplantation. Hernia repair with mesh is associated with lower recurrence rate, but with higher surgical site infection when compared to hernia correction with conventional fascial suture. There is no consensus on the best abdominal wall layer in which the mesh should be placed: Onlay, sublay, or underlay. Many studies have demonstrated several advantages of the laparoscopic umbilical herniorrhaphy in cirrhotic patients compared with open surgical treatment.

BACKGROUND: Liver resection constitutes the main treatment of most liver primary neoplasms and selected cases of metastatic tumors. However, this procedure is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. AIM: To analyze our experience with liver resections over a period of 10 years to determine the morbidity, mortality and risk factors of hepatectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective review of medical records of patients who underwent liver resection from January 1994 to March 2003. RESULTS: Eighty-three (41 women and 42 men) patients underwent liver resection during the study period, with a mean age of 52.7 years (range 13-82 years). Metastatic colorectal carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma were the main indications for hepatic resection, with 36 and 19 patients, respectively. Extended and major resections were performed in 20.4% and 40.9% of the patients, respectively. Blood transfusion was needed in 38.5% of the operations. Overall morbidity was 44.5%. Life-threatening complications occurred in 22.8% of cases and the most common were pneumonia, hepatic failure, intraabdominal collection and intraabdominal bleeding. Among minor complications (30%), the most common were biliary leakage and pleural effusion. Size of the tumor and blood transfusion were associated with major complications (P = 0.0185 and P = 0.0141, respectively). Operative mortality was 8.4% and risk factors related to mortality were increased age and use of vascular exclusion (P = 0.0395 and P = 0.0404, respectively). Median hospital stay was 6.7 days. CONCLUSION: Liver resections can be performed with low mortality and acceptable morbidity rates. Blood transfusion may be reduced by employing meticulous technique and, whenever indicated, vascular exclusion. RACIONAL: A ressecção hepática constitui o principal tratamento da maioria das neoplasias primárias do fígado e de casos selecionados de tumores metastáticos. Entretanto, este procedimento está associado a taxas expressivas de morbidade e mortalidade. OBJETIVO: Analisar a experiência com hepatectomia em um período de 10 anos para determinar os fatores de risco, a morbidade e a mortalidade das ressecções hepáticas. PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: Revisão retrospectiva dos prontuários médicos dos pacientes que foram submetidos a hepatectomia no período de janeiro de 1994 a março de 2003. RESULTADOS: Foi realizada hepatectomia em 83 pacientes (41 mulheres e 42 homens) durante o período do estudo. A idade média dos pacientes foi de 52,7 anos, com variação de 13 a 82 anos. As principais indicações de ressecção hepática foram carcinoma do intestino grosso metastático (36 pacientes) e carcinoma hepatocelular (19 pacientes). Hepatectomias ampliadas e maiores foram realizadas em 20,4% e 40,9% dos pacientes, respectivamente. Transfusão sangüínea foi necessária em 38,5% das operações. A morbidade total foi 44,5%. Complicações com risco de vida ocorreram em 22,8% dos casos e as mais comuns foram pneumonia, insuficiência hepática, coleção intra-abdominal e sangramento intra-abdominal. Entre as complicações menores (30%), as mais comuns foram extravasamento biliar e derrame pleural. O tamanho do tumor e transfusão sangüínea foram associadas com complicações maiores (P = 0,0185 e P = 0,0141, respectivamente). A mortalidade operatória foi de 8,4% e os fatores de risco relacionados com a mortalidade foram idade avançada e realização de exclusão vascular (P = 0,0395 e P = 0,0404, respectivamente). O período de internação médio foi de 6,7 dias. CONCLUSÃO: As hepatectomias podem ser realizadas com baixa mortalidade e aceitável morbidade. Transfusão sangüínea pode ser reduzida com o emprego de técnica meticulosa e quando indicada, a exclusão vascular.

Failures of antireflux procedures occur in 5% to 10% of the patients. Our objective is to report our experience with laparoscopic management of failed antireflux operations. Of 1698 patients who underwent laparoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), 53 were reoperations following either a previous open or laparoscopic antireflux procedure. The indications for surgical reoperation were persistent or recurrent GERD in 35 patients (66%), presence of paraesophageal hiatal hernia in 4 (7.5%), and severe dysphagia in 14 (26.4%). Hospital stay varied from 1 to 8 days, with an average of 1.2 days. Conversion to open laparotomy occurred in 10 patients (18.8%). The main causes for persistent or recurrent GERD were herniation (n=20) and disruption (n=12) of the fundoplication. Two patients had both herniation and disruption of the fundoplication. The main reason for severe dysphagia was tight hiatus. The most common reoperations were hiatal repair for hernia correction (n=26), redo fundoplication (n=16), and widening of the hiatus (n=12). Two patients had both hiatal repair and redo fundoplication. Intra (n=5) and postoperative (n=16) complications were frequent, but they were usually minor. There was no mortality. The present study demonstrated that laparoscopic reoperation for failed antireflux procedures may be performed safely in most patients with excellent result, low severe morbidity, and no mortality.