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There are no randomized controlled trials comparing the eTEP with IPOM repair and this randomized study was designed to compare the two techniques in terms of early pain, cost effectiveness, and quality of life.This was a prospective randomized trial with intention to treat analysis. The primary outcome was immediate post-operative pain scores. Operative time, conversions, peri operative morbidity, hospital stay, return to daily activities, incremental cost effectiveness ratio and quality of life (WHO-QOL BREF) were secondary outcomes.Sixty patients were randomized equally. Early post-operative pain scores and seroma rates were significantly lower and with a significantly earlier return to activity in eTEP group (p value lt; 0.05). With negative costs and positive effects, eTEP group was 2.4 times more cost effective.eTEP repair is better in terms of lesser early post-operative pain, earlier return to activities and cost effectiveness in small and medium size defects.

Background and aims The pathophysiology of sarcopenia in cirrhosis is poorly understood. We aimed to evaluate the histological alterations in the muscle tissue of patients with cirrhosis and sarcopenia, and identify the regulators of muscle homeostasis. Methods Computed tomography images at third lumbar vertebral level were used to assess skeletal muscle index (SMI) in 180 patients. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the SMI cut-offs from a population of similar ethnicity. Muscle biopsy was obtained from the vastus lateralis in 10 sarcopenic patients with cirrhosis, and the external oblique in five controls (voluntary kidney donors during nephrectomy). Histological changes were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry for phospho-FOXO3, phospho-AKT, phospho-mTOR, and apoptosis markers (annexin V and caspase 3). The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expressions for MSTN, FoxO3, markers of ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (FBXO32, TRIM63), and markers of autophagy (Beclin-1 and LC3) were also quantified. Results The prevalence of sarcopenia was 14.4%. Muscle histology in sarcopenics showed atrophic angulated fibers (p = 0.002) compared to controls. Immunohistochemistry showed a significant loss of expression of phospho-mTOR (p = 0.026) and an unaltered phospho-AKT (p = 0.089) in sarcopenic patients. There were no differences in the immunostaining for annexin-V, caspase-3, and phospho-FoxO3 between the two groups. The mRNA expressions of MSTN and Beclin-1 were higher in sarcopenics (p = 0.04 and p = 0.04, respectively). The two groups did not differ in the mRNA levels for TRIM63, FBXO32, and LC3. Conclusions Significant muscle atrophy, increase in autophagy, MSTN gene expression, and an impaired mTOR signaling were seen in patients with sarcopenia and cirrhosis.

Background and aims Both endoscopic and laparoscopic transmural internal drainage are practiced for drainage of walled-off necrosis (WON) following acute pancreatitis (AP) but the superiority of either is not established. Our aim was to compare transperitoneal laparoscopic drainage with endoscopic drainage using either lumen apposing metal stents (LAMS) or plastic stents tailored to the amount of necrotic debris in WON. Methods In a randomized controlled trial, adequately powered to exclude the null hypothesis, patients with symptomatic WON were randomized to either endoscopic or laparoscopic drainage. In the endoscopy group, two plastic stents were placed if the WON contained 1/3rd. Primary outcome was resolution of WON within 4 weeks without re-intervention for secondary infection. Secondary outcome was overall success (resolution of WON at 6 months) and adverse events. Results Forty patients were randomized: 20 to each group. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups. Primary outcome was similar between the groups [16 (80%) in laparoscopy and 15 (75%) in endoscopy group; p = 0.89]. The overall success was similar [18 (90%) in laparoscopy vs. 17 (85%) in endoscopy; p = 0.9]. Median duration of hospital stay was shorter in endoscopy group [4 (4–8) vs. 6 days (5–9); p = 0.03]. Adverse events were comparable between the groups. Conclusion Laparoscopic drainage was not superior to endoscopic transmural drainage with placement of multiple plastic stent or LAMS depending on the amount of necrotic debris for symptomatic WON in AP. The hospital stay was shorter with the endoscopic approach.

Introduction Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) for hemodialysis (HD) are prone to development of multiple complications, which can lead to nonfunctioning of the fistula. We report outcomes of endovascular management for dysfunctional HD AVF. Materials and Methods In this prospective study, patients (43 men, 28 women, mean age 47.4 years) with clinical signs and symptoms of dysfunctional HD AVF and referred to interventional radiology for endovascular management were included. The most common clinical presentation included low flows during hemodialysis (n = 20), absent flow (n = 37), and failure of fistula maturation (n = 14). Patients with central venous obstruction who presented with limb swelling were excluded from this study. Patients underwent venography, venoplasty and thrombectomy, as appropriate, to salvage the fistula. The study outcomes were technical success, hemodynamic success, and clinical success of endovascular therapies in salvaging the fistulae. Results The technical, hemodynamic and clinical success rates of endovascular therapy for low-flow symptoms were 95%, 70% and 95%, respectively. Among patients who presented with absent flow, endovascular therapy had 81% technical success, 78.3% hemodynamic success, and 81% clinical success. Endovascular therapy was associated with 64.2% technical success, 57.1% hemodynamic success, and 64.2% clinical success in patients presenting with failed maturation of the fistula. The overall clinical success rate was 58/71 (81.7%) and failure rate was 13/71 (18.3%). The overall complication rate of endovascular therapy was 8.4% and the complications included vein rupture in 5 (7%) and balloon rupture in 1 (1.4%). Conclusion Endovascular therapy for salvage of nonfunctioning hemodialysis AVF is associated with a high-clinical success rate (81.7%) and low-complication rate.

OBJECTIVES To evaluate the various quantitative parameters of Doppler ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and shear wave elastography (SWE) of graft kidneys in the early postoperative period and to explore their utility in the diagnosis of parenchymal causes of graft dysfunction. METHODS In this ethically approved study, consecutive patients who underwent renal transplantation from March 2017 to August 2018 were recruited, and those with urologic or vascular complications and those who denied consent were excluded. All patients underwent ultrasound with Doppler, SWE, CEUS (using sulfur hexafluoride), and renal scintigraphic examinations 3 to 10 days after transplantation. A composite reference standard was used, including the clinical course, renal function test results, urine output, and histopathologic results for graft dysfunction. Cortical SWE values, quantitative CEUS parameters (generated from a time-intensity curve), and their ratios were analyzed to identify graft dysfunction and differentiate acute tubular necrosis (ATN) from acute rejection (AR). RESULTS Of the 105 patients included, 19 developed graft dysfunction (18.1%; 12 ATN, 5 AR, and 2 drug toxicity) in the early postoperative period. The peak systolic velocity in the interpolar artery showed a significant difference between control and graft dysfunction groups (P

Four-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard treatment for symptomatic gallbladder disease. To reduce the invasiveness of standard four-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy, single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has come about an attractive option for the performance of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. There have been no studies on SILC from Indian subcontinent. The present study was designed to compare the outcomes of SILC with the standard four-port LC in a prospective randomized controlled trial. All patients with symptomatic gallstone disease were evaluated between May 2012 and April 2014. Patients were randomized to either standard four-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC group) or single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC group). Demographic profile, preoperative and intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, hospital stay, and pain scores were recorded. WHO-QOL BREF was used for quality of life analysis. Patients were followed up at regular intervals, and satisfaction scores were recorded. Statistical analysis was done using STATA 12 and p value

Introduction: There are limited data on the symptoms of immune-suppressive therapy after transplant on Indian patients and how tacrolimus blood level correlates with graft function and its adverse effects. This study was planned to study these factors. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted as a prospective longitudinal study. Adult patients who underwent the live renal transplant and matched the inclusion criteria from March 2018 to April 2019 were enrolled for the study. Trends of all the parameters were analyzed and their correlation was done with corresponding tacrolimus blood levels. Blood for tacrolimus level was collected at d1, 5, 15, 30, 90, and 180, and values of serum creatinine, diabetes status, hypertensive status, lipid profile, infection occurrence, and liver function tests were recorded at the same time. The subjective symptom occurrence was also recorded by Modified Transplant Symptom Occurrence and Symptom Distress Scale questionnaire at 3 months. Results: The mean age of the study population was 33.7 ± 10.1 years. The incidence of infection was highest at 48% in the 1–3 month period. The incidence of posttransplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) was 13.7%. Patients requiring antihypertensive decreased from 93.1% immediate posttransplant to 51.5% after 6 months of transplant. There was an increase in posttransplant triglyceride levels, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein level with only high-density lipoprotein showing a protective trend. Liver functions did not show any derangements during the study period. There was no significant correlation between any of the adverse effects and tacrolimus blood levels. Excessive appetite was the most commonly experienced symptoms whereas tremor was the most distressing one. There was a statistically significant increase in symptoms experienced in patients whose tacrolimus blood level was above the normal level for that period. Conclusion: Our study showed no significant correlation between blood levels of tacrolimus and graft function and also with hypertension, dyslipidemia, PTDM, and incidence of posttransplant infections. The incidence of adverse effects was significantly higher in patients who had tacrolimus blood levels higher than recommended.

These are inter-society guidelines for performance of laparoscopic surgery during COVID-19 pandemic that has affected the way of surgical practice. The safety of healthcare workers and patients is being challenged. It is prudent that our surgical practice should adapt to this rapidly changing health environment. The guidance issued is based on global practices and national governmental directives. The Inter-Society Group urges you to be updated with the developing situation and evolving changes.

Cholecystectomy is one of the commonest general surgical procedures performed all over India. The risk of bile duct injury (BDI) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy is two to three times higher than during open cholecystectomy. The worldwide incidence of bile duct injury is 0.5% or 1 in 200 cases. BDI and its consequences result in significant morbidity and may even cause mortality. BDI increases the cost of treatment and is a common reason for a medicolegal suit against the surgeons. To minimize the incidence of BDI and to manage it timely and appropriately, a set of guidelines was deemed necessary by a group of senior surgeons during a Society of Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgeons of India (SELSI) meeting in 2016. Guidelines for “Safe Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy” and bile duct injury management formulated by other international societies are already available. The applicability of these guidelines to Indian subjects especially in small peripheral centers was limited. Hence, a decision was taken to form a set of guidelines for general surgeons with basic laparoscopic skills with little or no advanced laparoscopic skills. Those working in a solo practice, nursing homes, and small private hospitals at talukas or districts should have “Safe Cholecystectomy” guidelines and management of BDI suitable to their situation. These guidelines were formed after three consensus meetings and have been approved by a SELSI Expert Group.

Various modifications of the reconstruction following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) have been described. Pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) was first described clinically by Waugh and Clagett from the Mayo Clinic in 1946. Despite recent randomized trials and meta-analysis, the literature is still ambiguous as to which is a safer procedure. We hereby describe our experience of more than 400 pancreaticogastrostomies. The legacy of performing only pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) started by the senior author (BMLK) continued from 1977 to date in this surgical unit of a tertiary care hospital. We present the results of this case series analysis of a total of 467 Whipple’s pancreaticoduodenectomy in whom PG was performed. The mean operative time was 260.8 ± 50.3 min (180–390 min) with an average blood loss of 1068 ± 606.19 ml (400–2600 ml). None of the patients had clinically significant POPF. Thirty-five patients had postoperative bleeding out of which 12 were early and 23 had delayed hemorrhage. The most common postoperative complication was delayed gastric emptying which was seen in 96 patients (20.5%). Transient bile leak was seen in 84 patients (18%). Wound infection was seen in 70 (15%) patients. The overall 30-day mortality was 2% (10 out of 400). PG as a reconstructive technique is a safe option following PD with minimal incidence of clinically significant postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) as shown in our series of more than 400 patients. This is the largest series to date of pancreaticogastrostomy following PD.

Initiation of an advanced laparoscopic surgery program requires skill and proper training. Despite description of multiple surgical training modules, an ideal method for training of surgeons for advanced laparoscopic procedures is lacking. We propose an abbreviated self-imposed proctored preceptorship training model as the optimum training method for training skilled laparoscopic surgeons in advanced laparoscopic procedures like laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. The laparoscopic donor nephrectomy program was started at the Institute using preceptorship-proctorship model. One hundred left laparoscopic donor nephrectomies were performed over the course of 2 years. Outcomes in terms of performance related (Surgeon) outcomes in the form of learning curve and patient outcomes in terms of donor outcomes and recipient results and were studied. Learning curve was calculated using the moving average method and calculation of mean operative time of every five consecutive cases. Mean operative time for laparoscopic donor nephrectomy was 108.1 ± 26.5 min, the warm ischemia time averaged at 3.5 ± 1.3 min and the mean blood loss was 130.1 ± 54.9 ml. Moving average analysis revealed that approximately 20 LDN cases were needed to complete the learning phase. According to the mean operative time of every five consecutive cases, learning phase of LDN was completed between 26 and 30 cases. We believe that the abbreviated self-imposed proctored preceptorship model of training is an optimum model for starting a new advanced laparoscopic surgery program and can help surgeons to overcome the initial learning curve.

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFC) may develop following acute pancreatitis (AP). Endoscopic and laparoscopic internal drainage are accepted modalities for drainage of PFCs but have not been compared in a randomized trial. Our objective was to compare endoscopic and laparoscopic internal drainage of pseudocyst/walled-off necrosis following AP. Patients with symptomatic pseudocysts or walled-off necrosis suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic transmural internal drainage were randomized to either modality in a randomized controlled trial. Endoscopic drainage comprised of per-oral transluminal cystogastrostomy. Additionally, endoscopic lavage and necrosectomy were done following a step-up approach for infected collections. Surgical laparoscopic cystogastrostomy was done for drainage, lavage, and necrosectomy. Primary outcome was resolution of PFCs by the intended modality and secondary outcome was complications. Sixty patients were randomized, 30 each to laparoscopic and endoscopic drainage. Both groups were comparable for baseline characteristics. The initial success rate was 83.3% in the laparoscopic and 76.6% in the endoscopic group (p = 0.7) after the index intervention. The overall success rate of 93.3% (28/30) and 90% (27/30) in the laparoscopic and endoscopic groups respectively was also similar (p = 1.0). Two patients in the laparoscopic group required endoscopic cystogastrostomy for persistent collections. Similarly, two patients in the endoscopic group required laparoscopic drainage. Postoperative complications were comparable between the groups except for higher post-procedure infection in the endoscopic group (19 vs. 9; p = 0.01) requiring endoscopic re-intervention. Endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques have similar efficacy for internal drainage of suitable pancreatic fluid collections with

Literature continues to be ambiguous on the type of mesh to be used in laparoscopic incisional and ventral hernia repair. This study presents non-randomised comparison of polypropylene and covered mesh in laparoscopic incisional and ventral hernia repair. Patients undergoing laparoscopic ventral hernia repair from 2004 to 2018 were divided into two groups, i.e. polypropylene or covered mesh. Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair was done following a standard protocol. Patient outcomes were measured in terms of re-exploration, wound/ mesh infection, seroma, subacute intestinal obstruction, fistula formation and recurrence. Patients were followed up regularly. Laparoscopic repair was performed in 527 patients. Conversion to open repair was done in 30 patients. Polypropylene mesh was used in 175 patients and covered mesh in 352 patients. Subacute intestinal obstruction was seen in 12 patients (6.9%) in polypropylene group and in 18 patients (5.1%) in covered mesh group. There were 28 recurrences, 11 (6.2%) in polypropylene group and 17 (4.8%) in covered mesh group. The median duration of recurrence was 2 years with a range of 16–48 months. Outcomes with polypropylene mesh were comparable to covered mesh for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with regards to early and late post-operative outcomes. The incidence of fistulisation and obstruction was also similar between the two groups. It is safe to use polypropylene mesh in situations where covered mesh is not affordable or available especially in low resource countries.

BACKGROUND Meta-analysis has shown the effectiveness of various training methods for the acquisition of laparoscopic skills in surgical training. However, there is very limited literature focusing on the translation of skill acquisition on training models into improved operating room (OR) performance. This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the Tuebingen trainer with integrated Porcine tissue in improving OR the performance of surgical trainees using standard assessment tools. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was a single-blinded double-armed randomized control study conducted between July 2016 and March 2018. Eighteen, fourth, and fifth semesters of surgery residents were included in the study. The baseline performance was assessed in OR by performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy using validated scores, that is, Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS), Additional Five Criteria, Task-specific Checklist, Error Checklist, Visual Analogue Scale. The residents were then randomized into trainee and nontrainee groups. The training group received 5 days of short-term-focused training on the Tuebingen trainer, and the improvement was reassessed in OR. RESULTS The demographic profile of residents was similar. The baseline scores were comparable. The training group showed statistically significant improvement in GOALS (9.88±1.76 to 12±0.66, P=0.05 vs. 10.33±1.5 to 11.4±2.24, P=0.28), task-specific checklist (42.22±10.92 to 53.33±14.14, P=0.027 vs. 45.55±10.13 to 50±17.32, P=0.51), and error checklist. The operating time significantly reduced (36.0±4.03 vs. 50.44±11.39, P=0.0025) following training. CONCLUSIONS Our study concludes that the training on the Tuebingen trainer with integrated porcine organs results in a statistically significant improvement in the OR performance of surgical residents as compared with the nontrained residents, thereby indicating a transfer of skills from training to OR.

Background: About 18%–65% of Arterio-Venous fistula (AVF) made to facilitate haemodialysis in end stage renal disease patient fail to mature. This study was designed to evaluate the impact of clinical parameters and vascular haemodynamics on maturation of AVF on Indian patients. Material and methods: This was a prospective observational study. Eligible patients’ clinical profiles and vascular haemodynamics by Doppler ultrasonography were noted. All patients underwent radio-cephalic AVF on the non-dominant arm under local anaesthesia. Clinical definition was used to assess success rate of AVFs which is defined as successful six settings of satisfactory dialysis. Data were analysed using Stata/12.0 software. Independent t-test, chi-square test, logistic regression analysis and multivariate analysis were used. The p-value of Results: A total of 205 patients were enrolled and analysed. Among clinical factors, age, sex, serum creatinine, hypertension had no significant association with failure (p = 0.5, 0.08, 0.76 and 0.74). Patient’s BMI and presence of diabetes had significant impact on outcome ( p 2.5 mm and radial artery flow rate >40 ml/min had no significant association with failure ( p = 0.12 and 0.28). Diameter of radial artery (>2 mm) and intra-operatively immediate thrill were independent predictor of success (p = 0.002 and Conclusion: In the present study rate of fistula, maturation was 73.2% without any post-operative radiological intervention. Radial artery diameter >2 mm and presence of immediate thrill post-operatively were significantly associated with successful cannulation.

INTRODUCTION With various studies in the literature showing laparoscopic common bile duct (CBD) exploration to have equal or similar results when compared with endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) clearance, decision-making in regard to the treatment modality to be used may become debatable. Thus, quality of life (QoL) data may assist both the patient and the clinician in deciding the management of the disease. The present prospective randomized trial was undertaken to compare QoL of patients undergoing treatment with these 2 approaches. METHODOLOGY The study was conducted March 1, 2013, to September 31, 2016. Consecutive patients with CBD stones were randomized to either laparoscopic CBD exploration with cholecystectomy (group I) and EST followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (group II). Diagnosis was confirmed preoperatively using magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and/or endoscopic ultrasound. QoL scores were assessed by World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF), European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaires. RESULTS A total of 77 patients with concomitant gallstones and CBD stones were finally recruited (38 patients in group I and 39 patients in group II). The demographic and clinical profiles were similar in both the groups. On EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire, there was significant improvement in physical, emotional, and role functioning in both the groups (P

Background and aims Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) are associated with dysglycemia and diabetes mellitus (DM) much of which improves post operatively. In this study, we set out to ascertain pre and post-operative prevalence of DM in patients with PPGL based on oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and HbA1c and to evaluate effect of insulin secretion and sensitivity indices on DM pre-operatively. Methods Clinical and anthropometric data collection, HbA1c, 75 g OGTT with serum insulin estimation were done pre-operatively (n = 34) and at follow-up after successful surgery (n = 24) in patients with PPGL. Results Pre and post-operative prevalence of DM were 48%(18/37) and 17% (4/24) respectively. Comparison of patients with highest (Q4) and lowest (Q1) quartiles of insulinogenic index (IGI),a parameter of insulin secretion, revealed trends towards higher prevalence of DM in patients with lower IGI (Q4 to Q1: 29% versus 71%,n = 28, p = 0.24)but no association was observed with HOMA-IR (Q4 to Q1:50% versus 57%, n = 28, p = 1.00), an insulin sensitivity index. DM remitted in 77% patients post-operatively, predicted by duration of DM of Conclusion There is high prevalence of DM in PPGL, with marked remission post-operatively, especially predicted by shorter duration of DM. Impaired insulin secretion is more strongly associated with pre-operative DM than increased insulin resistance.

Introduction Primary closure of common bile duct (CBD) after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is now becoming the preferred technique for closure of choledochotomy. Primary CBD closure not only circumvents the disadvantages of an external biliary drainage but also adds to the advantage of LCBDE. Here, we describe our experience of primary CBD closure following 355 cases of LCBDE in a single surgical unit at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and methods All patients undergoing LCBDE in a single surgical unit were included in the study. Preoperative and intraoperative parameters including the technique of CBD closure were recorded prospectively. The postoperative recovery, complications, hospital stay, antibiotic usage, and postoperative intervention, if any, were also recorded. Results Three hundred fifty-five LCBDEs were performed from April 2007 to December 2018, and 143 were post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography failures. The overall success rate was 91.8%. The mean operative time was 98±26.8 minutes (range, 70 to 250 min). Transient bile leak was seen in 10% of patients and retained stones in 3 patients. Two patients required re-exploration and 2 patients died in the postoperative period. Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 10 years, with a median follow-up of 72 months. No long-term complications such as CBD stricture or recurrent stones were noted. Conclusions Primary closure of CBD after LCBDE is safe and associated with minimal complications and no long-term problems. The routine use of primary CBD closure after LCBDE is recommended based on our experience.

Objective: To evaluate the imaging characteristics of aggressive angiomyxoma (AA) and identify features which would help to differentiate it from similar appearing lesions. Methods: A retrospective review of departmental records was done and cases where AA was suspected on CT or MRI were included. With histopathology as gold-standard, the cases were grouped into AA or mimics and differentiating features were identified on USG, CT and MRI. Fischer’s exact test was applied for the statistical significance of the differentiating features. Results: 18 patients were identified of which 2 were excluded for lack of histopathology records. 10 were AA and 6 mimics which included 2 fibromatoses, 2 neurogenic tumors, and 1 each of germ cell tumor and inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. On MRI, all AA showed T2 hyperintensity and intense contrast enhancement with characteristic laminated pattern in 7/9 cases. Diffusion restriction was seen in 2/3 cases, cystic component in 4/10 and hemorrhage in 1/10 cases. Pelvic fibromatosis was the closest imaging differential showing laminated pattern in one of the cases. Conclusion: Large pelvic mass with abdominal/perineal extension in reproductive age female patient should lead to suspicion of AA. Laminated pattern on T2 weighted images and intense homogeneous contrast enhancement further add to the diagnostic confidence. Advances in knowledge: This study for the first time describes radiological mimics of AA. Large cystic component, diffusion restriction, hemorrhage and organ infiltration have not been previously described in AA.

Minimal access surgery has fast become the standard of care for many operative procedures, but is associated with lot of ergonomic stress to the surgeons performing these procedures, which may result in reduction in surgeon’s performance and work capacity. In this study, we evaluated the impact of structured training program in improving the ergonomic stress in trainee laparoscopic surgeons. Laparoscopic surgeons were divided in 2 groups: trainee surgeons (ten) and expert surgeons (three). Baseline surface electromyography (sEMG) data were collected from bilateral deltoid, biceps brachii, forearm extensors, and pronator teres during a predefined suturing task on Tuebingen trainer with integrated porcine organs in both the groups. Trainee surgeons underwent 20 h of laparoscopic intra-corporeal suturing training and surface electromyography data were recorded at the end of training again and compared with baseline. Experts were found to have lower muscle activation (p

INTRODUCTION: One German surgeon (Eric Muhe in 1985)* and three French surgeons** (Philippe Mouret in 1987, Jacque Perissat in 1989, and Dubois F in 1990) are credited with having performed first* laparoscopic cholecystectomy and first** video-assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomy, respectively. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy became the procedure of choice (gold standard) for benign symptomatic gallbladder disease as well as asymptomatic gallbladder stones in India. There have been adoption and acceptance for laparoendoscopic incisional/ventral hernia repair. Actually, laparoendoscopic repair of incisional/ventral hernia, laparoscopic solid organ removal (spleen and adrenal), and laparoscopic fundoplication (gold standard) have been standard of care even in the absence of Level 1 evidence over the past three decades. AIM: However, acceptance, adoption, adaptation, and performance of laparoendoscopic groin hernia surgery have been slow over the past three decades among practicing surgeons and surgical trainees. RESULTS: The laparoendoscopic groin hernia repair has yet not gained the same status as for the procedures mentioned above (VS). The reasons are multifactorial and relate to obtaining adequate and proper training covering laparoendoscopic groin hernia repair. The first and foremost reason is that endoscopic repair of groin hernia is considered an advanced laparoscopic procedure as opposed to open hernia repair. Preceptorship–proctorship (PP) model, which worked extremely effectively for teaching and learning of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, could not be established for groin hernia yet. There is no effective simulator developed for any of the standardized techniques, i.e., totally extraperitoneal (TEP) and/or transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP). The complications, for example, intestinal obstruction and major vascular injury, which were never seen during open era, also brought about criticism as well hampered the growth of laparoendoscopic groin hernia repair. In emerging economies such as India and other Asian countries, high cost of laparoendoscopic repair (tacker and specialized meshes) has been responsible for reduced penetration among practicing surgeons and patients. Therefore, the laparoendoscopic repair of groin hernia has been limited to major metropolitan corporate hospitals and small number of tertiary care public hospitals in metropolitan cities. The advantages of minimally invasive approaches for the repair of groin hernias have not benefited the masses in rural and semi-urban geographic areas of India. CONCLUSION: Training opportunities for the teaching and learning laparoendoscopic repair of groin hernia have remained limited for vast majority of practicing surgeons and surgical trainees in India. With development of cadaveric (TEP and TAPP) and live anesthetized animal model (TAPP), it has been possible to establish training opportunities for practicing surgeons at few institutions. We also recommend and encourage expert surgeons to provide training opportunities for those who wish to learn the surgical skills of laparoendoscopic repair of groin hernia by giving their time for PP model. Furthermore, establishment of specialized hernia centers will go a long way to fill this void.

With standardization of laparoscopic technique of groin hernia repair, the focus of surgical outcome has shifted to lesser studied parameters like sexual function and fertility. This prospective randomized study was conducted in a single surgical unit at a tertiary care hospital. A sample size of 144 was calculated with 72 in each group (Group 1 TEP and Group 2 TAPP). Primary outcomes measured included comparison of sexual function using BMFSI, qualitative semen analysis and ASA levels between patients undergoing TEP or TAPP repair. Semen analysis and ASA was measured pre-operatively and 3 months post-operatively. A total of 145 patients were randomized into two groups, TAPP (73) and TEP (72) patients. Both the groups were comparable in terms of demographic profile and hernia characteristics with majority of the patients in both the groups having unilateral inguinal hernia (89.0% in TAPP group and 79.2% in TEP group). Both the groups showed statistically significant improvement in overall sexual function score (BMFSI) at 3 months; however, there was no inter group difference. Both the groups were also comparable in terms of ASA and qualitative semen analysis. Both TEP and TAPP repair are comparable in terms of sexual function and effect on semen analysis. Laparoscopic repair improves the overall sexual functions in patients with groin hernia.

With evolving technology, the focus of groin hernia repair has shifted to sexual function and fertility outcomes. This three-arm randomized study was conducted in tertiary care hospital from 1st July 2017 to 30th March 2019. Consecutive patients of groin hernia were randomized into 3 groups, TAPP (Group 1), TEP (Group 2), and OMH (Group 3). Demographic profile and hernia characteristics were assessed preoperatively. Sexual functions (using BMSFI) and fertility (using surrogate fertility indices, viz., semen analysis and anti-sperm antibodies (ASA)) were assessed preoperatively at 3 months after the surgery. A total of 121 patients were included in the study with 41 patients in TAPP (Group 1) and 40 each in TEP (Group 2) and OMH (Group3) group. All the 3 groups were comparable in terms of demographic profile, hernia characteristics, intra-operative and early post-operative outcomes. Significant improvement was found in most of the domains of BMSFI score in the study population (p value

INTRODUCTION Abdominal trauma is one of the preventable causes of death in polytrauma patients. Decision and timing of laparotomy is a major challenge. Rate of nontherapeutic laparotomy is still high. Laparoscopy can avoid nontherapeutic laparotomy and also provide a reliable and accurate diagnosis of injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS This ambispective observational study was conducted in the division of Trauma Surgery and Critical Care, JPN Apex Trauma Centre, All India Institute Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained data of cases from January 1, 2008 through April 30, 2013 and prospective analysis of cases from May 1, 2013 through March 31, 2015 was done using appropriate measures. Hemodynamically stable or responders fulfilling inclusion criteria were included. Selected patients underwent the laparoscopic procedure and if required converted to laparotomy. RESULTS Of the 3610 patients of abdominal trauma, laparotomy was done in 1666 (46.14%) patients and laparoscopy was done in 119 (3.29%) patients. Rate of reduction of nontherapeutic laparotomy in patients with abdominal trauma using diagnostic laparoscopy was 55.4%. However laparotomy could be avoided in 59.7%. Laparoscopy was 100% accurate in identifying injuries in our study. No injuries were missed in these patients. Fever and wound infection were significantly higher in laparotomy group. Chest infection and sepsis were also higher in laparotomy group but the difference was not statistically significant. Median length of hospital stay in laparoscopy group was 4 days (range: 1 to 28 d) and in laparotomy group was 9.5 days (range: 2 to 55 d) with P-value of 0.001. CONCLUSIONS Laparoscopy has a role in management of hemodynamically stable patients with suspected abdominal injury to prevent nontherapeutic laparotomies, and thereby decreasing postoperative complications.

In 2014, the International Endohernia Society (IEHS) published the first international "Guidelines for laparoscopic treatment of ventral and incisional abdominal wall hernias." Guidelines reflect the currently best available evidence in diagnostics and therapy and give recommendations to help surgeons to standardize their techniques and to improve their results. However, science is a dynamic field which is continuously developing. Therefore, guidelines require regular updates to keep pace with the evolving literature.For the development of the original guidelines, all relevant literature published up to year 2012 was analyzed using the ranking of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. For the present update, all of the previous authors were asked to evaluate the literature published during the recent years from 2012 to 2017 and revise their statements and recommendations given in the initial guidelines accordingly. In two Consensus Conferences (October 2017 Beijing, March 2018 Cologne), the updates were presented, discussed, and confirmed. To avoid redundancy, only new statements or recommendations are included in this paper. Therefore, for full understanding both of the guidelines, the original and the current, must be read. In addition, the new developments in repair of abdominal wall hernias like surgical techniques within the abdominal wall, release operations (transversus muscle release, component separation), Botox application, and robot-assisted repair methods were included.Due to an increase of the number of patients and further development of surgical techniques, repair of primary and secondary abdominal wall hernias attracts increasing interests of many surgeons. Whereas up to three decades ago hernia-related publications did not exceed 20 per year, currently this number is about 10-fold higher. Recent years are characterized by the advent of new techniques-minimal invasive techniques using robotics and laparoscopy, totally extraperitoneal repairs, novel myofascial release techniques for optimal closure of large defects, and Botox for relaxing the abdominal wall. Furthermore, a concomitant rectus diastasis was recognized as a significant risk factor for recurrence. Despite insufficient evidence with respect to these new techniques, it seemed to us necessary to include them in the update to stimulate surgeons to do research in these fields.Guidelines are recommendations based on best available evidence intended to help the surgeon to improve the quality of his daily work. However, science is a continuously evolving process, and as such guidelines should be updated about every 3 years. For a comprehensive reference, however, it is suggested to read both the initial guidelines published in 2014 together with the update. Moreover, the presented update includes also techniques which were not known 3 years before.

Background: Familial hyperaldosteronism type III (FH-III) is caused by germline mutations in KCNJ5 gene. FH-III presents with phenotypic variability from spironolactone-responsive hypertension to massive adrenal hyperplasia requiring bilateral adrenalectomy. Till date, seven different pathogenic mutations in KCNJ5 gene have been identified. Here we describe a sporadic FH-III case, due to a Gly151Arg mutation, first from Indian subcontinent, presenting with extremely high plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) values, further expanding our knowledge of this rare condition. Clinical Case: A 24-year-old female, symptomatic since age of 5 years with periodic limb weakness and gradual increase in frequency of episodes over the years. Her blood pressure (BP) was recorded for first time at 9 years of age, and it was 170/110 mm Hg. On evaluation at this time, PAC was highly elevated at 1007 ng/dL and plasma renin activity (PRA) was suppressed at 0.04 ng/ml/h with aldosterone renin ratio (ARR) of 25,175 ng/dL per ng/mL/h (>20 suggestive of primary aldosteronism). CT scan demonstrated mild enlargement of bilateral adrenal glands. A presumptive diagnosis of Glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism was made. She was started on dexamethasone, spironolactone and nifedipine but was not improved. Dexamethasone was stopped after 1 year of initiation. Before presenting to our referral center in 2018, she was having uncontrolled hypertension with recurrent episodes of hypokalemic paralysis. She was on maximal doses on four antihypertensive agents, further increased to six agents (including spironolactone 100 mg BD), and potassium chloride supplementation (120 mEq/day). Despite this, she had a serum potassium of 2.6 mEq/L. Her biochemical investigations demonstrated that PAC was 2070 ng/dL, direct renin concentration (DRC) was 2.35 µIU/mL (PRA 0.2 ng/ml/h) and ARR was 880.9 ng/dL per µIU/mL. CT scan revealed massive bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. Genetic analysis by whole exome sequencing detected KCNJ5 (p.Gly151Arg) mutation, confirming the diagnosis of FH-III. She was subjected to bilateral adrenalectomy and she became normokalemic. Dramatic reduction in antihypertensives with BP control achieved only on amlodipine post-operatively. Genetic testing of family members was not done but they were normotensive and normokalemic. Histopathological examination revealed bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. PAC levels up to 297 ng/dL have been described previously in FH-III but our patient had exceedingly high-level of 2070 ng/dL. Conclusion: This case demonstrates florid clinical and biochemical manifestations of FH-III and gradual worsening of symptoms, consistent with progression of disease with age. It illustrates that proper investigations and treatment can lead to remission of symptoms. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the full clinical and biochemical spectrum of FH-III.

Internal drainage of walled of necrosis of pancreas has been considered as the standard of care. For symptomatic walled off necrosis (WON) of pancreas with the advent of laparoscopy and refinement of techniques and instrumentation, laparoscopic internal drainage is becoming the standard surgical drainage procedure for these patients. However, there is a dearth of literature regarding outcomes following laparoscopic drainage. Most of the studies have small number of patients with limited follow-up. We in this study describe our experience of laparoscopic internal drainage of walled off necrosis over the last 13 years. This is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database. All patients with WON undergoing laparoscopic internal drainage between January 2005 and December 2018 were included. Primary outcome measure was successful drainage. Secondary outcome measures included morbidity, hospital stay, re-intervention rate and mortality. Patients were followed up post-operatively at 1 week, 4 weeks, 3 months and then annually thereafter. Ultrasonography was done periodically for the assessment of cyst resolution. Between 2005 and 2018, 154 surgical drainage procedures were performed for symptomatic pseudocyst/walled off necrosis. Out of these, 134 underwent laparoscopic drainage; 129 patients (96.3%) underwent laparoscopic cystogastrostomy and 5 (3.7%) underwent laparoscopic cystojejunostomy. Majority of the patients were male (male:female = 6:1) with a mean age of 36 ± 12.9 years (range 15–58 years). The mean operative time was 94 min (range 64–144 min). There were three conversions because of intra-operative bleeding. The overall post-operative morbidity was 8.9%. The average hospital stay was 4.4 days (2–19 days). The mean duration of follow-up was 5.5 years (range 6 months–13 years). Complete cyst resolution was achieved in 95.5% (n = 128) patients. There has been no mortality till date. In conclusion, laparoscopic internal drainage is a very effective technique for drainage of WON with an excellent success rate.

There are 2 standard techniques of laparoscopic groin hernia repair, totally extraperitoneal repair (TEP) and transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP). TEP has the advantage that the peritoneal cavity is not breached but is, however, considered to be more difficult to master when compared with TAPP. We describe herein our experience of TEP repair of inguinal hernia over the last 14 years.This study is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of all patients with groin hernia who underwent TEP repair in a single surgical unit between January 2004 and January 2018. Patients' demographic profile and hernia characteristics (duration, side, extent, content, and reducibility) were noted in the prestructured proforma. Clinical outcomes included the operation time, intraoperative and postoperative complications, length of postoperative hospital stay, hernia recurrence, chronic pain, recurrence, seroma, and wound infections. Long-term follow-up was carried out in the outpatient department.Over the last 14 years, TEP repair was performed in 841 patients and a total of 1249 hernias were repaired. The mean age of patients was 50.7 years. There were 748 primary and 345 unilateral hernias. The majority were direct (61%) inguinal hernias. Telescopic dissection was the commonest method of space creation. The average operating time was 54.8 and 77.9 minutes for unilateral and bilateral hernias, respectively. With 81 conversions, the success rate for TEP was 93.5%. Seroma was the most common postoperative complication seen in 81 patients. The incidence of chronic groin pain was 1.4%. The follow-up ranged from 3 months to 10 years, and there were only 3 recurrences (1%).In conclusion, TEP repair is an excellent technique of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with acceptable complications after long-term follow-up.

Importance: While laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) is being adopted with increasing enthusiasm worldwide, it is still challenging for both technical and anatomical reasons. Currently, there is no consensus on the technical standards for LPD.Objective: The aim of this consensus statement is to guide the continued safe progression and adoption of LPD.Evidence Review: An international panel of experts was selected based on their clinical and scientific expertise in laparoscopic and open pancreaticoduodenectomy. Statements were produced upon reviewing the literature and assessed by the members of the expert panel. The literature search and its critical appraisal were limited to articles published in English during the period from 1994 to 2019. The Web of Science, Medline, and Cochrane Library and Clinical Trials databases were searched, The search strategy included, but was not limited to, the terms 'laparoscopic', 'pancreaticoduodenectomy, 'pancreatoduodenectomy', 'Whipple's operation', and 'minimally invasive surgery'. Reference lists from the included articles were manually checked for any additional studies, which were included when appropriate. Delphi method was used to establish expert consensus and the AGREE II-GRS Instrument was applied to assess the methodological quality and externally validate the final statements. The statements were further discussed during a one-day face-to-face meeting at the 1st Summit on Minimally Invasive Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery in Wuhan, China.Findings: Twenty-eight international experts from 8 countries constructed the expert panel. Sixteen statements were produced by the members of the expert panel. At least 80% of responders agreed with the majority (80%) of statements. Other than three randomized controlled trials published to date, most evidences were based on level 3 or 4 studies according to the AGREE II-GRS Instrument.Conclusions and Relevance: The Wuhan international expert consensus meeting on LPD has produced a set of clinical practice statements for the safe development and progression of LPD. LPD is currently in its development and exploration stages, as defined by the international IDEAL framework for surgical innovation. More robust randomized controlled trial and registry study are essential to proceed with the assessment of LPD.

Background: The aim of our study was to compare chronic groin pain and quality of life (QOL) after laparoscopic lightweight (LW) and heavyweight (HW) mesh repair for groin hernia. Materials and Methods: One hundred and forty adult patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernia were randomised into HW mesh group or LW mesh group. Return to activity, chronic groin pain and recurrence rates were assessed. Short form-36 v2 health survey was used for QOL analysis. Results: One hundred and thirty-one completed follow-up of 3 months, 66 in HW mesh group and 65 in LW mesh group. Early post-operative convalescence was better in LW mesh group in terms of early return to walking (P = 0.01) and driving (P = 0.05). The incidence of early post-operative pain, chronic groin pain and QOL and recurrences were comparable. Conclusion: Outcomes following laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using HW and LW mesh are comparable in the short-term as well as long-term.

TEP and TAPP are the two standard techniques for laparoscopic repair of groin hernia. There have been many studies comparing TEP and TAPP in terms of safety and efficacy; however, there are conflicting reports of advantages of one over the other. TAPP has been reported to be easier to learn but has a higher incidence of visceral injury, postoperative pain, and longer operative time [1]. On the other hand, TEP avoids violation of the peritoneal cavity but is associated with a longer learning curve and a lesser incidence of vascular and visceral injury [1]. The recent guidelines for laparoscopic groin hernia repair published by the International Endo Hernia Society (IEHS) also could not answer the question of which of the two techniques is better [2]. There have been many systematic analyses comparing TEP and TAPP repairs, and the major differences between the two techniques are as follows: 1. Access-related complications

Das Kapitel beschreibt die haufigsten Komplikationen der laparoskopischen Operation von primaren und sekundaren Hernien der vorderen Bauchwand (Darmverletzung, Wundinfektion, Netzinfektion, Serom, chronischer Schmerz, Rezidiv sowie die moglichen allgemeinen Komplikationen), ihre Ursachen, Therapie und Vorbeugung. Daruber hinaus werden ausfuhrlich die Ergebnisse der wissenschaftlichen Publikationen zusammengetragen, auf ihre Evidenz gepruft und entsprechende Empfehlungen ausgesprochen.

Beide Techniken, TAPP und TEP, haben sich heute fest im Therapiespektrum bei der Leistenhernie weltweit etabliert. Beide Techniken sind standardisiert, auch von jungen Chirurgen durchfuhrbar und mit einer niedrigen Komplikations- und Rezidivrate belastet. Die Unterschiede zwischen den Ergebnissen, wie sie in den verschiedensten Publikationen berichtet werden, sind allerdings gros, sodass eine verlassliche Vergleichbarkeit schwierig ist. Mithilfe einer umfassenden Literaturanalyse und tabellarischer Darstellung der Ergebnisse wird im vorliegenden Kapitel versucht, die Evidenz zu ermitteln und Empfehlungen fur die Praxis zu geben. Grundsatzlich zeigt der Vergleich spezifische Starken und Schwachen der beiden minimalinvasiven Operationsverfahren, wobei insgesamt jedoch keine Uberlegenheit einer Technik nachgewiesen werden kann. Allgemein zu empfehlen ist daher, die Technik einzusetzen, in der der Chirurg ausgebildet wurde und seine besten Erfahrungen gemacht hat. Die Lernkurve fur die TAPP scheint im Vergleich zur TEP allerdings kurzer und das Indikationsspektrum weiter zu sein. Auch der mogliche Einsatz einer roboterassistierten Operation gewahrt der TAPP einen moglichen Vorteil.

LeBlanc and Booth in 1993 [1] first reported laparoscopic repair of a ventral and incisional hernia (LIVHR). With the development of newer prosthetic devices and fixation devices, laparoscopic repair has found its applicability not only in primary ventral and incisional hernia repair but also in parastomal and parapubic hernias. According to the recent IEHS guidelines, laparoscopic repair is considered the standard of care for management of patients with ventral and incisional hernia [2]. LIVHR is a very safe procedure and provides patients all the benefits of laparoscopic surgery like early return to activity and shorter hospital stay. However, unlike other laparoscopic procedures, although pain is less in open repair, it still is associated with considerable pain in the postoperative period because of the use of mesh fixation devices like tackers. Like all procedures laparoscopic repair is associated with certain intraoperative and postoperative complications which are important to be diagnosed and managed [2].

INTRODUCTION: Large scrotal hernias are rare, constituting