Barrier agents for preventing adhesions after surgery for subfertility

Efficacy and safety of robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy versus laparoscopic myomectomy: a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Systematic evaluation of the efficacy and safety of robotic-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RALM) versus laparoscopic myomectomy (LM).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science database were searched by computer to seek relevant literature in order to compare the efficacy and safety of RALM with that of LM from the establishment of the databases to January 2023, and Review Manager 5.4 software was utilized to perform a meta-analysis on the literature.

RESULTS

A total of 15 retrospective clinical controlled studies were included. There exists a total of 45,702 patients, among 11,618 patients in the RALM group and the remaining 34,084 patients in the LM group. Meta-analysis results revealed that RALM was associated with lesser intraoperative bleeding (MD =  - 32.03, 95%CI - 57.24 to - 6.83, P = 0.01), lower incidence of blood transfusions (OR = 0.86, 95%CI 0.77 to 0.97, P = 0.01), shorter postoperative hospital stay (MD =  - 0.11, 95%CI - 0.21 to - 0.01, P = 0.03), fewer transitions to open stomach (OR = 0.82, 95%CI 0.73 to 0.92, P = 0.0006), and lower incidence of postoperative complications (OR = 0.58, 95%CI 0.40 to 0.86, P = 0.006) than LM, whereas LM is more advantageous in terms of operative time (MD = 38.61, 95%CI 19.36 to 57.86, P < 0.0001). There was no statistical difference between the two surgical methods in terms of maximum myoma diameter (MD = 0.26, 95%CI - 0.17 to 0.70, P = 0.24).

CONCLUSION

In the aspects of intraoperative bleeding, lower incidence of blood transfusions, postoperative hospital stay, transit open stomach rate, and postoperative complications, RALM has a unique advantage than that of LM, while LM has advantages over RALM in terms of operative time.

The use of sealing hemostat patch (HEMOPATCH®) in laparotomic myomectomy: a prospective case-control study

PURPOSE

Uterine myomas are the most common gynecological disease. In these cases, a myomectomy is performed traditionally laparotomically. However, alternatives have been widely used, including laparoscopic, endoscopic, and robotic surgery. During these techniques, diffuse parenchymatous bleeding remains one of the main intraoperative and postoperative complications and sometimes requires unplanned hysterectomies. Recently, hemostatic agents and sealants have been used to prevent excessive blood loss during surgical repair.

METHODS

We propose a prospective case-control study on the use of a sealing hemostat patch (HEMOPATCH^®) on uterine sutures in laparotomic myomectomy. In the period between July 2016 and April 2017, 46 patients with symptomatic uterine fibromatosis underwent surgery. They were divided into two groups of 23 patients, with different treatments in the hemostatic phase of oozing bleeding. HEMOPATCH^® is applied in group A, and spray electrocoagulation is applied in group B.

RESULTS

In group A, we achieve faster hemostasis (p < 0.05), than in group B. We report a significantly lower C-reactive protein value on the second and third days after surgery for group A compared to group B.

CONCLUSIONS

HEMOPATCH^®, during laparotomic myomectomy, is a valid alternative solution for obtaining rapid hemostasis and consequently intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. Furthermore, we suggest that a lower inflammatory peritoneal state is probably correlated with the barrier effect of the patch on the suture.

Progress in diagnosis and treatment of surgery-related adhesive small intestinal obstruction

Adhesive small bowel obstruction is a relatively common surgical acute abdomen, which is caused by various factors that result in the contents of the small bowel failing to pass smoothly. The clinical symptoms include abdominal pain, distension, nausea and vomiting, and defecation disorder. The chance of adhesive small bowel obstruction to develop in patients with a history of abdominal surgery is around 2.4%. This paper discusses the most recent developments in the conservative and surgical management of adhesive small bowel obstruction based on clinical manifestation, laboratory analysis, and imaging examination.

Balance of antiperitoneal adhesion, hemostasis, and operability of compressed bilayer ultrapure alginate sponges

In surgery, both antiperitoneal adhesion barriers and hemostats with high efficiency and excellent handling are necessary. However, antiadhesion and hemostasis have been examined separately. In this study, six different ultrapure alginate bilayer sponges with thicknesses of 10, 50, 100, 200, 300, and 500 μm were fabricated via lyophilization and subsequent mechanical compression. Compression significantly enhanced mechanical strength and improved handling. Furthermore, it had a complex effect on dissolution time and contact angle. Therefore, the 100 μm compressed sponge showed the highest hemostatic activity in the liver bleeding model in mice, whereas the 200 μm sponge demonstrated the highest antiadhesion efficacy among the compressed sponges in a Pean crush hepatectomy-induced adhesion model in rats. For the first time, we systematically evaluated the effect of sponge compression on foldability, fluid absorption, mechanical strength, hemostatic effect, and antiadhesion properties. The optimum thickness of an alginate bilayer sponge by compression balances antiperitoneal adhesion and hemostasis simultaneously.

Prevention of Post-Operative Adhesions: A Comprehensive Review of Present and Emerging Strategies

Post-operative adhesions affect patients undergoing all types of surgeries. They are associated with serious complications, including higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Given increased hospitalization, longer operative times, and longer length of hospital stay, post-surgical adhesions also pose a great financial burden. Although our knowledge of some of the underlying mechanisms driving adhesion formation has significantly improved over the past two decades, literature has yet to fully explain the pathogenesis and etiology of post-surgical adhesions. As a result, finding an ideal preventative strategy and leveraging appropriate tissue engineering strategies has proven to be difficult. Different products have been developed and enjoyed various levels of success along the translational tissue engineering research spectrum, but their clinical translation has been limited. Herein, we comprehensively review the agents and products that have been developed to mitigate post-operative adhesion formation. We also assess emerging strategies that aid in facilitating precision and personalized medicine to improve outcomes for patients and our healthcare system.

Appendectomy and women’s reproductive outcomes: a review of the literature

Background

The most frequent abdominal surgery performed for benign disease in females of fertile age is appendectomy, which remains among the most common surgeries and is a possible cause of peritoneal adhesions. The fact that appendectomy can cause adhesions may lead one to think that this may be a relevant risk factor for infertility; however, there is no universal agreement regarding the association between appendectomy and fertility. The aim of this review is to evaluate weather appendectomy may have a relevant impact on female fertility.

Methods

The search was conducted in PubMed and there was no limitation set on the date of publication. All studies regarding populations of female patients who had undergone appendectomy for inflamed appendix, perforated appendix, or negative appendix between childhood and the end of the reproductive period were included.

Results

Some authors believe that pelvic surgery can cause adhesions which can potentially lead to tubal infertility by causing tubal obstruction or by altering motility of fimbriae, tubal fluid secretion, and embryo transport. On the other hand, the most recent evidence reported that removal of the appendix seems to be associated with an increased pregnancy rate in large population studies.

Conclusion

Despite the existence of contrasting opinions concerning fertility after appendectomy, the most recent evidence suggests that appendectomy may actually lead to improved fertility and decreased time to pregnancy. Appendectomy seems to be correlated with improved fertility and higher pregnancy rates.

Effectiveness of barrier agents for preventing postoperative bowel obstruction after laparoscopic surgery: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The effectiveness of using anti-adhesion agents in laparoscopic surgery is controversial. We compared the outcomes of patients exposed to anti-adhesion agents (barrier group) with those of patients not exposed (no barrier group) in laparoscopic surgery.

METHODS

Using a nationwide claim-based database in Japan, we analyzed data from patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery between 2005 and 2019 and compared the patient characteristics and the proportion of those with bowel obstruction between the barrier and no barrier groups. We also performed several sensitivity and subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

Of the 57,499 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 14,360 and 43,139 were assigned to the barrier and no barrier groups, respectively. The proportion of patients with a bowel obstruction in the two groups did not differ among all patients hospitalized for obstruction (1.1 vs. 1.1%, p = 0.63) and those requiring surgery (0.2 vs. 0.2%, p = 0.39). In the sensitivity analysis with propensity score matching, the incidences of bowel obstruction between the barrier and non-barrier groups were equivocal (1.3 vs. 1.6%), but statistically marginal (chi-square test, p = 0.035; log-rank test, p = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

The use of barrier agents for adhesive prevention did not show clear effectiveness for the prevention of bowel obstruction after laparoscopic surgery for unselected cases. Further studies focusing on more specific procedures are needed.

A New Thermo-Responsive Hyaluronic Acid Sol-Gel to Prevent Intrauterine Adhesions after Hysteroscopic Surgery: A Randomized, Non-Inferiority Trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of a newly developed thermo-responsive sol-gel, ABT13107, for reducing the formation of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) after hysteroscopic surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this multicenter, prospective, randomized trial (Canadian Task Force classification I), 192 women scheduled to undergo a hysteroscopic surgery at one of the eight university hospitals in South Korea were randomized into the ABT13107 group or the comparator (Hyalobarrier®) group in a 1:1 ratio. During hysteroscopic surgery, ABT13107 or Hyalobarrier® was injected to sufficiently cover the entire intrauterine cavity.

RESULTS

The patients returned to their respective sites for safety assessments at postoperative weeks 1 and 4 and for efficacy assessments at postoperative week 4. The post-surgery incidence of IUAs was 23.4% in the ABT13107 group and 25.8% in the comparator group; this difference met the criteria for ABT13107 to be considered as not inferior to the comparator. No differences were found in the extent of adhesions, types of adhesions, or the cumulative American Fertility Society score between the two treatment groups. Most adverse events were mild in severity, and no serious adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

ABT13107, a new anti-adhesive barrier containing hyaluronic acid, was not inferior to the highly viscous hyaluronic acid anti-adhesive barrier, Hyalurobarrier® in IUA formation after hysteroscopic surgery (Clinical trial registration No. NCT04007211).

Barrier agents for adhesion prevention after gynaecological surgery

BACKGROUND

Pelvic adhesions can form secondary to inflammation, endometriosis, or surgical trauma. Strategies to reduce pelvic adhesion formation include placing barrier agents such as oxidised regenerated cellulose, polytetrafluoroethylene, and fibrin or collagen sheets between pelvic structures.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of barrier agents used during pelvic surgery on rates of pain, live birth, and postoperative adhesions in women of reproductive age.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases in August 2019: the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility (CGF) Specialised Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycINFO, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Epistemonikos, and trial registries. We searched reference lists of relevant papers, conference proceedings, and grey literature sources. We contacted pharmaceutical companies for information and handsearched relevant journals and conference abstracts.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of barrier agents compared with other barrier agents, placebo, or no treatment for prevention of adhesions in women undergoing gynaecological surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Three review authors independently assessed trials for eligibility and risk of bias and extracted data. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a fixed-effect model. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence using GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methods.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 19 RCTs (1316 women). Seven RCTs randomised women; the remainder randomised pelvic organs. Laparoscopy (eight RCTs) and laparotomy (11 RCTs) were the primary surgical techniques. Indications for surgery included myomectomy (seven RCTs), ovarian surgery (five RCTs), pelvic adhesions (five RCTs), endometriosis (one RCT), and mixed gynaecological surgery (one RCT). The sole indication for surgery in three of the RCTs was infertility. Thirteen RCTs reported commercial funding; the rest did not state their source of funding. No studies reported our primary outcomes of pelvic pain and live birth rate. Oxidised regenerated cellulose versus no treatment at laparoscopy or laparotomy (13 RCTs) At second-look laparoscopy, we are uncertain whether oxidised regenerated cellulose at laparoscopy reduced the incidence of de novo adhesions (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.83, 3 RCTs, 360 participants; I² = 75%; very low-quality evidence) or of re-formed adhesions (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.41, 3 RCTs, 100 participants; I² = 36%; very low-quality evidence). At second-look laparoscopy, we are uncertain whether oxidised regenerated cellulose affected the incidence of de novo adhesions after laparotomy (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.25, 1 RCT, 271 participants; very low-quality evidence). However, the incidence of re-formed adhesions may have been reduced in the intervention group (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.55, 6 RCTs, 554 participants; I² = 41%; low-quality evidence). No studies reported results on pelvic pain, live birth rate, adhesion score, or clinical pregnancy rate. Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene versus oxidised regenerated cellulose at gynaecological surgery (two RCTs) We are uncertain whether expanded polytetrafluoroethylene reduced the incidence of de novo adhesions at second-look laparoscopy (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.26 to 3.41, 38 participants; very low-quality evidence). We are also uncertain whether expanded polytetrafluoroethylene resulted in a lower adhesion score (out of 11) (MD -3.79, 95% CI -5.12 to -2.46, 62 participants; very low-quality evidence) or a lower risk of re-formed adhesions (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.80, 23 participants; very low-quality evidence) when compared with oxidised regenerated cellulose. No studies reported results regarding pelvic pain, live birth rate, or clinical pregnancy rate. Collagen membrane with polyethylene glycol and glycerol versus no treatment at gynaecological surgery (one RCT) Evidence suggests that collagen membrane with polyethylene glycol and glycerol may reduce the incidence of adhesions at second-look laparoscopy (OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.77, 47 participants; low-quality evidence). We are uncertain whether collagen membrane with polyethylene glycol and glycerol improved clinical pregnancy rate (OR 5.69, 95% CI 1.38 to 23.48, 39 participants; very low-quality evidence). One study reported adhesion scores but reported them as median scores rather than mean scores (median score 0.8 in the treatment group vs median score 1.2 in the control group) and therefore could not be included in the meta-analysis. The reported P value was 0.230, and no evidence suggests a difference between treatment and control groups. No studies reported results regarding pelvic pain or live birth rate. In total, 15 of the 19 RCTs included in this review reported adverse events. No events directly attributed to adhesion agents were reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence on the effects of barrier agents used during pelvic surgery on pelvic pain or live birth rate in women of reproductive age because no trial reported these outcomes. It is difficult to draw credible conclusions due to lack of evidence and the low quality of included studies. Given this caveat, low-quality evidence suggests that collagen membrane with polyethylene glycol plus glycerol may be more effective than no treatment in reducing the incidence of adhesion formation following pelvic surgery. Low-quality evidence also shows that oxidised regenerated cellulose may reduce the incidence of re-formation of adhesions when compared with no treatment at laparotomy. It is not possible to draw conclusions on the relative effectiveness of these interventions due to lack of evidence. No adverse events directly attributed to the adhesion agents were reported. The quality of the evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Common limitations were imprecision and poor reporting of study methods. Most studies were commercially funded, and publication bias could not be ruled out.

Anti-adhesive effects of a newly developed two-layered gelatin sheet in dogs

Aim

Adhesion after pelvic surgery causes infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and ileus or abdominal pain. The materials currently available for clinical use are insufficient. The purpose of this study was to develop an anti‐adhesive material that overcomes the limitations of conventional anti‐adhesive agents.

Methods

The adhesion prevention effects of three methods – a two‐layered sheet composed of gelatin film and gelatin sponge, Seprafilm and INTERCEED – were evaluated in 37 dogs. Anti‐adhesive effects were investigated macroscopically and microscopically in a cauterized uterus adhesion model. Cell growth on the materials in vitro using human peritoneal mesothelial cells, fibroblasts and uterine smooth muscle cells were also evaluated.

Results

The two‐layered gelatin sheet had significantly superior anti‐adhesive effects compared to the conventional materials (Seprafilm and INTERCEED). A single‐cell layer of mature mesothelium formed three weeks after surgery in the gelatin group. Peritoneum regeneration in the Seprafilm and INTERCEED groups was delayed and incomplete in the early phase. Little inflammation around the materials occurred and cell growth was significantly proliferated with the gelatin sheet.

Conclusion

The anti‐adhesive effects of a two‐layered gelatin sheet were superior to conventional agents in a cauterized canine uterus model, demonstrating early regeneration of the peritoneum, little inflammation and material endurance. The newly developed two‐layered gelatin sheet is a useful option as an anti‐adhesive agent for deeply injured and hemorrhagic sites.

Barrier agents for adhesion prevention after gynaecological surgery

BACKGROUND

Pelvic adhesions can form as a result of inflammation, endometriosis or surgical trauma. During pelvic surgery, strategies to reduce pelvic adhesion formation include placing barrier agents such as oxidised regenerated cellulose, polytetrafluoroethylene or fibrin sheets between the pelvic structures.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of barrier agents used during pelvic surgery on rates of pain, live birth and postoperative adhesions in women of reproductive age.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases in February 2015: the Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group (MDSG) Specialised Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and trial registries. We handsearched relevant journals, conference proceedings and grey literature sources and we contacted pharmaceutical companies for information.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of the use of barrier agents compared with other barrier agents, placebo or no treatment for the prevention of adhesions in women undergoing gynaecological surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for eligibility and risk of bias and extracted the data. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a fixed effect model. The overall quality of the evidence was assessed using GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methods.

MAIN RESULTS

Eighteen RCTs (1262 women) were included. Six RCTs randomised women; the remainder randomised pelvic organs. Laparoscopy (eight RCTs) and laparotomy (10 RCTs) were the primary surgical techniques. Indications for surgery included myomectomy (six RCTs), ovarian surgery (five RCTs), pelvic adhesions (five RCTs), endometriosis (one RCT) and mixed (one RCT). The sole indication for surgery in three of the RCTs was infertility. Twelve RCTs reported commercial funding; the rest did not state their source of funding.No studies reported either of our primary outcomes of pelvic pain and live birth. Oxidised regenerated cellulose (Interceed) versus no treatment at laparoscopy or laparotomy (13 RCTs)At second-look laparoscopy oxidised regenerated cellulose at laparoscopy was associated with reduced incidence of de novo adhesions (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.83, three RCTs, 360 participants, I(2) = 75%, very low-quality evidence) and of re-formed adhesions (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.41, three RCTs, 100 participants, I(2) = 36%, low quality evidence).At second-look laparoscopy no evidence was found of any difference between the groups in the incidence of de novo adhesions after laparotomy (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.25, one RCT, 271 participants, I(2) = 41%, low-quality evidence). However, the incidence of re-formed adhesions was lower in the intervention group (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.55, six RCTs, 554 participants, moderate-quality evidence). Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) versus no treatment at gynaecological surgery (one RCT) The evidence suggested that at second-look laparoscopy expanded polytetrafluoroethylene was associated with a reduction in new adhesion formation (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.94, one RCT, 42 participants, low-quality evidence). Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) versus oxidised regenerated cellulose (Interceed) at gynaecological surgery (two RCTs)One RCT found no difference between the groups at second-look laparoscopy in the incidence of de novo adhesions (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.26 to 3.41, 38 participants, very low-quality evidence). A second RCT suggested that the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene group had a lower adhesion score (out of 11) (MD -3.79, 95% CI -5.12 to -2.46, 62 participants, very low-quality evidence) and a lower risk of re-formed adhesions (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.80, 23 participants, very low-quality evidence). This last finding was sensitive to choice of effect estimate and no longer suggested a difference between the groups when a risk ratio was calculated (RR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13 to 1.01). Sodium hyaluronate and carboxymethylcellulose (Seprafilm) versus no treatment at gynaecological surgery (one RCT)Sodium hyaluronate and carboxymethylcellulose was associated with a lower adhesion score (out of 4) at second-look laparoscopy (MD 0.49, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.45, one RCT, 127 participants, moderate-quality evidence). Fibrin sheet versus no treatment at laparoscopic myomectomy (one RCT)There was no evidence of a difference between the groups in the incidence of de novo adhesions at second-look laparoscopy (OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.42 to 3.41, one RCT, 62 participants) or in adhesion score (out of 4) (MD 0.14, 95% CI -0.67 to 0.39, one RCT, 48 participants, low-quality evidence).Fourteen of the 18 RCTs reported adverse events. No events directly attributed to adhesion agents were reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence on the effects of barrier agents used during pelvic surgery on either pain or fertility outcomes in women of reproductive age.Low quality evidence suggests that oxidised regenerated cellulose (Interceed), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) and sodium hyaluronate with carboxymethylcellulose (Seprafilm) may all be more effective than no treatment in reducing the incidence of adhesion formation following pelvic surgery. There is no conclusive evidence on the relative effectiveness of these interventions. There is no evidence to suggest that fibrin sheet is more effective than no treatment. No adverse events directly attributed to the adhesion agents were reported. The quality of the evidence ranged from very low to moderate. The most common limitations were imprecision and poor reporting of study methods. Most studies were commercially funded, and publication bias could not be ruled out.

Current status of the use of antiadhesive agents for gastric cancer surgery: a questionnaire survey in South Korea

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the current status of the use of antiadhesive agents (AAdAs) via a questionnaire and to discuss the availability of AAdAs.

METHODS

The survey was sent to a list of members that was approved by the Korean Gastric Association. The survey included questions on AAdA use by surgeons, the type of AAdAs used, and the reasons for not using AAdAs. Surgeons were also asked to describe complications related to AAdAs, and the reliability of its use.

RESULTS

The response rate was 21%. The rates of frequent use stratified by procedure were 26.9% (14/52) for open gastrectomy, 5.9% (3/51) for laparoscopic gastrectomy, and 31.5% (17/54) for surgery for postoperative bowel obstruction (P < 0.01). After including data from the occasional use group, the corresponding values were 51.9% (27/52), 19.6% (10/51), and 70.4% (38/54), respectively (P < 0.01). Sefrafilm and Guardix were most commonly used for open procedures. Guardix and Interceed were most commonly used for laparoscopic surgery. The primary reasons for nonuse of AAdAs were ineffectiveness and high cost. Ten percent (4/40) of surgeons observed complications associated with AAdAs. A minority (17.3%, 9/52) had positive attitudes toward AAdAs. The majority of respondents expressed neutral (73.1%, 38/52) or negative (9.6%, 5/52) attitudes toward AAdAs.

CONCLUSION

The low use rates of AAdAs in gastric cancer surgery may be attributable to perceptions that AAdAs are ineffective, unreliable, and costly. We anticipate the emergence of promising antiadhesive strategies that reach far beyond the limitations of current products.

Adhesion-preventing properties of 4% icodextrin and canola oil: a comparative experimental study

OBJECTIVE

Postsurgical abdominal adhesions are common, serious postoperative complications. The present study compared the usefulness of 4% icodextrin and canola oil in preventing postoperative peritoneal adhesions.

METHODS

Twenty-four Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups. Following a laparotomy, a serosal abrasion was made by brushing the cecum, and 3 mL of 0.9% NaCl, 4% icodextrin, or 3 mL of canola oil were intraperitoneally administered for the control, icodextrin, and canola oil groups, respectively. The abdomen was then closed. All of the rats were sacrificed at day 10. Macroscopic, histopathological, and biochemical evaluations were performed. The results were statistically analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and ANOVA tests.

RESULTS

Macroscopic analyses revealed that both canola oil and 4% icodextrin reduced adhesion formation, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.17). The histopathological examinations revealed no significant differences in terms of giant cell, lymphocyte/plasmocyte, neutrophil, ICAM1, or PECAM1 scores. However, both canola oil and 4% icodextrin significantly reduced fibrosis (p = 0.025). In the canola oil group, the histiocytic reactions were significantly increased (p = 0.001), and the hydroxyproline levels were significantly lower than those in the other groups (p = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, canola oil was determined to be superior to 4% icodextrin in lowering hydroxyproline levels and increasing histiocytic reactions. Considering these results, we believe that canola oil is a promising agent for preventing adhesion formation.

The use of novel hemostatic sealant (Tisseel) in laparoscopic myomectomy: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

This is the first case-control study on the use of a fibrin sealant (Tisseel) on uterine suture during laparoscopic myomectomy (LM), with the primary endpoint to evaluate the intraoperative bleeding and postoperative blood loss. In addition, we evaluated the time required to achieve hemostasis using Tisseel and how much it can influence operative time.

METHODS

From December 2009 to January 2011, consecutive patients older than 18 years with symptomatic isolate intramural myoma with maximal diameter B6 cm and ≥ 4 cm and with a sonographically diagnosed free myometrium margin ≥ 0.5 cm were included in the study. We selected from our institute's database a group of consecutive patients with homogeneous features of the study group, who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy without Tisseel application.

RESULTS

Fifteen women with symptomatic myoma were enrolled in the study (group A). Regarding the control group (group B), we selected a homogenous group of 15 patients with the same preoperative characteristics of the study group. Mean operative time was 47.7 min and 62.1 min, for groups A and B respectively (p < 0.05). Mean time required to achieve complete haemostasis was 195.5 s in group A and 361.8 in control group B (p < 0.0001). Mean estimated blood loss was 111.3 mL and 230 mL in groups A and B, respectively (p < 0.05). Mean hemoglobin decrease was 1.36 g/dL and 2.04 g/dL in groups A and B, respectively (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of Tisseel during LM may represent a valid alternative solution for obtaining hemostasis, reducing intra- and postoperative bleeding. Furthermore, it may help the surgeon to obtain a rapid healing of the injured surfaces, probably reducing the use of electrocoagulationand traumatisms.

Prevention of intra-peritoneal adhesions in gynaecological surgery: theory and evidence

Post-operative adhesions are a significant complication of all abdominal surgical procedures. The major strategies for adhesion prevention in gynaecological surgery are focused on the optimization of surgical technique and use of anti-adhesive agents, which fall into two main categories: pharmacological agents and barriers. Surgical technique that minimizes peritoneal trauma can reduce, but cannot prevent post-operative adhesion formation. Various local and systemic drugs that can alter the local inflammatory response, inhibit the coagulation cascade and promote fibrinolysis have been evaluated. Limited data support the administration of post-operative corticosteroids in addition to systemic intra-operative corticosteroids for the prevention of adhesions after gynaecological surgery. None of the remaining pharmacological agents have been found effective for the reduction of post-operative adhesions. Barriers are currently considered the most useful adjuncts, which may reduce adhesion formation. They act by separating the traumatized peritoneal surfaces during the healing period. The separation can be achieved by solid barriers or fluids. There is limited evidence from randomized clinical trials that support the beneficial effect of most of these barrier agents in the prevention of intra-peritoneal adhesions after gynaecological surgery. However, the evidence is not adequate for definite conclusions to be drawn and further research in this field is warranted.

Barrier agents for adhesion prevention after gynaecological surgery

BACKGROUND

Pelvic adhesion can form as a result of inflammation, endometriosis or surgical trauma. During pelvic surgery, strategies to reduce pelvic adhesion formation may include placing synthetic barrier agents such as oxidised regenerated cellulose, polytetrafluoroethylene or Fibrin sheets between the pelvic structures.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of physical barriers used during pelvic surgery in women of reproductive age on pregnancy rates, pelvic pain, or postoperative adhesion reformation.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Trials Register (searched September 2007) which is based on regular searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and CENTRAL, plus handsearching of 20 relevant journals and conference proceedings, and searches of several key grey literature sources. In addition, companies were contacted for unpublished trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Any randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the use of physical barriers versus no treatment or other physical barriers in the prevention of adhesions in women undergoing gynaecological surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Review authors assessed trial eligibility and quality.

MAIN RESULTS

Sixteen RCTs were included. Five trials randomised patients while the remainder randomised pelvic organs. Laparoscopy (six trials) and laparotomy (10 trials) were the primary surgical techniques. Indications for surgery included myomectomy (five trials), ovarian surgery (five trials), pelvic adhesions (four trials), endometriosis (one trial), and mixed (one trial). Eleven trials assessed Interceed versus no treatment, two assessed Interceed versus Gore-Tex, one trial assessed Gore-Tex versus no treatment, and one trial assessed Seprafilm versus no treatment. A single trial assessed Fibrin sheet versus no treatment. No studies reported pregnancy or reduction in pain as outcomes. The use of Interceed was associated with reduced incidence of pelvic adhesion formation, both new formation and reformation following laparoscopic surgery or laparotomy. However, this result should be interpreted with caution. Gore-Tex was more effective than no barrier or Interceed in preventing adhesion formation. There was only limited evidence that Seprafilm was effective in preventing adhesion formation following myomectomy and no evidence to support Fibrin sheet.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The absorbable adhesion barrier Interceed reduces the incidence of adhesion formation following laparoscopy and laparotomy, but there are insufficient data to support its use to improve pregnancy rates. Gore-Tex may be superior to Interceed in preventing adhesion formation but its usefulness is limited by the need for suturing and later removal. There was no evidence of effectiveness of Seprafilm and Fibrin sheet in preventing adhesion formation.

Restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis revisited

Since restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) with ileal-pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) removes the entire diseased mucosa, it has become firmly established as the standard operative procedure of choice for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Many technical controversies still persist, such as mesenteric lengthening techniques, close rectal wall proctectomy, endoanal mucosectomy vs. double stapled anastomosis, loop ileostomy omission and a laparoscopic approach. Despite the complexity of the operation, IPAA is safe (mortality: 0.5-1%), it carries an acceptable risk of non-life-threatening complications (10-25%), and it achieves good long-term functional outcome with excellent patient satisfaction (over 95%). In contrast to the high incidence in patients operated for ulcerative colitis (UC) (15-20%), the occurrence of pouchitis after IPAA seems to be rare in FAP patients (0-11%). Even after IPAA, FAP patients are still at risk of developing adenomas (and occasional adenocarcinomas), either in the anal canal (10-31%) or in the ileal pouch itself (8-62%), thus requiring lifelong endoscopic monitoring. IPAA operation does not jeopardise pregnancy and childbirth, but it does impair female fecundity and has a low risk of impairment of erection and ejaculation in young males. The latter can almost completely be avoided by a careful "close rectal wall" proctectomy technique. Some argue that low risk patients (e.g. <5 rectal polyps) can be identified where ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) might be reasonable. We feel that the risk of rectal cancer after IRA means that IPAA should be recommended for the vast majority of FAP patients. We accept that in some very selected cases, based on clinical and genetics data (and perhaps influenced by patient choice regarding female fecundity), a stepwise surgical strategy with a primary IPA followed at a later age by a secondary proctectomy with IPAA could be proposed.

An Assessment of the Effects of Two Types of Bioresorbable Barriers to Prevent Postoperative Intra-Abdominal Adhesions in Rats

PURPOSE

This study assessed and compared the efficacy of two types of bioresorbable membranes in the prevention of postoperative adhesion under clean contaminated and bacterial peritonitis conditions using a cecal ligation and puncture model in rats.

METHODS

Wistar albino rats (n = 72) were divided into six groups. Bacterial peritonitis was induced using a cecal ligation and puncture model in groups 2, 4, and 6. Groups 1, 3, and 5 served as controls for clean contaminated procedures in the absence of bacterial peritonitis. Groups 1 and 2 were the untreated clean contaminated and bacterial peritonitis groups and served as controls for the effect of the bioresorbable membranes in each condition. In groups 3 and 4, a 1.5 x 3 cm USP glycerol/sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose membrane was wrapped around the cecal resection area and a 2 x 4 cm membrane was left under the incision. The oxidized regenerated cellulose membrane was similarly applied in groups 5 and 6. Four weeks later, the adhesions were evaluated. In addition, fibrosis and inflammation were observed histopathologically.

RESULTS

Adhesion development (P = .008), fibrosis (P = .008), and inflammation (P = .0001) differed among the groups. Both materials increased adhesion formation in the bacterial peritonitis condition. Increased fibrotic activity was detected in all material-applied groups under both conditions. In addition, more inflammation was detected in the groups that received the application of a material, especially in the presence of bacterial peritonitis.

CONCLUSION

Neither material prevented adhesions in clean contaminated conditions. Moreover, they increased adhesion formation in bacterial peritonitis.

A randomized, prospective, controlled, multicenter clinical trial of a sprayable, site-specific adhesion barrier system in patients undergoing myomectomy

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and effectiveness of a sprayable, site-specific adhesion barrier system (SprayGel; Confluent Surgical, Waltham, MA) for reduction of adhesion formation.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, controlled phase III trial.

SETTING

University clinic (Kiel, Germany) and private clinic (Bordeaux, France).

PATIENT(S)

Sixty-six women aged 34.9 years (range, 23-52 years) undergoing laparoscopic or open uterine myomectomy, enrolled over a 15-month period.

INTERVENTION(S)

Patients were randomized to receive either optimal surgical treatment plus adhesion barrier or optimal surgical treatment alone, followed by second-look laparoscopy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Initial and second-look laparoscopy procedures were assessed for incidence, extent, and severity of adhesions; all patients were followed for safety analysis.

RESULT(S)

When compared with initial surgery, the mean adhesion tenacity score of adhesions seen at second-look laparoscopy was significantly reduced in treatment patients compared with control patients (0.6 vs. 1.7, a 64.7% reduction). Mean adhesion extent score at second-look laparoscopy compared with initial surgery was 4.5 cm(2) vs. 7.2 cm(2), mean adhesion incidence score was 0.64 vs. 1.22. Of 64 patients, 40 (62.5%) returned for second-look laparoscopy.

CONCLUSION(S)

This adhesion barrier was safe, well tolerated, and demonstrated efficacy in a population of patients known to be at risk for adhesion formation. There were no adverse effects attributable to the product and no patients in whom it could not be applied.

Survey Among Members of the Roman Group of Gynecologic Endoscopy on the Use of Agents for Postoperative Adhesion Prevention

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patterns of use of agents for postoperative adhesion prevention.

DESIGN

Mail survey.

SETTING

Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, university-affiliated and public hospitals, Rome, Italy.

PARTICIPANTS

Members of the Roman Group of Gynecologic Endoscopy.

INTERVENTION

Evaluation of forms returned.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The response rate to either electronic or regular mailing was 31%, for a total of 42 forms evaluated. For laparoscopy, the perceived postoperative de novo adhesion formation rate was 0%-25%, whereas the adhesion reformation rate was 26%-75%; for laparotomy, the rates were 26%-75% and >75%, respectively. Sixty-five percent of the respondents were using at least one method for postoperative adhesion prevention during laparoscopy, and 68% during laparotomy. The most frequently used method during laparoscopy was Ringer's lactate (77% of the respondents), followed by ferric hyaluronate gel (46% of the respondents), and 4% icodextrin (39% of respondents). During laparotomy, the most frequently used methods were Ringer's lactate (28%), normal saline (20%), and 4% icodextrin (20%). Antibiotic prophylaxis was used by 87.5% of respondents.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative adhesion formation, and especially reformation, are perceived as significant problems. Sixty-five percent of the respondents used some method for adhesion prevention after operative laparoscopy, with Ringer's lactate, ferric hyaluronate gel, and 4% icodextrin being the most frequently used.

Mesothelial cells: their structure, function and role in serosal repair

The mesothelium is composed of an extensive monolayer of specialized cells (mesothelial cells) that line the body's serous cavities and internal organs. Traditionally, this layer was thought to be a simple tissue with the sole function of providing a slippery, non-adhesive and protective surface to facilitate intracoelomic movement. However, with the gradual accumulation of information about serosal tissues over the years, the mesothelium is now recognized as a dynamic cellular membrane with many important functions. These include transport and movement of fluid and particulate matter across the serosal cavities, leucocyte migration in response to inflammatory mediators, synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors and extracellular matrix proteins to aid in serosal repair, release of factors to promote both the deposition and clearance of fibrin, and antigen presentation. Furthermore, the secretion of molecules, such as glycosaminoglycans and lubricants, not only protects tissues from abrasion, but also from infection and possibly tumour dissemination. Mesothelium is also unlike other epithelial-like surfaces because healing appears diffusely across the denuded surface, whereas in true epithelia, healing occurs solely at the wound edges as sheets of cells. Although controversial, recent studies have begun to shed light on the mechanisms involved in mesothelial regeneration. In the present review, the current understanding of the structure and function of the mesothelium and the biology of mesothelial cells is discussed, together with recent insights into the mechanisms regulating its repair.