Laparoscopic surgery: pitfalls due to anesthesia, positioning, and pneumoperitoneum

Efficacy of modified thoracoabdominal nerve block through perichondrial approach following laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair surgery: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Modified thoracoabdominal nerve block through perichondrial approach is a novel fascial plane block and provides abdominal analgesia by blocking thoracoabdominal nerves. Our primary aim was to evaluate the efficacy of M-TAPA on quality of recovery and pain scores in patients who underwent laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair surgery (Trans Abdominal Pre-Peritoneal approach ‒ TAPP).

METHODS

Patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II aged between 18 and 65 years scheduled for elective TAPP under general anesthesia were enrolled in the study. After intubation, the patients were randomized into two groups: M: M-TAPA group (n = 30) and the control group (n = 30). M-TAPA was performed with total 40 ml 0.25% bupivacaine in the M group. Surgical infiltration was performed in the control group. The primary outcome of the study was the global quality of recovery score, the secondary outcomes were pain scores, rescue analgesic demands, and adverse effects during the 24-h postoperative period.

RESULTS

The global quality of recovery scores at 24 h were significantly higher in the M group (p < 0.001). There was a reduction in the median static and dynamic NRS for the first postoperative 8 h in the M group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The need for rescue analgesia was significantly lower in the M group compared to the control group (13 patients vs. 24 respectively, p < 0.001). The incidence of side effects was significantly higher in the control group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In our study, M-TAPA increased patient recovery scores, and provided pain relief in patients who underwent TAPP.

REGISTER NUMBER

NCT05199922.

Effects of deep neuromuscular block on surgical pleth index-guided remifentanil administration in laparoscopic herniorrhaphy: a prospective randomized trial

Deep neuromuscular block (NMB) has been increasingly utilized, but its role in reducing intraoperative opioid requirement has yet to be investigated. Surgical pleth index (SPI) quantifies nociception. We investigated the effects of deep NMB on SPI-guided remifentanil administration in laparoscopic herniorrhaphy. Total 128 patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy were randomly allocated to two groups of NMB: deep (n = 64) and moderate (n = 64). The remifentanil dose was assessed during intubation, from skin incision until CO₂ insertion, and pneumoperitoneum. Mean infusion rate of remifentanil during pneumoperitoneum was higher in moderate NMB group than in deep NMB group (0.103 [0.075-0.143] µg/kg/min vs. 0.073 [0.056-0.097] µg/kg/min, p < 0.001). Consequently, median infusion rate of remifentanil during anesthesia was higher in moderate NMB group (0.076 [0.096-0.067] µg/kg/min vs. 0.067 [0.084-0.058] µg/kg/min, p = 0.016). The duration of post-anesthesia care unit stay was longer in the moderate NMB group (40 [30-40] min vs. 30 [30-40] min, p = 0.045). In conclusion, deep NMB reduced the remifentanil requirement compared with moderate NMB in SPI-guided anesthesia for laparoscopic herniorrhaphy.

Low-pressure versus standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Introduction

It has been previously demonstrated that the rise of intra-abdominal pressures and prolonged exposure to such pressures can produce changes in the cardiovascular and pulmonary dynamic which, though potentially well tolerated in the majority of healthy patients with adequate cardiopulmonary reserve, may be less well tolerated when cardiopulmonary reserve is poor.

Nevertheless, theoretically lowering intra-abdominal pressure could reduce the impact of pneumoperitoneum on the blood circulation of intra-abdominal organs as well as cardiopulmonary function. However, the evidence remains weak, and as such, the debate remains unresolved. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to demonstrate the current knowledge around the effect of pneumoperitoneum at different pressures levels during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Materials and methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis were reported according to the recommendations of the 2020 updated Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and the Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions.

Results

This systematic review and meta-analysis included 44 randomized controlled trials that compared different pressures of pneumoperitoneum in the setting of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Length of hospital, conversion rate, and complications rate were not significantly different, whereas statistically significant differences were observed in post-operative pain and analgesic consumption. According to the GRADE criteria, overall quality of evidence was high for intra-operative bile spillage (critical outcome), overall complications (critical outcome), shoulder pain (critical outcome), and overall post-operative pain (critical outcome). Overall quality of evidence was moderate for conversion to open surgery (critical outcome), post-operative pain at 1 day (critical outcome), post-operative pain at 3 days (important outcome), and bleeding (critical outcome). Overall quality of evidence was low for operative time (important outcome), length of hospital stay (important outcome), post-operative pain at 12 h (critical outcome), and was very low for post-operative pain at 1 h (critical outcome), post-operative pain at 4 h (critical outcome), post-operative pain at 8 h (critical outcome), and post-operative pain at 2 days (critical outcome).

Conclusions

This review allowed us to draw conclusive results from the use of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum with an adequate quality of evidence.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00464-022-09201-1.

High-pressure CO2 insufflation is a risk factor for postoperative ileus in patients undergoing TaTME

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of high-pressure CO₂ insufflation during TaTME on the occurrence of postoperative ileus. All patients undergoing elective transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) between April 2015 and March 2019 were included in a prospective database. Eligible patients were adults with mid and low-level rectal cancer undergoing elective TaTME with colorectal anastomosis and diverting ileostomy, following a standardized ERAS pathway. Patients were divided into a low-pressure (LP) group, where surgery was performed with an intrabdominal CO₂ pressure of 12 mmHg, and a high-pressure (HP) group, where the intrabdominal pressure reached 15 mmHg of CO₂ once the two surgical fields were connected. Of 98 patients undergoing TaTME in the observed period, 74 met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. There was no significant difference in postoperative complications between the LP and HP groups, except for postoperative ileus, which occurred in seven patients (13.2%) in the LP group and seven patients (33.3%) in the HP group (p value 0.046). The logistic multivariate analysis showed that a high intraabdominal CO₂ pressure (OR 7040, 95% CI 1591-31,164, p value 0.01) and male sex (OR 10,343, 95% CI 1078-99,256, p value 0.043) were significantly associated with postoperative ileus after TaTME. Intraabdominal CO₂ pressure should be carefully set, as it may represent a risk factor for postoperative ileus in patients undergoing TaTME.

The effects of a preoperative multidisciplinary conference on outcomes for high-risk patients with challenging surgical treatment options: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Surgical options for patients vary with age and comorbidities, advances in medical technology and patients' wishes. This complexity can make it difficult for surgeons to determine appropriate treatment plans independently. At our institution, final decisions regarding treatment for patients are made at multidisciplinary meetings, termed High-Risk Conferences, led by the Patient Safety Committee.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we assessed the reasons for convening High-Risk Conferences, the final decisions made and treatment outcomes using conference records and patient medical records for conferences conducted at our institution from April 2010 to March 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 410 High-Risk Conferences were conducted for 406 patients during the study period. The department with the most conferences was cardiovascular surgery (24%), and the reasons for convening conferences included the presence of severe comorbidities (51%), highly difficult surgeries (41%) and nonmedical/personal issues (8%). Treatment changes were made for 49 patients (12%), including surgical modifications for 20 patients and surgery cancellation for 29. The most common surgical modification was procedure reduction (16 patients); 4 deaths were reported. Follow-up was available for 21 patients for whom surgery was cancelled, with 11 deaths reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Given that some change to the treatment plan was made for 12% of the patients discussed at the High-Risk Conferences, we conclude that participants of these conferences did not always agree with the original surgical plan and that the multidisciplinary decision-making process of the conferences served to allow for modifications. Many of the modifications involved reductions in procedures to reflect a more conservative approach, which might have decreased perioperative mortality and the incidence of complications as well as unnecessary surgeries. High-risk patients have complex issues, and it is difficult to verify statistically whether outcomes are associated with changes in course of treatment. Nevertheless, these conferences might be useful from a patient safety perspective and minimize the potential for legal disputes.

Renal injury after open versus laparoscopic non-cardiac surgery: a retrospective cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgical approaches enhance recovery, reduce postoperative pain, and shorten hospital length-of-stay. Nevertheless, increased intra-abdominal pressure is associated with decreased renal blood flow, renal hypoxia and acute kidney injury. When combined with Trendelenburg positioning, renal function may further deteriorate. We tested the primary hypothesis that the combination of laparoscopic surgical approach and Trendelenburg position is associated with larger reductions in estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) within the initial 48 postoperative hours compared to open surgery without Trendelenburg positioning. Secondarily, we tested, if laparoscopic procedures are associated with greater incidence of postoperative acute kidney injury.

METHODS

Adults who had laparoscopic colorectal surgery in Trendelenburg position at the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus from 2009 to 2016 were propensity-matched to patients who had comparable open procedures. Patients with pre-existing renal impairment were excluded.

RESULTS

Among 7,357 eligible patients, 1,846 laparoscopic cases with Trendelenburg were matched to 1,846 open cases. No association was found between laparoscopic approach and postoperative eGFR. A significant protective effect of the laparoscopic procedure on the odds of having AKI was found. Patients who had laparoscopic surgeries were an estimated 0.70 (95% CI 0.55, 0.90, p_Holm-adj = 0.006) times as likely to have AKI as open surgical patients.

CONCLUSION

Despite compelling potential mechanisms, laparoscopic approach with Trendelenburg position in adult colorectal surgeries did not worsen postoperative eGFR, and actually reduced postoperative acute kidney injury. Given the other advantages of laparoscopic surgery, the approach should not be avoided for concerns about renal injury.

Random forest modeling using socioeconomic distress predicts hernia repair approach

BACKGROUND

Surgical techniques for abdominal wall hernia repair have advanced, yet it is unclear if all patient populations experience these innovations equally. We hypothesized that in patients undergoing abdominal wall herniorrhaphy, there would be socioeconomic variation between robotic, laparoscopic, and open approaches.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing abdominal wall herniorrhaphy at a tertiary care center from 2013 through 2019. Patients were stratified by approach: laparoscopic (LH), open (OH), or robotic (RH). Insurance type was categorized as private, Medicare, or Medicaid/uninsured. Using zip code data, we obtained a Distressed Communities Index (DCI), which is comprised of 7 unique socioeconomic variables. We employed random forest (RF) modeling to predict surgical approach and determined each factor's variable importance (VI) for our model.

RESULTS

There were 559 patients; 39.7% (n = 222) LH, 33.3% (n = 186) OH, and 27% (n = 151) RH. The DCI (p < 0.01) and rates of poverty (p = 0.01), adults without diplomas (p < 0.01), and unemployment (p < 0.01) were highest in the OH group while job growth (p = 0.02) and median income ratio (p < .01) were highest in the RH group. The LH group had a greater proportion of privately insured patients than Medicaid/ uninsured patients (43.4% vs 15.9%, p < 0.01). The most important variables identified by our RF model were job growth (for RH), insurance type (for LH), and no high school diploma (for OH).

CONCLUSION

Insurance type, job growth, and educational attainment may influence operative approach and can contribute to the existing disparities in hernia surgery. Surgeons should address these inequalities and commit to parity in the delivery of surgical care.

Intraabdominal Pressure Targeted Positive End-expiratory Pressure during Laparoscopic Surgery: An Open-label, Nonrandomized, Crossover, Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic surgery is associated with a rise of driving pressure. The authors aimed to assess the effects of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on driving pressure at varying intraabdominal pressure levels. It was hypothesized that PEEP attenuates pneumoperitoneum-related rises in driving pressure.

METHODS

Open-label, nonrandomized, crossover, clinical trial in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. "Targeted PEEP" (2 cm H2O above intraabdominal pressure) was compared with "standard PEEP" (5 cm H2O), with respect to the transpulmonary and respiratory system driving pressure at three predefined intraabdominal pressure levels, and each patient was ventilated with two levels of PEEP at the three intraabdominal pressure levels in the same sequence. The primary outcome was the difference in transpulmonary driving pressure between targeted PEEP and standard PEEP at the three levels of intraabdominal pressure.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were included and analyzed. Targeted PEEP was 10, 14, and 17 cm H2O at intraabdominal pressure of 8, 12, and 15 mmHg, respectively. Compared to standard PEEP, targeted PEEP resulted in lower median transpulmonary driving pressure at intraabdominal pressure of 8 mmHg (7 [5 to 8] vs. 9 [7 to 11] cm H2O; P = 0.010; difference 2 [95% CI 0.5 to 4 cm H2O]); 12 mmHg (7 [4 to 9] vs.10 [7 to 12] cm H2O; P = 0.002; difference 3 [1 to 5] cm H2O); and 15 mmHg (7 [6 to 9] vs.12 [8 to 15] cm H2O; P < 0.001; difference 4 [2 to 6] cm H2O). The effects of targeted PEEP compared to standard PEEP on respiratory system driving pressure were comparable to the effects on transpulmonary driving pressure, though respiratory system driving pressure was higher than transpulmonary driving pressure at all intraabdominal pressure levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Transpulmonary driving pressure rises with an increase in intraabdominal pressure, an effect that can be counterbalanced by targeted PEEP. Future studies have to elucidate which combination of PEEP and intraabdominal pressure is best in term of clinical outcomes.

The effect of TEAS on the quality of early recovery in patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Introduction

In current study we assessed the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on the quality of early recovery in patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery.

Methods

Sixty patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery were randomly assigned to TEAS (TEAS group) or control group (Con group). TEAS consisted of 30 min of stimulation (12–15 mA, 2/100 Hz) at the acupoints of Baihui (GV20), Yingtang (EX-HN-3), Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6) before anesthesia. The patients in the Con group had the electrodes applied, but received no stimulation. Quality of recovery was assessed using a 40-item questionnaire as a measure of quality of recovery (QoR-40; maximum score 200) scoring system performed on preoperative day 1 (T0), postoperative day 1 (T1) and postoperative day 2 (T2); 100-mm visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at rest, mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scores, the incidence of nausea and vomiting, postoperative pain medications, and antiemetics were also recorded. Results: QoR-40 and MMSE scores of T0 showed no difference between two groups (QoR-40: 197.50 ± 2.57 vs. 195.83 ± 5.17), (MMSE: 26.83 ± 2.74 vs. 27.53 ± 2.88). Compared with the Con group, QoR-40 and MMSE scores of T1 and T2 were higher in the TEAS group (P < 0.05) (QoR-40: T1, 166.07 ± 8.44 vs. 175.33 ± 9.66; T2, 187.73 ± 5.47 vs. 191.40 ± 5.74), (MMSE: T1, 24.60 ± 2.35 vs. 26.10 ± 2.78; T2, 26.53 ± 2.94 vs. 27.83 ± 2.73). VAS scores of T1 and T2 were lower (P < 0.05) in the TEAS group (T1, 4.73 ± 1.53 vs. 3.70 ± 1.41; T2, 2.30 ± 0.95 vs. 1.83 ± 0.88); the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), remedial antiemetics and remedial analgesia was lower in the TEAS group (P < 0.05) (PONV: 56.7% vs. 23.3%; incidence of remedial antiemetics: 53.3% vs. 23.3%; incidence of remedial analgesia: 80% vs. 43.3%).

Conclusion

The use of TEAS significantly promoted the quality of early recovery, improved MMSE scores and reduced the incidence of pain, nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02619578. Registered on 2 December 2015.

Trial registry name: https://clinicaltrials.gov

Impact of different intraoperative CO2 pressure levels (8 and 15 mmHg) during laparoscopic hysterectomy performed due to benign uterine pathologies on postoperative pain and arterial pCO2 : a prospective randomised controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of two different intraoperative CO₂ pressures (8 and 15 mmHg) during laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign uterine pathologies in terms of postoperative abdominal and shoulder pain, laparoscopy-mediated vegetative alterations, pain medication requirement, arterial CO₂ pressure (pCO₂ ), surgical parameters, and safety.

DESIGN

Prospective randomised controlled study.

SETTING

German university hospital.

POPULATION

Female patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign uterine pathologies.

METHODS

Patients were randomised to a standard pressure (SP; 15 mmHg, control) or low-pressure (LP; 8 mmHg, experimental) group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were postoperative abdominal and shoulder pain intensities, measured via numeric rating scale (NRS) and vegetative parameters (fatigue, nausea, vomiting, bloating) at 3, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were pain medication requirement (mg) and arterial pCO₂ (mmHg). Surgical parameters and intra- and postoperative complications were also recorded.

RESULTS

In total, 178 patients were included. Patients in the LP group (n = 91) showed significantly lower postoperative abdominal and shoulder pain scores, fewer vegetative alterations, lower pain medication requirements, a shorter postoperative hospitalization, and lower intra- and postoperative arterial pCO₂ values compared with the SP group (n = 87; P ≤ 0.01). No differences in intra- and postoperative complications were observed between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-pressure laparoscopy seems to be an effective and safe technique for the reduction of postoperative pain and laparoscopy-induced metabolic and vegetative alterations following laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign indications.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Low-pressure laparoscopy seems to be an effective and safe technique for reduction of pain following laparoscopic hysterectomy.

The tidal volume challenge improves the reliability of dynamic preload indices during robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position with lung-protective ventilation

Background

The reliability of pulse pressure variation (PPV) and stroke volume variation (SVV) is controversial under pneumoperitoneum. In addition, the usefulness of these indices is being called into question with the increasing adoption of lung-protective ventilation using low tidal volume (V_T) in surgical patients. A recent study indicated that changes in PPV or SVV obtained by transiently increasing V_T (V_T challenge) accurately predicted fluid responsiveness even in critically ill patients receiving low V_T. We evaluated whether the changes in PPV and SVV induced by a V_T challenge predicted fluid responsiveness during pneumoperitoneum.

Methods

We performed an interventional prospective study in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position under lung-protective ventilation. PPV, SVV, and the stroke volume index (SVI) were measured at a V_T of 6 mL/kg and 3 min after increasing the V_T to 8 mL/kg. The V_T was reduced to 6 mL/kg, and measurements were performed before and 5 min after volume expansion (infusing 6% hydroxyethyl starch 6 ml/kg over 10 min). Fluid responsiveness was defined as ≥15% increase in the SVI.

Results

Twenty-four of the 38 patients enrolled in the study were responders. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, an increase in PPV > 1% after the V_T challenge showed excellent predictive capability for fluid responsiveness, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.95 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.83–0.99, P < 0.0001; sensitivity 92%, specificity 86%]. An increase in SVV > 2% after the V_T challenge predicted fluid responsiveness, but showed only fair predictive capability, with an AUC of 0.76 (95% CI, 0.60–0.89, P < 0.0006; sensitivity 46%, specificity 100%). The augmented values of PPV and SVV following V_T challenge also showed the improved predictability of fluid responsiveness compared to PPV and SVV values (as measured by V_T) of 6 ml/kg.

Conclusions

The change in PPV following the V_T challenge has excellent reliability in predicting fluid responsiveness in our surgical population. The change in SVV and augmented values of PPV and SVV following this test are also reliable.

Trial registration

This trial was registered with Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03467711, 10th March 2018.

Reprint of: Efficacy and safety of different doses of dezocine for preemptive analgesia in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries: A prospective, double blind and randomized controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The incidence of reproductive system tumors in Chinese females is increasing year by year, with the trend of younger onset ages. Laparoscopic surgery has been recognized by the majority of medical staff and patients, but the postoperative pain still exists. Therefore, it has become the focus of attention of medical workers to take effective analgesia measures to alleviate postoperative pain as well as to improve the degree of comfort and satisfaction for the patients.

OBJECTIVES

The research objective was to study the effect of different doses of dezocine preemptive analgesia on the safety and the pain post laparoscopic surgeries, in order to explore the best dose of dezocine for postoperative analgesia in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries.

METHODS

Gynecological laparoscopic surgery patients conformed to the criteria (n = 390) were randomly divided into three groups (group A, B and C) by the methods of randomized, double-blind studies. 0.1 mg/kg, 0.15 mg/kg or 0.2 mg/kg dezocine was intravenously injected 15 min before surgeries for preemptive analgesia. VAS score, Ramsay score and MMSE score were used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dezocine in preemptive analgesia and sedation, and the use of adjuvant analgesic drugs and the incidence of adverse reactions were also observed.

RESULTS

The VAS scores of the 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg dezocine groups were significantly lower than that of the 0.1 mg/kg group at 2h, 4h, 6h, 8h, 12h and 24h post-surgery, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg groups (p > 0.05) except for the 12h time point. The MMSE scores 12h post-surgery of the three groups were compared with those 12h prior-to-surgery, and the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05) and no increase in the incidence of cognitive impairment was observed. The use rate of analgesic drugs in the 0.1 mg/kg group was significantly higher than those in the 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg groups, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the incidence of adverse events between the three groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The analgesia and sedation effects of dezocine were enhanced with the increase of usage dose, which suggested that the effects of dezocine were dose-dependent. Intravenous injection of 0.15 mg/kg dezocine 15 min before gynecological laparoscopic surgery showed better analgesic and sedative effects as well as less adverse reactions, and should be the appropriate dose to be used in the preemptive analgesia in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries.

Efficacy and safety of different doses of dezocine for preemptive analgesia in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries: A prospective, double blind and randomized controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The incidence of reproductive system tumors in Chinese females is increasing year by year, with the trend of younger onset ages. Laparoscopic surgery has been recognized by the majority of medical staff and patients, but the postoperative pain still exists. Therefore, it has become the focus of attention of medical workers to take effective analgesia measures to alleviate postoperative pain as well as to improve the degree of comfort and satisfaction for the patients.

OBJECTIVES

The research objective was to study the effect of different doses of dezocine preemptive analgesia on the safety and the pain post laparoscopic surgeries, in order to explore the best dose of dezocine for postoperative analgesia in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries.

METHODS

Gynecological laparoscopic surgery patients conformed to the criteria (n = 390) were randomly divided into three groups (group A, B and C) by the methods of randomized, double-blind studies. 0.1 mg/kg, 0.15 mg/kg or 0.2 mg/kg dezocine was intravenously injected 15 min before surgeries for preemptive analgesia. VAS score, Ramsay score and MMSE score were used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dezocine in preemptive analgesia and sedation, and the use of adjuvant analgesic drugs and the incidence of adverse reactions were also observed.

RESULTS

The VAS scores of the 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg dezocine groups were significantly lower than that of the 0.1 mg/kg group at 2h, 4h, 6h, 8h, 12h and 24h post-surgery, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg groups (p > 0.05) except for the 12h time point. The MMSE scores 12h post-surgery of the three groups were compared with those 12h prior-to-surgery, and the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05) and no increase in the incidence of cognitive impairment was observed. The use rate of analgesic drugs in the 0.1 mg/kg group was significantly higher than those in the 0.15 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg groups, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the incidence of adverse events between the three groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The analgesia and sedation effects of dezocine were enhanced with the increase of usage dose, which suggested that the effects of dezocine were dose-dependent. Intravenous injection of 0.15 mg/kg dezocine 15 min before gynecological laparoscopic surgery showed better analgesic and sedative effects as well as less adverse reactions, and should be the appropriate dose to be used in the preemptive analgesia in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries.

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy: patient selection and special considerations

Robot-assisted (RA) procedures are increasingly being performed as minimally invasive surgical approaches. Less insensible losses due to a closed abdomen, smaller incisions with less retractor strain, decreased analgesic requirements, and earlier postoperative ambulation are suggested advantages of robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). Patients who undergo open radical cystectomy are also candidates for RARC procedure. However, the steep Trendelenburg position and pneumoperitoneum develop a non-physiological condition. Intra-abdominal adhesions preventing the placement of the ports and patients who cannot tolerate the pneumoperitoneum and/or steep Trendelenburg position are special contraindications of RARC. Besides, body mass index >30 kg/m2, presence of extravesical disease, bulky lymphadenopathy, previous vascular surgery, previous distal colorectal surgery, previous pelvic radiation, previous pelvic trauma, and/or preexisting cardiovascular/pulmonary disease that is compromised with positioning are not certainly contraindicated but unwanted conditions in which the RARC may be performed successfully as the surgeons gain experience.

LAPAROSCOPIC-ASSISTED INSERTION OF A VENTRICULOPERITONEAL SHUNT IN A RESCUED ASIATIC BLACK BEAR (URSUS THIBETANUS) IN LAOS

A 3-yr-old Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), weighing 68 kg, underwent a laparoscopic-assisted placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for hydrocephalus in the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Rescued as a young cub with a notably domed head, the bear's condition had deteriorated with age, but euthanasia was not a viable option because of cultural issues. Surgery was attempted as a palliative measure. The bear had ventrally orientated crossed eyes (abducens nerve palsy and dorsal midbrain syndrome), papilledema, severe rhinorrhea, depressed mentation, lethargy, a very poor appetite, and was stunted. Hydrocephalus was confirmed via intraoperative 2.0-5.0 MHz head ultrasound, as no magnetic resonance imaging was available in the country. Surgery was planned via 3D modeling of museum skulls and brain cavity, and ultrasound examination of formalin-preserved brains of other carnivores with hydrocephalus. The bear demonstrated a notable improvement in mentation, appetite, and behavior, maintained for 4 yr following surgery.

Cardiovascular and Ventilatory Consequences of Laparoscopic Surgery

Although laparoscopic surgery accounts for >2 million surgical procedures every year, the current preoperative risk scores and guidelines do not adequately assess the risks of laparoscopy. In general, laparoscopic procedures have a lower risk of morbidity and mortality compared with operations requiring a midline laparotomy. During laparoscopic surgery, carbon dioxide insufflation may produce significant hemodynamic and ventilatory consequences such as increased intraabdominal pressure and hypercarbia. Hemodynamic insults secondary to increased intraabdominal pressure include increased afterload and preload and decreased cardiac output, whereas ventilatory consequences include increased airway pressures, hypercarbia, and decreased pulmonary compliance. Hemodynamic effects are accentuated in patients with cardiovascular disease such as congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, valvular heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, and congenital heart disease. Prevention of cardiovascular complications may be accomplished through a sound understanding of the hemodynamic and physiological consequences of laparoscopic surgery as well as a defined operative plan generated by a multidisciplinary team involving the preoperative consultant, anesthesiologist, and surgeon.

Impact of frailty on approach to colonic resection: Laparoscopy vs open surgery

AIM

To understand the influence of frailty on postoperative outcomes for laparoscopic and open colectomy.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (2005-2012) for patients undergoing colon resection [open colectomy (OC) and laparoscopic colectomy (LC)]. Patients were classified as non-frail (0 points), low frailty (1 point), moderate frailty (2 points), and severe frailty (≥ 3) using the Modified Frailty Index. 30-d mortality and complications were used as the primary end point and analyzed for the overall population. Complications were grouped into major and minor. Subset analysis was performed for patients undergoing colectomy (total colectomy, partial colectomy and sigmoid colectomy) and separately for patients undergoing rectal surgery (abdominoperineal resection, low anterior resection, and proctocolectomy). We analyzed the data using SAS Platform JMP Pro version 10.0.0 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, United States).

RESULTS

A total of 94811 patients were identified; the majority underwent OC (58.7%), were white (76.9%), and non-frail (44.8%). The median age was 61.3 years. Prolonged length of stay (LOS) occurred in 4.7%, and 30-d mortality was 2.28%. Patients undergoing OC were older (61.89 ± 15.31 vs 60.55 ± 14.93) and had a higher ASA score (48.3% ASA3 vs 57.7% ASA2 in the LC group) (P < 0.0001). Most patients were non-frail (42.5% OC vs 48% LC, P < 0.0001). Complications, prolonged LOS, and mortality were significantly more common in patients undergoing OC (P < 0.0001). OC had a higher risk of death and complications compared to LC for all frailty scores (non-frail: OR = 4.7, and OR = 4.67; mildly frail: OR = 2.51, and OR = 2.47; moderately frail: OR = 2.94, and OR = 2.02, severely frail: OR = 2.37, and OR = 2.34, P < 0.05) and an increase in absolute mortality with increasing frailty (non-frail 0.68% OC, mildly frail 1.39%, moderately frail 3.44%, and severely frail 5.83%, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

LC is associated with improved outcomes. Although the odds of mortality are higher in non-frail, there is a progressive increase in mortality with increasing frailty.

Does steep Trendelenburg positioning effect the ocular hemodynamics and intraocular pressure in patients undergoing robotic cystectomy and robotic prostatectomy?

PURPOSE

To examine the effect of steep Trendelenburg position (ST) on intraocular pressure (IOP), resistive index of the central retinal artery, and venous impedance index of the central retinal vein during robotic prostatectomy and cystectomy.

METHODS

A total of fifty-three male patients were included into the study (prostatectomy: 43, cystectomy: 10). During robotic surgery, the effect of the ST on IOP, resistive index of the central retinal artery (CRA-RI), and venous impedance index of the central retinal vein (CRV-VI) was prospectively examined. The measurement times of IOP are as follows: T1: before anesthesia while supine and awake; T2: anesthetized and supine; T3: anesthetized and ST; T4: anesthetized, ST, and intraperitoneal insufflation; T5: anesthetized in ST at the end of the procedure with CO₂; T6: anesthetized in ST after desufflation; and T7: anesthetized supine before awakening.

RESULTS

There was no difference between the IOP values of the right and left eyes in both groups. The highest IOP values were reached at T4 and T5. CRA-RI values were different, while CRV-VI values were similar at T1 and T4.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite staying in the ST for a long time provided that the ophthalmologic examination was normal, ocular complication risk is low in robotic prostatectomy and cystectomy.

Effects of low and standard intra-abdominal pressure on systemic inflammation and immune response in laparoscopic adrenalectomy: A prospective randomised study

BACKGROUND:

The advantages of laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) over open adrenalectomy are undeniable. Nevertheless, carbon dioxide (CO₂) pneumoperitoneum may have an unfavourable effect on the local immune response. The aim of this study was to compare changes in the systemic inflammation and immune response in the early post-operative (p.o.) period after LA performed with standard and low-pressure CO₂ pneumoperitoneum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We studied, in a prospective randomised study, 51 patients consecutively with documented adrenal lesion who had undergone a LA: 26 using standard-pressure (12-14 mmHg) and 25 using low-pressure (6-8 mmHg) pneumoperitoneum. White blood cells (WBC), peripheral lymphocyte subpopulation, human leucocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR), neutrophil elastase, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were investigated.

RESULTS:

Significantly higher concentrations of neutrophil elastase, IL-6 and IL-1 and CRP were detected p.o. in the standard-pressure group of patients in comparison with the low-pressure group (P < 0.05). A statistically significant change in HLA-DR expression was recorded p.o. at 24 h, as a reduction of this antigen expressed on the monocyte surface in patients from the standard group; no changes were noted in low-pressure group patients (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrated that reducing the pressure of the pneumoperitoneum to 6-8 mmHg during LA reduced p.o. inflammatory response and averted p.o. immunosuppression.

Reliability of Continuous Non-Invasive Assessment of Hemoglobin and Fluid Responsiveness: Impact of Obesity and Abdominal Insufflation Pressures

BACKGROUND

During surgery, proper fluid resuscitation and hemostatic control is critical. Pleth variability index (PVI) is advocated as a reliable way of optimizing intraoperative fluid resuscitation. PVI is a measure of dynamic change in perfusion index during a complete respiratory cycle. Non-invasive monitoring of total hemoglobin could provide a reliable means to determine need for transfusion. We analyzed the impact of insufflation and obesity on non-invasive measurements of hemoglobin and PVI in laparoscopic procedures to validate reliability of fluid responsiveness and hemoglobin levels.

METHODS

A non-invasive hemoglobin and PVI monitoring device was prospectively analyzed in patients undergoing abdominal operations. Patients were stratified by open and laparoscopic approach and obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥35). PVI and hemoglobin values were assessed before, during, and after insufflation and compared to control patients undergoing open surgery.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients were enrolled (mean age 42 years; 71 % male; mean BMI 36) with 24 patients laparoscopic non-obese (LNO), 20 laparoscopic obese (LO), and 19 undergoing open operations. There was no significant blood loss. Hemoglobin did not change significantly before or after insufflation. There was false elevation of PVI with insufflation and more pronounced in obese patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Insufflation or obesity was not associated with significant variations in hemoglobin. Non-invasive monitoring of hemoglobin is useful in laparoscopic procedures in obese and non-obese patients. PVI values should be used cautiously during laparoscopic procedures, particularly in obese patients.

Low vs Standard Pressures in Gynecologic Laparoscopy: a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The optimal intraperitoneal pressure during laparoscopy is not known. Recent literature found benefits of using lower pressures, but the safety of doing abdominal surgery with low peritoneal pressures needs to be assessed. This systematic review compares low with standard pneumoperitoneum during gynecologic laparoscopy.

DATABASE

We searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials comparing intraperitoneal pressures during gynecologic laparoscopy. Two authors reviewed references and extracted data from included trials. Risk ratios, mean differences, and standard mean differences were calculated and pooled using RevMan5. Of 2251 studies identified, three were included in the systematic review, for a total of 238 patients. We found a statistically significant but modest diminution in postoperative pain of 0.38 standardized unit based on an original 10-point scale (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.67 to -0.08) during the immediate postoperative period when using low intraperitoneal pressure of 8 mm Hg compared with ≥ 12 mm Hg and of 0.50 (95% CI, -0.80 to -0.21) 24 hours after the surgery. Lower pressures were associated with worse visualization of the surgical field (risk ratio, 10.31; 95% CI, 1.29-82.38). We found no difference between groups over blood loss, duration of surgery, hospital length of stay, or the need for increased pressure.

CONCLUSION

Low intraperitoneal pressures during gynecologic laparoscopy cannot be recommended on the behalf of this review because improvement in pain scores is minimal and visualization of the surgical field is affected. The safety of this intervention as well as cost-effectiveness considerations need to be further studied.

Complications of low compared to standard pneumoperitoneum pressures in laparoscopic surgery for benign gynecologic pathology: a systematic review protocol

BACKGROUND

No definite consensus has been established about the optimal pressure for artificial pneumoperitoneum when performing laparoscopic surgery. It has been postulated that lowering intra-peritoneal pressure levels while performing general laparoscopic surgery would lower surgical complications including post-operative pain, but data remain scarce about significant operative complications. Furthermore, such data is not available for gynecologic laparoscopy. The objective of this systematic review is to compare the frequency and nature of significant operative complications of lower and standard pneumoperiteoneal pressure levels in gynecologic laparoscopic surgery for benign indications.

METHODS/DESIGN

We will search PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, randomised control trials registries, and reference lists of included articles. Randomised controlled trials comparing different intra-peritoneal pressure levels in women undergoing gynecologic laparoscopic surgery for a non-malignant indication will be eligible. Two reviewers will independently select and review references, extract data, and assess quality from included studies. We will use RevMan5 to calculate risk ratios and their 95 % confidence intervals to compare the frequency of complications according to intra-peritoneal pressure levels. We will perform sensitivity analyses to explore heterogeneity potentially due to various operative characteristics or characteristics of patients.

DISCUSSION

Our results will help identify the optimal intra-peritoneal pressure level in gynecologic laparoscopic surgery and determine if lowering intra-peritoneal pressure levels while trying to achieve lower levels of post-operative pain is an acceptable change of practice according to the frequency and nature of significant complications.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO

CRD42015020231.

Effectiveness and feasibility of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy on patients at high anesthetic risk

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is the most acceptable procedure in laparoscopic pancreatic surgery. Nevertheless, knowledge regarding patients at a high anesthetic risk during lengthy and technically demanding LDP is controversial. This study aims to assess the feasibility and safety of LDP in patients with high anesthetic risk.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective collection retrospective review of patients underwent LDP and open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) from January 2011 until December 2013. By the American Society of Anesthesiologists score, patients were divided into low- and high-risk patients. We compared the clinical, perioperative, and postoperative results in these patients.

RESULTS

The cohort included 77 patients: 20 underwent LDP, and 57 underwent ODP. There were 30 patients in the low-risk group and 47 patients in the high-risk group. In high-risk patients, LDP, compared with ODP, presented a shorter operating time (mean, 220.8±101.1 minutes versus 299.4±124.3 minutes; P=.038), less blood loss (409.3±569.9 mL versus 1083.1±1583.0 mL; P=.039), higher rate of spleen preservation (73.3% versus 43.8%, P=.037), and shorter length of postoperative hospital stay (LOS) (9.5±3.0 days versus 15.7±9.4 days; P=.044).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, LDP provides early recovery and better cosmetic appearance. In high anesthetic risk patients, LDP shows less operative time, less perioperative blood loss, a higher rate of spleen preservation, slighter complication, and shorter LOS, which might explain why LDP is a feasible and effective procedure.

Deep neuromuscular block reduces intra-abdominal pressure requirements during laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery causes specific post-operative discomfort and intraoperative cardiovascular, pulmonary, and splanchnic changes. The CO2 pneumoperitoneum-related intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) remains one of the main drivers of these changes. We investigated the influence of deep neuromuscular blockade (NMB) on IAP and surgical conditions.

METHODS

This is an open prospective single-subject design study in 20 patients (14 female/6 male) undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Inclusion criteria were 18 years or older, and American Society of Anesthesiologists classification 1 to 3. Under a standardised anaesthesia, lowest IAP providing adequate surgical conditions was assessed without NMB and with deep NMB [post-tetanic count (PTC)<2] with rocuronium. The differences between IAP allowing for an adequate surgical field before and after administration of rocuronium were determined, as were effects of patient gender, age, and body mass index.

RESULTS

Mean IAP without NMB was 12.75 (standard deviation 4.49) mmHg. Immediately after achieving a deep NMB, this was 7.20 (2.51). This pressure difference of 5.55 mmHg (5.08, P<0.001) dropped to 3.00 mmHg (4.30, P<0.01) after 15 min. Higher IAP differences were found in women compared with men. A modest inverse relationship was found between pressure difference and age.

CONCLUSIONS

We found an almost 25% lower IAP after a deep NMB compared with no block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Younger and female patients appear to benefit more from deep neuromuscular blockade to reduce IAP.

Low pressure versus standard pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

A pneumoperitoneum of 12 to 16 mm Hg is used for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Lower pressures are claimed to be safe and effective in decreasing cardiopulmonary complications and pain.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of low pressure pneumoperitoneum compared with standard pressure pneumoperitoneum in people undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation Index Expanded until February 2013 to identify randomised trials,using search strategies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We considered only randomised clinical trials, irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status for inclusion in the review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently identified trials and independently extracted data. We calculated the risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD), or standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using both fixed-effect and random-effects models with RevMan 5 based on available case analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 1092 participants randomly assigned to the low pressure group (509 participants) and the standard pressure group (583 participants) in 21 trials provided information for this review on one or more outcomes. Three additional trials comparing low pressure pneumoperitoneum with standard pressure pneumoperitoneum (including 179 participants) provided no information for this review. Most of the trials included low anaesthetic risk participants undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. One trial including 140 participants was at low risk of bias. The remaining 20 trials were at high risk of bias. The overall quality of evidence was low or very low. No mortality was reported in either the low pressure group (0/199; 0%) or the standard pressure group (0/235; 0%) in eight trials that reported mortality. One participant experienced the outcome of serious adverse events (low pressure group 1/179, 0.6%; standard pressure group 0/215, 0%; seven trials; 394 participants; RR 3.00; 95% CI 0.14 to 65.90; very low quality evidence). Quality of life, return to normal activity, and return to work were not reported in any of the trials. The difference between groups in the conversion to open cholecystectomy was imprecise (low pressure group 2/269, adjusted proportion 0.8%; standard pressure group 2/287, 0.7%; 10 trials; 556 participants; RR 1.18; 95% CI 0.29 to 4.72; very low quality evidence) and was compatible with an increase, a decrease, or no difference in the proportion of conversion to open cholecystectomy due to low pressure pneumoperitoneum. No difference in the length of hospital stay was reported between the groups (five trials; 415 participants; MD -0.30 days; 95% CI -0.63 to 0.02; low quality evidence). Operating time was about two minutes longer in the low pressure group than in the standard pressure group (19 trials; 990 participants; MD 1.51 minutes; 95% CI 0.07 to 2.94; very low quality evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be completed successfully using low pressure in approximately 90% of people undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. However, no evidence is currently available to support the use of low pressure pneumoperitoneum in low anaesthetic risk patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The safety of low pressure pneumoperitoneum has to be established. Further well-designed trials are necessary, particularly in people with cardiopulmonary disorders who undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Comparison of respiratory mechanics between sevoflurane and propofol-remifentanil anesthesia for laparoscopic colectomy

BACKGROUND

The creation of pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg positioning during laparoscopic surgery are associated with respiratory changes. We aimed to compare respiratory mechanics while using intravenous propofol and remifentanil vs. sevoflurane during laparoscopic colectomy.

METHODS

SIXTY PATIENTS UNDERGOING LAPAROSCOPIC COLECTOMY WERE RANDOMLY ALLOCATED TO ONE OF THE TWO GROUPS: group PR (propofol-remifentanil group; n = 30), and group S (sevoflurane group; n = 30). Peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), dynamic lung compliance (Cdyn), and respiratory resistance (Rrs) values at five different time points: 5 minutes after induction of anesthesia (supine position, T1), 3 minutes after pneumoperitoneum (lithotomy position, T2), 3 minutes after pneumoperitoneum while in the lithotomy-Trendelenburg position (T3), 30 minutes after pneumoperitoneum (T4), and 3 minutes after deflation of pneumoperitoneum (T5).

RESULTS

In both groups, there were significant increases in PIP and Rrs while Cdyn decreased at times T2, T3, and T4 compared to T1 (P < 0.001). The Rrs of group PR for T2, T3, and T4 were significantly higher than those measured in group S for the corresponding time points (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Respiratory mechanics can be adversely affected during laparoscopic colectomy. Respiratory resistance was significantly higher during propofol-remifentanil anesthesia than sevoflurane anesthesia.

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery in patients with impaired renal function: impact on postoperative renal function compared with open surgery

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery has been associated with a perioperative decrease in renal function. As a result, an open approach may be preferred in patients with impaired renal function when prolonged laparoscopic procedures are anticipated. The aim of this study was to examine changes in renal function following colorectal operations and compare between the open and the laparoscopic approaches, in patients with preoperative impaired renal function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study. Records of all patients with impaired renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 mL/minute) who underwent elective colorectal resection between 2007 and 2011 were reviewed. The changes in eGFR were examined and compared between open and laparoscopic procedures.

RESULTS

Ninety consecutive patients with impaired renal function who underwent elective colorectal surgery from 2007 to 2011 were identified. Forty-seven patients underwent laparoscopic surgery, and 43 had an open surgery; 23.2% of the patients who had open surgery and 21.7% of the patients who underwent a laparoscopic procedure demonstrated a decrease in eGFR at the time of discharge (P=not significant). The mean decrease in eGFR did not differ between the two groups (6.3 ± 6.8 mL/minute versus 4.04 ± 4.01 mL/minute; P=.34). None of the patients required dialysis. Postoperative complications were found to be a risk factor for a significant decrease in renal function.

CONCLUSIONS

Renal function may deteriorate in patients with chronic kidney disease who undergo elective colorectal surgery. No difference was noted in the incidence or severity of such deterioration between open and laparoscopic approaches. Postoperative complications are associated with deterioration in renal function regardless of the operative approach.

Low-pressure versus standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The feasibility and safety of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic cholecystectomy remain unclear.

METHODS

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing low-pressure with standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 1,263 patients were included. Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum was associated with significantly decreased postoperative pain. The requirement for increased pressure was significantly greater in the low-pressure group (risk ratio = 6.16; P < .001). Operative time was similar, with only a slight statistical significance (weighted mean difference = 2.07; P < .001). Length of hospital stay was shorter in the low-pressure group (weighted mean difference = -.27; P = .01). No significant differences were found in surgical complications or conversion to open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum is feasible and safe and results in reduced postoperative pain and near-equal operative time compared with standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum. More studies are required to investigate the potential benefits of the reduced length of hospital stay.

A prospective randomized study of systemic inflammation and immune response after laparoscopic nissen fundoplication performed with standard and low-pressure pneumoperitoneum

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare changes in the systemic inflammation and immune response in the early postoperative (p.o.) period after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) was performed with standard-pressure and low-pressure carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied 68 patients with documented gastroesophageal reflux disease and who underwent a LNF: 35 using standard-pressure (12 to 14 mmHg) and 33 low-pressure (6 to 8 mmHg) pneumoperitoneum. White blood cells, peripheral lymphocytes subpopulation, human leukocyte antigen-DR, neutrophil elastase, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1, and C-reactive protein were investigated.

RESULTS

A significantly higher concentration of neutrophil elastase, IL-6 and IL-1, and C-reactive protein was detected postoperatively in the standard-pressure group of patients in comparison with the low-pressure group (P<0.05). A statistically significant change in human leukocyte antigen-DR expression was recorded p.o. at 24 hours, as a reduction of this antigen expressed on monocyte surface in patients from standard group; no changes were noted in low-pressure group patients (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that reducing the pressure of the pneumoperitoneum to 6 to 8 mm Hg during LNF is reduced p.o. inflammatory response and avoided p.o. immunosuppression.

Abdominal lift for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (key-hole removal of the gallbladder) is now the most often used method for treatment of symptomatic gallstones. Several cardiopulmonary changes (decreased cardiac output, pulmonary compliance, and increased peak airway pressure) occur during pneumoperitoneum, which is now introduced to allow laparoscopic cholecystectomy. These cardiopulmonary changes may not be tolerated in individuals with poor cardiopulmonary reserve.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of abdominal wall lift compared to pneumoperitoneum in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation Index Expanded until February 2013.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised clinical trials comparing abdominal wall lift (with or without pneumoperitoneum) versus pneumoperitoneum.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We calculated the risk ratio (RR), rate ratio (RaR), or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) based on intention-to-treat analysis with both the fixed-effect and the random-effects models using the Review Manager (RevMan) software.

MAIN RESULTS

For abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum versus pneumoperitoneum, a total of 130 participants (all with low anaesthetic risk) scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomised in five trials to abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum (n = 53) versus pneumoperitoneum only (n = 52). One trial which included 25 people did not state the number of participants in each group. All five trials had a high risk of bias. There was no mortality or conversion to open cholecystectomy in any of the participants in the trials that reported these outcomes. There was no significant difference in the rate of serious adverse events between the two groups (two trials; 2/29 events (0.069 events per person) versus 2/29 events (0.069 events per person); rate ratio 1.00; 95% CI 0.17 to 5.77). None of the trials reported quality of life, the proportion of people discharged as day-patient laparoscopic cholecystectomies, or pain between four and eight hours after the operation. There was no significant difference in the operating time between the two groups (four trials; 53 participants versus 54 participants; 13.39 minutes longer (95% CI 2.73 less to 29.51 minutes longer) in the abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum group and 100 minutes in the pneumoperitoneum group).For abdominal wall lift versus pneumoperitoneum, a total of 774 participants (the majority with low anaesthetic risk) scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomised in 18 trials to abdominal wall lift without pneumoperitoneum (n = 332) versus pneumoperitoneum (n = 358). One trial which included 84 people did not state the number in each group. All the trials had a high risk of bias. There was no mortality in any of the trials that reported this outcome. There was no significant difference in the proportion of participants with serious adverse events (six trials; 5/172 (weighted proportion 2.4%) versus 2/171 (1.2%); RR 2.01; 95% CI 0.52 to 7.80). There was no significant difference in the rate of serious adverse events between the two groups (three trials; 5/99 events (weighted number of events per person = 0.346 events) versus 2/99 events (0.020 events per person); rate ratio 1.73; 95% CI 0.35 to 8.61). None of the trials reported quality of life or pain between four and eight hours after the operation. There was no significant difference in the proportion of people who underwent conversion to open cholecystectomy (11 trials; 5/225 (weighted proportion 2.3%) versus 7/235 (3.0%); RR 0.76; 95% CI 0.26 to 2.21). The operating time was significantly longer in the abdominal wall lift group than in the pneumoperitoneum group (16 trials; 6.87 minutes longer (95% CI 4.74 minutes to 9.00 minutes longer) in the abdominal wall lift group versus 75 minutes in the pneumoperitoneum group). There was no significant difference in the proportion of people discharged as laparoscopic cholecystectomy day-patients (two trials; 15/31 (weighted proportion 48.5%) versus 9/31 (29%); RR 1.67; 95% CI 0.85 to 3.26).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Abdominal wall lift with or without pneumoperitoneum does not seem to offer an advantage over pneumoperitoneum in any of the patient-oriented outcomes for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in people with low anaesthetic risk. Hence it cannot be recommended routinely. The safety of abdominal wall lift is yet to be established. More research on the topic is needed because of the risk of bias in the included trials and because of the risk of type I and type II random errors due to the few participants included in the trials. Future trials should include people at higher anaesthetic risk. Furthermore, such trials should include blinded assessment of outcomes.

[Video-assisted surgery in children: current progress and future perspectives]

This review presents the evidence of video-assisted surgery in the pediatric population and discusses future progress in this field. Videosurgery minimizes the cosmetic impact and the pain induced by open procedures and has been in constant development in adults and children. Earlier training of surgeons and residents combined with advances in anesthetics and technology have expanded the use of videosurgery for more complex interventions. Although most feasible surgical procedures have been performed by laparoscopy, the literature has not yet defined it as the gold standard for most interventions, especially because of the lack of evidence for many of them. However, laparoscopy for cholecystectomy is now the preferred approach with excellent postoperative outcomes and few complications. Although no evidence has been demonstrated in children, laparoscopy has been shown to be superior in adults for gastroesophageal reflux disease and splenectomy. Laparoscopic appendectomy remains controversial. Nevertheless, meta-analyses have concluded in moderate but significant advantages in terms of pain, cosmetic considerations, and recovery for the laparoscopic approach. Laparoscopy is now adopted for undescended testes and allows both localization and surgical treatment if necessary. For benign conditions, videosurgery can be an excellent tool for nephrectomy and adrenalectomy. However, laparoscopy remains controversial in pediatric surgical oncology.

Implementing AORN recommended practices for MIS: Part II

This article focuses on the equipment and workplace safety aspects of the revised AORN "Recommended practices for minimally invasive surgery." A multidisciplinary team that includes the perioperative nurse should be established to discuss aspects of the development and design of new construction or renovation (eg, room access, ergonomics, low-lighting, OR integration, hybrid OR considerations, design development). Equipment safety considerations during minimally invasive surgical procedures include using active electrode monitoring; verifying the properties of distention media; using smoke evacuation systems; reducing equipment, electrical, thermal, and fire hazards; performing routine safety checks on insufflation accessories; and minimizing the risk of ergonomic injuries to staff members. Additional considerations include using video recording devices, nonmagnetic equipment during magnetic resonance imaging, and fluid containment methods for fluid management.

A multidisciplinary evidence-based guideline for minimally invasive surgery.: Part 1: entry techniques and the pneumoperitoneum

The Dutch Society for Endoscopic Surgery together with the Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology initiated a multidisciplinary working group to develop a guideline on minimally invasive surgery to formulate multidisciplinary agreements for minimally invasive surgery aiming towards better patient care and safety. The guideline development group consisted of general surgeons, gynecologists, an anesthesiologist, and urologist authorized by their scientific professional association. Two advisors in evidence-based guideline development supported the group. The guideline was developed using the "Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation" instrument. Clinically important aspects were identified and discussed. The best available evidence on these aspects was gathered by systematic review. Recommendations for clinical practice were formulated based on the evidence and a consensus of expert opinion. The guideline was externally reviewed by members of the participating scientific associations and their feedback was integrated. Identified important topics were: laparoscopic entry techniques, intra-abdominal pressure, trocar use, electrosurgical techniques, prevention of trocar site herniation, patient positioning, anesthesiology, perioperative care, patient information, multidisciplinary user consultation, and complication registration. The text of each topic contains an introduction with an explanation of the problem and a summary of the current literature. Each topic was discussed, considerations were evaluated and recommendations were formulated. The development of a guideline on a multidisciplinary level facilitated a broad and rich discussion, which resulted in a very complete and implementable guideline.

Abdominal lift for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (key-hole removal of the gallbladder) is now the most often used method for treatment of symptomatic gallstones. Several cardiopulmonary changes (decreased cardiac output, pulmonary compliance, and increased peak airway pressure) occur during pneumoperitoneum, which is now introduced to allow laparoscopic cholecystectomy. These cardiopulmonary changes may not be tolerated in individuals with poor cardiopulmonary reserve.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of abdominal wall lift compared with pneumoperitoneum in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation Index Expanded until January 2012.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised clinical trials comparing abdominal wall lift (with or without pneumoperitoneum) versus pneumoperitoneum.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We calculated the risk ratio (RR), rate ratio (RaR), or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) based on intention-to-treat analysis with both the fixed-effect and the random-effects models using RevMan software.

MAIN RESULTS

For abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum versus pneumoperitoneum, a total of 156 participants (all with low anaesthetic risk) who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomised in six trials to abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum (n = 65) versus pneumoperitoneum only (n = 66). One trial which included 25 patients did not state the number of patients in each group. All six trials had a high risk of bias. There was no mortality or conversion to open cholecystectomy in any of the patients in the trials that reported these outcomes. There was no significant difference in the rate of serious adverse events between the two groups (2 trials; 2/29 events (0.069 events per patient) versus 2/29 events (0.069 events per patient); rate ratio 1.00; 95% CI 0.17 to 5.77). None of the trials reported quality of life, the proportion of patients discharged as day-patient laparoscopic cholecystectomies, or pain between four and eight hours after the operation. There was no significant difference in the operating time between the two groups (4 trials; 53 patients versus 54 patients; 13.39 minutes longer (2.73 less to 29.51 longer) in the abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum group and 100 minutes in the pneumoperitoneum group).For abdominal wall lift versus pneumoperitoneum, a total of 774 participants (the majority with low anaesthetic risk) who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomised in 18 trials to abdominal wall lift without pneumoperitoneum (n = 332) versus pneumoperitoneum (n = 358). One trial which included 84 patients did not state the number of patients in each group. All the trials had a high risk of bias. There was no mortality in any of the trials that reported this outcome. There was no significant difference in the rate of serious adverse events between the two groups (6 trials; 5/172 events (weighted number of events per patient = 0.020 events) versus 2/171 events (0.012 events per patient); rate ratio 1.73; 95% CI 0.35 to 8.61). None of the trials reported quality of life or pain between four and eight hours after the operation. There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients who underwent conversion to open cholecystectomy (11 trials; 5/225 (weighted proportion 2.3%) versus 7/235 (3.0%); RR 0.76; 95% CI 0.26 to 2.21). The operating time was significantly longer in the abdominal wall lift group than the pneumoperitoneum group (16 trials; 6.87 minutes longer (4.74 to 9.00 longer) in the abdominal wall lift group; 75 minutes in the pneumoperitoneum group). There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients who were discharged as day-patient laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients (2 trials; 15/31 (weighted proportion 48.5%) versus 9/31 (29%); RR 1.67; 95% CI 0.85 to 3.26).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Abdominal wall lift does not seem to offer an advantage over pneumoperitoneum in any of the patient-oriented outcomes for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with low anaesthetic risk. It may increase costs by increasing the operating time. Hence it cannot be recommended routinely. The safety of abdominal wall lift is yet to be established. More research on the topic is needed because of the risk of bias in the included trials and because of the risk of type I and type II random errors because of the few patients included in the trials. Such trials ought to include patients at higher anaesthetic risk. Furthermore, such trials ought to include blinded assessment of outcome measures.

Laparoscopic adhesiolysis: consensus conference guidelines

AIM

Laparoscopic adhesiolysis has been demonstrated to be technically feasible in small bowel obstruction and carries advantages in terms of post-surgical course. The increasing dissemination of laparoscopic surgery in the emergency setting and the lack of concrete evidence in the literature have called for a consensus conference to draw recommendations for clinical practice.

METHODS

A literature search was used to outline the evidence, and a consensus conference was held between experts in the field. A survey of international experts added expertise to the debate. A public jury of surgeons discussed and validated the statements, and the entire process was reviewed by three external experts.

RESULTS

Recommendations concern the diagnostic evaluation, the timing of the operation, the selection of patients, the induction of the pneumoperitoneum, the removal of the cause of obstructions, the criteria for conversion, the use of adhesion-preventing agents, the need for high-technology dissection instruments and behaviour in the case of misdiagnosed hernia or the need for bowel resection.

CONCLUSION

Evidence of this kind of surgery is scanty because of the absence of randomized controlled trials. Nevertheless laparoscopic skills in emergency are widespread. The recommendations given with the consensus process might be a useful tool in the hands of surgeons.

Concurrent robotic renal and prostatic surgery: initial case series and safety data of a new surgical technique

INTRODUCTION

In the era of prostate-specific antigen screening and frequent cross-sectional abdominal imaging, concurrent prostate cancer and renal masses are being identified and treated. Minimizing patient morbidity and cost by avoiding separate surgical procedures is advantageous, provided technical feasibility, and safety data. Our goal was to assess the feasibility and safety of single-setting robotic renal surgery and prostatectomy. We present our initial experience.

PURPOSE

To assess the feasibility and safety of single-setting concurrent robot-assisted renal surgery and radical prostatectomy utilizing the same port access scheme.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From February 2009 to June 2009, we performed single-setting concurrent robot-assisted radical nephrectomy/partial nephrectomy and radical prostatectomy on two patients with synchronous kidney tumors and prostate cancer. Identical port sites were used during both aspects of the procedure with the exception of one additional port during prostatectomy. Prostate cancer clinical stage and Gleason scores were T1c and 6 and T2a and 7, respectively. Corresponding renal tumors were 5 cm, respectively.

RESULTS

Both operations were performed, with no conversion to open surgery. There were no intraoperative complications and the postoperative course was uneventful in both patients. Discharge was on postoperative day 2 and 3, respectively. Patient 2 had an episode of delayed bleeding on postoperative day 9, treated by selective angio-embolization. Mean operative time for nephrectomy and prostatectomy (135 and 139 minutes, respectively) and estimated blood loss (75 and 100 mL, respectively) were reasonable. We began with the renal portion utilizing a lateral decubitus position before re-positioning into the lithotomy position for the prostatic portion. Clamping time was 34 minutes during partial nephrectomy.

CONCLUSION

Single-setting robotic radical/partial nephrectomy and radical prostatectomy is technically feasible and safe in properly selected patients who present with synchronous primary renal and prostate malignancies.

[The effects of pneumoperitoneum on heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure and cardiac output of hypertensive patients during laparoscopic colectomy]

PURPOSE

This study was performed to identify effects of pneumoperitoneum on hemodynamic changes of hypertensive patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy under general anesthesia.

METHODS

Data collection was done from January 2 to June 10, 2008. Seventy-six patients, including 38 hypertensive patients, who had taken antihypertensive drugs more than 1 month and 38 normotensive patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy were enrolled in this study. The hemodynamic parameters were heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and cardiac output (CO) which were measured 7 times from before induction of anesthesia to 5 min after deflation of the pneumoperitoneum. Collected data were analyzed using Repeated Measures ANOVA and Bonferroni comparison method.

RESULTS

HR in the hypertensive group was significantly decreased at deflation of the pneumoperitoneum and 5 min after deflation of the pneumoperitoneum (p=.012). MAP in the hypertensive group was not different from the normotensive group (p=.756). CO in hypertensive group was significantly lower than normotensive group (p<.001) from immediately after pneumoperitoneum to 5 min after deflation of the pneumoperitoneum.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic surgery does not lead to clinically negative hemodynamic changes in heart rate, mean arterial pressure or cardiac output of hypertensive patients, who have taken antihypertensive drugs for more than 1 month.

Low pressure versus standard pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

A pneumoperitoneum of 12 to 16 mmHg is used for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Lower pressures are claimed to be safe and effective in decreasing cardiopulmonary complications and pain.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of low pressure pneumoperitoneum compared with standard pressure pneumoperitoneum in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation Index Expanded until November 2008 for identifying randomised trials using search strategies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Only randomised clinical trials, irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status were considered for the review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently identified trials and independently extracted data on mortality, morbidity, conversion to open cholecystectomy, pain, analgesic requirement, operating time, hospital stay, patient satisfaction, additional measures to increase vision, and cardiopulmonary parameters. We calculated the risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD), or standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using both the fixed-effect and the random-effects models with RevMan 5 based on available case-analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

Fifteen trials randomised 690 patients to low pressure (n = 336) and standard pressure (n = 354). All the trials were of high risk of bias. There was no difference in the mortality, morbidity, or conversion to open cholecystectomy between the groups. The intensity of pain was lower in the low pressure group at various time points. The incidence of shoulder pain was lower in the low pressure group (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.31 to 0.90). The analgesic consumption was also lower. The operating time was similar between the groups (MD 2.30 minutes; 95% CI 0.42 to 4.18). Because of the high risk of bias due to incomplete outcome data in seven trials, it was not possible to conclude about the safety of low pressure pneumoperitoneum.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Low pressure pneumoperitoneum appears effective in decreasing pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The safety of low pressure pneumoperitoneum has to be established.

Pediatric laparoscopy

Significant developments in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for the adult population have led to increased application of MIS techniques for pediatric patients. Laparoscopy is the most common MIS procedure used in pediatrics. Traditional surgical procedures that are now being performed laparoscopically include gastrostomy, pyloromyotomy, and repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia and imperforate anus. All perioperative team members must be prepared to provide appropriately sized instruments and equipment to facilitate use of MIS techniques in the pediatric population and must ensure safe patient care to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Abdominal lift for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the main method of treatment of symptomatic gallstones. Several cardiopulmonary changes (decreased cardiac output, pulmonary compliance, and increased peak airway pressure) occur during pneumoperitoneum. These changes may not be tolerated in individuals with poor cardiopulmonary reserve.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of abdominal wall lift compared to pneumoperitoneum in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation IndexExpanded until January 2007.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised clinical trials comparing abdominal wall lift (with or without pneumoperitoneum) and pneumoperitoneum.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We calculated the relative risk (RR), weighted mean difference (WMD) or standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) based on intention-to-treat analysis with both the fixed-effect and the random-effects model using RevMan Analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

Abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum versus pneumoperitoneum. A total of 156 participants (all with low anaesthetic risk) who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomised in six trials to abdominal wall lift with pneumoperitoneum (n = 65) versus pneumoperitoneum only (n = 66). One trial which included 25 patients did not state the number of patients in each group. All six trials were of high risk of bias. The cardiopulmonary changes were less in abdominal wall lift than pneumoperitoneum. There was no difference in the morbidity and pain between the groups. Abdominal wall lift versus pneumoperitoneum. A total of 550 participants (the majority with low anaesthetic risk) who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomised in fourteen trials to abdominal wall lift without pneumoperitoneum (n = 268) versus pneumoperitoneum (n = 282). Two of these fourteen trials were of low risk of bias. The cardiopulmonary changes were less in abdominal wall lift than with pneumoperitoneum. There was no difference in the morbidity and pain between the groups. The operating time was prolonged in abdominal wall lift compared with pneumoperitoneum (WMD 7.74, 95% CI 1.37 to 14.12).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

(1) Abdominal wall lift seems safe and decreases the cardiopulmonary changes associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.(2) Abdominal wall lift does not seem to offer advantage over pneumoperitoneum in any of the patient-oriented outcomes for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with low anaesthetic risk and may increase costs by increasing the operating time. Hence it cannot be recommended routinely. More research on the topic is needed.

Effectiveness of colorectal laparoscopic surgery on patients at high anesthetic risk: an intervention cohort study

AIMS

The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in patients at high preoperative anesthetic risk because of associated pathologies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2003 until January 2005, 116 patients were systematically assigned at a ratio of 1:1 to one of two groups: laparoscopy surgery (n=59, of which 31 were American Society of Anesthesiologists score [ASA] I-II [L1] and 28 ASA III-IV [L2]) or open surgery (n=57, of which 30 were ASA I-II [O1] and 27 ASA III-IV [O2]). Data on patient demographics and clinical and anesthetic variables were collected prospectively. Informed consent was obtained from the patients, and approval was obtained from the designated review board of the institution involved.

RESULTS

The number of minor anesthetic complications during surgery was higher in L2 patients. No differences were observed in blood gas parameters studied during surgery (pCO(2), pH, and pO(2)/FiO(2)). Transfusion rates in the laparoscopy group at greater anesthetic risk (L2) were lower than those of the high-risk conventional surgery group (O2; 21.4 vs 63%, P<0.02). Duration of stay in the surgical recovery room and the inpatient ward were also shorter in the L2 group than in the O2 group (8.7+/-4.5 vs 12.2+/-6 days, P=0.02). There was no difference in perioperative clinical variables between laparoscopy groups (L1, L2).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative recovery of ASA III-IV patients is better after laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer, at the expense of a higher rate of minor anesthetic occurrences during surgery.