Length of laparotomy incision and surgical stress assessed by serum IL-6 level

Probiotics in Postoperative Pain Management

Postoperative pain is the unpleasant sensory and emotional experience after surgery, its origin being both the inflammatory reaction induced by the surgical trauma on the abdominal wall and the splanchnic pain induced by the activation of nociceptors of the viscera, which are highly sensitive to distension, ischemia, and inflammation. Nowadays, it is well recognized that there is a close relationship between the gut microbiome and pain perception, and that microbiome is highly affected by both anesthesia and surgical manipulation. Thus, efforts to restore the disturbed microbiome via supplementation with beneficial bacteria, namely probiotics, seem to be effective. In this article, the knowledge gained mainly from experimental research on this topic is analyzed, the concluding message being that each probiotic strain works in its own way towards pain relief.

Can the Pfannenstiel skin incision length be adjusted according to the fetal head during elective cesarean delivery?

Objective

The study aims to determine whether the Pfannenstiel skin incision can be adjusted according to the fetal head's occipitofrontal diameter (OFD) during primary cesarean delivery.

Background

Eligible 114 nulliparous women delivered at term by cesarean section in which Pfannenstiel skin incision was performed according to the OFD of the fetal head between June 2017 and September 2021 were included. Excluded cases were non-vertex presentations, all emergency cesarean sections, severe preeclampsia, women in an active phase of the first stage of labor and second stage of labor, placenta previa and low-lying placenta, multiple pregnancies, and uncontrolled gestational diabetes mellitus.

Results

Among 114 eligible nulliparous women, the mean OFD was 116.1 ± 7.2 (99-138) mm, and the measurement of the Pfannenstiel skin incision length, which was performed according to the OFD was found to be 122.8 ± 9.2 (100-155) mm. The difference between OFD and Pfannenstiel incision kept remained within 10 mm in 90 (82.5.2%), 10-20 mm in 17 (15.5%), and more than 20 mm in two women (1.8%). This technique was successful in 109 (95.6%) out of 114 women without extending the skin incision. In five women, skin incision needed to be extended up to 38 mm. In 10 women (8.7%), the rectus abdominis muscle was cut partially to deliver the fetal head. The mean fetal umbilical artery pH was 7.33 ± 0.05. No neonatal hypoxia was encountered in the study.

Conclusion

Pfannenstiel skin incision can be adjusted according to the OFD with minimal margins of error. This technique may provide better cosmetic results by avoiding unnecessarily prolonged incisions with similar newborn outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier [NCT05632796].

Perioperative escape from dormancy of spontaneous micro-metastases: A role for malignant secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF, through adrenergic and prostaglandin signaling

We recently showed that a minimally-invasive removal of MDA-MB-231^HM primary tumors (PTs) and elimination of their secreted factors (including IL-6, IL-8, VEGF, EGF, PDGF-aa, MIF, SerpinE1, and M-CSF), caused regression of spontaneous micro-metastases into a non-growing dormant state. To explore the underlying mechanisms and potential clinical ramifications of this phenomenon, we herein used the MDA-MB-231^HM human breast cancer cell-line, in-vitro, and in vivo following orthotopic implantation in immune-deficient BALB/C nu/nu mice. Employing bioluminescence imaging, we found that adding laparotomy to minimally-invasive removal of the PT caused an outbreak of micro-metastases. However, perioperative β-adrenergic and COX-2 inhibition, using propranolol + etodolac, maintained metastatic dormancy following laparotomy. In-vitro, β-adrenergic agonists (epinephrine or metaproterenol) and prostaglandin-E2 markedly increased MDA-MB-231^HM secretion of the pro-metastatic factors IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF, whereas cortisol reduced their secretion, effects that were maintained even 12 h after the washout of these agonists. In-vivo, laparotomy elevated IL-6 and IL-8 levels in both plasma and ex-vivo PT spontaneous secretion, whereas perioperative propranolol + etodolac administration blocked these effects. Similar trends were evident for EGF and MIF. Promoter-based bioinformatics analyses of excised PT transcriptomes implicated elevated NF-kB activity and reduced IRF1 activity in the gene regulatory effects of laparotomy, and these effects were inhibited by pre-surgical propranolol + etodolac. Taken together, our findings suggest a novel mechanism of post-operative metastatic outbreak, where surgery-induced adrenergic and prostanoid signaling increase the secretion of pro-metastatic factors, including IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF, from PT and possibly residual malignant tissue, and thereby prevent residual disease from entering dormancy.

Intraperitoneal Phototherapy Suppresses Inflammatory Reactions in a Surgical Model of Peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Standard treatment for diffuse peritonitis due to colorectal perforation may be insufficient to suppress inflammatory reaction in sepsis. Thus, developing new treatments is important. This study aimed to examine whether intraperitoneal irradiation by artificial sunlight suppresses inflammatory reaction in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peritonitis model after surgical treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were divided into naive, nontreatment (NT), and phototherapy (PT) groups. In the latter two groups, LPS was intraperitoneally administered to induce peritonitis and removed by intraperitoneal lavage after laparotomy. The PT group was irradiated with artificial sunlight intraperitoneally. We evaluated the local and systemic inflammatory reactions. Murine macrophages were irradiated with artificial sunlight after stimulation by LPS, and cell viability and expression of tumor necrotizing factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated.

RESULTS

As a local inflammatory reaction, the whole cell count, the expression of interleukin-6 and TNF-α in the intra-abdominal fluid, and the peritoneal thickness were significantly lower in the PT group than in the NT group. As a systematic inflammatory reaction, the expression of serum TNF-α, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, and MIP-1β were significantly lower in the PT group than in the NT group. Irradiation by artificial sunlight suppressed the expression of TNF-α in murine macrophages without affecting cell viability.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraperitoneal irradiation by artificial sunlight could suppress local and systemic inflammatory reactions in the LPS-induced peritonitis murine model. These effects may be associated with macrophage immune responses.

The Length of Surgical Skin Incision in Postoperative Inflammatory Reaction

Background and Objectives:

Surgery provokes inflammatory and immune responses, so efforts have been made to reduce host response by using less invasive techniques. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the surgical stress induced by skin incision and the role of liver response in this process.

Methods:

Seventy male anesthetized Wistar rats were subjected to a midline incision confined strictly to the skin (dermis) of either 1 cm long (n = 20), 10 cm long (n = 20), or no incision (n = 20) or served as controls (n = 10). Skin trauma was left open for a 20-minutes period, and then was meticulously sutured. At 3 and 24 hours later, laparotomy was performed on half the rats of each group, for blood and liver sampling. In serum and liver homogenates, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC)1/interleukin (IL)-8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and nitric oxide (NO) using a Griess reaction.

Results:

Skin trauma was found to significantly (P < .01) increase all inflammatory mediators tested (CINC1/IL-8, TNF-α, NO) in serum of operated rats versus controls, the increase being proportionally dependent on the length of skin incision. In liver homogenates, CINC1/IL-8 was significantly (P < .01) increased in operated animals versus controls, similarly to serum levels. In contrast, liver TNF-α levels were inversely related to serum levels, and a significant (P < .01) decrease in TNF-α was observed in liver homogenates of operated animals compared with the controls, indicating that the increased TNF-α in blood reflects liver TNF-α secretion.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that inflammatory and immune reactions induced by skin-only surgical trauma are closely correlated to the length of skin incision.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion vs. open mini-laparotomy cystectomy: evaluation of surgical inflammatory response and immunosuppressive ability of CO2-pneumoperitoneum in an experimental porcine study

OBJECTS

To compare surgical inflammatory response (SIR) after radical cystectomy (RC) in a porcine model using minimal invasive techniques. Additionally we aimed to investigate the potential immunosuppressive ability of preoperative CO₂-pneumoperitoneum (CO₂P).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty female landrace pigs were randomized to five groups: Three intervention groups all having a cystectomy and an ileal conduit either done by robot-assisted laparoscopic technique with intracorporeal urinary diversion (RALC) or an open mini-laparotomy with or without prior CO₂P (OMC ± CO₂P). Two control sham groups with or without prior CO₂P (S ± CO₂P). Serum samples were obtained preoperatively, immediately postoperative, 24, 48 and 72 hours postoperatively, and the inflammatory mediators CRP, Haptoglobin, Ceruloplasmin, Albumin, Cortisol, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12 and IFN-α were measured.

RESULTS

Operative time was significantly longer in RALC compared to open groups (OMC ± CO₂P) (p's < .0001). CRP and Haptoglobin levels were significantly higher for surgical intervention groups (SIG) compared to controls 24, 48 and 72 hours postoperatively (p's < .001). At 48 hours, CRP was higher for RALC vs OMC + CO₂P (p = .029). At 72 hours, Haptoglobin was higher for RALC vs open groups (p's < .024). Ceruloplasmin, cortisol, albumin, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12 and IFN-α, revealed no significant differences between SIG.

CONCLUSIONS

No major differences were found between RALC and OMC regarding the degree of tissue trauma quantified by inflammatory markers. Thirty minutes of CO_2-insufflation preoperative appears to have a transient immunosuppressive effect of the innate postoperative SIR, whereas prolonged CO₂P apparently diminishes this effect.

Immune-inflammatory activation after a single laparotomy in a rat model: effect of adenosine, lidocaine and Mg2+ infusion to dampen the stress response

Our aim was to examine the effect of low-volume 0.9% NaCl adenosine, lidocaine and Mg2+ (ALM) ‘drip’ on early immune-inflammatory activation after a single laparotomy with no further manipulation. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were anesthetized and randomly assigned to one of the groups, baseline, 1 h infusion 0.9% NaCl ± ALM and metrics, 1 h infusion and 6-h metrics, and 6 h continuous infusion and metrics. Complete blood count, acid–base balance, systemic levels of IL-6 and IL-10, and coagulation status were measured. After 1 h, there was a disproportionate increase in circulating neutrophils between saline and ALM groups despite an identical 45% fall in lymphocytes. Disproportionate increases also occurred in platelet counts 1 h after surgery, and saline controls had increased respiratory alkalosis at 6 h with higher lactate. Systemic inflammation was also evident after 1 h in both groups (plasma IL-6 increase) and was amplified in saline-controls after 6 h. The ALM group increased anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Surgery was not associated with acute coagulopathy; however, there were significant reductions in fibrinolysis. Following a single laparotomy, ALM infusion appeared to reduce stress-induced release of neutrophils and platelets into the circulation, and reduced acid–base disturbance. After 1 h, both groups had similar IL-6 levels, but ALM animals had increased IL-10, indicating improved inflammatory balance. The uncoupling of inflammation and coagulation activation but not fibrinolysis may offer a unique opportunity to investigate differential activation of innate immunity in response to sterile injury in this model.

Postoperative C-reactive protein concentration and clinical outcome: comparison of open cystectomy to robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with extracorporeal or intracorporeal urinary diversion in a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare clinical outcome and postoperative systemic inflammatory response using C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, to quantify the degree of tissue injury in open mini-laparotomy cystectomy (OMC) versus robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with extracorporeal (RALC-EUD) or intracorporeal urinary diversion (RALC-IUD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From September 2012 to September 2015, 309 patients diagnosed with bladder cancer underwent radical cystectomy with urinary diversion. Of these, 175 patients were eligible for the study and underwent OMC (n = 125), RALC-EUD (n = 12) or RALC-IUD (n = 38). Blood samples were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively on days 1-7. Clinical and perioperative parameters, including demographics, comorbidity, tumour stage and postoperative outcomes, were collected from medical records.

RESULTS

Age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score and Charlson score were significantly higher in OMC than in the robotic groups (p = 0.020, 0.012 and 0.008, respectively). Other demographic data showed no significant group differences. Estimated blood loss and blood transfusion volume were higher in OMC (p < 0.001) and operative time was longer in the robotic groups (p < 0.001); no difference was found between RALC groups. Postoperative CRP levels changed over time (p < 0.001) and RALC-IUD appeared to have significantly higher CRP levels on postoperative days 3-7 compared to OMC and RALC-EUD (p < 0.031), but OMC CRP levels were higher than RALC-EUD.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, robotic techniques seem less traumatic overall than open surgery, as OMC had higher postoperative CRP levels than RALC-EUD. The higher CRP levels in RALC-IUD may be more reflective of the urinary diversion technique than the true tissue trauma.

Miniature magnetically anchored and controlled camera system for trocar-less laparoscopy

AIM

To design a miniature magnetically anchored and controlled camera system to reduce the number of trocars which are required for laparoscopy.

METHODS

The system consists of a miniature magnetically anchored camera with a 30° downward angle, an external magnetically anchored unit, and a vision output device. The camera weighs 12 g, measures Φ10.5 mm × 55 mm and has two magnets, a vision model, a light source, and a metal hexagonal nut. To test the prototype, the camera was inserted through a 12-mm conventional trocar in an ex vivo real liver laparoscopic training system. A trocar-less laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed 6 times using a 12-mm and a 5-mm conventional trocar. In addition, the same procedure was performed in four canine models.

RESULTS

Both procedures were successfully performed using only two conventional laparoscopic trocars. The cholecystectomy was completed without any major complication in 42 min (38-45 min) in vitro and in 50 min (45-53 min) using an animal model. This camera was anchored and controlled by an external unit magnetically anchored on the abdominal wall. The camera could generate excellent image. with no instrument collisions.

CONCLUSION

The camera system we designed provides excellent optics and can be easily maneuvered. The number of conventional trocars is reduced without adding technical difficulties.

Comparison of Inflammatory Response to Transgastric and Transcolonic NOTES

Aims. The aim of our study was to determine the physiologic impact of NOTES and to compare the transgastric and transcolonic approaches. Methods. Thirty pigs were randomized to transgastric, transcolonic, or laparoscopic peritoneoscopy. Blood was drawn and analyzed for C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, WBCs, and platelets. Results. Endoscopic closure with an OTSC was successful in all 20 animals. The postoperative course was uneventful in all animals. CRP values rose on day 1 in all animals and slowly declined to baseline levels on day 14 with no differences between the groups (P > 0.05, NS). The levels of TNF-α were significantly increased in the transcolonic group (P < 0.01); however this difference was already present prior to the procedure and remained unchanged. No differences were observed in IL1-β and IL-6 values. There was a temporary rise of WBC on day 1 and of platelets on day 7 in all groups (P > 0.05, NS). Conclusions. Transgastric, transcolonic, and laparoscopic peritoneoscopy resulted in similar changes in systemic inflammatory markers. Our findings do not support the assumption that NOTES is less invasive than laparoscopy.

High-fat enteral nutrition reduces intestinal mucosal barrier damage after peritoneal air exposure

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal air exposure is needed in open abdominal surgery, but long-time exposure could induce intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction followed by many postoperative complications. High-fat enteral nutrition can ameliorate intestinal injury and improve intestinal function in many gastrointestinal diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effect of high-fat enteral nutrition on intestinal mucosal barrier after peritoneal air exposure and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Male adult rats were administrated saline, low-fat or high-fat enteral nutrition via gavage before and after peritoneal air exposure for 3 h. Rats undergoing anesthesia without laparotomy received saline as control. Twenty four hours after surgery, samples were collected to assess intestinal mucosal barrier changes in serum D-lactate levels, intestinal permeability, intestinal tight junction protein ZO-1 and occludin levels, and intestinal histopathology. The levels of malondialdehyde and the activity of superoxide dismutase in the ileum tissue were also measured to assess the status of intestinal oxidative stress.

RESULTS

High-fat enteral nutrition significantly decreased the serum D-lactate level and increased the intestinal tight junction protein ZO-1 level when compared to the group treated with low-fat enteral nutrition (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, histopathologic findings showed that the intestinal mucosal injury assessed by the Chiu's score and the intestinal epithelial tight junction were also improved much more in the high-fat enteral nutrition-treated group (P < 0.05). In addition, the intestinal malondialdehyde level was lower, and the intestinal superoxide dismutase activity was higher in the high-fat enteral nutrition-treated group than that in the low-fat enteral nutrition-treated group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that high-fat enteral nutrition could reduce intestinal mucosal barrier damage after peritoneal air exposure, and the underlying mechanism may be associated with its antioxidative action. Perioperative administration of high-fat enteral nutrition may be a promising intervention to preserve intestinal mucosal barrier function in open abdominal surgery.

Addressing the Global Burden of Trauma in Major Surgery

Despite a technically perfect procedure, surgical stress can determine the success or failure of an operation. Surgical trauma is often referred to as the "neglected step-child" of global health in terms of patient numbers, mortality, morbidity, and costs. A staggering 234 million major surgeries are performed every year, and depending upon country and institution, up to 4% of patients will die before leaving hospital, up to 15% will have serious post-operative morbidity, and 5-15% will be readmitted within 30 days. These percentages equate to around 1000 deaths and 4000 major complications every hour, and it has been estimated that 50% may be preventable. New frontline drugs are urgently required to make major surgery safer for the patient and more predictable for the surgeon. We review the basic physiology of the stress response from neuroendocrine to genomic systems, and discuss the paucity of clinical data supporting the use of statins, beta-adrenergic blockers and calcium-channel blockers. Since cardiac-related complications are the most common, particularly in the elderly, a key strategy would be to improve ventricular-arterial coupling to safeguard the endothelium and maintain tissue oxygenation. Reduced O2 supply is associated with glycocalyx shedding, decreased endothelial barrier function, fluid leakage, inflammation, and coagulopathy. A healthy endothelium may prevent these "secondary hit" complications, including possibly immunosuppression. Thus, the four pillars of whole body resynchronization during surgical trauma, and targets for new therapies, are: (1) the CNS, (2) the heart, (3) arterial supply and venous return functions, and (4) the endothelium. This is termed the Central-Cardio-Vascular-Endothelium (CCVE) coupling hypothesis. Since similar sterile injury cascades exist in critical illness, accidental trauma, hemorrhage, cardiac arrest, infection and burns, new drugs that improve CCVE coupling may find wide utility in civilian and military medicine.

Clinical application of endoscopic thyroidectomy via an anterior chest wall approach

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic minimally invasive surgery of the cervical region is currently used to treat benign thyroid disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and inflammatory response to endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) via an anterior chest wall approach.

METHODS

Between January 2007 and January 2012, 320 patients underwent sub-total/total thyroidectomy. Of these, 160 had endoscopic surgery through an anterior chest wall approach (ET, group A) and 160 had traditional open surgery (group B). Demographics, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, complications, hospital stay, cost, and postoperative outcomes were compared between the 2 groups. Serum Interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein levels were measured preoperatively and at 2, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

Patient demographics, tumor size, operation time, and pathologic diagnoses were similar in both groups. There was no difference in procedure time and postoperative complication rates. Intraoperative blood loss and length of hospital stay were significantly lower in group A (P<0.05), but cost was higher (P<0.05). Serum Interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein levels increased significantly after both procedures, with levels at the 24-hour and 48-hour time points higher in group B (P<0.05). Two cases in group A and 1 in group B developed a transient hoarse voice postoperatively, which recovered 7.5 days (range, 5 to 12 d) later. There were no serious complications during the 2-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

ET through an anterior chest wall approach is safe and feasible for benign thyroid disease, and offers the advantage of no visible scar.

Transvaginal and transrectal natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery nephrectomy in a porcine survival model: comparison with conventional laparoscopic nephrectomy

PURPOSE

We analyzed the technical feasibility, physiological influence, and safety of transvaginal (TV) and transrectal (TR) natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) nephrectomy compared with conventional laparoscopic surgery in a porcine survival model.

METHODS

Fifteen female pigs (32.8-37.2 kg) were randomly assigned to undergo TV NOTES (n=5), TR NOTES (n=5), or conventional laparoscopic nephrectomy (n=5). Postoperatively, all animals were observed for global health status during the recovery from anesthesia. Variable laboratory parameters and inflammatory cytokines were compared among the groups during the entire experimental period. Postmortem examination was performed 1 week after operation for assessment of abdominal complications and cultures for microorganisms.

RESULTS

All experiments were completed successfully without insertion of an extra port or conversion to laparoscopic or open surgery. Although mean operative times were longer in TV and TR NOTES groups than in the conventional laparoscopy group (61 vs 84 vs 24 min, P<0.001), there were no signs of visceral injury or peritonitis on postmortem examination. None of the laboratory parameters, including white blood cell count, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1, and IL-6 differed among the groups during the entire experimental period.

CONCLUSIONS

TV and TR NOTES nephrectomy could be completed successfully with similar physiologic influence to those of conventional laparoscopic nephrectomy in a porcine survival model.

Comparison in efficacy between pure NOTES peritoneoscopy with small or large endoscope and laparoscopy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and systematic impact of different sized endoscopes for pure transgastric natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) peritoneoscopy relative to laparoscopy.

METHODS

A total of 15 dogs were randomly assigned to the small-sized endoscope (SS), large-sized endoscope (LS) and standard laparoscopy (SL) groups. The procedure time, visualization scores for abdominal organs, gastric incision healing times and procedure-associated complications were recorded. Blood samples were collected at 1 h preoperation and at 1 h, 12 h, 2 days and 7 days postoperation. Serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 levels as well as peripheral white blood cell (WBC) counts were analyzed.

RESULTS

Peritoneoscopy was successfully performed with both pure transgastric NOTES and laparoscopy. The peritoneoscopy required less time to complete in the SL group (44.0 ± 7.0 min) than the LS (83.0 ± 28.9 min) and SS (106.6 ± 81.3 min) groups (P < 0.01), but no statistical difference was observed between the SS and LS groups (P > 0.05). The visualization scores of peritoneal organs among the three groups did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). The gastric incision exhibited satisfactory healing in both the SS and LS groups. Moreover, serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels and WBC counts at each time point were similar among the three groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Small-sized endoscope is not superior to a large-sized one for pure transgastric NOTES peritoneoscopy. Pure transgastric NOTES is not less invasive or less time-consuming than laparoscopy.

Peritoneal air exposure elicits an intestinal inflammation resulting in postoperative ileus

BACKGROUND

The pathogenesis of postoperative ileus (POI) is complex. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of peritoneal air exposure on the POI intestinal inflammation and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into five groups (6/group): the control group, the sham group, and three exposure groups with peritoneal air exposure for 1, 2, or 3 h. At 24 h after surgery, we analyzed the gastrointestinal transit, the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, the myeloperoxidase activity, and the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 in the ileum and colon. The oxidant and antioxidant levels in the ileum and colon were analyzed by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC).

RESULTS

Peritoneal air exposure caused an air-exposure-time-dependent decrease in the gastrointestinal transit. The length of peritoneal air exposure is correlated with the severity of both systemic and intestinal inflammations and the increases in the levels of MDA, SOD, GSH-Px, and T-AOC.

CONCLUSIONS

The length of peritoneal air exposure is proportional to the degree of intestinal paralysis and the severity of intestinal inflammation, which is linked to the oxidative stress response.

Acute inflammatory response to transgastric natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery peritoneoscopy: an experimental study in swine

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of transgastric peritoneal access on plasma biomarkers of acute inflammatory response in comparison to laparoscopy.

METHODS

This was a prospective and comparative study in a porcine model. Transgastric peritoneal access performed by natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery was compared with laparoscopy. Laparotomy and sham groups were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Thirty-four pigs were assigned to receive transgastric natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (n = 12), laparoscopy (n = 8), laparotomy (n = 8) or a sham procedure involving only anesthesia (n = 6). In the natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery group, peritoneoscopy was performed with a gastroscope via transgastric access. Blood samples were collected at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 9 and 24 h after the surgical procedure for measurement of interleukins 1β, 6 and 10 and tumor necrosis factor-α. A complete blood count was performed, and C-reactive protein levels were measured at baseline and at 24 h.

RESULTS

All surgical and endoscopic procedures were performed without major complications. Peritoneal cavity inventory showed no signs of peritonitis in any animal. Interleukin 1β, interleukin 10 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were below the threshold of detection. The mean level of interleukin 6 was statistically significantly higher in the laparotomy group than in the other groups (p<0.05), with no significant differences among the sham, laparoscopy and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery groups (p>0.05). C-reactive protein analysis indicated significant increases in all groups, with no differences among the groups. Complete blood count analysis showed no differences among the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the observed interleukin 6 patterns, the systemic inflammatory response resulting from transgastric peritoneal access by natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery is similar in intensity to the response that occurs after laparoscopy.

Is laparoscopy equal to laparotomy in detecting and treating small bowel injuries in a porcine model?

AIM: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopy compared with laparotomy for diagnosing and treating small bowel injuries (SBIs) in a porcine model.

METHODS: Twenty-eight female pigs were anesthetized and laid in the left recumbent position. The SBI model was established by shooting at the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The pigs were then randomized into either the laparotomy group or the laparoscopy group. All pigs underwent routine exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopy to evaluate the abdominal injuries, particularly the types, sites, and numbers of SBIs. Traditional open surgery or therapeutic laparoscopy was then performed. All pigs were kept alive within the observational period (postoperative 72 h). The postoperative recovery of each pig was carefully observed.

RESULTS: The vital signs of all pigs were stable within 1-2 h after shooting and none of the pigs died from gunshot wounds or SBIs immediately. The SBI model was successfully established in all pigs and definitively diagnosed with single or multiple SBIs either by exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopy. Compared with exploratory laparotomy, laparoscopy took a significantly longer time for diagnosis (41.27 ± 12.04 min vs 27.64 ± 13.32 min, P = 0.02), but the time for therapeutic laparoscopy was similar to that of open surgery. The length of incision was significantly reduced in the laparoscopy group compared with the laparotomy group (5.27 ± 1.86 cm vs 15.73 ± 1.06 cm, P < 0.01). In the final post-mortem examination 72 h after surgery, both laparotomy and laparoscopy offered a definitive diagnosis with no missed injuries. Postoperative complications occurred in four cases (three following laparotomy and one following laparoscopy, P = 0.326). The average recovery period for bowel function, vital appearance, and food re-intake after laparoscopy was 10.36 ± 4.72 h, 14.91 ± 3.14 h, and 15.00 ± 7.11 h, respectively. All of these were significantly shorter than after laparotomy (21.27 ± 10.17 h, P = 0.004; 27.82 ± 9.61 h, P < 0.001; and 24.55 ± 9.72 h, respectively, P = 0.016).

CONCLUSION: Compared with laparotomy, laparoscopy offers equivalent efficacy for diagnosing and treating SBIs, and reduces postoperative complications as well as recovery period.

Gene expression in skin, muscle, and dorsal root ganglion after plantar incision in the rat

BACKGROUND

Treating postoperative pain remains a significant challenge for perioperative medicine. Recent studies have shown that nerve growth factor is up-regulated and contributes to incisional pain. To date, few studies have examined expression of other neurotrophin-related mediators that may contribute to the development and/or maintenance of incisional pain.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent a plantar incision, and pain behaviors were examined (n = 6). In a separate group of rats, expression of neurotrophic factors were studied. At various times after incision (n = 4) or sham surgery (n = 4), the skin, muscle, and dorsal root ganglia were harvested and total RNA isolated. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed and the fold change in gene expression was analyzed using significance analysis of microarrays.

RESULTS

Several genes were changed (P < 0.05) as early as 1 h after incision. Expression of artemin and nerve growth factor were increased in both incised skin and muscle. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, neurotrophin-3, and neurotrophin-5 were all down-regulated in the skin but up-regulated in the muscle 48 h after incision. Few genes changed in the dorsal root ganglion. Most changes in expression occurred in the first 48 h after incision, a timeframe when pain behavior was the greatest.

CONCLUSION

Surgical incision is associated with pain-related gene expression changes in skin, muscle, and, to a lesser extent, dorsal root ganglion. The gene expression profile provides clues as to mediators that are involved in peripheral sensitization and pain transmission after surgical incision and also suggest mechanisms for resolution of postoperative pain when more persistent pain syndromes like neuropathic pain continue.

Magnetically anchored camera and percutaneous instruments maintain triangulation and improve cosmesis compared with single-site and conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated operative outcomes and ergonomics for a magnetic camera (MAGS) used in conjunction with percutaneous instruments [percutaneous surgical set (PSS)] compared with single-site laparoscopic (SSL) and conventional laparoscopic (LAP) cholecystectomy techniques.

METHODS

Four surgical trainees each performed three porcine cholecystectomies using three randomized techniques including MAGS/PSS, SSL, and LAP. The operative outcomes, procedure-specific ratings (1-5 scale; 1 = superior), workload (1-10 scale; 1 = superior), and global impressions (1-10 scale; 10 = superior) were recorded. Comparisons used analysis of variance (ANOVA) on ranks (Kruskal-Wallis), and p values lower than 0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

The operative outcomes were similar except for significantly higher blood loss with SSL (16.3 ± 10.3) versus LAP (2.8 ± 1.5; p < 0.05) but not with MAGS/PSS (4.8 ± 3.8). Several inadvertent tissue-damaging events occurred with SSL but not with MAGS/PSS or LAP. The incision was significantly shorter with MAGS/PSS (29.3 ± 2.8 mm) and SSL (29.3 ± 2.5 mm) than with LAP (48.0 ± 3.6 mm; p < 0.05). Compared with SSL (3.6 ± 0.5), the procedure-specific ratings significantly favored MAGS/PSS (2.8 ± 0.4) and LAP (1.7 ± 0.2; p < 0.05). Ergonomics and technical challenges both were rated significantly inferior with SSL (4.3 ± 1.0 and 3.8 ± 0.5, respectively) versus LAP (1.5 ± 0.6 and 2.0 ± 0.8, respectively; p < 0.05) but not with MAGS/PSS (2.5 ± 1.0 and 3.0 ± 0.8, respectively). Both MAGS/PSS (4.5 ± 0.5) and SSL (4.8 ± 1.0) were associated with a significantly greater workload than LAP (2.5 ± 0.6; p < 0.05). Global impression ratings were significantly higher for LAP (8.7 ± 1.3) versus SSL (5.8 ± 2.0; p < 0.05) but not for MAGS/PSS (7.1 ± 1.8). Cosmesis was significantly better with MAGS/PSS (9.5 ± 0.6) versus LAP (6.5 ± 2.4; p < 0.05) but not with SSL (8.8 ± 1.3).

CONCLUSION

The MAGS/PSS technique allows better triangulation and fewer technical difficulties than SSL and better cosmesis than LAP. Further development of these devices is warranted.

Single-Center Experience in Systemic Stress and Short-Term Morbidity of Single-Incision Cholecystectomy

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) aims to reduce the number and size of skin incisions. The authors compared systemic stress and perioperative outcome of SILS and laparoscopic (LAP) cholecystectomy. Twenty-nine subjects (8 males and 21 females; mean age = 47 years; mean body mass index = 27) were included in the study. There was no statistical difference in mean operative time (LAP = 89 minutes; SILS = 113 minutes; P = ns), and no intraoperative complications were reported. There were no statistically significant differences observed in white cell count, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α between SILS and LAP groups. The mean hospital length of stay (LAP = 1.8 days; SILS = 1.4 days) and Visual Analogue Scale scores for pain at 6 hours (LAP = 5.14; SILS = 4.46) and 24 hours (LAP = 3.9; SILS = 2.815) were similar with no perioperative morbidity. These results suggest that the systemic stress response in LAP and SILS cholecystectomy does not appear to be significantly different. SILS cholecystectomy appears safe with no perioperative morbidity or complications encountered in this series.

Role of serum interleukin-6 in comparing surgical stress after laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy and non-descent vaginal hysterectomy for large uteri

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To compare the perioperative inflammatory response using interleukin-6 (IL-6) in patients of laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) and non-descent vaginal hysterectomy (NDVH) for large uteri with benign disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty women with benign uterine disease and failed medical management with size of uterus ranging from 300 to 1,500 g (12-24 weeks) were randomized into two equal groups for either technique of hysterectomy, LAVH and NDVH. Venous blood levels of IL-6 were measured preoperatively and 3, 24 and 72 h after beginning of surgery. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS15 software.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was present in demographic characteristics, operating time, and uterine weight between the two groups. No major complications were encountered. The increase in serum interleukin 6 levels from preoperative value to the value at 3 h postoperatively was found to be significantly higher in LAVH group when compared with NDVH group indicating greater tissue handling and trauma in LAVH group.

CONCLUSION

Non-descent vaginal hysterectomy appears to be better than laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy for large uteri in terms of inflammatory response.

Total Thyroidectomy in the Mouse: the Feasibility Study in the Non-thyroidal Tumor Model Expressing Human Sodium/Iodide Symporter Gene

PURPOSE

This study sought to probe the feasibility of performing total thyroidectomy in the mouse using a non-thyroidal hNIS expressing tumor model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our thyroidectomy protocol included thorough excision of both lobes and the isthmus. For evaluating the completeness of thyroidectomy, we compared the (99m)Tc-pertechnetate scans taken before and after thyroidectomy. The prostate cancer cell line was subcutaneously inoculated 2 weeks after the thyroidectomy. When the tumor reached 5-10 mm in diameter, Ad5/35-E4PSESE1a-hNIS was injected intratumorally, and (131)I scans were performed. The radioiodine uptakes of the neck and the tumor were compared with those of the other regions.

RESULTS

Total thyroidectomy was performed in 13 mice. Although 38.5% died during or just after thyroidectomy, the others survived in good health for 2 months. Thyroid tissue was completely eliminated using our protocol; the residual uptake of (99m)Tc-pertechnetate was minimal in the neck area. The neck/background uptake ratio after thyroidectomy was significantly lower than that before thyroidectomy (p < 0.05). Non-thyroidal tumor models were successfully established in all the surviving mice. Radioiodine accumulation in the tumors was visualized on (131)I scans, and the neck uptakes were minimal.

CONCLUSION

Using our total thyroidectomy protocol, we successfully established a hNIS-transfected prostate cancer model with a minimal accumulation of radioiodine in the neck. The relatively high mortality after surgery can be a problem, and this might be reduced by minimizing the surgical stress.

Pediatric laparoscopy: Facts and factitious claims

Background:

Pediatric laparoscopy (LS) is claimed to be superior to open surgery (OS). This review questions the scientific veracity of this assertion by systematic analysis of published evidences comparing LS versus OS in infants and children.

Materials and Methods:

Search of PubMed data base and the available literature on pediatric LS is analyzed.

Results:

One hundred and eight articles out of a total of 426 papers were studied in detail.

Conclusions:

High quality evidences indicate that LS is, at the best, as invasive as OS; and is at the worst, more invasive than conventional surgery. There are no high quality evidences to suggest that LS is minimally invasive, economically profitable and is associated with fewer complications than OS. Evidences are equally distributed for and against the benefits of LS regarding postoperative pain. Proof of cosmetic superiority of LS or otherwise is not available. The author concludes that pediatric laparoscopy, at the best, is simply comparable to laparotomy and its superiority over the latter could not be sustained on the basis of available scientific evidences. Benefits of laparoscopy appear to recede with younger age. Concerns are raised on the quick adoption, undue promotion and frequent misuse of laparoscopy in children.

Cardiopulmonary and immunologic effects of transvaginal natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery cholecystectomy compared with laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a porcine survival model

BACKGROUND

A few studies have addressed the physiology related to a basic natural-orifice transluminal endoscopy surgery (NOTES) procedure, such as transgastric peritoneoscopy, but the physiologic impact of more complex NOTES procedures has not been previously examined.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cardiopulmonary and immunologic effects of transvaginal NOTES cholecystectomy compared with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

SETTING

Survival experiments in 10 40-kg female pigs assigned to transvaginal cholecystectomy and laparoscopic cholecystectomy groups.

INTERVENTIONS

Transvaginal cholecystectomy was performed with the assistance of a needlescopic device, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed in the standard manner.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Cardiopulmonary and immunologic parameters in the transvaginal cholecystectomy group were compared with those in the laparoscopic cholecystectomy group. Cardiopulmonary parameters included heart rate, blood pressure, saturation pulse oximetry, intratracheal pressure, and arterial blood gases. Immunologic parameters included white blood cell count, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6.

RESULTS

All procedures were performed successfully without complications. Although operation times were longer for transvaginal cholecystectomy than for laparoscopic surgery, cardiopulmonary changes were similar and stable in both groups. White blood cell count, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6 did not differ between the 2 groups, and the increase in tumor necrosis factor α after transvaginal cholecystectomy was significantly smaller on postoperative day 1 than after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (133.4 pg/mL vs 200.4 pg/mL; P < .05).

LIMITATIONS

Animal model and small sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

Transvaginal cholecystectomy resulted in cardiopulmonary stability and well preserved immune function similar to those of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, suggesting that NOTES may be less invasive than laparoscopic surgery.

The minimally invasive effect of breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy: an expert's experience

We evaluated the invasiveness of breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy (BAET) carried out by surgeon very experienced in this procedure. Twenty-four patients who underwent BAET and 19 patients who underwent conventional thyroidectomy were the study population. Postoperative pain was assessed by a visual analog scale (VAS). The values 2, 12, and 24  h after surgery were significantly lower in the BAET group than those in the conventional group. Serum IL-6 and CRP levels were measured by an ELISA preoperatively and at 2, 12, 24 and 48  h after operation. Their values increased significantly after both procedures when compared to preoperative levels with significant differences between the two groups detected at the 24-hour and 48-hour time points. Subjective and objective evidence supported the notion that BAET could become a minimally invasive procedure if the surgeon gained sufficient experience.