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May07
Diagnostic Laparoscopy for Trauma
Rationale for the Procedure
Exploratory laparotomies in trauma patients with suspected intra-abdominal injuries are associated with a high negative laparotomy rate and significant procedure-related morbidity. Diagnostic laparoscopy has been proposed for trauma patients to prevent unnecessary exploratory laparotomies with their associated higher morbidity and cost.
Technique
Many studies have documented the feasibility and safety of the procedure in trauma patients (level I-III) [1-25]. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia; however, local anesthesia with IV sedation has also been used successfully. The latter, in conjunction with a dedicated mobile cart, facilitates the procedure in the emergency department. A recent study demonstrated the safety and advantages of awake laparoscopy under local anesthesia in the emergency department over standard DL in the operating room (level III) [21]. Many authors have used low insufflation pressures (8-12 mm Hg); however, pressures up to 15 mm Hg have been described without untoward events. Special attention should be given to the possibility of a tension pneumothorax caused by the pneumoperitoneum due to an unsuspected diaphragmatic rupture. The pneumoperitoneum is created usually through a periumbilical incision using a Veress needle or open technique after insertion of a nasogastric tube and a Foley catheter.
In the case of penetrating wounds, air leaks can be controlled with sutures. A 30-degree laparoscope is advantageous, and additional trocars are used for organ manipulations. The peritoneal cavity can be examined systematically taking advantage of patient positioning manipulations. The colon can be mobilized and the lesser sac inspected. Suction/irrigation may be needed for optimal visualization, and methylene blue can be administered IV or via a nasogastric tube to help identify urologic or stomach injuries, respectively. In penetrating injuries, peritoneal violation can be determined.
Indications
• Suspected but unproven intra-abdominal injury after blunt or penetrating trauma
• More specific indications include:
• Suspected intra-abdominal injury despite negative initial workup after blunt trauma
• Abdominal stab wounds with proven or equivocal penetration of fascia
• Abdominal gunshot wounds with doubtful intraperitoneal trajectory
• Diagnosis of diaphragmatic injury from penetrating trauma to the thoracoabdominal area
• Creation of a transdiaphragmatic pericardial window to rule out cardiac injury
Contraindications (Absolute or Relative)
• Hemodynamic instability (defined by most studies as systolic pressure < 90 mm Hg)
• A clear indication for immediate celiotomy such as frank peritonitis, hemorrhagic shock, or evisceration
• Known or obvious intra-abdominal injury
• Posterior penetrating trauma with high likelihood of bowel injury
• Limited laparoscopic expertise
Risks
• Delay to definitive treatment
• Missed injuries with their associated morbidity
• Procedure- and anesthesia-related complications
Benefits
• Reduction in the rate of negative and nontherapeutic laparotomies (with a subsequent decrease in hospitalization, morbidity, and cost after negative laparoscopy)
• Accurate identification of diaphragmatic injury
• Ability to provide therapeutic intervention
Diagnostic Accuracy of the Procedure
The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of the procedure when used to predict the need for laparotomy are high (75-100%) (level I-III) [1-25]; however, they depend on several factors (see Limitations of the Available Literature). When DL has been used as a screening tool (i.e., early conversion to open exploration with the first encounter of a positive finding like the identification of peritoneal penetration in penetrating trauma or active bleeding/peritoneal fluid in blunt trauma patients), the number of missed injuries is <1% (level II, III) [2-8]. Although early studies cautioned about the low sensitivity and high missed injury rates of the procedure when used to identify specific injuries (level II, III) [9-12], studies published recently consistently report a 0% missed injury rate even when DL is used for reasons other than screening (level I-III) [1-7,14,16-25]. This rate holds true for studies that have used laparoscopy to treat the majority of identified injuries (level II, III) [22,24,25].
Studies of DL for trauma report negative procedures in a median 57% (range, 17-89) of patients, sparing them an unnecessary exploratory laparotomy (level I-III) [1-7, 13-25]. On the other hand, the median percentage of negative exploratory laparotomies after a positive DL (false positive rate) is reported to be around 6% (range, 0-44) (level I-III) [1-7,14,16-25]. While most authors have converted to open exploration after a positive DL, some authors have successfully treated the majority of patients (up to 83%) laparoscopically (level II, III) [22,24,25]. The safety and accuracy of the procedure has also been demonstrated in pediatric trauma patients (level III) [22].
Procedure-related Complications and Patient Outcomes
Procedure-related complications occur in up to 11% of patients and are usually minor (level I-III) [1-25]. A 1999 review of 37 studies, which included more than 1,900 patients demonstrated a procedure-related complication rate of 1% [9]. Recent studies report a median of 0 (range, 0-10%) morbidity and 0% mortality (level I-III) [1-7,14,16-25]. Intraoperative complications can occur during creation of the pneumoperitoneum, trocar insertion, or during the diagnostic examination. These complications include tension pneumothorax caused by unrecognized injuries to the diaphragm, perforation of a hollow viscus, laceration of a solid organ, vascular injury (usually trocar injury of an epigastric artery or lacerated omental vessels), and subcutaneous or extraperitoneal dissection by the insufflation gas. Port site infections may occur during the postoperative course.
Negative DL is associated with shorter postoperative hospital stays compared with negative exploratory laparotomy (2-3 days vs. 4-5 days, respectively) (level II, III) [2,4-9,14,16-20,22-25]. Although a few studies have even demonstrated shorter stays after therapeutic laparoscopy compared with open (level III) [22,24,25], the only level I study available demonstrated a statistically significant shorter hospital stay after DL (5.1 vs. 5.7 days) [1]. In a very recent study, awake laparoscopy in the emergency department under local anesthesia resulted in discharge of patients from the hospital faster compared with DL in the operating room (7 vs. 18 hours, respectively; p<0.001) (level III) [21].
Comparative studies also suggest lower morbidity rates after negative DL compared with negative exploratory laparotomy (level II, III) [5,19,21], whereas other studies have shown similar outcomes (level I-III) [1,7].
Cost-effectiveness
A number of reports have demonstrated higher costs (up to two times higher) after negative exploratory laparotomy compared with negative DL (levels II, III) [6,14,17] as a direct consequence of shorter hospital stays. Nevertheless, a level I study did not demonstrate cost differences when an intention-to-treat analysis was used to compare a DL-treated group with that of an exploratory laparotomy-treated group [1]. Recently a level III study reported cost savings of $2,000 per patient when awake laparoscopy under local anesthesia was used in the emergency department compared with DL in the operating room [21].
Limitations of the Available Literature
The available literature has limited quality (only one small, level I study exists) and is very inhomogeneous, making generalizations and conclusions difficult. Study populations have been variable (blunt, penetrating, or mixed), and some studies have focused only on patients with suspected diaphragmatic injuries or blunt bowel injuries. Moreover, the indication for conversion to exploratory laparotomy has also been inconsistent. Most studies use peritoneal penetration or bleeding and free peritoneal fluid as an immediate reason for conversion, whereas others have converted only after specific injuries have been identified, and others have converted only when laparoscopic repair was impossible. The impact of laparoscopic expertise on the diagnostic accuracy of the procedure has not been assessed. Since the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and number of missed injuries can be substantially influenced by most of these factors, it is difficult to provide firm recommendations on the role of DL in trauma patients.
Recommendations
Diagnostic laparoscopy is technically feasible and can be applied safely in appropriately selected trauma patients (grade B). The procedure has been shown to effectively decrease the rate of negative laparotomies and minimize patient morbidity. It should be considered in hemodynamically stable blunt trauma patients with suspected intra-abdominal injury and equivocal findings on imaging studies or even in patients with negative studies but a high clinical likelihood for intra-abdominal injury (grade C). It may be particularly useful and should be considered in patients with penetrating trauma of the abdomen with documented or equivocal penetration of the anterior fascia (grade C). It should be used in patients with suspected diaphragmatic injury, as imaging occult injury rates are significant, and DL offers the best diagnostic accuracy (grade C). Patients should be followed cautiously postoperatively for the early identification of missed injuries. Therapeutic intervention can be provided safely when laparoscopic expertise is available (grade C). To optimize results, the procedure should be incorporated in institutional diagnostic and treatment algorithms for trauma patients.
Bibliography
1. Leppaniemi A, Haapiainen R Diagnostic laparoscopy in abdominal stab wounds: a prospective, randomized study. J Trauma 2003; 55(4):636-45.
2. Ahmed, N., Whelan, J., Brownlee, J., Chari, V., and Chung, R. The Contribution of Laparoscopy in Evaluation of Penetrating Abdominal Wounds. Journal of the American College of Surgeons 2005;201(2):213-6.
3. Mitsuhide, K., Junichi, S., Atsushi, N., Masakazu, D., Shinobu, H., Tomohisa, E., and Hiroshi, Y. Computed Tomographic Scanning and Selective Laparoscopy in the Diagnosis of Blunt Bowel Injury: a Prospective Study. Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care 2005;58(4):696-701.
4. Cherry, R. A., Eachempati, S. R., Hydo, L. J., and Barie, P. S. The Role of Laparoscopy in Penetrating Abdominal Stab Wounds. Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy & Percutaneous Techniques 2005;15(1):14-7.
5. Miles, E. J., Dunn, E., Howard, D., and Mangram, A. The Role of Laparoscopy in Penetrating Abdominal Trauma. Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons 2004;8(4):304-9.
6. Taner, A. S., Topgul, K., Kucukel, F., Demir, A., and Sari, S. Diagnostic Laparoscopy Decreases the Rate of Unnecessary Laparotomies and Reduces Hospital Costs in Trauma Patients. Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques 2001;Part A. 11(4):207-11.
7. Simon, R. J., Rabin, J., and Kuhls, D. Impact of Increased Use of Laparoscopy on Negative Laparotomy Rates After Penetrating Trauma. Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care 2002;53(2):297-302.
8. Murray, J. A., Demetriades, D., Asensio, J. A., Cornwell, E. E., III, Velmahos, G. C., Belzberg, H., and Berne, T. V. Occult Injuries to the Diaphragm: Prospective Evaluation of Laparoscopy in Penetrating Injuries to the Left Lower Chest. Journal of the American College of Surgeons 1998;187(6):626-30.
9. Villavicencio, R. T. and Aucar, J. A. Analysis of Laparoscopy in Trauma. [Review] [62 Refs]. Journal of the American College of Surgeons 1999;189(1):11-20
10. Rossi P, Mullins D, Thal E. Role of laparoscopy in the evaluation of abdominal trauma. Am J Surg 1993;166:707–711.
11. Ortega AE, Tang E, Froes ET, et al. Laparoscopic evaluation of penetrating thoracoabdominal traumatic injuries. Surg Endosc 1996;10:19–22.
12. Brandt CP, Priebe PP, Jacobs DG. Potential of laparoscopy to reduce nontherapeutic trauma laparotomies. Am Surg 1994;60: 416–420.
13. Mathonnet, M., Peyrou, P., Gainant, A., Bouvier, S., and Cubertafond, P. Role of Laparoscopy in Blunt Perforations of the Small Bowel. Surgical Endoscopy 2003;17(4):641-5.
14. DeMaria, E. J., Dalton, J. M., Gore, D. C., Kellum, J. M., and Sugerman, H. J. Complementary Roles of Laparoscopic Abdominal Exploration and Diagnostic Peritoneal Lavage for Evaluating Abdominal Stab Wounds: a Prospective Study. Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques 2000;Part A. 10(3):131-6.
15. Elliott, D. C., Rodriguez, A., Moncure, M., Myers, R. A., Shillinglaw, W., Davis, F., Goldberg, A., Mitchell, K., and McRitchie, D. The Accuracy of Diagnostic Laparoscopy in Trauma Patients: a Prospective, Controlled Study. International Surgery 1998;83(4):294-8.
16. Zantut, L. F., Ivatury, R. R., Smith, R. S., Kawahara, N. T., Porter, J. M., Fry, W. R., Poggetti, R., Birolini, D., and Organ, C. H., Jr. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Laparoscopy for Penetrating Abdominal Trauma: a Multicenter Experience. Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care 1997;42(5):825-9.
17. Marks, J. M., Youngelman, D. F., and Berk, T. Cost Analysis of Diagnostic Laparoscopy Vs Laparotomy in the Evaluation of Penetrating Abdominal Trauma. Surgical Endoscopy 1997;11(3):272-6.
18. Smith, R. S., Fry, W. R., Morabito, D. J., Koehler, R. H., and Organ, C. H., Jr. Therapeutic Laparoscopy in Trauma. American Journal of Surgery 1995;170(6):632-6.
19. Sosa, J. L., Arrillaga, A., Puente, I., Sleeman, D., Ginzburg, E., and Martin, L. Laparoscopy in 121 Consecutive Patients With Abdominal Gunshot Wounds. Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care 1995;39(3):501-4.
20. Hallfeldt, K. K., Trupka, A. W., Erhard, J., Waldner, H., and Schweiberer, L. Emergency Laparoscopy for Abdominal Stab Wounds. Surgical Endoscopy 1998;12(7):907-10..
21. Weinberg JA, Magnotti LJ, Edwards NM, Claridge JA, Minard G, Fabian TC, Croce MA. "Awake" laparoscopy for the evaluation of equivocal penetrating abdominal wounds. Injury. 2007;38(1):60-4.
22. Feliz A, Shultz B, McKenna C, Gaines BA. Diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in pediatric abdominal trauma. J Pediatr Surg. 2006;41(1):72-7.
23. McQuay N, Britt LD. Laparoscopy in the evaluation of penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma. Am Surg. 2003;69(9):788-91.
24. Fabiani P, Iannelli A, Mazza D, Bartels AM, Venissac N, Baqué P, Gugenheim J. Diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy for stab wounds of the anterior abdomen. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A. 2003 Oct;13(5):309-12.
25. Chol YB, Lim KS.Therapeutic laparoscopy for abdominal trauma. Surg Endosc 2003;17(3):421-7


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May07
LAPAROSCOPY -- TAKING SURGERY INTO THE 21st CENTURY
Access to body cavities in order to undertake surgical procedures by other means than making a large cut has been a technique waiting for its time.
Laparoscopic surgical techniques are being applied to a growing number of surgical procedures. Patients are attracted to the reduced pain and faster recovery associated with the procedures, and surgeons are finding that laparoscopic surgery matches traditional open procedures in terms of effectiveness
What is laparoscopic surgery?
Translated from the Greek, "Laparoscopy" means examination of the abdomen with a scope, which is also known as an Endoscope. If the procedure is done in the chest it is known as Thoracoscopy. An Endoscope in the bladder is cystoscopy and in the uterus is hysteroscopy and so on. The other terms used are keyhole surgery and laser surgery.
Explaining laparoscopic surgery is best accomplished by comparing it to traditional surgery. With traditional or 'open' surgery, the surgeon must make a cut that exposes the area of the body to be operated on. Until a few years ago, opening up the body was the only way a surgeon could perform the procedure. Now, laparoscopy eliminates the need for a large cut. Instead, the surgeon uses a laparoscope, a thin telescope-like instrument that provides interior views of the body.
Although laparoscopy has been used for many years by gynecologists to evaluate pelvic pathology, most surgeons did not recognize its value until laparoscopic gall bladder operation was done. Since that time, the application of laparoscopic instruments and techniques has greatly improved, and new uses are being developed rapidly.
How is it done?
During laparoscopic surgery, we make a small 1/2-inch cut in the skin at the belly button. Then a cannula (thin tube) is introduced in between the muscle fibers without cutting any of the muscle. Through the cannula, the laparoscope is inserted into the patient's body.
It is equipped with a tiny camera and light source that allow it to send images through a fiber-optic cord to a television monitor. The television monitor shows a high-resolution magnified image. Watching the monitor, the surgeon can perform the procedure. While looking inside the patient, further 1/2" or 1/4" diameter cannulas are put in depending upon the procedure e.g. one more for a diagnostic laparoscopy, two more for groin hernia repairs and three more for a laparoscopic gall bladder operation. Instruments are introduced through the cannulas and the operation is performed exactly as one would have done the same procedure at an open operation. All fundamentals of surgery are strictly followed during laparoscopic surgery.
What are the advantages?
The most common question asked is whether laparoscopic surgery another cosmetic operation, the benefit of which is restricted to the bikini wearing public. There are many more advantages of this procedure:
1. There is no cutting of the muscles as the holes are made in between the fibres.
2. The pain is minimal like one would have after a skin cut.
3. Less chance of hospital acquired infections.
4. Fewer post-operative chest complications.
5. Early return to work.
6. No residual weakness.
7. Minimal risk of incisional hernias.
8. Less disturbing to physiology.
9. During hernia operations, already weak muscles are not cut, as would have been the case in open surgery.
10. Exploratory ' open & close ' look into the tummy operations are avoided and the same information is gained on diagnostic laparoscopy as a day case patient with one or maximum two holes.
11. Avoidance of large cuts and rib removals in the case of thoracoscopic surgery.
12. In the case of diagnostic laparoscopy, quick information is gained and the entire procedure can be recorded on video and further opinion can be taken from other surgeons in case of a diagnostic dilemma.
13. Despite small holes, there is no compromise in the field of vision. Much more of the 'insides' can be seen than is possible at an open operation. Unlike the 'mini-incision' operations, here the entire tummy can be visualized ensuring no abnormal anatomy or pathology is missed.
How are the operations done?
During a laparoscopic gall bladder operation, the assistant grasps the gall bladder and the surgeon frees its duct and artery. These are then clipped or tied off and the gall bladder removed from the liver bed. After ensuring that there is no bleeding or injury, the gall bladder including the stones is removed with one of the cannulas. The skin is closed with absorbable sutures. Patient should be able to go home in 12-24 hours after surgery.
During a laparoscopic hernia repair, three holes are made at the level of the belly button and the hernia reduced. A non-reactive mesh is put over the hernia defect site and fixed in position. The approach to the hernia is not through already weak muscles as is the case with open hernias hence chances of recurrence are less. The greatest advantage of laparoscopic surgery for hernias is in patients of recurrent hernias where the anatomy has already been disturbed and also in patients of hernias on both sides, as they can be repaired through the same three holes avoiding any further pain or trauma.
For patients of pain abdomen where a cause cannot be found after a string of expensive investigations, a diagnostic laparoscopy can provide rapid answers. The patient with doubtful appendicitis is best evaluated laparoscopically and patients with suspected TB abdomen could have a laparoscopic biopsy of the lymph nodes or an intestinal biopsy to make a quick and objective pathological diagnosis.
The other established laparoscopic procedures include treatment for ovarian cysts, hysterectomy, hiatus hernia, peptic ulcer surgery, intestinal resections, direct vision liver biopsy, division of adhesions, laparoscopically assisted intestinal resections, etc. and some of the thoracoscopic procedures are for achalasia cardia, cysts, lung biopsies etc.


Commonly asked Questions
There are many questions that come to one's mind when faced with a new technology like laparoscopic surgery. Some of these are:
Q. Do you only remove the stones from the gall bladder?
A. No, the gall bladder is removed with the stones exactly like it would have been in an open operation.
Q. How can it be removed from such a small hole?
A. The human body has a great capacity to stretch. The holes can stretch quite easily whiteout any harm to the body. In a way, it is similar to childbirth.
Q. How is it disconnected from the liver and ducts?
A. The ends are clipped with titanium clips, which are a non-reactive element. The safety and superiority of titanium has been proved over 50 years in its use for various purposes in the body in India and abroad.
It is also possible to tie these structures like it is done during open surgery. This procedure is slightly more difficult technically and at present is being done by few surgeons only who are doing mini/micro-laparoscopic surgery, which is going to become the standard method in the 21st century.
Q. What is the recovery period?
A. The patient can start drinking liquids soon after coming out of the anesthesia, which is about 4 hours after the operation. They can start eating soon thereafter. The patient is allowed to get off the bed 4 hours after the surgery and walk to the toilet to pass urine. They are usually allowed to go home the next day, can climb stairs and the majority can get back to routine activity in 5 days and back to work in about 10 days.
Q. Is this operation safe in a fat patient?
A. The operation is ideally suited for the fat patient as the thickness of the tummy wall is immaterial when putting in the telescope and instruments. This is in contrast to an open operation where the fatter patient has a deeper and larger cut causing more bleeding, stitches, and pain.
Q. Is it more risky for patients with other medical problems like diabetes and blood pressure?
A. No. On the contrary, the absence of any major cuts to the body causes minimal disturbance to the physiology. Also the early mobility and return to normal diet makes it easy for the body to recover.
Q. Is their any danger from the telescope inside the body?
A. No, the telescope is used only to see and is not involved with the operation.
Q. Is there an increased risk of infection?
A. No, the small cuts mean that less of the body is exposed to infection.
Q. Why do you approach the hernia from inside?
A. The hernia is protrusion of the body contents through the weakness in the muscle. It is logical that something coming from inside is best dealt from inside. Also this way one does not cut and weaken the already weak muscles at the hernia site.
Q. How safe is it to leave a mesh inside the body?
A. The mesh used is the same as the one used for open operations over last 30 years. Its safety and efficacy is beyond doubt as proved by the numerous trials in the USA and Europe.
Q. Is this all very expensive? How can one justify the cost of the equipment and surgery in a country like India?
A. The initial cost of setting up is about Rupees ten lakhs, which is nothing when compared to the amount of money the government, and private hospitals spend on other things. Once the initial setting up expenditure is covered, the cost of surgery is actually less as has been proved by numerous studies in the USA and the UK.
Q. Will these mean very high bills in private institutions?
A. No, as the hospital stay is reduced by 75%, the extra operation cost will be compensated by the reduction in the room charges. The increased cost should be compared with the gain associated by a quicker and more productive return to work by the majority of the patients. The hidden lowering of cost is due to less leave, early return to normal activity and work, and also from the greatly reduced disruption of the family routine.
Q. What benefit is this to the government institutions?
A. Owing to early discharge, it opens up beds for other patients who would have otherwise have to wait for their treatment. The government saves resources in terms of food, nursing care etc. on these patients and it can be relocated to other patients.
Q. Who benefits the most from laparoscopic surgery?
A. Everybody. The father who returns to work quickly (tremendous benefit for the self employed), the mother can resume work or get back to home soon and take charge of the disrupted household as may the case be. Children are able to return to school soon and do not miss out on studies or sport.
Q. Is there any benefit to the employers?
A. Yes, it means less sick leave and early return to work e.g. after a gall bladder operation, an employee finds it difficult to resume work till about 6 weeks to 3 months. Here, they can be back to work in a week.
Q. What about the poor people?
A. In a country where manual labour is the main source of income to the large majority, avoiding a cut in the muscles can only have long-term beneficial results. You can imagine the significance to a rickshaw puller or a construction site worker who can resume his work in two week after a laparoscopic hernia repair compared to three months after conventional open hernia repair.
Q. Is there any specific condition prevalent in India where it has a special role?
A. Yes, at times a surgeon has to do an operation of opening up the abdomen or the chest to find out what is wrong with a patient. This may be due to lack of availability of sophisticated diagnostic tools like CAT scan, MRI scan etc. On other occasions, even these investigations do not provide the answer. In such situations, a diagnostic laparoscopy/ thoracoscopy can provide a quick diagnosis and on occasions treatment.
Q. Any particular disease?
A. TB of the abdomen is a difficult condition to diagnose. The main complaint is usually non-specific pain in the tummy and on most occasions, the treatment is based on suspicion rather than any objective criteria. In such situations, laparoscopy can provide the answer.
The other situation is when all X Rays and Scans point towards a cancerous condition in side the body but treatment cannot be started unless a part of it is biopsied and examined under the microscope. Here instead of the tummy being cut open to get the information, the laparoscope can be put in to see and also take a biopsy. This is of immense benefit to patients who require chemotherapy rather than surgery for the final treatment.
Q.What is new in Laparoscopic Surgery?
A. With the advancement of technology, the engineers and manufacturers have responded with telescopes of smaller diameter like 5 mm and 3 mm as opposed to the 'conventional' laparoscopic 10mm telescopes. Also instruments are being developed of 3 mm diameter. This advancement is known as mini/micro/needloscopic laparoscopic surgery. This is going to be the technique of 21st century.
Q. Are there any drawbacks of laparoscopic surgery?
A. The danger is from the inexperienced laparoscopic surgeon as there is rarely a more experienced person available for guidance in case of difficulty. Unlike the USA and UK there is no training program here and all depends on individual enterprise. The safer surgeons do not consider it an insult to their ego if they have to convert a laparoscopic procedure to open in case of difficulty. Apart from this, the only other thing is the reduction of sympathy levels from relatives as the hospital stay is so short.
Unlike most other professions, changes within the medical profession are met with some resistance and skepticism. Successful examples and a positive approach are essential for the implementation of such programs. This figure should rise with increase in awareness amongst general practitioners and the public. The future generations while reading the history of surgery will wonder why operations were ever done open.
The author Dr Ashutosh Soni MS is a Senior Laparoscopic Surgeon at Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Yash Diagnostic Solutions Metro Tower AB Road Vijaynagar INDORE MP
Consulting hours Centre: 11 AM to 1PM and 6.30 to 8.30PM (with prior appointments) Phones: for appointments Clinic 0731 2553141,Mobile 9826168168


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May07
ABOUT LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY
1. What is Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Minimally Invasive Surgery, some people refer to this simply as MIS, is a broad term for any procedure performed with small incisions (or sometimes no incisions at all).
Laparoscopic Surgery refers to MIS in the abdominal cavity. A telescope and long, fine caliber instruments are inserted into the abdomen to see and perform the surgery. The incisions used are 5 to 10 mm in size. These incisions heal quickly after surgery, resulting in small "keyhole" scars. Sometimes, even finer instruments are used (2 to 3 mm) in what we call Needloscopic Surgery. This results in "pinhole" scars that are hardly discernable.
The same technique is called Thoracoscopic Surgery when used in the thoracic cavity (to approach the esophagus, for example) or Endoscopic Surgery when used elsewhere (for example in the neck for Endoscopic Thyroid Surgery).
2. Can my operation be done using Laparoscopic Surgery?
Almost any conventional operation can be done laparoscopically. This can something simple, like the removal or a gallbladder or appendix, to something very complex, like the resection of the stomach for cancer. Some of the complicated operations can be technically demanding, and a good outcome depends on the skill and experience of the surgeon. In general, we believe that, under our hands, the laparoscopic options gives a better result. Occasionally however, laparoscopic surgery is contraindicated in certain patients, and some operations may be too difficult to offer any substantial benefit over conventional open surgery.
3. What are the contraindications to Laparoscopic Surgery?
The only absolute contraindications are an unstable patient (for example, someone who is bleeding actively from trauma) or a patient who is unfit for general anaesthesia (since GS is always required for laparoscopy). In certain patients, the contraindications are relative and have to be evaluated individually. These patients include those who have severe heart or lung disease, have previous abdominal surgery, bowel obstruction or bleeding problems.
4. What about pregnant patients?
In general, we try to not to do elective surgery during pregnancy. In those cases where we must, we try to delay the operation until the second trimester, or until fetal viability, or till after delivery. If surgery is absolutely essential, laparoscopic surgery is as safe as open surgery, and even offers certain advantages. However, great care has to be taken with surgery and anaesthesia as the dangers are real: about 12% risk of miscarriage in the first trimester, 5 to 8% risk or preterm labour in the second trimester and 30% risk of preterm labour in the third trimester.
5. What are the benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery?
Since only "keyhole" incisions are used, the post operative functional recovery is rapid. Most patients are discharged from hospital faster and return to work earlier. There is less wound pain and the cosmetic outcome is excellent. In the long term, there are fewer problems with post-surgery bowel adhesions. There is also recent evidence to suggest that the reduced disturbance to the immune system during laparoscopy results in better survival after cancer resection when compared to open surgery. This is because the minimal insults allow the body to fight off circulating cancer cells more effectively.
6. Are there any disadvantages of Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery is technically more difficult than conventional open surgery. Moreover, as some of these procedures have only evolved in the last few years, not all surgeons are trained to perform them. Surgeon related errors can occur. Finally, laparoscopic surgery often takes longer to perform and may cost more in terms of equipment used - although this is not always so!


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May07
LAPAROSCOPIC REPAIR OF INCISIONAL HERNIA
In the year 1992 the first report on the Incisional Hernia Repair by Laparoscopic method was published. Number of case reports appeared in the literature since than.
Aims
Indications: Any ventral or scar hernia with 3cm or more fascial defect can be repaired with laparoscopy easily.
Swiss-Cheese Hernias (Multiple small defects) is a good indication for the laparoscopic approach, allowing a clear delineation of all defects.
Relative contraindications: Obstructed/incarcerated hernia, multiple operations
Methods
Operative techniques
Method 1: Intraabdominal intraperitoneal using mesh prosthesis to close and cover the defect.
Method 2 The mesh is placed in the preperitoneal space in order to prevent the adhesions. This method mimics the conventional approach and avoids formation of adhesions.

Results The postoperative pain was significantly less. There was no ileus, no wound infection. The patients were discharge within 3 days.

Discussion: The laparoscopic ventral or scar hernia repair is still a debatable topic. It can be used in selected patients with less postoperative morbidity.
Method 1 is using intraperitoneal mesh hence there is tendency for adhesions.
Method 2 uses preperitoneal mesh having very few indications. It very difficult as the plane in preperitoneum can be achieved easily in small and moderate size hernial sacs

Conclusion
Laparoscopic ventral and scar hernia repair still need a controlled trial. At present only selected ventral hernias are suitable for laparoscopic repair.


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Apr01
Stay Away From Junk Foods
Nowadays fast lifestyle is taking toll on everybody's health . The sleeping hours , diet , timing of meals , exercise , habbits , westernisation have altered everything . It have altered the health system likewise .
Ayurveda science firmly believes that any disease of any system starts with the alteration if Agni which is the digetive power . All the 3 doshas Vata , Pitta & Kapha should remain in balance to have perfect digestion . Any imbalance in this will create problems in digestion & then in other body systems .
Practically it is seen in many cases . When we clear the digetive tract from the ombalances , most health problems decrease . It is like a surprise for the person too .But this is practical experience .
Junk foods doesn't have any specific nutritive value . They just have the taste , nothing else . have anyone heard any doc have adviced to eat junk foods for any therapy ? Why ? As everybody knows the answer but deny to accept it . The Junk Food Free world should be a reality for the well being of the mankind .


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Feb17
GIST(GASTROINTESTINAL STROMAL TUMOURS)
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. GISTs can also originate in the mesentery and omentum. Overall, GISTs are rare and rank a distant third in prevalence behind adenocarcinomas and lymphomas among the histologic types of gastrointestinal tract tumors. Historically, these lesions were classified as leiomyomas or leiomyosarcomas because they possessed smooth muscle features when examined under light microscopy.

Since the term GIST was introduced by Mazur and Clark in 1983, laboratory investigations aimed at the subcellular and molecular levels have demonstrated that GISTs do not possess the ultrastructural and immunohistochemical features characteristic of smooth muscle differentiation, as are seen in leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas.1 Therefore, the determination was made that GISTs do not arise from smooth muscle cells, but from another mesenchymal derivative such as the progenitors of spindle and epithelioid cells.

According to the work of Kindblom and associates reported in 1998, the actual cell of origin of GISTs is a pluripotential mesenchymal stem cell programmed to differentiate into the interstitial cell of Cajal.2 These are GI pacemaker cells and are largely responsible for initiating and coordinating GI motility. This finding led Kindblom and coworkers to suggest the term GI pacemaker cell tumors.2 Perhaps the most critical development that distinguished GISTs as a unique clinical entity was the discovery of c-kit proto-oncogene mutations in these tumors by Hirota and colleagues in 1998.3

These advances have led to the classification of GISTs as an entity separate from smooth muscle tumors, helped elucidate their etiology and pathogenesis at a molecular level, and led to the development of molecular-targeted therapy for this disease.
Clinical
History
•Up to 75% of GISTs are discovered when they are less than 4 cm in diameter and are either asymptomatic or associated with nonspecific symptoms. They are frequently diagnosed incidentally during endoscopic or surgical procedures or during radiologic studies performed to investigate protean manifestations of gastrointestinal tract disease or to treat an emergent condition such as hemorrhage or obstruction. Lesions greater than 4 cm in diameter are more likely to be symptomatic.
•The most common symptoms associated with GISTs are vague, nonspecific abdominal pain or discomfort.
•Patients also describe early satiety or a sensation of abdominal fullness. Rarely, an abdominal mass is palpable.
•GISTs may also produce symptoms secondary to obstruction or hemorrhage. GI bleeding is produced by pressure necrosis and ulceration of the overlying mucosa with resultant hemorrhage from disrupted vessels. Patients who have experienced significant blood loss may report malaise, fatigue, or exertional dyspnea. Obstruction can result from intraluminal growth of an endophytic tumor or from luminal compression from an exophytic lesion. The obstructive symptoms can be site-specific (eg, dysphagia with an esophageal GIST, constipation with a colorectal GIST, obstructive jaundice with a duodenal tumor).
•In some cases, the GIST is an unexpected finding during emergency surgery for a perforated viscus.
Physical
•No physical findings specifically suggest the presence of a GIST. Some patients present with a palpable abdominal mass. Others may present with nonspecific physical findings associated with GI blood loss, bowel obstruction, or bowel perforation and abscess formation.
•Patients presenting with significant GI bleeding can manifest vital sign abnormalities or overt shock. In others, fecal occult blood testing may be positive.
•Physical findings associated with bowel obstruction can include a distended, tender abdomen. Duodenal obstruction involving the ampulla may be associated with jaundice and, rarely, even a distended palpable gallbladder.
•If perforation has occurred, focal or widespread signs of peritonitis are present.
Causes
•Gain-of-function mutations in exon 11 of the c-kit proto-oncogene are associated with most GISTs. These mutations lead to constitutive overexpression and autophosphorylation of c-Kit, provoking a cascade of intracellular signaling that propels cells toward proliferation or away from apoptotic pathways.
•This discovery by Hirota and colleagues in 1998 was a landmark elucidation of the etiology of a disease on a molecular level.3 Most of these mutations are of the in-frame type, which allows preservation of c-kit expression and activation. The c-kit proto-oncogene is located on chromosome arm 4q11-12. It encodes KIT, which is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase. Stem cell factor, also called Steel factor or mast cell growth factor, is the ligand for KIT and exists primarily in dimeric form.
•Under normal circumstances, KIT activation is initiated when stem cell factor binds to the extracellular domain of c-Kit. The result is homodimerization of the normally inactive c-Kit monomers. Autophosphorylation of intracellular tyrosine residues then transpires. This exposes binding sites for intracellular signal transduction molecules. What follows is activation of a signaling cascade that involves phosphorylation of several downstream target proteins, including MAP kinase, RAS, and others. Ultimately, the signal is transduced into the nucleus, resulting in mitogenic activity and protein transcription.
•KIT is constitutively phosphorylated in the majority of GISTs. In these instances, stem cell factor is not required to initiate the sequence of c-Kit homodimerization and autophosphorylation. This is termed ligand-independent activation. The increased transduction of proliferative signals to the nucleus favors cell survival and replication over dormancy and apoptosis, leading to tumorigenesis.
•Studies have reported a small subset of KIT-negative GISTs in which mutations of platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha (PDGFA), protein kinase C, and FLJ10261 were detected. These mutations and c-kit mutations appear to be mutually exclusive according to the 2003 work of Heinrich and associates. These investigators discovered PDGFA mutations in 14 of 14 subjects with GISTs who lacked c-kit mutations.
•A small minority of GISTs are associated with hereditary syndromes.
•One is characterized by multiple GISTs with or without the presence of dermal and mucous membrane hyperpigmentation, numerous nevi, and urticaria pigmentosa. Mast cell dysfunction and diffuse hyperplasia of GI spindle cells are other features of this syndrome.
•GISTs occur with a higher than expected frequency in patients with type 1 neurofibromatosis.
•GISTs are also a feature of the rare Carney triad, which is observed predominantly in young women. This triad consists of epithelioid gastric stromal tumors, pulmonary chondromas, and extra-adrenal paragangliomas.


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Feb16
LAPAROSCOPIC HERNIA SURGERY (TEP & TAPP)
Your hernia is suitable for repair by laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. The operation is essentially
the same as when performed by conventional methods. In other words it will involve
placing a piece of nylon mesh material over the weak area in your groin. The main difference
between the two operations is the way in which this is done. The operation is done under a
general anaesthetic.
With laparoscopic hernia repair the nylon mesh patch is placed over the weak area from the
inside of the abdomen rather than by making a cut over the hernia itself. The operation involves
making 3 very small cuts in the abdomen. One cut of 1 cm in length is made just under
the umbilicus (tummy button) and the other two (each 0.5 cm in length) on either side. One of
the cuts is used to introduce a telescope with a camera on the end so that the surgeon can see
to operate on a television monitor. The other cuts are needed to introduce instruments into the
abdomen.
What are the advantages of laparoscopic hernia repair?
Patients having laparoscopic surgery generally recover faster and experience less discomfort
than those undergoing conventional surgery. Most patients with a hernia are suitable for this
technique. There are particular advantages for patients who have hernias on both sides of the
abdomen as both can be repaired through the same 3 small cuts. The other group of patients
for whom laparoscopic hernia repair is recommended are those who have had a hernia repair
in the past which has failed.
Are there any disadvantages?
Laparoscopic hernia repair is a more major procedure than conventional hernia repair because
it involves entering the abdomen. However because the cuts are so small recovery is generally
faster. There is a slight risk of damaging bowel or blood vessels within the abdomen and
if this were to occur it might mean a more major operation to repair the damage.
Because laparoscopic hernia repair is relatively new we do not as yet know exactly what the
long term results will be. With conventional surgery the risk of recurrence (return) of the hernia
is about 1 in 200. Laparoscopic hernia repair is basically the same operation as conventional
hernia repair. Thus we expect the results to be similar but until the operation has been
performed for many years we cannot be sure of this.
Post operative care
After your operation you should be able to resume normal activities as soon as it is comfort avoided for a few days. The cuts in your abdomen will be closed by either staples or stitches. These will need
to be removed approximately 7 days after your operation. You may resume work as soon as you comfort allows.
As with a conventional
repair it is sensible to avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for 3-4 weeks. Light exercise can
be resumed within a few days.
What can go wrong?
Bruising may be noticed either beneath the scars or in the groin area. It may extend into the scrotum or
the penis. This will gradually settle within 2-3 weeks. Occasionally a lump may be felt in the groin
within the first 2-3 weeks. This is caused by a haematoma (collection of blood) near the operation site. It
may be very like the original hernia but it will disappear over a few weeks. Occasionally, if large, it may
need to be drained with a needle. This will be done at your follow up outpatient visit.
Occasionally patients notice numbness or discomfort in the groin area or down the outside of the thigh.
This is much less common than after a conventional hernia repair and will settle over the course of a few
weeks.
Questions patients often ask
Is keyhole surgery safe?
Laparoscopic surgery is now well established and many hundreds of thousands of keyhole operations
have been carried out worldwide. Laparoscopic hernia surgery has been established since the late 1980’s.
What if you find a second unexpected hernia on the other side?
One of the advantages of this technique is it allows the surgeon to view both sides of the groin. In about
30% of patients a second hernia will be detected. It makes sense to repair this at the same time as it will
prevent the need for a second operation in the future.
Is Laparoscopic hernia surgery recommended?
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) is an organization set up to examine the evidence
behind new techniques and drugs. Guidelines on Laparoscopic hernia repair were produced in July 2004
and details can be found on the NICE website at www.nice.org.uk. The main recommendations are:
1.1 Laparoscopic surgery is recommended as one of the treatment options for the repair of inguinal hernia.
1.2 To enable patients to choose between open and laparoscopic surgery (either by the transabdominal preperitoneal [TAPP] or by
the totally extraperitoneal [TEP] procedure), they should be fully informed of all of the risks (for example, immediate serious
complications, postoperative pain/numbness and long-term recurrence rates) and benefits associated with each of the three
procedures. In particular, the following points should be considered in discussions between the patient and the surgeon:
the individual's suitability for general anaesthesia
the nature of the presenting hernia (that is, primary repair, recurrent hernia or bilateral hernia)
the suitability of the particular hernia for a laparoscopic or an open approach
the experience of the surgeon in the three techniques.
1.3 Laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia repair by TAPP or TEP should only be performed by appropriately trained
surgeons who regularly carry out the procedure.


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Feb02
Hernia
nformation about hernias and hernia repair.

What is a hernia?

A hernia is the protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening. Think of a ruptured tyre. When the tyre wall separates the inner tube can seep through the opening. Similarly when a hernia occurs tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall. As the hernia enlarges it forms a sac. Internal organs such as the intestines can fall into this sac creating one of the major hernia symptoms - a bulge.

A hernia induced bulge is most often visible when standing. Lying down allows the tissue in the sac to return to its proper position and the bulge temporarily disappears. While hernias occur throughout the body, 95% are in the groin area.

A hernia is a weakness or defect in the abdominal wall. It may be present from birth or develop over a period of time. If the defect is large enough, abdominal contents such as the bowel, may protrude through the defect causing a lump or bulge felt by the patient. Hernias develop at certain sites which have a natural tendency to be weak; the groin, the umbilicus (belly button) and previous surgical incisions.

How do I get HERNIA?
Hernias can be present at birth or occur over time due to stress and strain on the abdominal wall. Most hernias become apparent later in life because it takes time for the hernial sac to enlarge enough for tissue to fall into it.
What are my options?
Without surgery you simply tolerate the hernia. Wearing a truss or binder may temporarily alleviate symptoms but will not cure the hernia. Only surgery corrects the defect in the belly wall.

Why should hernias be repaired?
Once a hernia has developed it will tend to enlarge and cause discomfort. If a loop of bowel gets caught in the hernia it may become obstructed or its blood supply may be cut off. This could then become a life-threatening situation. Since hernias can be repaired effectively and with minimal risk most surgeons therefore recommend that hernias be repaired when diagnosed unless there are other serious medical problems.

How are hernias repaired?
The standard method of hernia repair involves making an incision in the abdominal wall. Normal healthy tissues are cut until the area of weakness is found. This area, the hernia, is then repaired with sutures (stitches). Usually a prosthetic material such as nylon is used to strengthen the area of weakness. (A nylon mesh patch or plug). Finally the skin and other healthy tissues that were cut at the beginning are stitched back together to complete the repair.

How does the laparoscopic method differ?
With the laparoscopic repair the defect in the abdominal wall is repaired from the inside of the abdominal cavity. This method is usually only used for groin hernias. Instead of closing or patching the repair from the outside the patch is secured in place from the inside. This eliminates the necessity of cutting the skin and normal tissues of the groin to get down to and repair the hernia.

What causes hernias?
Hernias are caused by congenital (defects at birth) or age-related weaknesses in the abdominal wall. In males they are caused by an improper closure of the abdominal cavity during the body's development in the womb. They can also be caused by an increase in pressure within the abdominal cavity due to heavy lifting, straining, violent coughing, obesity or pregnancy.

Signs and Symptoms
Lump in groin area when standing/straining and disappears when reclining

Pain at the site of the lump especially when lifting a heavy object

Swelling of the scrotum

Excruciating abdominal pain (if you have strangulation)

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and pain (if intestinal obstruction occurs)

Do you have any of these health problems?

It will be important for your doctor and specialist to know if you have any health problems prior to recommending surgery. In particular your doctor will wish to know from you Any current illnesses

Any past health problems

Any previous operations

Any medications taken

Any allergies particularly to medicines

Any breathing difficulties or anaesthetic problems

Whether or not you smoke

Treatment options
Learn more about how surgeons are diagnosing and treating inguinal hernias and the latest techniques being used to treat this health problem. At The DR KUBER Hernia clink surgeons are performing and evaluating several methods of hernia repair. All groin hernia procedures performed at Shriyash Hospital are subject to strict quality control.

Why should I turn to specialist?
A recommendation for surgery for the treatment of an inguinal hernia should only be given after a comprehensive assessment and under strict guidelines to assure the most successful outcome. Today new advances are being made but the procedures are still being refined at The Dr.Sachin Kuber Hernia Clink; research has been initiated to evaluate the outcome for utilising differing types of surgery for the successful treatment of inguinal hernias. With this research at The Dr.Sachin Kuber Hernia Clink surgeons are evaluating how long the results will last, who will benefit or who will be at the highest risk for complications.


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Feb01
SMART WAYS TO LIVE WELL – PREVENTION OF INCONTINENCE
INCONTINENCE :
Fecal incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, causing stool (feces) to leak unexpectedly from the rectum. Also called bowel incontinence, fecal incontinence can range from occasional stool leakage while passing gas to complete loss of bowel control.
Common causes of fecal incontinence include constipation, diarrhea, and muscle or nerve damage. The condition may be associated with aging and childbirth. Fecal incontinence can cause people to stay at home and withdraw from social events because an embarrassing accident. An estimated 5.5 million Americans, more commonly older people and women, suffer from fecal incontinence.
Surgical Repair of the Anal Sphincter
In patients who have significant fecal incontinence with damage to the muscles but not to the nerves of the anal sphincter, surgery may be the best option. Surgical options include:
* A sphincteroplasty to repair the damaged or weakened anal sphincter
* Surgical repair of rectal prolapse, rectocele or hemorrhoids
* A colostomy to divert the stool into a special bag (used only as a last resort)
* ANAL BAND : The unique ARTIFICIAL ANAL SPHINCTER :
INDICATED IN:
1.Permanent Colostomy after cancer surgery
2.Permanent Colostomy after accident surgery
3.Incontinence after sphincter damage due to accident or surgery or childbirth

SAY NO TO COLOSTOMY
Can Bowel Incontinence Be Prevented?
Since fecal incontinence in women is often caused by anal muscle or nerve damage that occurred during childbirth, prevention is not always possible. However, if the use of forceps can be avoided during childbirth, the period of labour not prolonged and the baby not delivered too rapidly, injury to the pelvic muscles and nerves can be avoided.
Also, chronic constipation may result in incontinence. Getting sufficient water, fiber and exercise can be effective in treating constipation .


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