SLS Annual Meeting and Endo Expo. An Annual Event in Mid September

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Ee09slidew96kb This site contains conference details and proceedings including educational materials and podcasts of the SLS Annual Meeting and Endo Expo. An Annual Event in Mid September, this multispecialty conference helps increase knowledge of laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The Meeting consists of Postgraduate Master's Classes; Plenary Sessions; Lap Updates of multiple topics; Expert review and discussion of surgical videos showing accidents, mishaps, and surprises; Deconstruction of video-taped surgeries performed by master surgeons; Exhibitions; Competition for Best Papers, Videos and Posters from Professors to Fellows and Residents; Future Technology Sessions; and over 200 General Surgery, Gynecology, Urology and Multispecialty Scientific Presentations. 

 

18TH SLS ANNUAL MEETING AND ENDO EXPO 2009
SEPTEMBER 9-12, 2009

THE WESTIN COPLEY PLACE • BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, USA



18thSLSAnnualMtgCoverLink Early Bird
Registration Opens: February 9, 2009 • Closes: July 9, 2009
Online Registration Closes: August 26, 2009
Make Your Hotel Reservations by August 9, 2009 for Discounted Conference Rates
Call For Abstracts Deadline for Publication: February 9, 2009
For more information about the city of Boston visit www.Boston.com/Travel/Boston

18TH SLS ANNUAL MEETING AND ENDO EXPO 2009
PRELIMINARY PROGRAM

Conference Program Directors
Charles H. Koh, MD
Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA


TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 200
9

3:00pm-6:00pm    MASTER’S CLASSES REGISTRATION

4:00am-5:00pm  MASH Committee Meeting
6:30pm-7:00pm  Train the Trainers Session


W
EDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 • MASTER'S CLASSES & OPENING CEREMONY

7:00am-9:00am    MASTER’S CLASSES REGISTRATION / Complimentary Coffee & Bakery Items (Master's Classes Attendees Only)

8:00am-4:30pm    CONCURRENT MASTER’S CLASSES see each course for specific times

8:00am-4:30pm
Simulation Practice Lab - Supporting All Masters Classes
"Simulation Practice Lab/Introduction to the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery"
Training Simulators Provided by 3-Dmed
Simulators on Display from
Immersion
Red Llama, Inc.
Surgical Science
Faculty:
Robert M. Sweet, MD, Director
Harrith M. Hasson, MD, Co-Director
J. Kyle Anderson, MD
Burak Argun, MD
Leslie Deane, MD
Troy E. Reihsen

8:00am-12:00pm • Half Day
Master’s Class #1
 Smart Surgeons Learn From Their Mistakes, Brilliant Surgeons Learn From Other Surgeons' Mistakes: Prevention and Management of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgical Complications
Raymond J. Lanzafame, MD, MBA, Director
Ceana Nezhat, MD, Co-Director
Lawrence C. Biskin, MD
James F. Carter, MD
Carl J. Levinson, MD
Howard N. Winfield, MD


8:00am-4:30pm • Full Day
Master’s Class #NOSCAR, NOTES, and SPA: More Than an Incision Decision
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD, Director
Camran Nezhat, MD, 
Co-Director
Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD, Co-Director
Matthew Brengman, MD
Jihad H. Kaouk, MD
Stephanie King, MD
Michael R. Marohn, MD
Farr Nezhat, MD
Daniel A. Tsin, MD


8:00-4:30pm
Suturing Center
Supporting Master's Class #3

8:00am-4:30pm • Full Day
Master’s Class #3
 Laparoscopic Suturing in the "Vertical Zone" The Next Level Beyond Triangulation
Charles H. Koh, MD, Director
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD, Co-Director
Yaniris R. Avellanet, MD
Tommaso Falcone, MD
Dobie Giles, MD
Keith Isaacson, MD


8:00am-4:30pm • Full Day
Master’s Class #4
 Ways for You and Your Patients to Hurt Less:  New Insight Into the Diagnosis and Treatment of Abdominal and Pelvic Pain (Jointly with AAGL and IPPS)
Maurice K. Chung, R.Ph, MD, Director 
Harry Reich, MD, 
Co-Director
Fred M. Howard, MD, 
Co-Director
Raymond J. Lanzafame, MD, MBA
Alfredo Nieves, MD
Juan Diego Villegas-Echeverri, MD
Robert K. Zurawin, MD


8:00am-4:30pm • Full Day
Master's Class #5 Fundamentals Make Masters: Laparoscopic General Surgery (Jointly with SAGES) 
Michael S. Kavic, MD, Director
Phillip P. Shadduck, MD, 
Co-Director
Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD
Morris E. Franklin, Jr., MD
Terrence M. Fullum, MD
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD
Joseph Petelin, MD
James C. "Butch" Rosser, Jr., MD
Richard M. Satava, MD
Richard M. Vazquez, MD

10:00am-10:30am    
Refreshment Break

12:00pm-6:00pm CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

12:00pm-1:00pm  Master's Class Lunch with Special Lecture: 
Gerald B. Healy, MD, presents The Challenges Facing 21st Century Surgery

Introduction: Richard M. Satava, MD, Director & Robert M. Sweet, MD, Co-Director
                       
2:30pm-3:00pm    
Refreshment Break

4:00pm-5:00pm   Poster Gallery

5:00pm  
            OPENING CEREMONY
Paul Alan Wetter, MD, Director
Charles H. Koh, MD,
Co-Director

Opening Remarks
Paul Alan Wetter, MD

Presidential Address
Introduction
: William E. Kelley, Jr., MD
Presidential Address: Charles H. Koh, MD

Honorary Chair Presentations
Introduction: Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA
Honorary Chair: Roberto Gallardo D., MD • The Development of Laparoscopic Surgerin Guatemala and Central America
Introduction: Charles H. Koh, MD
Honorary Chair: Suresh Nair, MD • The Evolution of Minimal Access Surgery in Gynecology in Singapore 

Presentation of Awards for the Best Scientific Papers and Videos
Paul Alan Wetter, MD
Charles H. Koh, MD

Recognition of Sponsors and Corporate Members and Innovations of the Year Paul Alan Wetter, MD
Charles H. Koh, MD

6:40pm-8:30pm   WELCOME RECEPTION IN EXHIBIT HALL

6:40pm-8:30pm  CYBER CAFE  
Volker R. Jacobs, MD, Director  
Phillip P. Shadduck, MD, Co-Director 
                   


THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2009

6:30am-5:00pm  CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
6:45am-7:00am  VIP Moderator Briefing Meeting
Raymond J. Lanzafame, MD, MBA / Carl J. Levinson, MD / Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA

7:00am-2:00pm  Exhibits Open
7:00am-7:30am 
Complimentary Coffee and Bakery Items / Special Presentations by Exhibitors
7:00am-5:00pm 
Poster Gallery Open

7:30am-8:30am  
GENERAL SESSION: Best of Laparoscopy Updates
Laparoscopy Updates presented by SLS Special Interest Group Committee Members highlighting the newest developments and future expectations of surgical and diagnostic procedures.
William E. Kelley, Jr, MD,
Director
Harrith M. Hasson, MD, Co-Director

•   
MultiSpecialty Committee: Duncan J. Turner • Office Cosmetic Procedures
•    Urology Committee: Thomas Sean Lendvay, MD • Pediatric Urology
•    Gynecology Committee: Steven M. Minaglia, MD • The Use of Mesh for Stress Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Prolapse 
•    Gynecology Committee: Robert K. Zurawin, MD • Pediatric Gynecology

8:30am-9:45am      MULTIDISCIPLINARY PLENARY SESSION (Gynecology, General Surgery, Urology)
Image Guided Surgical Procedures. What a Surgeon Should Know About Non-Surgical Approaches
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD, Director
Richard M. Satava, MD, Co-Director
Mehran Anvari, MD, PhD
Ron Davis, MD
Pat Fulgham, MD
Elizabeth A. Stewart, MD


9:45am-10:00am  
SLS WEBSITE: Paul Alan Wetter, MD

10:00am-10:30am  Refreshment Break/Visit Exhibits/Special Presentations by Exhibitors

10:30am-11:30am   MULTIDISCIPLINARY PLENARY SESSION (Gynecology, General Surgery, Urology)
Cancer and Laparoscopy—What to Do and What Not to Do
Farr Nezhat, MD, Director
Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA, Co-Director
David B. Samadi, MD
Stephen M. Kavic, MD

11:30am-12:30pm   MULTIDISCIPLINARY PLENARY SESSION (Gynecology, General Surgery, Urology)
The US Health Care System Is Broken. What Can We Do About It?
Michael S. Kavic, MD, Director
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD,
 Co-Director
Richard Babayan, MD
William A. Cooper, MD
Douglas E. Ott, MD, MBA

12:30pm-1:45pm    Complimentary Light Snacks and Refreshments/Visit Exhibits/Special Presentations by Exhibitors

12:45pm-1:45pm  Poster Town Hall
Best-graded posters from each specialty will participate in the Oral Poster Session
Harrith M. Hasson, MD,
Director
Thomas Sean Lendvay, MD, Co-Director

Judging Committee:
Maurice K. Chung, R.Ph, MD
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD   
Charles H. Koh, MD
Raymond J. Lanzafame, MD, MBA
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD
Phillip P. Shadduck, MD
Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA
Robert M. Sweet, MD
Howard N. Winfield, MD

1:45pm-5:30pm   CONCURRENT SESSIONS: Scientific Papers / Videos / Open Forum Presentations / Laparoscopy Updates
Directors: MASH Committee Members

1:45pm
  SIG Committee Lap Updates
2:00pm              
Exhibits Close
2:00pm-4:00pm   Complimentary 
Coffee Available in Designated Areas
2:00pm-2:15pm   Exhibitors Meeting at CCA
2:30pm-3:15pm  
Briefing Meeting: AsianAmerican Multispecialty Summit IV- February 2010
3:15pm-4:00pm   
Briefing Meeting: EuroAmerican Multispecialty Summit V- February 2011
5:30pm              
Adjourn for the Day
6:30pm            
  SLS Evening Event with Faculty at Westin Copley Place featuring the 2009 Excel Award Recipient as Special Guest Speaker (Ticket Required) 
  Introduction: Richard M. Satava, MD
  2009 Excel Award Recipient: James C. "Butch" Rosser, Jr. MD


FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2009

6:30am-5:00pm     CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
7:00am-7:30am     Complimentary Coffee and Bakery Items / Special Presentations by Exhibitors
7:00am-2:00pm     Exhibits Open
7:00am-2:00pm 
   Poster Gallery Open

7:30am-8:30am     MULTIDISCIPLINARY PLENARY SESSION (Gynecology, General Surgery, Urology)
NOTES, SPA & Microrobots — a Controversy Debate
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD, Director
Thomas Sean Lendvay, MD,
Co-Director
Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD
Dmitry Oleynikov, MD 
Daniel A. Tsin, MD 

8:30am-11:00am   SURGICAL SURPRISES
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD, Director
Camran Nezhat, MD,
Co-Director
Panel:
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD
Charles H. Koh, MD
Elspeth M. McDougall, MD, MHPE
Liselotte Mettler, Prof Dr Med
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD
Camran Nezhat, MD
Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA

9:30am-12:30pm  Spouse/Guest Beantown Trolley Tour & Boston Harbor Cruise (Ticket Required)

10:30am-11:00am Refreshment Break/Visit Exhibits

11:00am-11:30am  Awarding of Best Poster
Harrith M. Hasson, MD, Director
Thomas Sean Lendvay, MD, Co-Director

  Presentation of Best Resident Paper
Paul Alan Wetter, MD, Director
Charles H. Koh, MD,
Co-Director

11:30am-1:00pm  
SLS FILM CHALLENGE: "Madden-Style" Cut-by-Cut Deconstructed Breakdown by Master Surgeons
James C. "Butch" Rosser, Jr., MD, Director
Maurice K. Chung, R.Ph, MD, Co-Director
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD,
Co-Director
Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA,
Co-Director


12:00pm-12:30pm New Product Presentations by Exhibitors in Exhibit Hall
Harrith M. Hasson, MD, 
Director


12:00pm-1:45pm 
Complimentary Light Snacks and Refreshments in Exhibit Hall / Special Presentations by Exhibitors

1:45pm-5:30pm  CONCURRENT SESSIONS: Scientific Papers / Videos / Open Forum Presentations / Laparoscopy Updates
Directors: MASH Committee Members

2:00pm               Exhibits Close
2:00pm
               Poster Gallery Closes
2:00pm-4:00pm  
Refreshments Available in Designated Areas
5:30pm              
Adjourn for the Day


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2009

7:00am-11:15am     CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

7:30am-9:00am       BREAKFAST WITH KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Keynote Speaker Tim Reedman, BASc, MEng presents Robots in Space 
Introduction:
Richard M. Satava, MD

9:00am-10:30am     FUTURE TECHNOLOGY SESSION
From the Infinitesimal to the Infinite - Molecules, Energy and Space for Surgeons

Richard M. Satava, Director
Harry T. Whelan, MD: Controlling Molecules With Light
Michel Wertheimer, PhD: Plasma Medicine - Why Energy Is Important to Surgeons

10:30am-10:45am   Closing Ceremony – Passing of the Presidential Gavel
President: Charles H. Koh, MD
President Elect: Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA

10:45am-11:15am   SLS Business Meeting—Open to all SLS members

11:15am-12:15pm   SLS Committee Meetings

 

Schedule, Topics, and Faculty Subject to Change

CONFERENCE EDUCATIONAL METHODS AND ATTENDEE OBJECTIVES

The 18th SLS Annual Meeting and Endo Expo 2009 employs a variety of educational formats including topical general sessions, the presentation of scientific papers, open forums, posters, and original videos offered in small specialty-specific breakout sessions, and informal gatherings of participants and expert faculty.

The increasing complexity of minimally invasive diagnostics and therapy requires a continuous educational process. The exchange of knowledge and expertise among the physicians taking part in this conference contributes to the continuation of excellence in minimally invasive surgery.

Upon completion of the conference, participants will be able to:

• Increase comprehension of the basic and fundamental principles of laparoscopic, endoscopic, and minimally invasive techniques, enhancing the participant’s understanding of these techniques;

• Understand the recent advances in laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques;

• Determine the appropriate use of laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive equipment as part of a treatment plan in the care of patients;

• Comprehend the developing technologies that will be available in the future to enhance the standard of patient care; and

• Acquire educational information within the physician’s specialty, which will enhance their professional development and patient care.


CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION PROCESS FOR THE SOCIETY OF LAPAROENDOSCOPIC SURGEONS

The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) follows the Essential Areas and Criteria of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education in planning and developing CME activities.  You may view the complete process online at our website, www.SLS.org.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS AND MEETING SITE

The Westin Copley Place
10 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02116
USA
Tel: 1.617.262.9600
Fax: 1.617.424.7483

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS EARLY…

An idyllic urban retreat for travelers, The Westin Copley Place is set in the center of one of historic Boston's finest neighborhoods, Back Bay. The hotel features Westin's exclusive 10-layer Heavenly Bed, the WestinWORKOUT Powered by Reebok Gym with indoor pool, shopping in the retail gallery at Copley Place, skywalk access to more than 100 shops at Copley Place and the Prudential Center as well as the newly-opened Grettacole Spa, located adjacent to the hotel lobby.

Single or Double Room: $275.00 per night.
Junior Suite: $315.00 per night

In order to qualify for these special rates, you must make reservations by August 9, 2009, and mention that you are attending the “SLS Conference.” Rates are subject to appropriate state, local and occupancy taxes and do not include meals.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

For negotiated airline discount rates contact Steve at The Store For Travel, toll free at 1.800.284.2538. Outside the United States call 305.251.6331. E-mail: so@sft.webmail.com. Please be sure to mention you are attending the SLS conference in Boston, Massachusetts.

For those attending the conference who require special assistance (accessibility, dietary, etc.), please contact SLS no later than August 9, 2009, with special requests.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

Boston is one of America’s oldest cities and is home to some of the world’s finest inpatient hospitals, many institutions of higher education, and numerous cultural and professional sports organizations. Tourism is one of Boston's and New England's largest industries, and as a result you will find that Boston is a city willing to accommodate and entertain you as few other cities can.

For more information on tours, sites, shopping, and everything Boston, visit www.Boston.com/travel/boston

CANCELLATION POLICY

Full registration fees are refundable if registrant cancels before August 7, 2009. An administrative fee of $150.00 will be deducted from fees for cancellations postmarked on or after August 7, 2009 through August 21, 2009. Refund requests will not be considered after this date, including visa denial refunds. All requests for refunds must be made in writing and received by SLS, attention Flor Tilden, by the appropriate dates. Refunds will be processed within 6 to 8 weeks after the conference.
No refunds will be made after August 21, 2009.

VISA INFORMATION (Click Here)

SPECIAL EVENT: SPOUSE / GUEST  BEANTOWN TROLLEY TOUR & BOSTON HARBOR CRUISE

Friday, September 11, 2009
9:30am – 12:30pm
Register Online or Download the PDF registration form and fax to Conferences at 305.667.4123.

BostonTrolley Begin your day with a private Beantown Trolley tour of the city of Boston. The best of Boston will unfold before your eyes on this two-hour tour as you are offered lots of little known facts and interesting insights about the unique and wonderful city of Boston.  After the trolley ride, you will embark on another sightseeing journey, a glorious one-hour cruise around Boston Harbor—site of the Boston Tea Party and a popular vantage point for whale watchers. Re-board the trolley after the cruise and hop on / off touring the city at your leisure for the remainder of the day, or take the next stop to the Copley Square and make your way back to the Westin Copley. The entire tour loop on the trolley and the harbor cruise total approximately 3 hours. 


Tour fee: $45.00 per person. Refreshments included.

CONFERENCE EDUCATIONAL METHODS AND ATTENDEE OBJECTIVES

The 18th SLS Annual Meeting and Endo Expo 2009 employs a variety of educational formats including topical general sessions, the presentation of scientific papers, open forums, posters, and original videos offered in small specialty-specific breakout sessions, and informal gatherings of participants and expert faculty.

The increasing complexity of minimally invasive diagnostics and therapy requires a continuous educational process. The exchange of knowledge and expertise among the physicians taking part in this conference contributes to the continuation of excellence in minimally invasive surgery.

Upon completion of the conference, participants will be able to:

• Increase comprehension of the basic and fundamental principles of laparoscopic, endoscopic, and minimally invasive techniques, enhancing the participant’s understanding of these techniques;

• Understand the recent advances in laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques;

• Determine the appropriate use of laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive equipment as part of a treatment plan in the care of patients;

• Comprehend the developing technologies that will be available in the future to enhance the standard of patient care; and

• Acquire educational information within the physician’s specialty, which will enhance their professional development and patient care.


CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION PROCESS FOR THE SOCIETY OF LAPAROENDOSCOPIC SURGEONS

The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) follows the Essential Areas and Criteria of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education in planning and developing CME activities.  You may view the complete process online at our website, www.SLS.org.

PRE-CONFERENCE MASTER'S CLASSES WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2009

Master's Class Attendees are invited to a Special Lunch Lecture featuring Gerald B. Healy, MD, presenting "The Challenges Facing the 21st Century Surgery"

#1 Master’s Class 
Smart Surgeons Learn From their Mistakes, Brilliant Surgeons Learn from Other Surgeons' Mistakes
Master's Class in the Prevention and Management of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgical Complications

Half-Day
 (8:00am-12:30pm; 4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™)

All abdominal and pelvic MIS procedures carry an inherent risk of complications. This interactive course will present a philosophy for the prevention and management of complications during minimally invasive surgery of the abdomen and pelvis. Video segments and case presentations will be used to demonstrate principles and stimulate discussion. Source material will be obtained from students’ “real world” experiences and supplemented with materials selected by the faculty panel and customized based on pre-conference information obtained from registrants. An interactive student and faculty discussion format will be utilized. This course will discuss management paradigms to prevent, recognize, and treat complications appropriately. Careful, methodical assessment and strategies for appropriate action will be stressed. Topical presentations based on student input will highlight detailed surgical anatomy, sound surgical principles and careful technique. Participants are strongly encouraged to submit video or other case material (anonymously) to maximize topical relevance for their individual practice and needs.

Objectives:
Course participants will be better able to: 
• Recognize and decrease the risk of complications in laparoendoscopic surgeries; 
• Identify and discuss specific conditions affecting appropriate patient selection; 
• Discuss indications, contraindications and limitations of MIS procedures and technologies; 
• Understand relevant surgical anatomy and potential technical pitfalls; 
• Develop management paradigms to prevent and treat complications; 
• Describe the rationale and timing of conversion to open procedures.

FACULTY
Raymond J. Lanzafame, MD, MBA,
Director
Ceana Nezhat, MD,
Co-Director
Lawrence C. Biskin, MD
James F. Carter, MD
Carl J. Levinson, MD
Howard N. Winfield, MD


#2 Master’s Class  
NOSCAR, NOTES, and SPA: More Than an Incision Decision

Full-Day
 (8:00am-4:30pm; 7 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™)

Leading practitioners in the fields of general, gynecologic, and urological MIS will discuss their experiences with single port access (SPA), or single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS), and natural orifice transluminal enteric surgery (NOTES). The advantages, risks, and disadvantages of SPA and NOTES vs. traditional MIS will be discussed and debated, as well as future applications of the respective technologies. Current positions of NOSCAR, the combined ASGE and SAGES working group on the development, research, and introduction of NOTES technology will be discussed. 

Objectives:
At the conclusion of this course, participants will understand the indications and contradictions of SPA, be familiar with facilitating instrumentation and technology, and understand the choreography and technical concepts of SPA surgery. They will be familiar with evolving technology of NOTES, understand the potential risks and benefits peculiar to NOTES and SPA, and be able to compare these two technologies and judge whether either or both of these technologies would be applicable to their individual surgical practices. They will increase understanding of NOTES and the positions and recommendations of NOSCAR.

FACULTY
William E. Kelley, Jr., MD,
Director
Camran Nezhat, MD, Co-Director
Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD, Co-Director
Matthew Brengham, MD
Jihad H. Kaouk, MD
Stephanie King, MD
Michael R. Marohn, MD
Farr Nezhat, MD
Daniel A. Tsin, MD


#3 Master’s Class  
Laparoscopic Suturing in the "Vertical Zone" - The Next Level Beyond Triangulation

Full-Day (8:00am-4:30pm; 7 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™)

We challenge you to liberate yourself from the limitations imposed on laparoscopic suturing by the "Triangulation" algorithm. For gynecologists closing the uterus and vagina transversely, urologists anastomosing urethra to bladder, performing uretero-ureterostomy surgeons closing colon and rectum transversely - the needle needs to move in the sagittal plane, not the side to side or coronal plane of the triangulation style. The "Vertical Zone" describes our technique of suturing with two hands ipsilaterally that allows the needle to operate in the sagittal plane, while permitting a restful and relaxed attitude of the elbows, forearms and hands. 

In numerous courses nationally and internationally this algorithm has allowed over 80% of participants to succeed in tying an intracorporeal knot within 3 minutes after 4 hours of training. 

With excellent fidelity, the relative hand positions and movements are immediately transferable from the trainer to the O.R. This course equips all attendees with improved suturing skills and insight into applications during surgery. 

Objectives:
Course participants will be better able to: 
• Understand ergonomics, theory and rationale for reproducible and efficient laparoscopic suturing
• Learn port positions, instruments and tips to minimize fulcrum and maximize efficiency
• Perform interrupted suturing, continuous suturing, cinch knotting
• Application of skills learned in relevant surgical situations
• Prevention and management of bowel, bladder and ureteral complications by appropriate suture repair
• Pre-test and post-test to demonstrate improvement in skills

FACULTY
Charles H. Koh, MD, 
Director
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD, Co-Director
Yaniris R. Avellanet, MD
Tommaso Falcone, MD
Dobie Giles, MD
Keith Isaacson, MD


#4 Master’s Class 
Ways for You and Your Patients to Hurt Less: New Insight Into the Diagnosis and Treatment of Abdominal and Pelvic Pain (Jointly with AAGL and IPPS)

Full-Day (8:00am-4:30pm; 7 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™)

This Master's Class will include discussion on a newer approach in evaluation and treatment of Chronic Pelvic Pain Endometriosis/Adenomyosis, Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome, Inguinal and Obturator Hernia, Bowl Obstruction Adhesion, Pelvic Congestion Syndrome and Pelvic Myofacial Syndrome. In addition, participants will be learning updates on treating abnormal uterine bleeding by in office procedure and hysteroscopic endometrial ablation. They will also learn pearls in treating abdominal pain and laparoscopic complication from the General Surgery of view. 

Objectives:
• To master the newer approach in office evaluation and treatment for difficult Pelvic Pain patients;
• To learn more about new techniques such as abdominal and pelvic trigger points injection, office cystoscopy, intravesical therapy for interstitial cystitis and fluoroscopy for pelvic congestion syndrome. This includes office endometrial ablation and hysteroscopy.  

FACULTY
Maurice K. Chung, R.Ph., MD,
Director
Harry Reich, MD, Co-Director
Fred M. Howard, MD, Co-Director
Raymond J. Lanzafame, MD, MBA
Alfredo Nieves, MD
Juan Diego Villegas-Echeverri, MD
Robert K. Zurawin, MD


#5 Master’s Class 
Fundamentals Make Masters: Laparoscopic General Surgery (Jointly with SAGES)

Full-Day (8:00am-4:30pm; 7 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™)

This year's Master’s Class in Laparoscopic General Surgery will devote a portion of the morning session to practical issues involved with the business of doing surgery today. Presenters will explore topics such as the Business of Surgery, Practical Means to Augment a Surgical Practice, and Ultrasound Based Procedures for General Surgeons. These discussions will emphasize those acceptable practices; technologies and techniques practicing surgeons can use to assure their economic well being in today's world. 

Also included in the day-long Masters Class will be sessions devoted to cutting-edge presentations in those areas of biliary disease, adhesions, hernia repair, and colon surgery important to the modern general surgery practice. 

Objectives:
To increase participants' knowledge of the art and practice of minimally invasive surgery needed to survive in the 21st century. Areas to be explored by active practitioners in the field include: 
• The business of surgery
• Practical means to augment a surgical practice
• Office-based ultrasound for the general surgeon
• Common bile duct surgery
• Prosthetics for hernia repair
• Minimally invasive colon surgery
• Adhesions - what to do
• Future of general surgery and the general surgeon

FACULTY
Michael S. Kavic, MD, Director
Phillip P. Shadduck, MD,
Co-Director
Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD
Morris E. Franklin, Jr., MD
Terrence M. Fullum, MD
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD
Joseph Petelin, MD
James C. "Butch" Rosser, Jr., MD
Richard M. Satava, MD
Richard M. Vazquez, MD

2009 SLS Annual Meeting and Endo Expo Honorary Chairs

Dr. Robert Gallardo Diaz

Roberto Gallardo D., MD

Dr Gallardo was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala in 1959. He graduated from the School of Medicine of Francisco Marroquin University with full residence in General Surgery at the Social Security General Hospital in Guatemala, where he served for 13 years.

He was the President of the Guatemala Congress 2008, which took place in Guatemala City in July 2008; there he was the President of the VIII Latin-American Endoscopic Surgery Congress, the XI Central American Surgical Congress and the XXXV Congress of the Guatemalan Surgical Association.

Dr Gallardo currently serves as the President of Latin-American Endoscopic Surgery Association (ALACE) and is also the President of the Federation of Association of Surgery of Central America and Panama (FECCAP).

He is the Secretary of the Editor Committee of the Guatemalan Surgical Journal and is a member of many surgical societies in Guatemala and Latin America. 




Dr. Suresh Nair

Suresh Nair, MBBS (S'pore), MMED (O&G, Spore), FRCOG (UK)

Dr Suresh Nair is a senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist currently in group practice in Gynecology Consultant's Clinic and Surgery at the Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre at the Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore. 

His areas of subspeciality interests are: 

(1) Minimally invasive laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgery
(2) Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery 
(3) Assisted reproductive technologies including ovarian tissue cryopreservation in oncological patient

He was awarded the Singapore Government Training Programme, where he spent 2 years training in endoscopic surgery from (1991 to 1993) in the United States of America, United Kingdom, France, and Germany. 

He is currently the Vice President of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Singapore and the Secretary to the Singapore College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologist. He is also the Clinical Director of the Parkway Fertility Centre and is a Visiting Consultant to the National University Hospital and KK Women's and Children's Hospital. 

Dr Nair has been invited as faculty to lecture and conduct training programmes in assisted reproductive and endoscopic surgery at regional and international meetings,has contributed to peer-reviewed journals,  and written chapters in several authoritative books. 

He derives great joy and acknowledgement in proctoring and guiding those who wish to improve in their clinical skills but is ever willing to learn from both his senior and junior colleagues. 

MULTIDISCIPLINARY PLENARY SESSIONS


IMAGE GUIDED SURGICAL PROCEDURES. WHAT A SURGEON SHOULD KNOW ABOUT NON-SURGICAL APPROACHES
Thursday, September 10,  2009
8:30am-9:45am

With technology racing ahead, there are many technologies that could replace surgery. 

In previous decades flexible endoscopy was given to gastroenterologists and pulmonologists, and endo-vascular procedures were largely given to cardiologists and radiologists. New opportunities are evolving in various forms of image-guided surgery, from pre-operative planning/surgical rehearsal, to intra-operative navigation, image-guided tissue ablation and even complete tumor and metastasis ablation using robotics and energy sources such as high-intensity focused ultrasound, radiofrequency, and cyberknife therapy. Likewise, surgeons need to participate in the telemedicine revolution, and be aware of the opportunities in tele-surgery. It is critical that surgeons learn about these emerging technologies to insure that they participate when possible, and capture when appropriate, the emerging approaches to diseases that have traditionally been treated surgically. 

FACULTY AND PRESENTATIONS

William E. Kelley, Jr., MD, Director

Richard M. Satava, MD, Co-Director


Mehran Anvari, MD, PhD
Role of Robotics in Image Guided Procedures


Ron Davis, MD
Sterotatic Radiosurgery (SRS) - Is it Surgery? Is it Radiation Therapy? Why Should I Care?


Pat Fulgham, MD
The Surgeon's Responsibility for Imaging Utilization during Minimally Invasive Procedures


Elizabeth A. Stewart, MD
MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS) for Uterine Fibroids


CANCER AND LAPAROSCOPY-WHAT TO DO AND WHAT NOT TO DO
Thursday, September 10,  2009
10:30am-11:30am

Laparoscopy has multiple benefits in the cancer patient, including image magnification to visualize metastatic or recurrent disease, improved dissection in challenging areas, decreased hospital stay, and rapid recovery. Significant progress has been made in the last few decades as this technique has blossomed and developed. The leaders of laparoscopy from different disciplines in general surgery, gynecologic oncology, pediatric, and urology, will discuss the latest innovative procedures and proper application of laparoscopy in the realm of oncology. Laparoscopy is a viable alternative to traditional laparotomy approaches in the management of several aspects of oncologic patients. The advantages and disadvantages, possible pitfalls and benefits of novel advances will be examined. The role of laparoscopy continues to expand with continual advancements in technology and techniques, and future directions of research will also be explored. Adequate time will be allocated for active interaction of the participants during the session. 

FACULTY AND PRESENTATIONS

Farr Nezhat, MD, Director
Robotics in Cervical Cancer: The Good, Bad and Ugly!


Gustavo Stringel, MD, MBA,
Co-Director
The Role of Laparoscopy in Pediatric Abdominal Malignant Tumors


David B. Samadi, MD
Advanced Robotic Technique as a Surgical Treatment Option for Prostate Cancer

Stephen M. Kavic, MD
Pearls and Pitfalls - Laparoscopy and Malignancy


THE U.S. HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IS BROKEN. WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT?
Thursday, September 10,  2009
10:30am-11:30am

Physicians, perhaps the main players in the delivery of health care, have been subject to almost a decade of relentlessly decreasing reimbursement, increasing regulatory and compliance dictates, and having to interact with a general public that has been made to believe doctors are paid too much. An increasing number of insurance companies implicated in corrupt practices have also been added to this mix.  The health care treasury has been depleted by these corrupt practices and the multi million dollar salaries garnered by top insurance executives who are usually guaranteed a “golden parachute” if things go awry.

It would seem that the US health care system is broken, if not moribund. What can we do about it? Join this distinguished panel and learn the dimensions of the problem and possible solutions in the very real world we live in. 

FACULTY AND PRESENTATIONS

Michael S. Kavic, MD, Director
John E. Morrison, Jr., MD,
Co-Director
Douglas E. Ott, MD, MBA

Richard Babayan, MD
Obstacles to Providing "Universal Care" to the Undeserved - a Urologic Perspective

William A. Cooper, MD
Health Disparities: Target Heart Disease


NOTES, SPA & MICROROBOTS - A CONTROVERSY DEBATE
Friday, September 11,  2009
7:30am-8:30am

Techniques in minimally invasive surgery continue to evolve. While some are being widely adopted, others are slow to develop and others are in their infancy but have great potential. This session centers on the push to minimize the number of access ports down to one while maintaining adequate visualization and access while still being able to safely perform surgery. This plenary session gathers recognized experts in their fields of interest and has them give their experience with and the current status of their areas of expertise. Dr. Paul Curcillo will discuss the more widely adapted Single Port Access procedures and give his experience with and predictions for the future of this technique. Dr. Daniel Tsin will discuss the less widely adopted NOTES and give his look into the future and development of this technique. Dr. Dmitry Oleynikov will end the session with a look into the future of microrobotics and the role that this exciting new field will play in surgery. At the end of the session, participants should have a better grasp of the nature and place for these techniques and have a sense of which one of these methods may be best suited for their particular practice.

FACULTY AND PRESENTATIONS

John E. Morrison, Jr., MD, Director

Thomas Sean Lendvay, MD, Co-Director


Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD
Single Port Access (SPA) Surgery - In Search of the Critical View


Dmitry Oleynikov, MD
Miniature Robots for Natural Orifice and Single Incision Surgical Applications

Daniel A. Tsin, MD
Transvaginal NOTES: Culdolaparoscopy


SPECIAL EVENT: MASTER'S CLASS LUNCH WITH LECTURE
The Challenges Facing 21st Century Surgery
Presented by Gerald B. Healy, MD

Wednesday, September 9, 2009
(12:00pm–1:00pm; 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™)

Richard M. Satava, MD, Director
Robert M. Sweet, MD, Co-Director

New mandates for training, certification, and re-training/re-certification are now in place. Residency training programs must have access to a simulation (skills) training center or the Residency Review Committee will put them on probation. Surgical Residents must have documentation that they have passed the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery skills course or their application for board certification as a surgeon will not be accepted. The American College of Surgeons has certified the quality of simulation centers, and after application, surveyors and review, they are awarded an Accredited Education Institute certificate. And training has moved from training-over-time to competency-based (to standard benchmarks) training, regardless of time to train. Finally, maintenance of certification will soon move to every 5 years (instead of 10 years) and perhaps eventually more frequent. In short, in just a few years a radical revolution in surgical training has occurred - for both residents to become surgeons and for practicing surgeons to maintain their board certification. These issues, and solutions, will be addressed. 
________________________________________________________
GERALD B. HEALY, MD, FACS

GeraldBHealyEE09 The Healy Chair in Pediatric Otolaryngology and 
Professor of Otology & Laryngology, Harvard Medical School
Otolaryngologist-in-Chief, Children's Hospital, Boston

Gerald B. Healy, M.D., was born in Boston, Massachusetts and received his undergraduate degree with honors from Boston College in 1963 and his MD degree from Boston University in 1967. Dr. Healy is currently the Gerald B. Healy Chair in Pediatric Otolaryngology at Children's Hospital Boston and Professor of Otology and Laryngology at Harvard Medical School. He is the former Surgeon-in-Chief at The Children's Hospital. 

Dr Healy is a member of numerous honorary societies, including the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, American College of Surgeons, the Triological Society, the American Laryngological Association, the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology and the American Society of Head and Neck Surgery. He has served as President of the Massachusetts Chapter of the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology, the American Bronchoesophageal Association, and the Triological Society (the leading academic society in the specialty of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery). He has served as Secretary and President of the American Laryngological Association. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland and the Royal College of Surgeons of England. He has served as a Chairman of the Board of Regents of the American College of Surgeons and is the Immediate-Past President of the American College. 

In 1986, Dr Healy was elected to the Board of Directors of the American Board of Otolaryngology and served as its Executive Vice-President until 2004. He has also served as a Director of the American Board of Emergency Medicine and as a Trustee of the Children's Hospital Boston. 

An active scholar and lecturer, Dr. Healy publishes extensively in professional journals, books, and editorials. He has been the principal investigator of NIH funded research addressing diseases affecting infants and children and has been cited for his pioneering work with laser surgery in children. In addition, Dr. Healy is the author of several books and book chapters and/or monographs, and is extensively published in peer-reviewed journals. 

Lunch is included for all Master's Class registrants.

SPECIAL EVENT: SLS EVENING WITH FACULTY FEATURING 2009 EXCEL AWARD RECIPIENT / CAPTIVATING CIRQUE DE SLS ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2009 
6:30pm-8:30pm

Rosser_James Excel Award Recipient: James C. "Butch" Rosser, Jr., MD
Introduction: Richard M. Satava, MD

Join us for this captivating and momentous evening which includes dinner, the aerial event Cirque De SLS, and a presentation by the 2009 Excel Award recipient.

Established in 1991, the Excel Award has been presented to 24 surgeons deemed by the SLS Advisory Board to have made outstanding contributions to laparoscopy, endoscopy, and minimally invasive surgery. These outstanding surgeons are from various specialties and various nationalities.

This year’s Excel Award recipient, a leading surgeon and medical educator, Dr James “Butch” Rosser, Jr. received his undergraduate degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Mississippi and completed his medical training at the University of Mississippi, School of Medicine before completing a five-year surgical residency at Akron General Medical Center, where he served as Chief Resident (1984-85). Dr. Rosser began a private surgical practice at Akron General Medical Center and accepted a position as Assistant Professor of Surgery at Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. For his outstanding contributions to medical education there, he received the 1991 “Golden Apple Professor of the Year” award. Early in his career, inspired by Dr Herbert Awender, Dr Rosser realized the potential of endoscopic and minimally invasive surgery, leading him to pioneer a number of minimally invasive procedures, most notably his streamlined laparoscopic suturing technique. He now travels the globe teaching his Top Gun Laparoscopic Skills and Suturing Course and other techniques to surgeons. He has also distinguished himself by performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures on some of the youngest individuals in the world (15, 17, and 19 months), which earned him Kent State University’s “Minority Achievement Award.”

Dr Rosser is currently Professor of Clinical Surgery at Morehouse School of Medicine. Prior to joining Morehouse he held appointment as Chief of Minimally Invasive Surgery at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, as well as the Director of Beth Israel's Advanced Medical Technology Institute. Before joining Beth Israel, he was Associate Professor and Director of Endo-Laparoscopic Surgery at Yale University.  He has been a contributing editor of Surgical Laparoscopy and Endoscopy, a moderator at the Fourth World Endoscopic Congress, and chairperson of the minimally invasive post-graduate course for the American College of Surgeons, Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), American Medical Association and Southern Medical Association. As the founder of the non-profit organization Modern Day Miracle Incorporated, Dr Rosser's goal is to expose the 'modern day miracle' of minimally invasive surgery to underprivileged and undereducated countries around the world, many times via telemedicine, the remote care of patients using modern telecommunications.

Tickets required.

SCIENTIFIC ABSTRACTS


GENERAL SURGERY

Routine Upper Endoscopy Before Bariatric SurgeryWould it Influence the Surgical Plan?
Ehab Akkary, MD

Learning Curve Using Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies Surgery
Haytham H. Alabbas, MD

Laparoscopic Right Adrenalectomy using the EnSeal System
Fuad Alkhoury, MD

The Sleeve Gastrectomy as a 1st Choice Procedure for Morbid Obesity Treatment
Mohammad Alkilani, MD

SILS. Single Port Laparoscopic Surgery: Initial Experience
Fernando Arias, MD

Single Incision Laparoscopic Resection of Giant Mesenteric Cyst
Fernando Arias, MD

Preliminary Results with Endoscopic Plicatin for Revision of Gastric Bypass
Dimitrios V. Avgerinos, MD

Robotic Resection of the Left, Right, and Sigmoid Colon
Nadav Aviv, DO

Robotic Adrenalectomy
Nadav Aviv, DO

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in Situs Inversus Totalis
Ramy A. Awad, MD

Laparoscopic Reintervention After Roux-en-Y Gastric By-pass for Morbid Obesity
Carlos Ballesta, MD

Management of Anastomotic Leaks After Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Carlos Ballesta, MD

The Staged Approach to Acute Gastric Prolapse in Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
Raffi Barsoumian, MD

Risk Factors for Prolonged Operative Time in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Yasser Ahmed Bashin, Dr Med

Laparoscopic Subtotal Colectomy for Multiple Colon Polyposis
Giancarlo Basili, MD

Portal Hypertension Secondary to a Spontaneous Splenic Arteriovenous Fistulae, Treated by Laparoscopic Splenopancreatectomy. A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Walid Salem Beainy, MD

Enabling NOTES- Using a Robotic Surgical Platform to Facilitate Navigation, Camera/Instrument Repositioning and Stability During Surgery
Amir Belson, MD

Pyloromyotomy Length Directed by Pre-operative Ultrasound Measurement Minimizes Incomplete Laparoscopic Pyloromyotomy in Infants
Denis David Bensard, MD

Types of Reconstruction and Functional Outcomes from Laparoscopic Distal Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
George Bouras, MRCS

Totally Laparoscopic Reconstruction During Laparoscopic Pylorus-preserving and Segmental Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
George Bouras, MRCS

A Novel Approach to Gastric Wedge Resection Using Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS)
Curtis E. Bower, MD

Recurrent Stricture in a High Risk Patient after Vertical Banded Gastroplasty: Treatment by a Novel Simultaneous Natural Orifice and Laparoscopic Endogastric Technique
Collin E. Brathwaite, MD

Hole-Mesh Device Allows Accessing the Bypassed Stomach in Patients Who Underwent Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Severe Obesity
Giovanni Cesana, MD

Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair IPOM with Dual-Mesh: Feasibility and Advantages
Giovanni Cesana, MD

A Six Year Experience in the Laparoscoic Treatment of Incisional Hernias
Ignazio Massimo Civello, MD

Laparoscopic Treatment of Colorectal Tumors. Miscellaneous of 4 Year Experience
Ignazio Massimo Civello, MD

Laparoscopic Retroperitoneoscopic Lumbar Sympathectomy for the Treatment of Plantar Hyperhidrosis: a Case Report and Review of the Literature
Derrick Dione Cox, MD

Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Myotomy for the Treatment of Achalasia in the Elderly
Randall O. Craft, MD

Cerebral Gas Embolism Due to Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Roeland Den Boer, MD

Sleeve Gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Comparison of Weight Loss and Diabetes Resolution
Lisa Derr, DO

The Calibrated Laparoscopic Heller's Myotomy with Fundoplication in the Surgical Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia
Natale Di Martino, Prof Dr Med

Laparoscopic Approach to Gastrointestinal Atromal Rumors (GISTs) of the Stomach: Our Experience
Natale Di Martino, Prof Dr Med

Laparoscopic Duodenojejunostomy for the Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: Surgical Management for an Irreversible Cause?
Marquinn D. Duke, MD

Endoscopic Transaxillary Periareolar Thyroidectomy
Titus D. Duncan, MD

Laparoscoic Sigmoid Colectomy for Diverticulitis: a Prospective Study of 260 Patients
Khaled Khalil Elzarrok, MD

Laparoscopic Resection of Duodenal GIST Tumour
Khaled Khalil Elzarrok, MD PhD

A Chronic Cholecystitis in a Chilaiditi's Syndrome
Josè M.M. Ferreira-Coelho, MD PhD

A Novel Technique for Endoscopic Repair of Symptomatic Diastasis Recti With or Without Simultaneous Ventral Hernia
Richard P. Franklin, MD

Side-to-side Gastro-Colic Anastomosis Provides Drastic Weight Loss: Anastomotic Size Is an Important Variable
Michel Gagner, MD

Laparoscopic Transduodenal Sphincteroplasty
Michel Gagner, MD

Management of Chyloperitoneum Following Redo-Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication in a 23 Month-Old Female
Edgar Luis Galiñanes, MD

Initial Outcomes Following Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy as a Single Stage Procedure for Morbid Obesity
Alex Gandsas, MD MBA

Integrating Emergent Abdominal Laparoscopic Procedures into the Armamentarium of Laparoscopic Surgeons on a Consistant Basis: a Prospective, Identifiable, and Consistent Model
W. Peter Geis, MD

Acute Appendicitis or Gynecological Disease? The Role of Videolaparoscopic Approach
Roberta Gelmini, Prof Dr Med

The Routine Preoperative Typing and Screening Prior to Elective Surgery – a Necessary Safeguard or a Misuse of Resources?
Silvio F. Ghirardo, MD

Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair without Suture Fixation
G. Kevin Gillian, MD

The Best of Both Worlds: Open Incisional Hernia Repair with Laparoscopic Mesh Underlay
Gopal Grandhige, MD

Necessity for Improvement in Endoscopy Training During Surgical Residency
Aditya Gupta, MD

Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy for Cecal Duplication Cyst in an Adult: a Case Report
Amy J. Hanna, MD

Minimal Esophageal Dissection During Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication in Infants Reduces the Risk of Post-operative Hiatal Hernia and Wrap Herniation
Richard J. Hendrickson, MD

The Learning Curve of Laparo-Endoscopic Single Site (LESS) Cholecystectomy: Definable, Short, and Safe
Jonathan M. Hernandez, MD

Technique of Laparoscopic Transgastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Excision with Gastric Bypass
Juliet Georgia Holder-Haynes, MD

The Learning Curve of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Mubashar Hussain, Dr Med

Laparoscopic Repair of Bilateral Spigelian Herniae
Usman Jaffer, MBBS, BSc, MSC

Core Appendectomy-A New Technique for Delayed Appendicitis
Shenoy Kudige Jayarama, MBBS, MS

Early Surgical Consultation for Acute Cholecystitis and Biliary Symptoms: Is There a Difference in Outcome?
Sigi P. Joseph, MD

Transumbilical Laparoscopic Assisted Non-insufflated Appendectomy (TULANIA)
Sungwoo Jung, MD

MIS Fellowship Influence on Obtaining Adequate Regional Lymph Node Specimens in Laparoscopic Colectomies
Harish Kakkilaya, MD

Robotic Gastrointestinal Surgery: Series of Our First 50 Consecutive Cases
Emad Kandil, MD

Robotic Adrenalectomy: a Report of Our Early Experience at Tulane
Emad Kandil, MD

Herniotomy in Infants, Children and Adolescents Without Disruption of External Ring
Ahmed Alwan Kareem, MD

A New Idea to Identify the Anatomy of the Colonic Artery in the Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery - The Usefulness of the Transillumination Technique
Iwao Kobayashi, MD PhD

Pre-peritoneal Bupivacaine Instillation Significantly Reduces 'Dissectalgia' Following TEP, Without Affecting Time of Resuming Job: Results of Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Sunil Kumar, MS

An Unusual Presentation of Carcinoid Tumor of the Appendix
Yong Kwon, MD

Laparoscopic Distal Gastrectomy and D1 Lymphadenectomy for Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Eddie Lambert, MD MBA

Laparoscopic Re-banding for Failed Gastric Banding
Leonid Lantsberg, Prof Dr Med

Laparoscopic Sigmoid Resection for Complicated Diverticular Disease is Associated with Better Outcomes
Jonathan A. Laryea, MD

Timing of Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy After Acute Cholangitis and Subsequent Clearance of Choledocholithiasis
Vicky Ka Ming Li, MBBS FRCS

Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Multiple Distal Aneurysm of the Splenic Artery
Marco Lombardi, MD

Laparoscopic Resection of Retroperitoneal Mass
Marco Lombardi, MD

Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC): Our Experience
Sinisa Maksimovic, Prof Dr Med

Laparoendoscopic Single Site Cholecystectomy With Intraoperative Cholangiography
Kellie McFarlin, MD

The Resection of a Mid-Esophageal Diverticulum Complicating Palliated Achalasia
Kellie McFarlin, MD

Avoiding Major Common Bile Duct Injuries in Cases With Unidentifiable Cystic Duct
Subhasis Misra, MD

Inferior Epigastric Artery Bleeding During Laparoscopic Procedure
Subhasis Misra, MD

Laparoscopic Management of Small Bowel Volvulus
Subhasis Misra, MD

Laparoscopic Management of Appediceal Mucocele and Torsion
Subhasis Misra, MD

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Gallbladder Stones of Helminthic Origin
Subhasis Misra, MD

Completion Proctectomy after Laparoscopic vs. Open Subtotal Colectomy for Ulcerative Colitis: Is There a Difference?
Angel Mario Morales Gonzalez, MD

NOTES Perforated Viscus Repair is Feasible and Comparable to Laparoscopy in a Porcine Mode
Erica A. Moran, MD

Laparoendoscopic Single Site (LESS) Toupet Fundoplication
John Mullinax, MD

The Role of Laparoscopy in Emergency General Surgery and its Effect on Trainees' Experience in a UK District General Hospital
Senthil Nachimuthu, MS, MRCSEd

Laparoscopic Repair of Spigelian Hernia Mimicking Post-Operative Ileus Following Perineal Rectosigmoidectomy
Khanjan H. Nagarsheth, MD

NOTES Transvaginal Cholecystectomy: a Modified Surgical Technique
Giuseppe Navarra, Prof Dr Med

Prophylaxis of Recurrent Pancreatitis: Miniinvasive Approach
Vincenzo Neri, Prof Dr Med

Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery for Rectal Adenomas: a Comparison of Two- and Three-Dimensional Visualization
D.H. Nieuwenhuis, MD

Thymectomy by Thoracoscopic Approach: Experience and Outcomes
Vladimir N. Nikishov, MD PhD

Laparoscopic Treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease
Francisco A. Obregon, MD

Atraumatic Repair of Ventral Hernias Using Fibrin Glue
Stefano Olmi, MD

Laparoscopic Repair of Incarcerated Incisional Hernias: Our Experience
Stefano Olmi, MD

Validity of Resident Self-Assessment in Minimally Invasive Surgery
Neil Orzech, MD

Transumbilical Single Incision Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: Making Patients Smaller Through Smaller Incisions
Matthew B. Ostrowitz, MD

Postoperative Inflammatory Response following Laparoscopic versus Robotic Colorectal Surgery
Yoon Ah Park, MD PhD

Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy, Notes Extraction vs. Counter Incision. A Prospective Study
Guillermo Portillo, MD

Laparoscopic Approach to Colonic Emergencies
Guillermo Portillo, MD

Is There Any Value Of Totally Intracorporeal Anastomosis In Laparoscopic Colon Surgery?
Guillermo Portillo, MD

Involution or Evolution Minilap Approach for GERD Treatment
Juan G. Quiroz, MD

Laparoscopically-assisted Placement of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts Helps to Avoid Unnecessary Abdominal Incisions
Usama Qumsieh, MD

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in Gallstone Disease with Cirrhosis of the Liver
Prasanta Raj, MD

Association of Intraoperative Cholangiography with Common Bile Duct Injury
Prasanta Raj, MD

Reinforced Circular Stapler in Bariatric Surgery. Is There Any Benefit?
Marcela Carolina Ramirez, MD

Prevention of Post-op Bowel Obstruction After Rectal Resection: Results of Pelvic Omental Pedicled Shelf from Open Surgery with Applicability to Laparoscopic Surgery
Munir A. Rathore, FRCS

Role of Initial Clinical Assessment in the Diagnosis of Acute Diverticulitis
Munir Ahmad Rathore, FRCS

Surgery for the Chronic Abdominal and Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CAPPS) Is Surgery Indicated in these Patients?
Jay A. Redan, MD

Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Repair of Large and Complex incisional Hernia (Panama Technique)
Rafael Victor Reyes, MD

Laparoscopic Revision of Open Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass with Fundus Resection
Ramin Roohipour, MD

Laparoscopic Reduction of Intussusception Following Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
Ramin Roohipour, MD

Late Results After Laparoscopic Fundoplication Denote Durable Symptomatic Relief of GERD
Sharona B. Ross, MD

Dissatisfaction After Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy Due To Esophageal Dysmotility
Sharona B. Ross, MD

Laparoscopic Resection For Benign Gastric Tumor Around Esophagogastric Junction
Seong-Yeob Ryu, Prof Dr Med

Single Port Transumbilical Laparoscopic Intragastric Resection
Seong-Yeob Ryu, MD PhD

Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) and Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) Cholecystectomy: Is It Just About Cosmesis?
Sujit Vijay Sakpal, MD

Laparoscopic Conversion of Common Surgical Procedures: an Analysis of Patient-specific and Surgeon-specific Factors at a Community Hospital
Sujit Vijay Sakpal, MD

Laparoscopic Assisted Management of Impalpable Testis in Patients Older Than 10 Years
Ahmed Khan Sangrasi, FCPS

Six Sigma, Statistical Process Control, and Quality Improvement for Appendectomy
Jeffrey D. Sedlack, MD

Silent Entry of a Sharp Metallic Foreign Body into the Abdomen: Diagnosis and Treatment Using Laparoscopy and CT Scan
Udayan B. Shah, MD

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in Cirrhotic Patients in Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan
Abdul Razaque Shaikh, FCPS

Trends and Correlations of MORBID Scores for Adjustable Gastric Band: Weight Loss, Resolution of Comorbid Diseases, and Quality of Life
Brad E. Snyder, MD

Laparoscopic Appendectomy Using LIGASURE™ for the Mesoappendix Homeostatic Control
Vicente Spinelli, MD

Impact of Robot in Vascular Surgery
Petr Stadler, MD PhD

Development of a Laparoscopic Colorectal Service in the Northern HSC Trust, Northern Ireland - Progress So Far
Richard P. Stevenson, Dr Med

Resection of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor of the Rectum by Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery
Paul R. Sturrock, MD

Learning Curve in Transanal Endoscopoic Microsurgery: Surgeon or Operating Room Staff Dependent?
Paul R. Sturrock, MD

Prolonged (> 3 Hours) Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy - Reasons and Results
Gokulakkrishna Subhas, MD

Laparoscopic Loop Ileostomy With a Single Port Stab Incision
Gokulakkrishna Subhas, MD

A Novel Technique for Laparoscopic Seprafilm Application
Adithya Suresh, MD

Two-Trocar Single Incision Appendectomy
Dana A. Telem, MD

Combined Open-Laparoscopic Technique for Difficult Incisional Herniae
Katerina Theodoropoulou

Development of a New Device for Displacement of the Small Intestine in Laparoscopic Rectosigmoid Surgery
Shinobu Tsuchida, MD PhD

Laparoscopic Treatment of Rectal Cancer: the Results of a Single Centre Experience
Paolo Ubiali, Prof Dr Med

Robotic Surgery of Advanced Gastric Cancer - Preliminary Experience
Catalin Vasilescu, MD PhD

Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy
Catalin Vasilescu, MD PhD

Post Laparoscopy Pain Control With Tarns Port Local Anesthesia
Amir Vejdan, Dr Med

Laparoscopic Colectomy for Colon and Upper Rectal Cancer
Pietro Venezia, Prof Dr Med

Natural Orifice Surgery in Gastric Bypass Patients Who Regained Weight: a Feasibility Study
Chiranjiv Singh Virk, MD

Laparoscopic Colectomy: Does the Learning Curve Extend Beyond Colorectal Surgery Residency?
Joshua A. Water, MD

149 LCBDE Cases Evaluating the Use of the Multi-Channel Instrument Guide in the Community Hospital Setting
Donald E. Wenner, MD

Lessons Learned in 149 LCBDE Cases Applied to Procedural Algorithm
Donald E. Wenner, MD

Single Port Acess (SPA) Hepatic Sling Technique
Andrew S. Wu, MD

An Institutional Comparison of Laparoscopic vs. Open Adrenalectomy
Gazi B. Zibari, MD 


GYNECOLOGY

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy and Colpopexy with Polypropylene Strip
Mohammad Alkilani, MD

Meckel's Diverticulum Causing Intestinal Obstruction in Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Farhad Anoosh, MD

Effectiveness of Microwave Endometrial Ablation for Adenomyosis
Yasuyuki Asakawa, MD PhD

Integration of Formal Robotic Training Into a Four Year Obstetrics and Gynecologic Residency
Michael T. Breen, MD

Time to Diagnoses of Rectal Endometriosis May be Prolonged Among Patient with Chronic Pelvic Pain
Aileen Caceres, MD, MPH

Multi-disciplinary Approach to the Surgical Management of Deep Infiltrating Pelvic Endometriosis Involving the Recto-sigmoid
Aileen Caceres, MD, MPH

A Multicentered Series of over 1000 Laparoscopic Subtotal Hysterectomies in the UK and Greece: the New Approach to Hysterectomy
Stefanos Chandakas, MD, MBA, PhD

Single Port Laparoscopy in Gynaecology, What Can We Perform: a Series of 35 Cases
Stefanos Chandakas, MD MBA PhD

Fertility-Sparing Robotic-assisted Radical Trachelectomy and Bilateral Pelvic Lymphadenectomy in Early Stage Cervical Cancer
Linus Chuang, MD

The Evil Triplet of Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Pudendal Neuralgia
Maurice K. Chung, R.Ph, MD

Dysautonomias Are Not Associated With Chronic Pelvic Pain
Andrea K. Crane, MD

Lifelong Dysmenorrhea Is Associated With Other Muscle Tension Pain Syndromes
Andrea K. Crane, MD

Use of Bidirectional Barbed Suture in Gynecologic Laparoscopy
Jon Ivar Einarsson, MD

Medico-Legal Problems With Advanced Gynecological Operative Endoscopy
Mark Erian, MD

Transvaginal Application of a Laparoscopic Bipolar Cutting Forcep to Assist Vaginal Hysterectomy in Extremely Obese Endometrial Cancer Patients
James Fanning, DO

Laparoscopic Cytoreduction for Primary Advanced Ovarian Cancer
James Fanning, DO

Limbic Brain Areas are Activated in Chronic Pelvic Pain
Bradford W. Fenton, MD PhD

Treatment of Severe Uterine Hemorrhage using Hydrothermal Ablation
Herbert A. Goldfarb, MD

Saline Infusion Sonohysterography in Elderly Patients. Risks and Feasibility
Emil L. Gurshumov, MD

Can Laparoscopic Myomectomy Replace Open Myomectomy?
Richard L. Heaton, MD

Use of PlasmaJet System in the Laparoscopic Treatment of Endometriosis: Early Experience
Kimberly Kho, MD

Report of the Largest Case Series of Parasitic Myomas
Kimberly Kho, MD

Laparoscopic Approach for the Presacral Tumors: Early Experience of Initial 19 Cases
Zhiqing Liang, MD PhD

171 Laparoscopic Surgeries Using a Seprafilm Slurry
Lioudmila Lipetskaia, MD

To Study the Feasibility, Morbidity and Outcome Following Laparoscopic Myomectomy for Large Fibroids
Sheila Mehra, MD

Adhesion Prevention with a Resorbable Hydrogel Following Myomectomy
Liselotte Mettler, Prof Dr Med

Laparoscopic Gonadectomy for Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome With Serous Gonadal Cyst
Mineto Morita, MD PhD

Results Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Khusen B. Narzullaev, MD PhD

Total Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy and Robotic Radical Hysterectomy with Pelvic Lymphadenectomy in Treatment of Early Cervical Cancer: Recurrence and Survival
Farr Nezhat, MD

Laparoscopic Modified Radical Hysterectomy and Staging for Uterine Papillary Serous Carcinoma With Cervical Involvement
Farr Nezhat, MD

The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Diagnosis and Therapy of the Uterine Myoma Before IVF/ICSI Cycle
Kazem Nouri, MD

Laparoscopy: Gold Standard for Ovarian Tissue Banking (OTB) in Cancer Patients
Kazem Nouri, MD

An Innovative Electric Converter(M/BAC*) for Laparoscopic Surgery
Youngse Park, Prof Dr Med

Transumbilical Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Using the Ligasure™ Device: Initial Experience of 25 Cases
Muthukumaran Rangarajan, MBBS MS

Laparoscopic Replacement of Inguinal Ovaries Associated with Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Mullerian Agenesis Syndrome
Muhieddine A-F Seoud, MD

Effects of Transvaginal Hydrolaparoscopy and Laparoscopy Operation on Enzymogram and Neuroendocrine Hormones
Wang Shao-Juan, Prof Dr Med

Transvaginal Ultrasound Prediction of Surgical Specimen Weight in Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
Michael Swor, MD MBA

Post-Operative Change in Vaginal Length After Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy With Uterosacral Ligament Plication
Michael Swor, MD MBA

Primary Pelvic Floor Repair With Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
Michael Swor, MD MBA

To Assess the Surgical Feasibility of Utilization of a Mesh Kit (Avaulta Plus™ Biosynthetic Support System)
Radha Syed, MD

To Assess the Clinical Efficacy of Integrating Sacral Neuromodulation Intistim Inplants in Gynecological Private Practice for Treatment of Intractable Urinary Urgency
Radha Syed, MD

Robotic Surgery in a Medium-Sized Integrated Community and Academic Program in Gynecology
Sean S. Tedjarati, MD

Laparoscopic Isthmic Cerclage: a Simplified Technique
Antoine A. Watrelot, 
Prof Dr Med

A Case of Bilateral Tubal Pregnancy After Puerperal Tubal Ligation
Takashi Yamada, MD PhD

6 Case Reports of Ileum Colpopoiesis by Laparoscopy
Xiaoyan Ying, MD


UROLOGY

Early Results of Robotic Lymphadenectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma
Ronney Abaza, MD

Initial Report of Robotic Radical Nephrectomy with Vena Caval Tumor Thrombectomy
Ronney Abaza, MD

Margin Status of Men Undergoing Extraperitoneal, Extrafascial Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy (LRP)
Gerald Louis Andriole, MD

Comparing Diode Laser With KTP Laser
Manuel Ferreira Coelho, MD

Transmesenteric Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty: a Simple Approach for Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction Repair
Roger E. De Filippo, MD

Robotic Pyeoloplasty With Pyelolithotomy
Mark T. Edney, MD

Preoperative Renal Insufficiency Is an Independent Predictor of Adverse Surgical Outcomes in Partial Nephrectomy
A. Ari Hakimi, MD

Evaluation of Age and Adverse Outcomes in Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy
A. Ari Hakimi, MD

Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Cystectomy: the City of Hope Experience
Ciamack Kamdar, MD

Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Cystectomy in the Octogenarian
Ciamack Kamdar, MD

Results of Robotic Limited and Extended Pelvic Lymphadenectomy for Prostate Cancer
Hugh Lavery, MD

Individualize Management of Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction During Robot Assisted Laparoscopic Dismembered Pyeloplasty
Michelle Lerner, MD

Safety and Peri-operative Outcomes During Learning Curve of Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy (RALP): a Multi-institutional Study of Fellowship Trained (FEL) Robotic Surgeons Versus Experienced Open Radical Prostatectomy (RRP) Surgeons Incorporating RALP
Timothy J. LeRoy, MD

Three-Port Robotic Urologic Surgery Without a Laparoscopic Bedside Assistant
Gregory Lowe, MD

Median Lobe In Robotic Prostatectomy: Bladder Neck Reconstruction and Pelvic Drain Not Routinely Required
Humberto Martinez-Suarez, MD

Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: Caution on the Use of Kidneys with Multiple Arteries
Anil S. Paramesh, MD

Trans-Ileal-Conduit-Resection (TICR) of the Recurrent Urothelial Carcinoma in Iileal Conduit
Dong Soo Park, MD PhD

Bigger is Better: Implication of Small Prostate Volume in Patients Who Qualify for Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer
Nishant D. Patel, MD

Investigation of an Ultrasound Imaging Technique to Target Didney Stones in Lithotripsy
Anup Shah, MD

Ultrasound to Facilitate Clearance of Residual Stones
Anup Shah, MD

Comparision of Intraoperative Outcomes With New and Old Generation DaVinci Robot for Robotic Prostatectomy
Ketul Shah, MD

Incidence, Management and Prevention of Perioperative Adverse Events of GreenLight HPS Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy: Experience in the Initial 70 Patients
Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD

Tissue Effects of GreenLight HPS and Evolve SLV Lasers on Canine Prostates: an Acute In-Vivo Model
Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD

Laparoscopic Ureterolithotomy for Large Proximal Ureteral Calculi
David Spencer, MD

Posterior Rhabdosphincter Reconstruction May Delay Time to Continence Recovery Following Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Joshua M. Stern, MD

Urethral Length as Measured on MRI is Associated With Time to Continence
Joshua Stern, MD

GreenLight HPS Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP) for Failed Prior Surgical Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Kurt Strom, MD

Does Age Affect the Safety and Efficacy of GreenLight HPS Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP)
Kurt Strom, MD

Comparison of Laparoscopy Training Using a Box Trainer versus a Virtual Trainer
Chandru Sundaram, MD

The Safety of Radiofrequency Ablation for Renal Tumor Based on Renal Biopsy After 6 Months
Gyung Tak Mario Sung, MD PhD

A Comparison of Robotic Assisted Versus Pure Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: a Single Surgeon Experience
Gyung Tak Mario Sung, MD PhD

Complications for Laparoscopic Surgery for Urologic Malignancy: a Single Surgeon Experience
Daniel R. Tare, MD

Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Excision of Bladder Wall Leiomyoma
David D. Thiel, MD

Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Reconstruction of the Upper Urinary Tract: Tips and Tricks
David D. Thiel, MD

Clinical Pathway for Early Discharge After Robotic Cystectomy
Asha White, MD

Short-Term Outcomes of GreenLight HPS Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP) for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Carson Wong, MD

Decreased Efficiency of GreenLight HPS Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP) With Long-Term 5a-Reductase Inhibition Therapy: Is it True?
Carson Wong, MD


MULTISPECIALTY

Minimally Invasive Video-assisted Thyroidectomy with Intraoperative Recurrent Nerve Monitoring
Haytham H. Alabbas, MD

Experimental Model in Pig as Training Tool in Endoscopic Axillary Dissection
Maria E. Aponte-Rueda, MD PhD

Laparoscopic Appendectomy During Pregnancy
Joong Sub Choi, Prof Dr Med

Small Bowel Obstruction After FloSeal Use
Benjamin L. Clapp, MD

Combined Thoracoscopic and Laparoscopic Repair of a Traumatic Diaphragmatic Hernia: a Tale of Two Techniques
Hang Dang, DO

Electronic Detection of the Entry of Verres Needles Into the Peritoneal Cavity
Michael C. Doody, MD PhD

Laparoscopic Repair of Rectal Injury During Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy
William Duncan, MD

Laparoscopic Application of a Hyaluronate /Carboxymethylcellulose Slurry Does Not Increase Postoperative Adhesions
Bradford W. Fenton, MD PhD

Pediatric Surgery
Arnaldo Miguel Angel Gonzalez, MD

Ten Year Experience with Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) in Pediatric Cancer Patients
Gloriamaria Gonzalez, MD

Laparoscopic Gastrostomy Is Safe and Beneficial in Infants Under 10 Kilograms with Congenital Heart Disease Utilizing a Multidisciplinary Approach
Richard J. Hendrickson, MD

Effect of 4% Icodextrin Solution on the Reduction of Adhesion Formation Following Gynecological Surgery in Rabbits
Behnaz Behnaz Khani Rabati, MD

Minimally Invasive Surgery Group: Cutting Edge Goes a Cut Above
Dean K. Matsuda, MD

Hip Arthroscopic Surgery for Femoroacetabular Impingement in the Athlete
Dean K. Matsuda, MD

Allodynia in Reverse: a Quantitative Demonstration of Abdominal Wall Muscle Pain Relief Following Bladder Pain Treatment
Thida Nunthirapakorn, MD

Microcirculatory Changes During Pneumoperitoneum
Douglas E. Ott, MD MBA

Changes in Organ Perfusion During Laparoscopy
Douglas E. Ott, MD MBA

Transvaginal Cholecystectomy. From Hybrids to Pure
Daniel A. Tsin, MD


SPECIAL EVENT: BREAKFAST AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY SESSION
From the Infinitesimal to the Infinite - Molecules, Energy and Space for Surgeons

Saturday, September 12, 2009
7:30am-10:30am
 
Richard M. Satava, MD, Director
Keynote Speaker, 
Tim Reedman, presents Robots in Space
Harry T. Whelan, MD presents Controlling Molecules With Light
Michel Wertheimer, PhD presents Plasma Medicine - Why Energy Is Important to Surgeons

Brace yourself for a vision of the future. Directed by Richard Satava, MD, and featuring an exciting keynote speaker, this session promises to inspire all interested in the future of the medicine. 

While most surgeons concentrate upon what procedure they must master for their next patient, there are some incredible new technologies that are going to radically influence decisions for how they treat their next patient. The scope of Science is expanding - reaching down to nanoscale and manipulating individual molecules, or stretching the reach out into the Universe - and surgeons must consider how to take advantage of these new opportunities. And not only are we able to manipulate individual molecules or atoms, but we have harnessed the power of energy (rather than building devices) to control the molecules or reach into Space. As examples of the vast opportunities that exist today and may soon be in the hands of surgeons, presentations will address how we are using light to improve wound healing and other basic biological processes by controlling molecules, how generating energy in the form of plasma ion clouds can kill bacteria yet spare cells or control the coagulation cascade to stop hemorrhage, and how research in space robotics will let surgeons think about surgery at places as remote as the Space Station or beyond. 

Tickets are required for accompanying guests. See Registration Form.

ACCREDITATION
The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

DESIGNATION

The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons designates this educational activity for a maximum of 31 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™.  Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Half-Day Master’s Classes: 4 credits
Full-Day Master’s Classes: 7 credits
Master's Class Lunch Lecture: 1 credit
18th SLS Annual Meeting & Endo Expo: 3 days: 23 credits

18TH SLS ANNUAL MEETING AND ENDO EXPO 2009 SCIENTIFIC ABSTRACTS:
Supplement to JSLS, Volume 13, Number 2

9100 General Surgery
Involution or Evolution: Minilaparotomy Approach to GERD Treatment
J. Quiroz, MD, L. Guerrero, MD, J. A. Quiroz, MD, E. EN. Nova, M. EN. Flores, I. IN. Ramirez 
Centro Hospitalario San Nicolas, San Mateo Atenco Estado de Mexico-Mexico

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a very serious problem. Despite the improvements in antireflux surgery (ARS), new challenges are still ahead. We sought to demonstrate the endpoints achieved by the minilaparotomy approach, which include safety, excellent mobilization of the distal esophagus, and performance of an excellent fundoplication.  We discuss the open access approach in the progression of ARS and that mini-access is considered the evolution of surgical alternatives.

Method: Between 2003 and 2008, 200 patients underwent minilaparotomy, clinical evaluation, endoscopy-biopsy, manometry, 24h pH monitoring (some cases), and barium study. Data collected included age, sex, typical and atypical symptoms, time from onset, comorbidities, length of operating time, cost, hospital stay, disability, complications, and medication used. Long instruments, Harmonic scalpel, intracorporeal cool light, and special retractors were used to perform a total floppy Nissen fundoplication.  Indications included esophagitis because of lower esophageal sphincter incompetence, hiatal hernia, and Barrett’s-esophagus without dysplasia. Follow-up included assessment of an annual endoscopy, quality of life (well-being index and symptom scale rating), 3-year postoperative manometry, and 24-h pH monitoring (some cases).

Results: Access was accomplished through an 8-cm to 9-cm long incision. Operating time was 60 minutes to 70 minutes. Cost was lower because several disposable devices were used. Hospital stay was short at 2 days, and recovery time was short. Complications included seroma 9 (0.4%), dysphagia 2%, bloating 10%, need for medication <20%.  Two procedures had to be redone because of reherniation. One major complication occurred in a diabetic patient who experienced an intraabdominal abscess, which was managed successfully.

Conclusion: Minilaparotomy is highly effective for GERD treatment, considering that laparoscopic-ARS has declined up to 30% in the USA and the field for endoluminal treatment is limited. Minilaparotomy is becoming safe, durable, and a practical alternative to laparoscopy and requires only a small incision.

9101 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Subtotal Colectomy for Multiple Colon Polyposes
Giancarlo Basili, MD, Luca Lorenzetti, MD, Graziano Biondi, MD, Orlando Goletti, MD
Pontedera Hospital

Introduction:
Laparoscopic subtotal colectomy is probably one of the most difficult and complex procedures in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The potential benefit of minimally invasive surgery, such as improved cosmesis, reduced postoperative pain, shorter length of hospitalization, and faster return to normal activity, could be overcome by higher complication rates and longer lengths of surgery.

Methods: We report the case of a 55-year-old man who underwent laparoscopic subtotal colectomy for multiple colon polyposes. A preoperative colonoscopy highlights the presence of multiple colon polyps, with evidence of moderate to severe dysplasia.

Results: The most difficult and also time-consuming part of the procedure is the mobilization of the transverse colon and division of the middle colic vessels. Each branch is treated with care, and proximal control of vessels is maintained at all times. Because this area may be difficult to expose, a fundamental understanding of the vessels encountered here is extremely important. The vascular pedicle should be confirmed before division as the superior mesenteric artery and vein lie deep to the dissection line and the pancreas is fully exposed as dissection progresses.

Conclusions: The laparoscopic approach to subtotal colectomy is especially attractive as there are a variety of benign indications for this procedure and a previously necessary long midline incision for surgery is avoided and replaced by a short McBurney incision with all the favorable postoperative effects of minimally invasive surgery. Although technically demanding and requiring significant expertise, laparoscopic subtotal colectomy may be performed in select individuals.


9102 Gynecology
Transvaginal Application of a Laparoscopic Bipolar Cutting Forceps to Assist Vaginal Hysterectomy in Extremely Obese Endometrial Cancer Patients
James Fanning, DO, Rod Hojat, MD, Jil Johnson, DO, Bradford Fenton, MD, PhD
Summa Health System, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine

Introduction: The purpose of this report is to evaluate our experience with transvaginal application of a laparoscopic bipolar cutting forceps to assist vaginal hysterectomy in extremely obese women with endometrial cancer in whom obesity precluded LAVH/BSO and lymphadenectomy and vaginal obesity limited visualization and exposure.

Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective review and identified 6 consecutive cases. No cases were excluded. A laparoscopic 33-cm Plasma Kinetic (PK) cutting forceps with a 5-mm diameter was applied transvaginally to coagulate and cut the uterosacral and cardinal ligaments, uterine vasculature, and ovarian ligaments. The uterus was delivered vaginally. Staging lymphadenectomy was not performed.

Results: Median patient age was 51 years, median weight was 405lb, and median BMI was 66kg/m2. Five of 6 cases were successfully performed vaginally (83%). Median operative time was 1 hour and 10 minutes, median blood loss was 500cc, and pain was only discomforting. All patients were discharged the day after surgery. No complications occurred. At median follow-up of 1 year, all patients were alive with no evidence of disease.

Conclusion: It is our opinion that the transvaginal application of a laparoscopic bipolar cutting forceps can successfully assist vaginal hysterectomy in extremely obese endometrial cancer patients who cannot tolerate LAVH/BSO and lymphadenectomy and vaginal obesity limits visualization and exposure.


9103 Gynecology
Laparoscopic Cytoreduction for Primary Advanced Ovarian Cancer
James Fanning, DO, Rod Hojat, MD, Jil Johnson, DO, Bradford Fenton, MD, PhD
Summa Health System, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine

Introduction: We evaluated the feasibility of laparoscopic cytoreduction for primary advanced ovarian cancer.

Methods: All patients with presumed stage 3/4 primary ovarian cancers underwent attempted laparoscopic cytoreduction. All patients had CT evidence of omental metastasis and ascites. A 5-port (5-mm) transperitoneal approach was used. A bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, supracervical hysterectomy, and omentectomy were performed with the Plasma Kinetic (PK) cutting forceps. A laparoscopic 5-mm Argon-Beam Coagulator was used to coagulate tumor in the pelvis, abdominal peritoneum, intestinal mesentery, and diaphragm.

Results: Nine of 11cases (82%) were successfully debulked laparoscopically without conversion to laparotomy. Median operative time was 2.5 hours, and median blood loss was 275cc. All tumors were debulked to less than 2cm, and 45% of patients had no residual disease. Stages were as follows: 1-3B, 7-3C, and 1-4. Median postoperative length of stay was one day. Median VAS pain score was 4 (discomforting). Two of 11 patients (18%) had postoperative complications.

Conclusion: We present the original series of laparoscopic cytoreduction for primary advanced ovarian cancer. Laparoscopic cytoreduction was successful and resulted in minimum morbidity. Because of our small sample size, additional studies are
needed.


9104 Urology
Trans-Ileal-Conduit-Resection (TICR) of a Recurrent Urothelial Carcinoma in the Ileal Conduit

Dong Soo Park, MD, PhD, Woong Ki Jang, MD, Jong Jin Oh, MD, Sang Hyun Jee, MD
Bundang CHA Hospital, Pochon CHA University, Sung Nam, South Korea

Introduction and Objective: Management of recurrent urothelial carcinoma at the uretero-ileal anastomotic site is challenging. We present our experience with endoscopic surgical treatment of a delicate tumor.

Methods: A 59-year-old male was diagnosed with invasive bladder cancer, and he had undergone a radical cystectomy with ileal conduit urinary diversion 8 years earlier. He presented with intermittent right flank pain and gross hematuria for 6 months. The contrast enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated the presence of hydronephrosis and a large enhancing mass in the ileal conduit. Flexible cystoscopy confirmed a tumor in the ileal conduit arising presumably from the right uretero-ileal junction. After formation of a right percutaneous nephrostomy, complete trans-ileal-conduit-resection (TICR) of the tumor using the usual resectoscopic instrument was done. Pathology of the tumor showed high-grade urothelial cancer extending to the small bowel smooth muscle tissue. During follow-up, right hydronephrosis redeveloped. Repeat TICR was performed.

Results: Pinpoint right-side uretero-ileal junction was found with difficulty. After resection around the right-side ureteral orifice, a ureteral stent was indwelled retrogradely. The resected tissues were cancer free on pathologic examination.

Conclusions: Recurrence of the urothelial cancer in the ileal conduit is extremely rare. Recurrent urothelial cancer at the uretero-ileal junction can be controlled with TICR, avoiding complicated surgery.


9105 General Surgery
Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Myotomy for the Treatment of Achalasia in the Elderly
Randall O. Craft, MD, Colleen Flahive, Mark C. Mason, MD, Marianne Merritt, RNFA, Kristi L. Harold, MD
Mayo Clinic Arizona

Objective:
The goal of our study was to review our experience with minimally invasive myotomy (MIM) in patients aged 65 and older.

Methods: We reviewed 52 patients (22 males and 30 females) 65 years or older (mean age 73.6; range, 65 to 89) diagnosed with achalasia who underwent MIM at our institution over a 9-year period. Prior therapies were evaluated (pneumatic dilations, Botox injection, prior myotomy), as well as clinical outcomes. Both nonsurgical and surgical postoperative interventions (redo myotomy, esophagectomy, Botox injections) were also analyzed.

Results: Of the 52 patients, 29 (56%) had had prior endoscopic therapy. Twenty-two (76%) received pneumatic dilation, 20 (69%) received Botox, and 2 (7%) had prior myotomy. Range of ASA classification was 2 to 4. Mean duration of symptoms was 10.9 years (range, 0.5 to 50). No perioperative mortalities occurred; mean hospital stay was 3 days. Forty-eight patients (92.3%) had a fundoplication: 13 (27%) Dor and 35 (73%) Toupet. Three patients (5.8%) had complications. Two had pleural effusions. One had a hole in the gastric mucosa, which was repaired intraoperatively. Eleven patients (21%) had additional therapy postoperatively; 10 (91%) had additional pneumatic dilations, and 7 (64%) received additional Botox injections. One (1.9%) patient had further surgical intervention, receiving an esophagectomy. Of the 42 patients who had notes detailing their follow-up, all claimed overall symptom improvement.

Conclusion: Age does not appear to adversely affect outcomes of laparoscopic Heller myotomy.


9106 General Surgery
Prophylaxis of Recurrent Pancreatitis: Mini-Invasive Approach
Vincenzo Neri, Prof Dr Med
University of Foggia, Italy

Aim:
Acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) is caused by the alteration of papillary patency. The normal transpapillar flux and the cleaning of the common biliary duct (CBD) may prevent potentially avoidable recurrent pancreatitis.

Patients and Methods: From September 1997 to December 2008, we treated 224 cases of ABP (34 severe, 190 mild/moderate): 162 (72.4%) with the first attack, 62 (27.6%) with recurrent ABP (second or further attack). The patients with recurrent pancreatitis had not undergone, in the previous hospital stay elsewhere, the evaluation and, if necessary, the treatment of the papillary obstacle and/or CBD stones, sludge, etc. In our hospital, all patients had undergone complete treatment of ABP, which included clinical intensive therapy, instrumental control of the papillary patency, then ERCP/ES(180% to 80%) within 72 hours from the onset in all SAP, in mild/moderate cases with signs of papillary lithiasic obstacle (US/MRCP confirmation), in all recurrent pancreatitis, and videolaparocholecystectomy.

Results: In the follow-up of recurrent pancreatitis, we have controlled, clinical, and instrumental data, after 90 days and 180 days in 35 patients (56%, 27 lost): 21 SAP, 14 mild/moderate. Further recurrence occurred in only 1 patient (2.8%); in the other controls recurrence of ABP was not reported; laboratory (amylases, cholestasis) and instrumental tests (abdominal US) have been normal.

Conclusions: Recurrent ABP has occurred in patients discharged from the hospital without additional treatment, by a persistent papillary obstacle (small stones, sludge, cholesterol crystals, etc.). Therefore, we confirm the therapeutic validity of the instrumental control (US/MRCP) and the possible treatment of the papillary or biliary lithiasic obstacle for the prevention of recurrent ABP.


9107 General Surgery
Core Appendectomy: A New Technique for Delayed Appendicitis
Jayarama K. Shenoy, MD, MBBS, MS
Kasturba Medical College, Karnataka, India

Background:
Acute appendicitis is primarily an inflammation starting in the lymphoid tissue in the submucosa of the appendix. It spreads to involve muscle and serosal layers later in the course of development. Delayed appendicitis is treated with the Ochsner Sherren regimen, because appendectomy has a high-risk of bowel injury and fistulation. Surgery is performed only to drain the abscess and peritonitis and later for a definitive second surgery.

Methods:
Thirty patients with acute appendicitis presenting after 3 to 4 days of medical treatment with formation of phlegmon underwent operative removal of the core of the appendix comprising mucosa and submucosa, leaving the outer shell of the musculo-serous layer adherent to the colonic wall (24 by open and 6 by laparoscopic technique). This is contrary to the conventional approach of the Ochsner Sherren regime. The base of the appendix is divided as the first step followed by dissection to create a plane between the submucosa and outer muscular layer through the divided end of the appendix. The core of the appendix is pulled out of the distal shell of the muscular layer and adherent serosa.

Results: The operative complications included minor ooze from inflamed tissue (3 cases of open and one laparoscopic), accidental division of the friable appendix requiring getting the tip of the appendix in 2 open cases. All patients recovered without postoperative complications.


Conclusion:
Core appendectomy provides a safe surgical technique, open or laparoscopic, for delayed acute appendicitis with mass formation. It avoids the need for a second elective surgery.


9108 Urology
Robotic Pyeloplasty with Pyelolithotomy
Mark T. Edney, MD, Thomas M. DeMarco, MD
Peninsula Regional Medical Center, Salisbury, Maryland


Background:
The use of robotics in urology has increased significantly in the past 5 years. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty is an established urological application. We report a robotic dismembered pyeloplasty with concomitant pyelolithotomy.

Case Report: A 39-year-old man presented with intermittent left flank pain. Intravenous pyelogram revealed 3 stones in the left renal pelvis and evidence of ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Retrograde ureteropyelogram confirmed the obstructing lesion.

The Da Vinci S surgical system was used with a 3-arm technique. The ureteropelvic junction and renal pelvis were isolated. After dividing the ureter at the ureteropelvic junction, the pyelotomy was extended cephalad. The first stone was immediately visible and extracted with the curved bipolar forceps. Next, the bedside assistant advanced a flexible cystoscope through a 12-mm port into the renal pelvis. Normal saline was used for irrigation and a suction cannula was positioned inferior to the renal pelvis. The remaining 2 stone were captured during pyeloscopy and extracted using a nitinol zero tip basket. Each stone, once removed from the pelvis, was secured with a grasper and removed through the 12-mm port. After stone removal, the anastomosis was performed.

Conclusion: Renal stones can occur as a result of urinary stasis from ureteropelvic junction obstruction. We present a report of the successful repair of ureteropelvic junction obstruction with concomitant pyelolithotomy using the DaVinci S system.


9109 Gynecology
Treatment of Severe Hemorrhage Using Hydrothermal Endometrial Ablation
Herbert A. Goldfarb, MD
New York Downtown Hospital, New York, New York


Introduction:
Of the 600 000 hysterectomies performed each year, over 150 000 are in patients with severe uterine bleeding as a significant diagnosis. Many patients have bleeding to the point of severe anemia and often require transfusion to accomplish the end point of hysterectomy. Many of these hysterectomies as well as unnecessary transfusions can be avoided. In the majority of cases involving severe uterine hemorrhage, we have found large submucosal and intrauterine fibroids. Medical therapy has frequently failed to control hemorrhage. This case report will describe a group of 6 patients treated from 2003 thru 2005 who have undergone hydrothermal endometrial ablation to control severe persistent uterine hemorrhage. We describe a technique for treating persistent uterine hemorrhage unresponsive to medical therapy.

Methods:
Six patients from the Department of Gynecology at an academically affiliated general hospital underwent hydrothermal endometrial ablation after failed medical therapy for unremitting uterine bleeding.

Results:
All procedures were successful.

Conclusion:
Hydrothermal endometrial ablation is effective in controlling severe uterine bleeding in patients with large intrauterine fibroids.


9110 General Surgery
Trends and Correlations of MORBID Scores for Adjustable Gastric Band: Weight Loss, Resolution of Comorbid Diseases, and Quality of Life
Brad E. Snyder, MD, Todd Wilson, MD, Ben Leong, MD, Connie Klein, NPC, Erik B. Wilson, MD
The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Texas

Background: To determine a patient’s success after weight loss surgery, we must measure outcomes. The Measured Outcome Results of Bariatric Interval Data (MORBID) score is a sum of measured quality of life, excessive weight loss, and resolution of comorbid conditions scores used to define outcome.

Methods: A prospective cohort of 305 consecutive postoperative gastric banding patients was collected, and MORBID scores were calculated. Each component of the MORBID score was divided into quartiles. ANOVA between age, BMI, YOS, EW, %EWL, ethnicity, and other MORBID groups were performed. Sex was analyzed with the Student t test, and trends over time were analyzed with a correlation matrix.

Results: The average MORBID score was 5.5±1.7. No differences were found between men and women. Quality of life decreased over time (r=-0.73) and with weight loss (r=-0.82) after surgery. Weight loss and comorbid scores increased over time (r=0.90 and 0.92, respectfully), and the resolution of comorbid conditions was related to weight loss (r=0.77). Quality of life and excessive weight loss synergistically increased the total score (r=0.91).

Conclusion: Quality of life decreases over time after adjustable gastric banding despite significant weight loss and resolution of comorbid conditions. The overall outcome was a “very good” one, but this is because of excellent weight loss scores. There are significant psychological components of gastric banding that must be fully addressed by weight loss programs to improve the quality of life of patients because weight loss and resolution of comorbid conditions are not enough to improve their overall health.


9111 Urology
Safety and Perioperative Outcomes During the Learning Curve of Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy (RALP):  A Multi-institutional Study of Fellowship Trained (FEL) Robotic Surgeons Versus Experienced Open Radical Prostatectomy (RRP) Surgeons Incorporating RALP

Timothy J. LeRoy, David D. Thiel, David A. Duchene, Todd C. Igel, Michael J. Wehle, Manilo Goetzl, J. Brantley Thrasher
Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville Florida
University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas

Background:
No consensus exists on the number of cases and/or training required for credentialing for robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). We elected to compare the safety and perioperative outcomes of fellowship trained (FEL) versus experienced open radical prostatectomy (RRP) surgeons incorporating RALP into their practice.

Methods:
Prospective data were compiled on the initial 30 cases each of 2 FEL robotic surgeons directly following fellowship completion. This was compared with the first 30 RALPs of 3 experienced RRP surgeons who had incorporated RALP into their practice. The second 30 cases of the RRP group were also compared with the first 30 of the FEL group to document improvement with experience (Study N=240).

Results:
Open conversion (0% vs 3%), prolonged catheterization (over 14 days) (5% vs 20%), and reoperation (0% vs 8%) were more common in the RRP group than in the FEL group. The FEL group had a lower margin positive rate (15% vs 34%) compared with the RRP group, but this improved to 19% in the second 30 cases for the RRP group (P=0.009). Early PSA recurrence was higher in the RRP group compared with the FEL group (11% vs 2%), but this dropped to 4% in the second 30 cases for the RRP group.

Conclusion:
Experienced RRP surgeons can safely incorporate RALP into their practice without an increased number of hospital days compared with FEL. Open conversion, prolonged catheterization, and reoperation are more likely initially with RRP surgeons in their first 30 cases. Margin positivity and PSA recurrence rates are higher with RRP surgeons initially but approach those of FEL surgeons after 30 cases.


9112 General Surgery
Impact of the Robot in Vascular Surgery
Petr Štádler, MD, PhD
Na Homolce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic

Objective:
The safety, benefits, and usefulness of laparoscopic surgery have been demonstrated. The robot represents the next step in using the minimally invasive technique in surgery. We describe our clinical experience with robot-assisted aortoiliac reconstruction for occlusive disease, aneurysm, and 2 hybrid procedures performed using the da Vinci system.

Methods: Between November 2005 and December 2008, we performed 130 robot-assisted laparoscopic aortoiliac procedures. We prospectively evaluated 116 patients for occlusive disease, 10 patients for abdominal aortic aneurysm, 2 for a common iliac artery aneurysm, and 2 for hybrid procedures. Dissection of the aorta and the iliac arteries was performed laparoscopically, and the robotic system was used to construct the vascular anastomosis, for the thromboendarterectomy, for the aorto-iliac reconstruction with the patch closure and for the posterior peritoneal suture.

Results: We successfully completed 126 cases (97%) robotically, in 1 patient laparoscopy was stopped because of heavy aortic calcification, and in 3 (2.3%) patients conversion was necessary. Thirty-day survival was 100%, and nonlethal postoperative complications were observed in 3 patients (2.3%).

Conclusion:
Our clinical experience with robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery shows that it is a feasible technique for aortoiliac vascular and hybrid procedures. The da Vinci robotic system facilitated the creation of the aortic anastomosis and shortened aortic clamping time compared with purely laparoscopic techniques. R
obotic surgery can help us in the future in hybrid procedures.


9113 Urology
Posterior Rhabdosphincter Reconstruction May Delay Time to Continence Recovery Following Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Joshua T. Stern, MD, R. Caleb Kovell, Mary Nguyen, RN, BSN, Meredith Bergey, Ph.D., David I. Lee, MD,
University of Pennsylvania

Introduction: Posterior rhabdosphincter reconstruction (PRR) as a technical modification to radical prostatectomy has been suggested to improve rate of return to continence. We examined continence outcomes for patients undergoing PRR during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods: Continence outcomes were compared for 265 consecutive patients who underwent RARP with PRR to a historical control of 130 RARP patients. PRR involved a running stitch taken to approximate Denonvillier’s fascia to the posterior rhabdosphincter. Continence was defined as use of 0 pads. Per day (PPD). We also examined outcomes for reaching social continence 1PPD. Nerve sparing, prostate size, and extracapsular invasion were other variables analyzed.

Results: Average age was 59.7 and BMI 28.0. On multivariate analysis, age, prostate volume, and PRR were significant variables. Patients undergoing PRR were less likely to achieve continence (HR = 0.65 [0.47, 0.91], p = 0.01) such that median time to continence was 36 weeks for the PRR group and 13 weeks for the control (p = 0.007). PRR diminished continence at 4 weeks by 45% (13% v. 24%) and at 13 weeks by 24% (39% v. 51%).  PRR only modestly affected median time to 1 ppd (4 v. 7 weeks, p = 0.053).  Patient age (HR = 0.98 [0.97, 1.00], p = 0.02) and prostate volume (HR = 0.99 [0.98, 1.00], p = 0.053) modestly delayed return to continence.

Conclusions:
In our series, our method of PRR during RARP significantly diminished early continence rates. Prospective, randomized trials are necessary to validate this data. 


9114 Urology
Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: Caution in the Use of Kidneys With Multiple Arteries

Anil S. Paramesh, MD, Rubin Zhang, MD, Sander S. Florman, MD, Haythem Al-Abbas, MD, Lillan C. Yau, PhD, Mary T. Killackey, MD, Brent Alper, MD, Douglas Slakey, MD,MPH
Tulane Abdominal Transplant Institute, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA

Background: Multiple arteries during a laparoscopic donor nephrectomy may lend to longer operative times and increased risk of donor/recipient complications with consequent decreased graft function and survival. This study examines our experience with single vs. multiple artery kidneys procured laparoscopically over an 11-year period.


Methods: We identified all donor/recipient pairs who underwent living donor kidney transplants from 8/98 through 8/2008. Single (SA) vs. multiple artery (MA) groups were compared with respect to donor and recipient demographics, operative variables, postoperative complications, graft function, and survival for up to 5 years posttransplant. 


Results: During this time period, 278 donor/recipient pairs (218 SA & 60 MA) underwent surgery. Mean follow-up was 3.77 years. All donors underwent a hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy. The operative time (P=0.03) and rejection rates (P=0.006) were significantly higher in the MA group. No significant difference existed in donor complications. There was a trend towards more ureteral complications among the MA recipients (P=0.06). SA kidneys had a significantly better GFR than the MA kidneys did up to 3-years posttransplant. Graft survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 94.4%, 90.6%, and 86% for the SA group vs. 89.6%, 83.2%, and 71.8% for the MA group (P=0.05).


Conclusion: Caution must be advised in the laparoscopic procurement of kidneys with multiple arteries. These kidneys may have a higher risk of rejection, worse graft function and survival compared with single artery kidneys.


9115 General Surgery
Cerebral Gas Embolism Due to Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
R. den Boer, MD, E. Totte, MD, R. A. van Hulst, MD, PhD, K. van der Linde, MD, PhD, W. van der Kamp, MD, PhD, J. P. E. N. Pierie, MD, PhD

Introduction:
Cerebral gas embolism as a result of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is a rare complication and bares a high morbidity.

Case Report: A patient is presented who underwent an upper endoscopy for evaluation of a gastric-mediastinal fistula after subtotal esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction because of esophageal cancer. During the procedure, cerebral gas emboli developed resulting in an acute left-sided hemiparesis. After hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the patient recovered almost completely.

Discussion: The literature concerning cerebral gas embolism associated with upper endoscopy is reviewed.

Conclusion: Once cerebral gas emboli are recognized, patient outcome can be improved by hyperbaric oxygen therapy.


9116 Gynecology
Adhesion Prevention with a Resorbable Hydrogel Following Myomectomy
L. Mettler, MD, PhD
University Clinics of Schleswig-Holstein/ Campus Kiel, Germany

Background: This multicenter, randomized, single-blind study assessed the
safety and efficacy of a resorbable hydrogel (‘Hydrogel’) for the reduction of postoperative adhesion formation following myomectomy.

Methods: Women (n=71) who were undergoing laparoscopic (67.6%) or laparotomic
myomectomy were randomized (2:1) to Hydrogel (sprayed over surgically treated areas prior to wound closure, n=48) or to control (standard care, n=23). Patients (38 Hydrogel, 20 control) returned 8 weeks to 10 weeks later for a second look. Adhesions were graded using a modified American Fertility Society (mAFS) scoring method. The primary efficacy measure was the posterior uterus mAFS score.

Results: For Hydrogel and control patients, respectively, mean±SD mAFS scores were 0.5±1.4 and 0.0±0.0 at
baseline, and 1.1±1.9 and 2.6±2.2 at the second look. Similarly, mean changes from baseline were 0.8±2.0 and 2.6±2.2 (P=0.01); 95% confidence intervals for these mean changes were 0.16 to 1.44 and 1.64 to 3.56. Adverse events were reported by 9.6% and 17.4% of Hydrogel and control patients, respectively. No intraabdominal infections or postoperative site infections were reported.

Conclusion: This 71-patient study provides the first clinical evidence of
the safety and efficacy of Hydrogel for the reduction of adhesions following myomectomy.


9117 Gynecology
Six Cases: Reports of
Ileum Colpopoiesis by Laparoscopy
Xiaoyan Ying, MD
The second affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China

Objective
: To study the feasibility and clinical outcome of laparoscopic vaginoplasty using transforming lineal segments with blood vessels.

Methods: Six cases of congenital absence of the vagina were assigned to total laparoscopic (2 cases) and laparoscopically assisted ileum colpopoiesis (4 cases) from April 2006 to July 2008.

Results: We have successfully completed the operations for 6 patients and made 3
months to 24 months of follow-up. All the artificial vaginas were well done, and their features and physical functions were close to the natural female vagina. Patients wore a vaginal mould for at least 6 months to 8 months, and their intercourses were satisfactory. No complications after the surgery have been reported.

Conclusion: The procedures of total laparoscopic and laparoscopically assisted ileal segment transplantation for vaginal construction are ideal to this day.


9118 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Colectomy: Does the Learning Curve Extend Beyond Colorectal Surgery Fellowship?

Joshua A. Waters, MD, Ray Chihara, MD, Jose Moreno, MD, Bruce Robb, MD, Virgilio George, MD
Indiana University School of Medicine

Background:
As minimally invasive colon and rectal resection has become increasingly prevalent over the past decade, the role that fellowship training plays has become an important question. This analysis examines the learning curve of one fellowship trained colorectal surgeon in the first 100 cases.

Methods: This is a prospectively collected retrospective analysis of the first 100 laparoscopic colon and rectal resections performed between July 2007 and July 2008 by a CRS fellowship trained surgeon at a VA and county hospital.  Included were all nonemergent laparoscopic cases.

Results: Mean age was 63 years (range, 36 to 91). These 100 resections included 42 right, 6 left, 32 sigmoid, 13 rectal, and 7 total colectomies. Indications were 55% cancer, 19% unresectable polyp, 18% diverticular disease, 4% inflammatory, and 4% other. Overall mortality was 3%. Morbidity including wound infection was 28%. Early and late groups showed no difference in age, ASA, or indication. Overall conversion rate was 4%. No statistical difference was seen in mortality, morbidity, EBL, LOS, margin, lymph nodes, or conversions between the first and second 50 cases (P<0.05). Right and sigmoid colectomy operative time decreased by 35% and 19%, respectively.

Conclusions: Prior investigators have demonstrated a significant learning curve in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. In the first 100 cases, no difference in mortality or morbidity occurred between early and late cases. Alternatively, operative times decreased over the first 100 cases. Laparoscopic experience during CRS fellowship surpasses the learning curve in regard to safety and outcome, whereas operative efficiency increases over the first year of practice.


9120 Urology
Urethral Length on MRI Is Predictive of Early Return to Continence After Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Joshua M. Stern, Robert Kovell, Mary Nguyen, Rachel Natale, Kelly Monahan, David I. Lee, William Jaffe
University of Pennsylvania


Introduction:
Postoperative incontinence is multifactorial after radical prostatectomy. Using endorectal coil MRI, we examined features of the male urethra and its accompanying muscular sphincter to predict postoperative continence after robotic prostatectomy.

Methods: Eighty patients underwent preoperative 1.5 Tesla endorectal MRI. Urethral length was measured in the coronal plane. All patients underwent robotic prostatectomy. Patients completed questionnaires at monthly intervals. The primary end point was time to achieving continence requiring 0 to 1 pad per day (PPD). Statistical analysis was performed using Cox regression models to create both univariate and multivariate survival models.

Results: Mean age was 59.7 (SD, 7.1). Bilateral nerve sparing was present in 98%. Mean urethral length was 17.1mm (SD, 4.5mm). Mean sphincter thickness was 8mm (SD, 2.1). Mean prostate size was 34.7cc (SD, 17.8). Sixty patients achieved 1 PPD (mean, 8.1 weeks; SD, 9.4) and 34 patients achieved 0 PPD (mean, 10.5 weeks; SD, 8.0). On multivariate analysis, larger prostate size (HR, 0.97; P<0.04) and older age (0.96, P<0.07) were associated with a longer time to achieve 0 PPD. Urethral length, as a continuous variable was associated with an increase in the likelihood of achieving 0 PPD postoperatively (HR, 1.10; P<0.02). When controlling for age and MRI urethral length, patients with a prostate size ≥50 grams had a 76% lower likelihood of achieving 0 PPD at any point in time than did patients with <50 gram prostate (HR, 0.24; P<0.05).

Conclusion: Longer urethral length increased the likelihood of achieving continence at any time point. Increasing age and larger prostate size were negatively associated with achieving continence.


9121 General Surgery
Chronic Calculous Cholecystitis in Chilaiditi’s Syndrome
José M. M. Ferreira-Coelho, MD, PhD

Background:
The epidemiology, etiology, clinical features, differential diagnosis, and treatment of Chilaiditi’s syndrome were analyzed.

Methods: The patient was a 69-year-old man with chronic calculous cholecystitis, with acute periods, associated with vomiting, irregular bowel habits, and pseudo-obstruction. The clinical situation was complex and special tests, such as chest X-ray, abdominal plain X-ray, ultrasonography of the abdomen, and endoscopy (total colonoscopy) did not help identify the cause of the patient’s symptoms. The diagnosis could only be made by CT.

Results: Surgical treatment by “minimally invasive surgery” was chosen. The hepatic flexure and transverse colon were established by retraction and the division of the hepatocolic ligament to make a correct cholecystectomy possible. To avoid any iatrogenic lesion in a highly vulnerable colon, we established pneumoperitoneum and set the first trocar, the 12-mm camera trocar, a small 2-cm laparotomy umbilically as the main step.

Conclusion: Very good surgical results were achieved, and the patient was discharged 24 hours after surgery. At 5-year follow-up, the patient remains in good condition.


9122 General Surgery
A Novel Approach to Gastric Wedge Resection Using Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS)
Ricardo M. Mendoza, MD, Curtis E. Bower, MD, Walter E. Pofahl, MD
Brody School of Medicine, Greenville, NC

Introduction:
Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is an advanced laparoscopic approach, offering potential benefits of improved cosmesis, decreased pain, shorter hospitalization, and quicker return to work. We describe a SILS approach to perform a laparoscopic gastric wedge resection.

Case Report: A 69-year-old male with vitamin B12 deficiency and a gastric carcinoid was offered a SILS approach for resection. Two 5-mm ports were placed through a 1-inch umbilical incision. Concurrent upper endoscopy was performed, and the mass identified. A 2-0 nylon on a Keith needle was passed percutaneously through the stomach wall at the site of the mass and used as a retraction stitch. One 5-mm port was exchanged for a 12-mm port, and a stapled wedge resection was performed. Upper endoscopy and specimen examination confirmed removal of the mass. On POD 1, the patient was advanced to a regular diet and discharged home on POD 2. Final pathology revealed a type I, 0.9-cm carcinoid with clear margins. Chronic atrophic gastritis was also noted.

Discussion: SILS is more cosmetic and potentially offers decreased pain and quicker recovery. However, this technique is technically more challenging due to instrument conflict and restricted movement compared with traditional multiport laparoscopy. The availability of flexible laparoscopes and roticulating instruments has assisted in overcoming these difficulties.

Conclusion: SILS is an advanced laparoscopic approach and can be safely applied to small gastric mass wedge resection. The clear benefit to this approach is cosmetic, and clearly more research and development need to be performed to further delineate advantages and disadvantages to this approach.



9123 Gynecology
Laparoscopic Replacement of Inguinal Ovaries in Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Müllerian Agenesis Syndrome.
Muhieddine Seoud, MD, Fayek Jamali, MD
American University of Beirut Medical Center,  Beirut Lebanon.

A 12-year-old girl presented with cyclic, monthly, alternating inguinal pain. She had 2 previous bilateral inguinal explorations performed in another country for possible herniorrhaphy. Review of histology slides of biopsies taken during the second surgery revealed normal ovarian tissue. Examination revealed a normal-looking girl for her age (breasts and pubic hair: Tanner II-IV). She had normal external genitalia. There were bilateral scars in the groin areas where no masses could be palpated. An ultrasound revealed inguinal structures having the appearance of normal ovaries. The uterus, cervix, and upper vagina could not be visualized. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed these findings and showed, in addition, the right kidney to be in its normal position and the left kidney to be at the level of the right iliac fossa (cross ectopia). No vertebral abnormality was found. Laboratory workup revealed the following: FSH and LH, 2.72 and 1.33 mIU/mL, respectively; E2, 72 pg/mL; and T, 0.08 nmol/mL. The karyotype (blood, R banding) was 46,XX. The diagnosis was Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser müllerian agenesis syndrome (congenital absence of the uterus and vagina) with bilateral inguinal ovaries (only 7 such cases have been reported).

During laparoscopy, the infundilo-pelvic ligaments were both identified and adhesions around them released. They were both followed through the inguinal rings leading to both ovaries. These were adherent to surrounding tissues. After lysis of the adhesions, both ovaries were replaced into the pelvis and fixed to prevent future torsion.

Three years later, the patient is pain free with minimal cyclic pelvic ovulation pains.


9124 Multispecialty
Transvaginal Cholecystectomies: From Hybrids to Pure
Daniel Tsin, MD1, Nestor Gomez, MD2, Guillermo Dominguez3, Fausto Davila4
1The Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens, Long Island City, New York, USA
2Universidad de Guayaquil School of Medicine, Guayaquil,
Ecuador
3Sanatorio Mitre Buenos Aires, CF, Argentina
4Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Poza Rica, Veracruz, Mexico

Objective:
 To present our evolution in transvaginal cholecystectomies since 1999.

Methods and Procedures: Transvaginal cholecystectomies were done with rigid instruments via a circular colpotomy during vaginal hysterectomies at The Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens in 1999. We began the use of the transvaginal gastroscope via posterior minilaparoscopic culdotomy at the Universidad de Guayaquil, Ecuador in 2007. In 2008, we introduced the use of a magnetic grasper to aid in this surgery, and a pure transvaginal cholecystectomy was performed with an operative laparoscope via a posterior colpotomy using a vaginal port without a Veress needle or any other type of abdominal port at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Poza Rica, Veracruz.

Results: All patients were ambulatory a few hours after surgery and were discharged the next day without complications.

Conclusions:
 The experience included the hybrid technique of culdolaparoscopy, a minilaparoscopy assisted natural orifice surgery (MANOS), as a prelude to a pure transvaginal approach. In our opinion, an expert team and careful progression are needed in this evolution.


9125 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy, Notes Extraction vs. Counter Incision: A Prospective Study
Guillermo Portillo MD, Morris E Franklin MD
Texas Endosurgery Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA

Background: Laparoscopic colectomy is now accepted for both benign and malignant colon diseases as safe and effective as the open approach. Based on our experience with laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis, we designed a nonrandomized prospective study comparing NOTES extraction (transvaginal) vs counter incision extraction of the specimen.

Methods:
From December 2007 to February 2009, all laparoscopic right hemicolectomies were analyzed. The operative procedures and instrumentation were standardized for all laparoscopic right hemicolectomies with either NOTES extraction or counter incision extraction.

Results:
Thirty female patients were prospectively followed. Fifty percent received laparoscopic hemicolectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis and NOTES extraction (transvaginal) and 15 patients laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis and counter incision extraction (RLQ muscle splitting). The mean operative time for the NOTES extraction was 159.6±27.1 minutes vs. 133.5±29 minutes for the counter incision, the mean blood loss was 83.3±14.4mL vs. 89.0±5.5mL for the counter incision, the mean hospital stay was 5.5±2.5 days vs. 5.9±2.8 days for the counter incision, the intraoperative and postoperative morbidity rates were 0% and 0.66%, respectively vs. 0% and 13% for the counter incision.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis is safe and effective for managing a variety of colonic diseases, including malignant disease. NOTES extraction resulted in increased operative time but decreased postoperative complications.


9126 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Approach to Colonic Emergencies
Guillermo Portillo, MD, Morris E. Franklin, MD, Sameer Mohiuddin, DO
Texas Endosurgery Institute, San Antonio, Texas

Objective:
Many colonic pathologies warrant emergency treatment. However, little has been published regarding a laparoscopic approach to colonic emergencies. We have approached almost all colonic emergencies laparoscopically for the past 17 years with the benefit of making subsequent clinical decisions based on the findings of laparoscopy.

Methods: From April 1991 to July 2008, 179 patients requiring emergency laparoscopic colon procedures for right and left colon pathologies as well as rectal emergencies were prospectively studied at the Texas Endosurgery Institute. Data were gathered into categories of age, sex, indication of surgery, disease process, operative time, blood loss during surgery, length of hospitalization, postoperative complications, conversion rate and long-term results.

Results: The indications for surgery included acute diverticulitis (Hinchey IIb, III, IV) in 32%, perforation in 27%, obstruction in 22%, ischemic colitis in 9%, volvulus in 4%, fistula in 2%, intussusception in 1%, and other causes in 3%. The laparoscopic procedures included lavage and drainage, repair of perforations, segmental colonic resection, ostomy formation, and adhesion take down. The mean operative time was 134.3 minutes, and the mean EBL was 149.45mL. The laparoscopic approach was 100% effective in identifying the colonic pathology and was used to effectively treat 79% of the patients. Thirty-eight patients required conversion to open procedures (21%),

Conclusion: In experienced hands, a laparoscopic approach to colonic emergency situations can be effective and safe with an acceptable conversion rate. A laparoscopic approach seems to be an effective diagnostic tool for colonic emergencies and can be a guide in treatment strategies.


9127 General Surgery
Is There Any Value to Totally Intracorporeal Anastomosis in Laparoscopic Colon Surgery?
Guillermo Portillo, MD, Morris E. Franklin, MD
Texas Endosurgery Institute, San Antonio, Texas

Objective:
A laparoscopic approach to colon resection has been quoted as showing numerous advantages when compared with similar open procedures. However, controversy exists regarding the value of totally intracorporeal anastomosis. We present our experience with intracorporeal anastomosis for right and left colon.

Methods: From April 1991 to July 2007, 1651 patients requiring laparoscopic colon resection for right, rectal, and left colon were prospectively followed.
Intracorporeal anastomosis (ICA) was completed with transanal extraction (left colon) or counter incision extraction (left, right colon). Extracorporeal anastomosis was completed with counter incision extraction of the specimen.

Results: Of our 1240 laparoscopic left-colon resections, 769 could be completed with transanal specimen extraction (62%). The average operating time was 152 minutes for transanal extraction and 170 minutes for the counterincision group. Average EBL was 94cc for transanal extraction, but 204cc for the counterincision group. 
Of our 411 patients who underwent right colon resections, 288 (65.7%) received ICA, while the remaining 123 patients (27.4%) had ECA. The mean operative time for ICA was 159.6±27.1 minutes, and mean blood loss was 83.3±14.4mL. For ECA, the mean operative time was 165.5±29 minutes, and mean blood loss was 135.0±65.5mL.

Conclusion: It is possible that totally intracorporeal anastomosis may have value and may become the procedure of choice in the future, potentially with an increased interest in natural orifice surgery.


9128 Urology
Short-Term Outcomes of GreenLight HPS™ Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP) for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Carson Wong, MD, Kurt Strom, MD, Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

Introduction and Objective:
GreenLight HPS laser PVP is a treatment option for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BPH. We review our experience using the GreenLight HPS laser system.


Methods:
We prospectively evaluated our experience with GreenLight HPS laser PVP. All patients who failed medical therapy/surgery underwent GreenLight HPS laser PVP (CW). All had American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUASS), Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) Score, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) risk score, serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), maximum flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual (PVR) determinations, and volumetric measurements with transrectal ultrasonography. Transurethral PVP was performed using the GreenLight HPS side-firing laser system.

Results: The patient cohort included 140 consecutive patients with a mean age of 68±9 years. The mean prostate volume was 72±42mL, and the mean ASA score was 2.3±0.7. Mean laser time, operating time, and energy usage were 13±11 minutes, 32±24 minutes, and 89±71kJ, respectively. All were outpatient procedures with 75 (54%) patients catheter-free at discharge. Fifteen patients required catheter drainage for one week. Eight patients developed a urinary tract infection. Fourteen patients had persistent hematuria for >1 week. No urethral strictures or urinary incontinence was noted. Mean AUASS decreased from 23 to 8, 7, 5, 5, and 4 (P<0.05) at 1, 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks, respectively. Qmax values showed statistically significant improvement (P<0.05) during the follow-up period. SHIM score did not change postoperatively.

Conclusion: Our short-term results suggest GreenLight HPS laser PVP is safe and effective for the treatment of LUTS secondary to BPH.


9129 Urology
Decreased Efficiency of GreenLight HPS™ Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP) With Long-Term 5α-Reductase Inhibition Therapy: Is it True?

Carson Wong, MD, Kurt Strom, MD, Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center


Introduction:
5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARI) have been postulated to affect the efficiency of GreenLight HPS laser PVP. We evaluated GreenLight HPS laser PVP as treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in patients on long-term 5ARI.

Methods:
We prospectively evaluated our GreenLight HPS laser PVP experience in patients with and without long-term 5α-reductase inhibition.

Results: We identified 140 consecutive patients; 46 were on finasteride/dutasteride for more than 6 months and 94 were not. Mean prostate volumes were 71±35mL and 73±45mL (P=0.56), and mean PSA values were 2.1±2.3ng/mL and 2.8±2.7ng/mL (P=0.15), respectively. No significant differences occurred in the parameters of laser utilization (14±8 and 12±8 minutes, P=0.45) and energy usage (85±54 kJ and 83±56kJ, P=0.97). All were outpatient procedures with the majority of patients catheter-free at discharge. All patients were able to discontinue their prostate medications following surgery. The mean rates of prostate vaporization (3.7±2.2mL/min and 3.0±1.4mL/min, P=0.11; 0.55±0.33mL/kJ and 0.59±0.71mL/kJ, P=0.77) and TRUS volume decrease 12 weeks postsurgery (54±14% and 51±12%, P=0.32) were similar between the 2 groups. AUASS, Qmax, and PVR values showed significant improvement within each group through 1 year (P<0.05), but the degree of improvement between the 2 groups did not show statistical significance.

Conclusion:
Our experience suggests that 5ARI does not have a detrimental effect on the efficiency and efficacy of GreenLight HPS laser PVP.


9130 Urology
GreenLight HPS™ Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP) for Failed Prior Surgical Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Kurt Strom, MD, Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD, Carson Wong, MD
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

Introduction:
Secondary procedure rates of surgical therapy for BPH range from 1% to 14%. We evaluated GreenLight HPS laser PVP as a treatment for symptomatic BPH previously treated with surgical management.

Methods:
We prospectively evaluated our GreenLight HPS laser PVP experience. Only patients who failed prior surgical therapy (transurethral prostate resection (TURP), transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT), holmium laser ablation of prostate (HoLAP) and potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) laser PVP) for symptomatic BPH were included. Transurethral PVP was performed using a GreenLight HPS side-firing laser system.

Results: Thirty of 140 consecutive patients were identified, having a mean prostate volume of 80±49mL. Prior surgical management included TURP (14), TUMT (7), KTP laser PVP (5), HoLAP (2), TUMT and TURP (1), and TUMT and KTP laser PVP (1). Mean laser and operative times and energy usage were 12±10 minutes, 29±25 minutes, and 76±60kJ, respectively. One patient developed a urinary tract infection. Two patients had persistent nonsignificant hematuria for one week. One patient had persistent urinary retention requiring clean intermittent catheterization. No urethral strictures or urinary incontinence were noted. All patients were able to discontinue their prostate medications following surgery. Mean American Urological Association Symptom Score decreased significantly from 23 to 9, 7, 7, 6, and 5 (P<0.05) at 1, 4, 12, 24 and 52 weeks, respectively. Mean maximum flow rate and postvoid residual measurements also showed significant improvement (P<0.05).

Conclusions
: Our initial results demonstrate that GreenLight HPS laser PVP is safe and effective for the treatment of patients with failed prior surgical management of BPH.


9131 Urology
Does Age Affect the Safety and Efficacy of GreenLight HPS™ Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy (PVP)?

Kurt Strom, MD, Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD, Carson Wong, MD
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

Introduction:
We evaluated the safety and efficacy of GreenLight HPS laser PVP for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in patients of varying age groups.

Methods: We prospectively evaluated our initial GreenLight HPS laser PVP experience. Patients were stratified into 2 groups: age<70 (group I) and age≥70 (group II). Transurethral PVP was performed using a GreenLight HPS laser system. Voiding trials were performed 2 hours postsurgery. American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUASS), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual (PVR) were measured preoperatively and at 1, 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks postsurgery.

Results: We identified 137 consecutive patients (73 group I, 64 group II). No significant differences existed in preoperative parameters [AUASS (I: 23±6, II: 22±6), Qmax (I: 10±4, II: 9±4mL/sec), PVR (I: 59±89, II: 75±106mL), prostate volume (I: 64±39, II: 83±44mL)]. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the parameters of laser utilization (I: 13±8, II: 13±8 minutes) and energy usage (I: 83±56, II: 85±55kJ). AUASS and Qmax values showed significant improvement within each group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups. The incidence of adverse events was low and did not differ between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: Our experience suggests that age has little effect on the safety and efficacy of GreenLight HPS laser PVP.


9132 Urology
Incidence, Management, and Prevention of Perioperative Adverse Events of GreenLight HPS™ Laser Photoselective Vaporization Prostatectomy: Experience in the Initial 70 Patients

Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD, Kurt Strom, MD, Carson Wong, MD

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center


Purpose: We report the incidence, prevention, and management of perioperative adverse events in patients treated with GreenLight HPS laser photoselective vaporization prostatectomy (PVP).

Materials and Methods: Transurethral PVP was performed using a GreenLight HPS side-firing laser system. Patients had American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUASS), Quality of Life (QoL) score, Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) score, serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual (PVR) determinations and volumetric prostate measurements with transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS). Laser and operative times and energy usage were recorded. AUASS, QoL, SHIM, Qmax, and PVR were evaluated 1, 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks postsurgery. Serum PSA and TRUS were obtained at 12 weeks, and serum PSA was repeated at 52 weeks. Adverse events were recorded perioperatively and at each follow-up interval.

Results:
 Seventy consecutive patients with median age of 67 years (range, 45 to 87), median prostate volume of 61.6mL (range, 20.9 to 263.0), and median PSA of 1.4ng/mL (range, 0.1 to 10.1) underwent GreenLight HPS laser PVP from July 2006 to March 2008. Mean laser and operative times and energy usage were 13 minutes (range, 3 to 34), 30 minutes (range, 6 to 100), and 85kJ (range, 11 to 235), respectively. All were outpatient procedures. Perioperative complications included intraoperative bleeding (1.4%), postoperative clinically nonsignificant hematuria (75.7%), hematuria requiring clot evacuation (1.4%), urinary retention requiring recatheterization (2.8%), urinary tract infection (4.3%), and prostatitis (1.4%). No urethral strictures, bladder neck contracture, or urinary incontinence were noted.

Conclusions: GreenLight HPS laser PVP appears to have a low incidence of perioperative adverse events.


9133 Urology
Tissue Effects of GreenLight HPS™ and Evolve SLV™ Lasers on Canine Prostates: an Acute In-Vivo Model

Massimiliano Spaliviero, MD, Roman Wolf, DVM, Stanley Kosanke, DVM,  Marie Chavez-Suarez, MD, Fred Broach, Carson Wong, MD
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK

Introduction:
We evaluated the tissue effects and efficacy of the GreenLight HPS and Evolve SLV lasers for prostate vaporization in living dogs.

Methods: Prostate vaporization was performed either with GreenLight HPS (Group I) or Evolve SLV (Group II) systems. Forty kJ of energy were delivered with both systems on canine prostates. Dogs were euthanized 2 hours following completion of prostate vaporization and prostates were excised en bloc. The volume of vaporized tissue was determined by taking multiple measurements of the 3-dimensional cavity. Prostates were then sectioned (3mm to 5mm) and stained with triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) to establish the thickness of necrotic and healthy tissue zones.

Results: Five (I) and 5 (II) consecutive mongrel dogs underwent prostate vaporization. Mean age (I: 9±1 years, II: 8±1 years) and weight (I: 25±1kg; II: 28±3kg) were similar between the 2 groups. Despite similar energy utilization (I: 40.0±0.4kJ; II: 40.0±0.1kJ), laser time was shorter in Group II (I: 359±19 seconds, II: 269±1 seconds, P<0.001). Measurement of the vaporization cavity revealed it to be comparable (I: 3.06±1.52mL, II: 1.73±0.41mL, P=0.18). However, the depth of thermal necrosis was thicker in Group II (TTC: I: 2.1±0.4mm, II: 5.8±0.8mm, P=0.0002; NBT: I: 2.6±0.8mm, II: 3.9±1.0mm, P=0.07) prostate specimens.

Conclusion: Despite the formation of a comparable vaporization cavity, the depth of thermal necrosis was thinner in Group I. This factor may have implications in the clinical outcomes of prostate vaporization in human subjects.


9134 General Surgery
Completion Proctectomy after Laparoscopic vs. Open Subtotal Colectomy for Ulcerative Colitis: Is There a Difference?

A. M. Morales Gonzalez, D. Geisler, F. Remzi, V. W. Fazio, R. P. Kiran
The Cleveland Clinic Foundation 


Introduction:
For patients undergoing a staged total proctocolectomy and ileoanal pouch (IPAA), the relative merits of a laparoscopic or open approach during the colectomy or subsequent completion proctectomy (CP) with IPAA have not been evaluated. We compare outcomes in CP with IPAA for ulcerative colitis by the laparoscopic and open approaches after a previous subtotal colectomy (STC) by either laparoscopic or open methods.

Methods:
Patients who underwent CP with IPAA after laparoscopic STC for UC were matched by age, sex, body mass index, year of operation, and ASA score to twice the number of patients who underwent open STC followed by CP/IPAA. Three groups were obtained: laparoscopic STC followed by laparoscopic CP (LSTC/LCP), laparoscopic STC followed by open CP (LSTC/OCP), and open STC followed by open CP (OSTC/OCP) and compared for operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of stay, use of a diverting stoma, and complications including pouch failure.

Results: LSTC/LCP (n=23), LSTC/OCP (n=28), and OSTC/OCP (n=101) were comparable for the matched characteristics. The 3 groups had similar EBL (P=0.33), use of stoma (P=0.25), anastomotic leak (P=0.4), overall complications (P=0.11), and pouch failure (P=0.11). LSTC/LCP was associated with significantly longer operative time (P<0.001) but with a significantly shorter length of stay (P<0.002) (4.6 days) compared with LSTC/OCP (7.7) and OSTC/OCP (6.7).


Conclusion: The use of an LCP after LSTC is associated with the advantage of a significantly reduced length of stay compared with that for OSTC or LSTC followed by OCP despite comparable risk of complications and long-term outcomes.




9135 Multispecialty
Minimally Invasive Surgery Group: Cutting Edge Goes a Cut Above

Dean K. Matsuda, MD, Kirk Tamadoon, MD, Seth Kivnik, MD, Robert Casillas, MD, Benjamin Kim, MD
Kaiser West Los Angeles Medical Center

Objective:
To share our collective experience and potential benefits derived from a hospital-based minimally invasive surgery group.

Methods: Our hospital-based minimally invasive surgery group’s 3-year experience is presented. A unique collection of endoscopic surgeons at one site provides many opportunities that go beyond any marketing hype. With surgeons offering everything from advanced arthroscopic hip surgery to laparoscopic hysterectomy, robotic prostatectomy to minimally invasive bariatric surgery, the latest technological advances and innovative techniques are harnessed for significant patient benefit.

Results: Data favorably comparing our MIS equivalents to more open invasive surgeries with resultant shorter hospital stays (many outpatient procedures), minimal blood loss, quicker recovery/rehabilitation, reduced complications (including some specific to MIS procedures), and improved cosmesis and patient-satisfaction is discussed in this open forum. One example is outpatient arthroscopic surgery for athletes with femoroacetabular impingement having a 99% outpatient rate compared with 3-days to 4 days of hospitalization for the open surgical equivalent, minimal blood loss with 0% transfusion rate, accelerated rehabilitation with exercise bicycling 24 hours postoperation, and an average reduction in postoperative recovery from 6 months to 8 months (open surgery) to 3 months (arthroscopic procedure). Moreover, the benefits of surgeon cross-education with creative innovation, multi-disciplinary camaraderie, improved patient education, and group purchasing power with resultant cost savings will be highlighted.


9136 Multispecialty
Arthroscopic Hip Surgery for Femoroacetabular Impingement in the Athlete

Dean K. Matsuda, MD

O
bjective: To inform the audience of the latest developments in the arthroscopic management of athletes with femoroacetabular impingement. Present our inter-regional prospective treatment outcomes.

Methods/procedures: Femoroacetabular impingement has become an established clinical entity causing pain and early osteoarthritis in a relatively young and athletic group of patients. For this open forum venue, we first show our surgical techniques for comprehensive 2-portal arthroscopic surgery. We demonstrate via professional video and animation arthroscopic rim trimming using a fluoroscopic templating technique designed by the author, femoral head-neck resection osteoplasty, as well as labral refixation and even labral reconstructive arthroscopic surgery. We then will share the early outcomes from our inter-regional prospective study using the validated Non-arthritic Hip Score. We conclude with the author's personal experience (with surgical video capture) having had both hips treated for this condition.

Results: We enrolled 105 patients (52% F, 48% M), mean age of 38.4 years, with symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement. Ninety patients had cam-pincer FAI, 6 cam, and 7 pincer variants. Mean labral damage by Beck scale was 2.10, Outerbridge 2.43, and Beck cartilage damage 2.76. Patients showed a 14.43-point improvement in mean hip score, 16.60-point improvement in mean pain scores, and 19.66-point improvement in functionality score subset.

Conclusion: Comprehensive arthroscopic surgery for symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement improves pain and functional level in many athletic patients.


9137 Multispecialty
Laparoscopic Appendectomy During Pregnancy
Joong Sub Choi, MD1, Jung Hun Lee, MD1, Hyung Ook Kim, MD1, Hungdai Kim, MD1, Seon Hye Park, MD2, Moon Il Park, MD2
1Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine
2College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea

Objective:
To evaluate the safety, feasibility, and pregnancy outcomes of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) during pregnancy.

Methods:
This was a retrospective clinical study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2) performed at a university teaching hospital. The study cohort included 8 pregnant women who underwent LA from January 2007 to December 2008.

Results:
The median age of the patients and median parity were 29.5 years (range, 25 to 34 years) and 0 (range, 0 to 1), respectively. The median operating time of LA was 22.5 minutes (range, 15 to 40). The median length of hospital stay was 3 days (range, 2 to 4). No maternal or fetal mortality or morbidity, laparoconversions, or uterine injuries occurred. Four patients delivered 4 healthy infants, and the pregnancies of 3 patients are progressing without complications. One patient underwent an elective abortion. All resected appendices were acute appendicitis.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic appendectomy performed during pregnancy by expert gynecological laparoscopists is feasible and safe and does not lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes.


9138 Gynecology
Robotic Surgery in a Medium-Sized, Integrated Community and Academic Program in Gynecology

Sean Tedjarati, MD, Karen Ballard, DO, Greg May, MD, Jay Anderson, MD, Katie Brading, Anne Doughty, Robert Kauffman, MD

Objectives:
We reviewed the evaluable RAL cases performed from 8/07 to 7/08 in a medium-sized community, and analyzed demographic, clinical, operative, and pathologic data/outcomes.

Methods: All demographics, clinical, operative, and pathologic data were collected and analyzed. The institutional review board approved the study.

Results: Fifty-six cases were reviewed with follow-up of 20 weeks (range, 10 to 42). Mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 47 years (range, 22 to 88), and 30.3 (range, 19.2 to 44). BMI was ≥25 in 72% and ≥30 in 54%. Hysterectomy ± bilateral salphingo-oophorectomy ± lymph node dissection were the most common procedures. Conversion to laparotomy was 3%. Docking time was 2.4 minutes (range, 2 to 6). Total operative and console time were 138 minutes (range, 48 to 366) and 107 minutes (range, 29 to 300). Estimated blood loss (EBL) was 76cc (range, 10 to 300) with 1 preoperative transfusion. Uterine weight was 141g (range, 49 to 258). Mean lymph nodes retrieved were 19 (range, 10 to 34). Operative and postoperative complications were 1.8% and 10% with fever being most common. Only oral analgesics were required by 70%. Length of stay (LOS) was 1.5 days (range, 1 to 4). There were no wound infections.

Conclusions:
A successful RAL program in a medium-sized community among surgeons with variable experience is feasible. Transition from laparotomy to RAL was achieved with results comparable to those of larger, more experienced centers. Over half of patients were obese with lowered LOS, EBL, recovery period, and no wound infections.


9139 General Surgery
Reinforced Circular Staples in Bariatric Surgery: Is there Any Benefit?

Marcela Ramirez, MD, Flora Varghese, MD, Richard Symmonds, MD, Joaquin Rodriguez, MD
Scott & White Memorial, Hospital Texas A&M


Background: With the increasing prevalence of morbid obesity, a growing demand for bariatric surgery exists. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is the most common procedure, but has multiple complications. This study evaluates the use of the reinforced circular stapler and its effects on reducing gastrojejunal anastomotic complications.

Methods: Data were obtained using retrospective chart review between January 2007 and November 2008 from a single institution. During this time period, 287 laparoscopic RYGBP were performed. Comparison was made between 2 groups. The nonreinforced circular stapler (NRCS) group consisted of 182 patients, and the reinforced circular stapler (RCS) group consisted of 105 patients. Perioperative complications and postoperative complications were compared between both the RCS and NRCS groups.

Results: Complications from gastrojejunal anastomosis were found in 44 patients (15.33%). There were 10 (9.52%) patients from the RCS group and 34 (18.68%) patients from the NRCS group with anastomotic complications (P=0.0381). Neither group had anastomotic leaks. The bleeding rate was 4.90% in the RCS group vs. 6.49% in the NRCS group. The stricture rate was 1.96% in the RCS group vs. 6.49% in the NRCS group. Ulcer formation occurred in 2.86% of the RCS group vs. 6.04% of the NRCS group.

Conclusion: The application of RCS reduced the incidence of gastrojejunal anastomotic complications. Therefore, it is beneficial to utilize reinforced circular staplers for the gastrojejunal anastomosis in laparoscopic RYGBP procedures. Patients are 2.182 times more likely to develop complications when no RCS device is used.


9140 General Surgery
Prolonged (>3 Hours) Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Reasons And Results
Gokulakkrishna Subhas, MD, Aditya Gupta, MD, Lorenzo Ferguson, MD, Michael J. Jacobs, MD, William Kestenberg, MD, Ramachandra B. Kolachalam, MD, Sumet Silapaswan, MD, Vijay K. Mittal, MD
Providence Hospital and Medical Centers, Southfield, Michigan

Background:
For the experienced surgeon, the average operative time for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy is <1 hour. No study has documented the causes and results of prolonged (>3 hours) surgery.

Methods: A retrospective study was done of patients who underwent cholecystectomy from January 2003 to December 2007. In all, 3126 cholecystectomies were done. After excluding patients who had a planned open cholecystectomy and patients who had additional (hepatic, pancreatic, gynecological, and colonic) surgeries, we identified 70 patients who had a planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy with operative time exceeding 3 hours. Charts were reviewed to look at the indications, investigations, and procedure details.

Results: Patients ranged from 21 to 92 years of age (mean, 57) with most of the patients being females (n=53). Operative time ranged from 3 hour to 6:40 hours (mean, 3:37). Emergency:elective admission ratio was 5:9. Acute cholecystitis (n=40) was the most common indication, followed by symptomatic gallstones (n=24) and gallstone pancreatitis (n=6). Laparotomy had to be done in 30 patients. Common characteristics were obesity (n=44), dense intraabdominal adhesions (n=43), previous abdominal surgeries (n=40), obstructive jaundice (n=14), large gallstones (>2.5cm) (n=12), and intraoperative cholangiography (n=12). Intraoperative complications included spillage of stones (n=6), bile duct injury (n=3), and bleeding (n=3). Histopathological examination revealed 12 gangrenous gallbladders. Postoperative stay ranged from 1 day to 41 days (mean, 5 days), and one mortality occurred.

Conclusions: The possibility of prolonged laparoscopic cholecystectomy should be anticipated in patients with obesity and previous abdominal operations. Prolonged surgery increases the risk of complications (bile duct injury, bleeding) and prolongs the postoperative hospital stay.


9141 Gynecology
Effectiveness of Microwave Endometrial Ablation for Adenomyosis
Yasuyuki Asakawa, Yasuhiro Yamamoto, Tsuchiya Takehiko, Mami Fukuda, Nobuyuki Sakurai, Hideki Taoka, Toshimitsu Maemura, Mineto Morita, Kaneyuki Kubushiro
Toho University School of Medicine

Objective:
In recent years, microwave endometrial ablation (MEA) has been more closely analyzed as a therapeutic option for hypermenorrhea, due to its reduced invasiveness compared with total hysterectomy. With approval from the hospital ethics review board, we have performed MEA on 6 consenting patients with adenomyosis since 2004. Postoperative clinical outcomes are described herein.

Methods: In all patients, MEA was performed using a microwave coagulator operating at 2.45GHz, and the endometrium was coagulated at several locations with 70W output and 50-s conduction time. After MEA, coagulation inside the uterus cavity was confirmed by hysteroscopy. Postoperative MRI was used to examine the extent of endometrial coagulation.

Results: Hypermenorrhea improved in all patients with adenomyosis, and 2 patients became amenorrheic. Significant improvements were seen in postoperative anemia. A visual analog scale was used to assess satisfaction, menstrual blood loss, and menstrual pain before and after MEA. Statistical analysis showed significant improvements in satisfaction, menstrual blood loss, and menstrual pain. No notable postoperative infections or complications were seen.

Conclusions: These results suggest that MEA for adenomyosis is a noninvasive and safe technique that coagulates the endometrium in a short period of time, significantly improving hypermenorrhea and dysmenorrhea. In the future, MEA will offer a useful therapeutic option to take the place of total hysterectomy.


9142 General Surgery
Herniotomy in Infants, Children, and Adolescents Without Disruption of External Ring
Ahmed A. Kareem, MBChB, DGS, Kasim M. Juma'a, BSc, MSc
Baquba Teaching Hospital, Diayla, Iraq 

Background:
Inguinal hernia represents one of the most common pediatric problems that requires surgical repair as early as possible to avoid complications that may be life threatening. In addition, operative technique and highly qualified surgical skills used in management of inguinal hernia may effectively contribute to reduction in cost, mortality, and morbidity, especially the recurrence rate which represents a challenge in this type of surgical operation.

Methods: This prospective study included 252 inguinal hernia patients, ranging in age from 7 years to 15 years of both sexes. The patients were admitted to Baquba General Hospital from June 2005 to March 2007. They were managed surgically with a nonlaparoscopic minimum access method and followed up for 1 year for detection of recurrence rate.

Results: Patients tolerated this surgical procedure very well with no need for strong analgesia. Also the new surgical technique produced a clean wound with no incidence of wound infection. For this reason, use of antibiotics was unnecessary. At 1-year follow-up, the recurrence rate was zero. This type of surgical operation will decrease in-hospital length of stay and cost.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in children is not the most superior minimally invasive technique. Open surgery can be done in a less invasive manner with lower cost, fewer complications, maintaining the tactile sensation of the surgeon with a most delicate and pleasurable procedure.


9143 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Loop-Ileostomy With A Single-Port Stab Incision
Gokulakkrishna Subhas, MD, Elizabeth Kim, MD, Vijay K. Mittal, MD, Alasdair McKendrick, MD
Providence Hospital and Medical Centers, Southfield, Michigan

Background:
Loop-ileostomy is an effective means of temporary fecal diversion. Fecal diversion may be needed as an isolated procedure in patients with complicated perianal fistula, perianal sepsis, or distal Crohn’s disease. With the advent of laparoscopy, many of these loop ileostomies are being performed with laparoscopic assistance. Studies have proved the beneficial effects of laparoscopically created loop ileostomy over the open technique for fecal diversion.

Methods: Techniques for performing laparoscopic loop-ileostomy have been described using 2 or more 10-mm to 12-mm ports with Hasson’s technique at the umbilical site for pneumoperitoneum creation. Babcock forceps holds the loop of terminal ileum through the port placed at the ostomy site. The presence of Babcock’s forceps with the port cannula at the site of the ostomy interferes with the expansion of the opening in the rectus sheath. We are describing a new technique, wherein the pneumoperitoneum is created using a 10-mm port at the site of the future ileostomy and a second 5-mm port placed under vision at the umbilical site. The camera is passed through the ostomy site port, and the umbilical port is used for Babcock’s forceps. There is no interference while expanding the skin and rectus sheath incision at the ostomy site. A final look is taken through the umbilical port before maturing the ostomy.

Conclusion: This technique decreases the risk of bowel injury. The umbilical port site being 5-mm does not need closure; thus, it reduces port-site hernia and patient discomfort. Also minimizing the intervention reduces the operative time and decreases postoperative ileus and adhesion formation.


9144 General Surgery
NOTES Transvaginal Cholecystectomy: A Modified Surgical Technique
Giuseppe Currò, MD, Giuseppe La Malfa, MD, Emanuela Molino, MD, Mariangela Pataria, MD, Giuseppe Sarra, MD, Giuseppe Navarra, MD
University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy

Objective:
Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) allows cholecystectomy to be performed by means of a flexible scope introduced through the stomach, rectus, bladder, or vagina. However, available endoscopes have several limitations if utilized in the peritoneal cavity. We describe a new technique that overcomes these limitations by using conventional 5-mm laparoscopic instruments through the umbilical scar and transabdominal sutures for retraction.

Methods: After creating the pneumoperitoneum with a Veress needle, a 5-mm port is introduced into the umbilicus followed by a 5-mm 30° scope. A culdotomy is then performed under direct and laparoscopic view. The flexible endoscope is inserted into the pelvis through the vagina and advanced to expose the gallbladder. Three or more transabdominal sutures are placed through the gallbladder wall for retraction. Cholecystectomy is then conventionally performed. Finally, stay sutures are removed and the specimen is retrieved through the vagina.

Results: Six female patients underwent hybrid transvaginal cholecystectomy. Average age was 52 years (range, 46 to 65) with an average body mass index of 32 (range, 30 to 37). No problems or complications occurred related to the culdotomy, trocar, or stay suture placement. No conversions were necessary, and all the procedures were performed as planned without complications within an average of 52 minutes (range, 40 to 65).

Conclusion: In our opinion, this hybrid approach increases safety, overcomes the limitation of the current instrumentation, and maintains most of the advantages of NOTES.



9145 Gynecology
Medico Legal Problems with Advanced Gynecological Operative Endoscopy
Professor Mark Erian, FRCOG, FRANZCOG, MD, Dr. Glenda McLaren, FRCOG, FRANZCOG

Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze the complication factors in gynecological operative endoscopy, and to appreciate elements leading to litigation against gynecological surgeons and ways to minimize (or completely eradicate) medico legal risk factors and, consequently, lawsuits that can be costly in terms of monetary and emotional expenses to the patient, health care industry, gynecologists, their practices, and even families.

Methods: This was an observational study performed in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH). This is a major tertiary referral teaching hospital. We studied the main complications occurring at RBWH as a result of laparoscopic and hysteroscopic operative interventions between 1990 and 2007 (inclusive) with analysis of the causative factors and ways to prevent the same.

Results: Nearly always, there is a reason(s) behind the complication(s), and these failures to inform, perform and/or communicate. Advances in modern technology have improved the outcome of simple and complicated operative laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgery. Nevertheless, the authors stress the importance of training, credentialing, and maintaining a system of quality assurance (QA) that should be adhered to.

Conclusion: Advanced operative gynecological endoscopy offers the patient an attractive alternative to conventional surgery with less pain and discomfort, quicker return to the workforce, and better cosmetic results. Not only does the patient benefit from this approach but also the hospital and the national economy in general benefit. However, the gynecological surgeon must endeavour to excel in knowledge, manual dexterity, and communication skills if litigations are to be avoided or reduced to an absolute minimum.


9146 General Surgery
Surgery for Chronic Abdominal and Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CAPPS)
“Is Surgery Indicated in these Patients?”
Jay A. Redan, MD, Greg McClain, MD, Steven McCarus, MD, John Kim, MD, Aileen Caceres, MD
Florida Hospital-Celebration Health

Background:
One of the most commonly encountered problems today is abdominal/pelvic pain associated with adhesions from prior surgery. Patients normally have a battery of studies that often leave the doctor without answers and patients without proper treatment. We retrospectively analyzed 31 CAPPS patients to determine the best course of treatment for them.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of a single institution’s practice involved the treatment of CAPPS (n=31) following prior abdominal surgery(s) from 2006 to 2008. The data set includes patient information obtained in the preoperative interview and postoperative follow-up at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month intervals. The data points included patients’ age, sex, and pain scale at each interval, employment status, use of narcotics, and number of surgeries.

Results: Mostly women (n=29, P<0.05), the age ranged from 16 to 63 years (mean, 42). The number of abdominal surgeries ranged from 1 to 7 with an average of 2.67. Preoperative pain averaged 7.8 on a scale of 0 to 10; 3-month follow-up was 4.7, 6-month was 3.07, 9-month was 2.5, and 12-month was 1.5. Also a 66% decrease occurred in the use of narcotics following surgical treatment. 

Conclusion: The treatment of patients with CAPPS secondary to adhesions poses a unique and often difficult challenge to caregivers. We offer patients diagnostic laparoscopy, lysis of adhesions, and indicated procedures including bowel resection for chronic large and small bowel obstructions. Our follow-up data show that the pain reported by the patients is improved and the use of narcotics decreased.


9147 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Appendectomy Using LIGASURE™ for Mesoappendix Hemostatic Control
Vicente Spinelli, MD, Luis F. Guada, MD, William Guada, MD
Hospital Cruz Roja, Instituto de Especialidades Quirurgicas Los Mangos
Universidad de Carabobo, Valencia, Edo Carabobo Venezuela

Background: Laparoscopic appendectomy is frequently performed where technical resources are available. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the LIGASURE vessel sealing system in laparoscopic appendectomy for mesoappendix hemostatic control.

Methods: This was a prospective, nonexperimental study of 44 patients at 3 surgical centers in Valencia city.  All patients had abdominal pain with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. They were operated on laparoscopically using LIGASURE, from January 2005 to December 2006.

Results: The mean operative time was 69.32 minutes (SD, 14.25). The mean hospital stay was 1.43 days (SD, 1.021). The operation was converted to open appendectomy in only 2 patients because of technical difficulties of dissection. Neither surgical Endoclips nor an endostapler were used in any patients. We observed postoperative complications in 11 patients (25%), mainly infectious. No intraabdominal abscesses were present. We reoperated on one patient with hemoperitoneum due to bleeding from an epigastric vessel injury after trocar insertion, identified postoperatively. No burn injuries occurred due to use of the LIGASURE system. Pathological diagnosis identified 50% of the ailments as phlegmonous appendicitis.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic appendectomy using LIGASURE is a safe and efficient procedure for hemostatic control of mesoappendix, and it has similar operative time and hospital stay as other laparoscopic methods for hemostatic control.


9148 General Surgery
Learning Curve in Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery: Surgeon or Operating Room Staff Dependent?
Paul R. Sturrock MD, Ronald Figuerido, MD, Matthew Vrees, MD, Adam Klipfel, MD, Jorge A. Lagares, MD
Rhode Island Colorectal Clinic, Pawtucket, Rhode Island


Introduction:
The learning curve for transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEMS) is poorly described in the literature, but some studies indicate a lack of a significant operative learning curve when surgeons have minimally invasive experience. The aim of our study was to evaluate surgical times of our experience with TEMS since its inception in a colorectal practice.

Methods: Thirty-two consecutive cases have been evaluated since March 2007. Two dedicated surgeons (A and B) with extensive experience in laparoscopic colorectal surgery performed all the procedures. Demographic, intraoperative, and pathologic data were collected. Comparisons and statistical analysis were performed by a surgeon and staff learning curve using the variables early (first 15 cases) versus late experience (>15 cases).

Results: To date, 32 cases have been performed. Average patient age was 60 years with equal sex distribution. Mean operating room setup time, operation length, and total procedure time were 33, 34, and 61 minutes, respectively. Tumor surface mean was 20.4cm
2, and specimen surface averaged 32.3cm2. Mean setup time was significantly different between the early (37 minutes) and the late experience (30 minutes) (P<0.05), while operation length and overall operating room time did not differ, regardless of tumor size.

Conclusion:
TEMS operating room times are related to the setup time and operating room staff familiarity with equipment and patient setup early on in the experience. There was no difference regarding surgeon times in early vs. late experience. 


9149 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Sigmoid Resection for Complicated Diverticular Disease is Associated with Better Outcomes
J. A. Laryea
2, J. Cannon1, E. Pennington1, M. Ferguson1, M. Schertzer1, W. Ambroze1, G. Orangio1
1Georgia Colon and Rectal Surgery Clinic, Atlanta, Georgia
2University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas

Purpose: To compare the outcomes of open versus laparoscopic sigmoid resections for complicated diverticular disease in a large private colorectal practice with an ACGME-approved fellowship-training program.

Methods: A retrospective review of 169 consecutive patients undergoing sigmoid resection for complicated diverticular disease between January 2002 and June 2007 was done. These included patients with diverticular abscesses, phlegmon, recurrent diverticulitis, and colovaginal and colovesical fistulas. Five experienced colorectal surgeons performed the surgeries with or without a fellow. Follow-up ranged from 2 months to 4 years. The primary outcomes evaluated were EBL, LOS, and complications. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis was done using the SAS 9.1 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC) statistical software. Significance was set at P<0.05


Results: 
There were 169 consecutive sigmoid resections for diverticular disease (72 open and 97 laparoscopic). The laparoscopic group had significantly lower EBL (160.4±109.8 vs. 230.7±237.0; P=0.0359) and a shorter length of stay (5.4±2.8 days vs. 7.1±2.9 days; P=0.0003). Overall, no significant differences existed in complications between the 2 groups (P=0.846). On multivariate analysis, the laparoscopic procedure (P<0.0001) and younger age (P=0.0367) were associated with a shorter length of stay. The presence of a fellow was associated with a lower EBL (P=0.0623). 


Conclusions: 
Laparoscopic sigmoid resection for complicated diverticular disease is associated with better outcomes and is as safe as open sigmoid resection.


9150 Gynecology
Can Laparoscopic Myomectomy Replace Open Myomectomy?

M. Sami Walid, MD1, PhD, Richard L. Heaton, MD2
1Medical Center of Central Georgia, Macon, Georgia
2Houston County Medical Center, Heart of Georgia Women’s Center, Warner Robins, Georgia

Introduction:
Laparoscopic myomectomy is a procedure that requires laparoscopic suturing skills. We report our 10-year experience with laparoscopic myomectomy, its advantages, and possible complications.

Materials and Methods:
From October 1998 to July 2008, 41 myomectomies were performed in a suburban gynecology practice. Patients were 16 to 55 years old, gravida 0-4 and para 0-2. Eleven patients had prior cesarian deliveries, and 6 patients had prior myomectomies.

Results:
One open myomectomy, 6 hysteroscopic myomectomies, and 34 laparoscopic myomectomies, including 2 combined with the hysteroscopic route were performed during that period. In the laparoscopy group, 10 patients had prior cesarian deliveries, and 4 patients had prior myomectomies. Patients had 1 to 7 fibroids in their uteri of different types, pedunculated, subserous, and intramural. Six patients were treated with Lupron before surgery. Pitressin was used in 19 patients during surgery. Resected fibroids weighed up to 555 grams. One case required staged myomectomy because of bleeding (800cc) after the large fibroid was removed. Estimated blood loss was 20cc to 1200cc. No patient required a transfusion. Sixteen patients required morcellation. No patient required conversion to an open technique. No infections occurred. Two patients had successful pregnancies after myomectomy. Subsequent hysterectomy was performed in 6 patients.

Conclusions:
Laparoscopic myomectomy is a safe procedure in the hands of an experienced surgeon. Bleeding is the most common intraoperative complication that may require performing a staged laparoscopic myomectomy. Maintaining homeostasis is the mainstay to successfully complete the procedure. Decreased hospital time and decreased patient pain are the most important advantages of this procedure.


9151 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Colectomy for Colon and Upper Rectal Cancer

Pietro Venezia, MD
Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico, Bari, Italy

Ob
jective: Laparoscopic colectomy for the management of colon and upper rectal cancer at my institution has required advanced laparoscopic experience. This report supports the laparoscopic procedure without compromising the completeness of the resection.

Methods: Intraoperative colonoscopy validated the solitary localization of the adenocarcinoma and with tattooing with methylene blue precisely identified the limits of the resection line. Laparoscopic “classic” colectomy was performed using 3 additional ports with the patient in a Trendelenburg-lithotomy position, and confirmation of the preoperative staging (T2, N0, Mx) with the absence of peritoneal carcinosis. Reconstruction was performed using lymph node dissection, extraction through one port site for the trocars, enlarged and intracorporal for left and extracorporal for right-sided lesions.

Results and Conclusions: From March 1999 to September 2006, we performed 49 laparoscopic colectomy for colon and upper rectal cancer. The length of the specimen, with clear margins and sampling of the nodes (T2, N0, Mx) confirmed that laparoscopic colectomy is technically and surgically acceptable. The yearly oncologic follow-up after 6 cycles of chemotherapy and CT scan demonstrated there were no trocar site implants or local or distal recurrence of tumor. The less-suppressed immune system may have implications for tumor recurrence and long-term patient survival. The lifting of the colon during the operation can reduce the number of surgical staff and the expense of the procedure. All patients are today alive. We believe this procedure was a better choice for the patient, certainly for the surgeon and probably for the community too.


9152 Urology
Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Excision of Bladder Wall Leiomyoma

David D. Thiel, MD, Bryant F. Williams, MD, Murli Krishna, MD, Timothy J. Leroy, MD, Todd C. Igel, MD
Mayo Clinic Florida

Introduction/Objectives: Leiomyoma is the most frequent nonepithelial benign tumor of the bladder, and only about 170 cases have been reported in the literature. Most bladder wall leiomyomas are found incidentally and can be observed if imaging and biopsy are consistent with the diagnosis. Mass resection occurs for symptomatic or enlarging masses and is indicated if the diagnosis of benign leiomyoma is in question. Our objective was to show a minimally invasive approach to resection, if indicated.

Methods: We show resection of a bladder wall leiomyoma with the da Vinci surgical system. This includes demonstrations on imaging, port placement, and operative technique.

Results: Intraoperative video and diagrams are shown of operative resection.

Conclusions: Final surgical pathology and operative outcomes of the first reported case of robotic-assisted laparoscopic resection of a bladder wall leiomyoma are shown.


9153 Urology
Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Reconstruction of the Upper Urinary Tract: Tips and Tricks

David D. Thiel
1, Timothy J. LeRoy1, Howard N. Winfield2, Todd C Igel1
1Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, Florida
2University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa

Introduction/Objectives:
Urology has embraced the use of the da Vinci surgical system for procedures that require complex laparoscopic maneuvers, such as pyeloplasty and radical prostatectomy. A natural extension of these techniques is to use the system for complex urinary reconstruction. The objective of this video is to demonstrate these techniques.

Methods: Using intraoperative video and representative diagrams, this video presentation shows various aspects of upper urinary tract reconstruction.

Results: Video tips and tricks are presented for the imaging, patient positioning, port placement, and operative technique of urinary reconstruction.

Conclusions: Robotic-assisted laparoscopic techniques are well suited for upper tract urinary reconstruction as would be used in congenital, traumatic, iatrogenic injuries, or disease.


9154 Urology
Laparoscopic Ureterolithotomy for Large Proximal Ureteral Calculi
David Spencer, William L.Duncan
University of Mississippi School of Medicine, Jackson Mississippi

Laparoscopy has gained greater acceptance in the world of urologic surgery. Endourology is the mainstay for surgical management of urinary calculi. For large calculi, regardless of location in the urinary tract, multiple endoscopic procedures are commonly required. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of laparoscopy for proximal ureteral calculi. This was performed in one procedure with complete stone clearance. In this case, multiple procedures and multiple anesthetics were avoided. Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy, although technically challenging, is a feasible technique for treatment of large proximal ureteral calculi. It has the potential for high rates of success and decreasing the number of procedures required for large urinary calculi.


9155 General Surgery
Pyloromyotomy Length Directed by Preoperative Ultrasound Measurement Minimizes Incomplete Laparoscopic Pyloromyotomy in Infants

Denis D. Bensard, MD, Richard J. Hendrickson, Katie J. Giesting, CNP, Joshua M. Careskey, MD, Evan R. Kokoska, MD
Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital,Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine

Background:
Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy is associated with an increased risk of incomplete myotomy (5% to 7%) compared with open myotomy (2% to 3%). In contrast, the risk of mucosal perforation (2% to 3%) appears less when pyloromyotomy is performed laparoscopically. We hypothesized that utilizing ultrasound-measured length rather than visual estimation of laparoscopic pyloromyotomy would reduce the risk of incomplete pyloromyotomy without a concomitant increase in the risk of mucosal perforation.

Methods: In a children’s hospital, all infants (n=43) with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis diagnosed by ultrasound over a 2-year period (12/2006 to 12/2008) were offered laparoscopic pyloromyotomy. Pyloromyotomy length was guided by preoperative ultrasonographic measurements. Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy was considered complete if the measured length correlated with the ultrasound measurement. Infants were followed prospectively for time to full feeding, time to discharge, and complications.

Results: Forty-three infants (38 male, 5 female; mean age 37±13 days, range 17 to 72) underwent ultrasound (length 1.9±0.2mm; thickness 4.4± 0.9mm) and laparoscopic pyloromyotomy. Infants achieved full feeding 28±16 hours postoperatively and were discharged 33±13 hours postoperatively (range, 15 to116). No infant required reoperation for incomplete myotomy. One infant sustained mucosal perforation during laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (2.3%), recognized intraoperatively, and completed open. No patient required readmission or suffered other complications.

Conclusion: Utilizing preoperative ultrasound measurement of pyloric channel length to determine the length of laparoscopic pyloromyotomy rather than visual cues alone appears to minimize the risk of incomplete pyloromyotomy without an increase in the risk of mucosal perforation in infants.


9156 Multispecialty
Small Bowel Obstruction after FloSeal Use
Benjamin Clapp, MD1, Antonio Santillan, MD2, Bruce Applebaum, MD1
1Providence Memorial Hospital, El Paso, Texas
2Texas Tech University School of Medicine at El Paso, Texas


Objective: FloSeal is a thrombin-gelatin hemostatic matrix that is used to obtain hemostasis. There have been isolated case reports of FloSeal causing bowel obstructions requiring surgical intervention. We report 2 cases of what we believe were FloSeal-induced small bowel obstructions.


Methods: This is a case series report and review of the literature. We report a case of a small bowel obstruction after a laparoscopic gastric bypass where FloSeal was used on a bleeding staple line and also of a small bowel obstruction after a robotic-assisted hysterectomy.

Results: In both patients, FloSeal was used for hemostasis. In each instance, a small bowel obstruction developed within days. Both patients were reexplored laparoscopically and found to have an intense inflammatory reaction at the site of the FloSeal. The adhesions were lysed and both cases of obstruction resolved.

Conclusions: FloSeal should be used with caution, because it may cause small bowel obstructions. Whether this is an immune/allergic response or a mechanical response of the bowel to a thrombin-based substance is yet to be determined.


9157 General Surgery
Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) and Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) Cholecystectomy: Is It Just About Cosmesis?

Sujit Vijay Sakpal, MD1, Ronald Scott Chamberlain, MD, MPA1,2
1Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, New Jersey
2University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey

Background and Objectives:
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most commonly performed minimally invasive procedure. Significant efforts have been applied towards developing the technique and equipment for performing this procedure using either a single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) or natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) method. It has been suggested that these innovative techniques will reduce postoperative pain and limit scarring while also improving cost effectiveness and patient safety. This review highlights the technical challenges associated with these procedures and the potential benefits, if any, they may offer.

Methods: A comprehensive review of the worldwide literature pertaining to “less” minimally invasive cholecystectomies—SILS and NOTES cholecystectomy—was performed to evaluate the potential benefits, limitations, and risk of these novel procedures.

Results: Both SILS and NOTES cholecystectomy have the potential to produce cosmetic benefits. Whether these procedures result in less postoperative pain is so far a subjective conclusion, lacking objective data supporting this claim. Intraoperative or postoperative complication rates and the safety and efficacy associated with these procedures remains undetermined.

Conclusion: Clinical reports of both SILS and NOTES are rare and limit the ability to draw meaningful conclusions. Reports of technical complexity, low success rates, and avoidable complications raise doubts as to the broad applicability of these techniques. Extensive research and development into the technical aspects of these procedures and randomized studies to compare them with traditional laparoscopy are essential.


9158 General Surgery
Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC): Our Experience

Sinisa Maksimovic
General Hospital St. Vracevi Bijeljina, R. Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina


Introduction
: The aim of this study was to evaluate sentinel lymph node mapping in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC).

Methods
: From 2001 to 2008, we performed sentinel lymph node mapping (SLNb) in 37 patients with DTC. Before mobilization of the thyroid gland, approximately 0.2mL of 1% solution of methylene blue dye was injected peritumorally. After approximately 10 minutes, the dissection was continued above and beyond the omohyoid muscle towards the internal jugular vein and common carotid artery until the blue stained lymph nodes were found and recognized and sent for frozen section examination. If any of the nodes were positive on frozen section, a modified radical neck dissection was performed after total thyroidectomy and routine dissection of the central neck compartment.

Results: Twenty-two patients had papillary thyroid carcinoma, 11 follicular carcinoma, and 4 benign tumors. Identification of blue-stained SLN was successful in 93.5% of cases. Negative and positive predictive values were 94.7% and 100%, while overall accuracy of the methods was 95.6%. In the one patient with follicular carcinoma, SLN detection failed. Four patients had one radioactive node, 1 had 3, and 1 had 4.

Conclusion: Our results imply that SLN biopsy in the jugulo-carotid chain using methylene blue dye mapping is a feasible and accurate method for estimating lymph node status in the lateral neck compartment. The method could be helpful in detection of true positive but nonpalpable lymph nodes and may be useful in patients with DTC.


9159 Gynecology
Use of the PlasmaJet System in the Laparoscopic Treatment of Endometriosis: Early Experience

Kimberly A. Kho, MD, MPH, Ceana Nezhat, MD
Northside Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia

Objective:
To examine the feasibility of the use of neutral argon plasma for the laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis.

Methods: In this prospective pilot study, 20 patients undergoing laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis were included. Characteristic endometriotic lesions throughout the pelvis were vaporized or resected using neutral argon plasma by the PlasmaJet System (PJS). Specimens were evaluated for the presence of endometriosis and thermal effects on tissue. The bases of the treated lesions were biopsied to determine whether residual endometriosis was present.


Results:
PlasmaJet was used in 18 of the 20 patients for laparoscopic treatment of pelvic endometriosis. Forty-six lesions were vaporized or excised with the PJS. Twenty-seven lesions were vaporized, and biopsy of the base of the lesions was performed in 7 of these sites. Nineteen lesions were resected using the PJS with biopsy of the base in 8 of these sites. All biopsies confirmed complete vaporization or resection with no residual endometriosis at the base. Endometriosis was identified on pathology examination in all lesions excised using PJS. Thermal effects did not interfere with histologic analysis in any of the lesions. No complications occurred.

Conclusions: Neutral argon plasma may be an effective new modality for the treatment of endometriosis. The PJS can be utilized as a multi-functional device that has vaporization, coagulation, and superficial cutting capacities with minimal thermal spread. The PJS appears to be efficacious for the complete treatment of endometriotic implants.


9160 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair (IPOM) with Dual-Mesh: Feasibility and Advantages
Giovanni Cesana, MD, Stefano Olmi, MD, Enrico Croce, MD
San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, Italy

Objective:
Inguinal hernia repair by the laparoscopic approach is commonly performed by TEP or TAPP technique. The mesh is usually placed in a retroperitoneal position and fixed with mechanical clips. These procedures are quite long and complicated, and many authors have shown that the learning curve may be a serious issue. The laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (IPOM) technique could be an interesting alternative, as this technique is much easier and faster.

Methods: From January 2003 to December 2008, we performed 96 inguinal hernia repair procedures with the laparoscopic approach (94 males, 2 females, mean age 60 years, mean weight 76kg), with the IPOM technique and using Parietex Composite mesh (Sofradim, France) and fibrin glue (Tissucol, Baxter, USA) for mesh fixation.

Results: Mean operative time was 10 minutes. Mean hernia diameter was 2.5cm (±0.8cm), 16 hernias were direct, 80 were indirect, and 20 of 96 were recurrent. We did not have to convert any of the laparoscopic procedures. The mean time of discharge was 1 day, and the mean time for resumption of physical or working activities was 5 days. With a mean follow-up of 36 months, only 1.6% of the patients had hematoma at the trocar site; no additional complication was reported, in particular no recurrence, no mesh migration, no occlusion, and no fistula were observed.

Conclusion: IPOM is the easiest and fastest hernia repair technique. This study shows that with the right material it is feasible and without serious complications.


9161 General Surgery
Atraumatic Repair of Ventral Hernia Using Fibrin Glue
Stefano Olmi, MD, Giovanni Cesana, MD, Enrico Croce, MD
San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milano, Italy

Objective:
The aim of this study was to establish the efficacy and tolerability of human fibrin glue (Tissucol) for the nontraumatic fixation of a composite prosthesis (Parietex) and a new mesh (Hi-Tex, Textile) in the laparoscopic repair of small and medium incisional hernias and primary defects of the abdominal wall.

Methods: From October 2003 to December 2007, 77 patients with abdominal wall hernia underwent laparoscopic repair; all meshes were implanted in an intraperitoneal position. Follow-up visits were scheduled for 7 days and 1, 6, and 12 months, and  2, 3, and 5 years. These included assessments for pain and postoperative complications.

Results: Seventy-seven patients (44 females, 33 males) with a mean age of 50 years (range, 26 to 65) and a mean BMI of 27 (range, 25 to 30) were included in the study. Twenty-four patients had incisional hernias, and 53 had primary defects. The size of the defects varied from 2cm to 7cm. Adhesiolysis was necessary in 62.5% of cases. No intraoperative complications or conversions occurred. After a mean follow-up of 32 months (range, 2 to 50), no postoperative complications were observed. The mean surgical intervention time was 36 minutes (range, 12 to 40) with an average hospitalization time of 1 day.

Conclusion:
The use of fibrin glue provided stable and uniform fixation of the prosthesis and minimized intra- and postoperative complications. Consequently, laparoscopic treatment of small- to medium-sized abdominal defects using this approach is our therapeutic option of choice.


9162 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Repair of Incarcerated Incisional Hernia: Our Experience
Stefano Olmi, MD, Giovanni Cesana, MD, Enrico Croce, MD
San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, Italy

Objective:
The emergency treatment of incisional hernias can be accomplished by the laparoscopic approach to avoid the common postoperative complications of the open technique.

Methods: From January 2001 to December 2007, we performed the laparoscopic approach in an emergency regime to treat incarcerated hernias. We used 2 types of mesh: Parietex (Covidien) and Hi-Tex (Textile), and for dissection we used a 5-mm ultrasound dissector (Ultracison, Ethicon)

Results: Forty-five patients with incisional hernia (29 females and 16 males) underwent emergency treatment, due to incarcerated incisional hernia. Exclusion criteria for the study were the eventual necessity of intestinal resection due to intestinal necrosis (3 cases) or the presence of great incisional hernia with loss of domain (2 cases). A severe respiratory insufficiency (2 patients) and cardiocirculatory problem (2 patients) were not contraindications to the laparoscopic technique. Mean operating time was 62 minutes (range, 45 to 80). The average hospitalization time was 4 days (range, 3 to 6). Surgical complications were 8 seromas treated by medical therapy with seroma aspiration. No prosthesis infection occurred. No metabolic or infective complications occurred. No surgical complications, need for reintervention, recurrence, or deaths occurred.

Conclusion: These results prove the feasibility of the emergency laparoscopic approach to incarcerated incisional hernias, using new generation meshes.


9163 General Surgery
Hole-Mesh Device Allows Accessing the Bypassed Stomach in Patients Who Undergo Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Severe Obesity
Giovanni Cesana, MD, Stefano Olmi, MD, Antonio Catona, MD, Enrico Croce, MD
San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, Italy

Objective:
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is the current standard of care in bariatric surgery. It has been reported to cure type II diabetes in obese patients. There have been reported cases of mucosal dysplasia and cancer in the bypassed stomach following RYGBP. No possibilities to explore the residual stomach have yet been described.

Methods: We have developed Hole-Mesh, a specific device to access the bypassed stomach after RYGBP. It is made of a central part (12-mm diameter and 10-mm thickness) with a radiopaque wire at the edge, located in the middle of a 30-mm diameter polypropylene mesh. The device is placed in the residual stomach during the RYGBP video-laparoscopic intervention. It allows the gastric wall to connect to the parietal peritoneum.

Results: An experimental study in pigs has shown the feasibility of the procedure. Up to now, we have positioned Hole-Mesh in 5 patients without any complications with a median follow-up of 6 months. The device permits radiological examination of the bypassed stomach through the introduction of Gastrografin by a syringe; it allows making an endoscopic exploration of the cavity through a trocar to analyze the gastric content through needle aspiration and to establish enteric nutrition through a catheter in case of leakage of the gastroenteric anastomosis.

Conclusion: Hole-Mesh is well tolerated by patients, without complications. It allows exploring the bypassed stomach, duodenum, and ileum after RYGBP. It may be useful in understanding the biologic mechanisms of metabolic changes especially in obese diabetic patients.


9164 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Sigmoid Colectomy for Diverticulitis:  A Prospective Study of 260 Patients.

Prof. Dr. Ivo. Baca, Khaled Elzarrok, Leszek Grzybowski, Armin Jaacks
Klinik fuer Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Unfallchirurgie, Klinikum Bremen Ost, Bremen, Germany

Background: Surgical treatment of complicated colonic diverticular disease is still debated. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the outcome of laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy for diverticulitis. Indications for laparoscopic surgery were acute complicated diverticulitis (Hinchey stages I and IIa), chronically recurrent diverticulitis, bleeding, or sigmoid stenosis caused by chronic diverticulitis.

Method
: All patients who underwent laparoscopic colectomy within a 12-year period were prospectively entered into a PC database registry. One-stage laparoscopic resection and primary anastomosis constituted the planned procedure. A 4-trocar approach with suprapubic minilaparotomy was used. Main data are age, sex, postoperative pain, return of bowel function, operation time, duration of hospital stay, and early and late complications.

Results: During the study period, 260 sigmoid colectomies were performed for diverticulitis. Patients included 104 males and 156 females. M:F ratio is 4:6. Postoperative pain was controlled by NSAIDs or a weak opioid, and 15 patients (5.7%) required conversion from laparoscopic to open colectomy. Most common reasons for conversion were directly related to the inflammatory process, abscess, or fistulas. Mean operative times were 130±54. Average postoperative hospital stay was 10±3 days. A longer hospital stay was required for those in Hinchey IIa. Complications were recorded in 32 (12.3%). The most common complication requiring reoperation was hemorrhage in 5 (1.9%) patients. Anastomotic leak occurred in 11 patients (3 of them required reoperation). The mortality was 2 patients (0.76%).

Conclusions: Laparoscopic surgery for diverticular disease is safe, feasible, and effective. Therefore, laparoscopic colectomy has replaced open resection as standard surgery for recurrent and complicated diverticulitis at our institution.


9165 General Surgery
Management of Chyloperitoneum Following Redo-Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication in a 23-Month-Old Female
E. L. Galiñanes, MD, A. A. Wheeler, MD, T. P. Mayfield, MD, V. Ramachandran, MD
University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri

Background:
Chyloperitoneum is a rare complication that has been described after abdominal aneurysm repair, retroperitoneal node dissection, or nephrectomy due to disruption of the cisterna chyli or thoracic duct. Rarely has it been described in conjunction with laparoscopic surgery. We describe a case of chyloperitoneum occurring after redo-laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication that was successfully treated with conservative management.

Methods: We present the case of a girl born at 25 weeks gestation with cerebral palsy, feeding difficulty, and reflux. She received a gastrostomy and Nissen fundoplication. One year later, she presented with a hiatal hernia and symptoms of reflux, weight loss, and vomiting. At diagnostic laparoscopy, the previously placed wrap was found to have slipped into the mediastinum. Operatively, it was mobilized back into the abdominal cavity, the wrap taken down and reapplied. Postoperatively, the patient developed abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting prompting reoperation. Copious milky fluid was noted, aspirated, and later confirmed to be chyle.

Results: A pyloroplasty was performed for delayed gastric emptying, no drains were placed, and the patient was further treated conservatively with total parenteral nutrition. The chyloperitoneum resolved over the course of 5 days, and the patient was then transitioned to medium chain fatty acid lipid tube feeds.

Conclusion: We describe a rare complication of laparoscopic foregut surgery in pediatric patients. Although usually described after surgery involving hindgut structures whereby the cisterna chyli are disrupted, foregut surgery more likely disrupts the thoracic duct near its diaphragmatic hiatus but can be successfully treated with a diet/enteral feeding with medium fatty acids.



9166 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair without Suture Fixation

Kevin Gillian MD

Background: The technique for laparoscopic repair of ventral hernias has been shown to be an effective technique for repair. Disagreements arise over which mesh should be utilized and how it should be fixed to the abdominal wall. Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with polypropylene mesh fixation using a double crown of 5-mm tacks has been shown to be a feasible repair with excellent outcomes for the patient.

Methods: A retrospective review of laparoscopic repair of ventral hernias utilizing a variety of polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) meshes by a solo surgeon was undertaken. These repairs were performed without transfascial suture fixation. Data were obtained from patient records and phone interviews.

Results: Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair was performed in 100 patients with one conversion to open. Multiple hernia defects were noted in 45 patients. The mean age of the patients was 56 (range, 21 to 89) with 44 men and 56 women. Comorbidities most common in this population were obesity (45%) and diabetes (7 %). No deaths and one complication occurred in this series. Follow-up ranged from 33 to 84 months (mean, 44.37). Patient satisfaction was noted on the Carolina Comfort Scale. There were no recurrences or mesh removals during this medium-term follow-up study.

Conclusion: Our results support the concept that transfascial fixation can be eliminated in the laparoscopic repair of ventral hernias with polypropylene/ePTFE mesh while preserving low postoperative morbidity and high patient satisfaction.


9167 General Surgery
Postlaparoscopy Pain Control with Tarns Port Local Anesthesia
S. A. Vejdan, MD
Imam Reza Hospital, Birjand Medical University of Science

Objective: Laparoscopic surgery has a short painful period after operation, but it is not a painless procedure. Conventional painkillers in laparoscopic surgery consist of NSAIDs and narcotics that have their specific side effects, but their use is unavoidable. This study evaluated the role of local trans-port anesthesia with local anesthetic drugs to reduce postlaparoscopic pain and narcotic use.

Methods and Procedures: At the end of laparoscopic surgeries, before port withdrawal, a local anesthetic mixture [a short-acting (Lidocaine 2%) plus a long-acting (Bupivacaine 5%)] was instilled through the port lumen between the abdominal wall layers. This study was performed in 2 groups of patients. Group 1, the control group, was given traditional painkillers like narcotics and NSAIDs. Group 2 was given the trans-port mixture. Efficacy of the medications was compared. This is prospective clinical trial.

Results: In group 1, 95% received Meperidine 50mL to 200mL 1 to 4 times for pain control and group 2 was controlled with transrectal NSAIDs. In group 2, pain in 65% of the patients was controlled with just local anesthetic drugs (this method), 30% needed NSAIDs, and only 5% needed narcotics.

Conclusions: Use of local anesthetic drugs for pain control after laparoscopic surgery is a modality with a low complication rate, is very effective in all conditions, and can reduce the side effects of narcotics.


9168 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Multiple Distal Aneurysms of the Splenic Artery

M. Lombardi, MD, E. Puce, MD, D. Apa, MD, B. C. Brassetti, MD, G. A. Senni, MD, F. Atella, MD

Introduction: Splenic artery aneurysm is a rare pathology that carries the risk of rupture (3% to 9.6%) when the transverse diameter reaches 2cm or more. This is associated with a high mortality rate of 36% that increases to 75% among pregnant women. The risk factors include portal hypertension, vasculitis, arteriosclerosis, arterial fibrodysplasia and female sex. These aneurysms are usually incidental findings. Management choices include open, laparoscopic, and endovascular procedures.


Case Report: We report on a 57-year-old female with a past history of insipid diabetes and hypercortisolemia. The aneurysm was asymptomatic and was an incidental finding as a result of a helical contrast computed tomography to investigate adrenal glands. CT scan revealed multiple distal aneurysms of the splenic artery that measured >2cm in diameter. We performed a laparoscopic splenectomy using a lateral approach with optimal visualization of splenic vessels. No postoperative complications occurred, and the patient was discharged on the fourth postoperative day.


Conclusion: Splenic artery aneurysm is a rare yet very important clinical entity because of its potential for rupture with fatal consequences. Surgical treatment is recommended for aneurysms >2cm. Angiographic interventions and laparoscopic exclusion of splenic artery aneurysm have been shown to provide adequate therapy without the morbidity associated with open procedures. Although many can be treated with percutaneous embolization, tortuosity of the artery may render this approach impossible. For distal and hilar located multiple aneurysms, laparoscopic splenectomy represents a reasonable option.


9169 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Resection of a Retroperitoneal Mass

M. Lombardi, MD, D. Apa, MD, E. Puce, MD, B. C. Brassetti, MD, G. A. Senni MD, F. Atella, MD

Introduction:
We describe the laparoscopic resection of a retroperitoneal mass with radiological impression of adrenal “incidentaloma.” Surprisingly, histopathology revealed a “well-differentiated retroperineal liposarcoma.”

Case Report: An asymptomatic 42-year-old female referred to our hospital after a screening ultrasonography with detection of an incidental retroperitoneal tumor. 

Helical CT scan and magnetic resonance imaging showed a large solid mass >5cm in maximum diameter in the left adrenal gland space. The tumor appeared hypervascularized, containing a large area of necrosis. The pancreatic vessels and pancreatic tail were displaced by the mass without images of invasion surrounding organs. Fine needle aspiratory cytology was inconclusive due to suboptimal cellularity. With the clinical diagnosis of a nonfunctioning adrenal tumor, the patient received laparoscopic resection. The operation was difficult because of hypervascularization of the mass and tenacious adherences to the left renal capsule that was resected. The pathological diagnosis was well-differentiated liposarcoma, sclerosing type. The histological margins were negative. After 1 year, a radiological suspect appeared of lymphatic relapse on the celiac axis.

Conclusion: Liposarcoma is the most frequent histotype of rare retroperitoneal tumors. The histological subtype and margin of resection are prognostic for survival in primary tumors. Local recurrences are the most frequent cause of failure of the surgery. The feasibility of complete resection is crucial for prognosis. The open approach is the gold standard, but in this case, laparoscopy was technically safe and successful in maintaining oncologic principles of radicality. In select cases, this approach represents a feasible alternative to open surgery.



9170 Gynecology
Laparoscopic Isthmic Cerclage: A Simplified Technique
Antoine Watrelot, Jean Michel Dreyfus
Centre de Recherche et d'Etude de la Stérilité (CRES), Lyon, France

We describe the technique of laparoscopic isthmic cerclage for cervical incompetency. By using an artefact described by Tulandi, we performed the technique using a percutaneous needle. The technique is therefore very simple and easy to learn. Indications for isthmic cerclage are not so frequent, but due to the mini-invasiveness of this approach it is probably suitable to propose this operation even if the patient has only one late miscarriage (and not 2 as classically recommended). To date, we have performed 7 cerclages with this technique; 5 patients have been pregnant and have undergone a caesarian delivery between 32 to 36 weeks of gestation. The 2 other patients are still not pregnant, 6 and 10 months after surgery, respectively. We believe that the laparoscopic isthmic cerclage (namely Benson's cerclage) is an attractive alternative to the vaginal Shirodkar technique.


9171 Gynecology
Report of the Largest Case Series of Parasitic Myomas

Kimberly Kho, MD, MPH, Ceana Nezhat, MD
Atlanta Center for Special Minimally Invasive Surgery & Reproductive Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia

Objective: To report the largest case series of parasitic myomas in the medical literature, and an examination of causes, associations, and risk factors.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 12 patients found to have parasitic myomas between August 2000 and September 2008. The following data were systematically collected: surgery date; indications for surgery; number, dates, and types of prior surgeries; prior use of morcellation; and locations of parasitic myomas. Pathologic confirmation of all specimens was obtained.

Results: Laparoscopic evaluation confirmed the presence of intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal myomas distinct from the uterus in 12 patients. Ten of the 12 patients had prior abdominal surgery. Six patients had prior morcellation procedures during laparoscopic myomectomy, and 2 patients had abdominal myomectomies. Three patients had multiple parasitic fibroids; all of them had a history of laparoscopic myomectomy with morcellation. The majority (14/15) of parasitic myomas were found in the pelvis, 2 of which were retroperitoneal.

Conclusion: Parasitic myomas may occur spontaneously as pedunculated subserosal myomas lose their uterine blood supply and parasitize to other organs. However, this series supports what the literature has suggested; more parasitic myomas may be iatrogenically created after prior surgery, particularly surgery using morcellation techniques. With increasing rates of laparoscopic procedures, surgeons should be aware of the potential for iatrogenic parasitic myoma formation, their likely increasing frequency, and intraoperative precautions to minimize occurrence.


9172 Multispecialty
Laparoscopic Gastrostomy Utilizing a Multidisciplinary Approach is Safe and Beneficial in Infants Under 10 Kilograms with Congenital Heart Disease
Richard Hendrickson, MD2, Denis Bensard, MD2, Monte Harrison, DO1, Katie Giesting, PNP1, Simon Abraham, MD1, Josh Careskey, MD1, Evan Kokoska, MD2
1Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St. Vincent, Cincinnati, Ohio
2University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio


Background:  Infants with congenital heart disease often have feeding difficulties and poor weight gain. Cardiac procedures may require staged correction. Feeding access is often beneficial. The safety and efficacy in this cohort of cardiac patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures is unclear. We hypothesized that a multidisciplinary team approach and laparoscopic gastrostomy can be performed safely.

Methods:  In a women’s and children’s hospital, all complex congenital heart disease infants with failure to thrive and poor enteral intake (n=10) were offered a laparoscopic approach for enteral access over a 15-month period (09/2007 to 12/2008). All patients had at least one cardiac procedure and had demonstrated failure to thrive without clinical or radiographic evidence of gastroesophageal reflux. Pediatric cardiology, cardiac surgery, intensivist, neonatologist, and surgery personnel all participated in the pre-, intra- and postoperative management.

Results: Ten infants (6 male, 4 female; average age at surgery 12 weeks (range 3 to 51) underwent laparoscopic-assisted gastrostomy placement. Average operative weight was 4.2 kilograms (range 2.75 to 6.8). Operating room time average was 80 minutes (range, 59 to 120). Average surgical time was 38 minutes (range, 28 to 70). All patients were started on feeds within 24 hours and reached full feeds on average in 92 hours (range, 58 to 141). No infant required conversion to an open procedure. No intra- or postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusion: Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach in infants with complex congenital heart disease safely permits minimally invasive feeding access.



9173 Multispecialty
Laparoscopic Application of a Hyaluronate/Carboxymethylcellulose Slurry Does Not Increase Postoperative Adhesions
Bradford W. Fenton, MD, PhD
Summa Health System Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pelvic Pain Specialty Center

Background: Postoperative adhesion formation is a significant problem with any surgery, but most approved adhesion prevention measures are difficult to apply through the laparoscope. Cut up sheets of hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose can be suspended in saline and then applied as a slurry through a laparoscopic irrigator. It is unknown whether the slurry formulation retains adhesion prevention properties, or if it might induce more adhesions after application.

Method: A slurry of hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose was created by cutting three 5x7-cm sheets into squares <1cm each, and suspending them in 60cc of 2% lidocaine. The resultant slurry was then applied following laparoscopic fulguration of endometriosis and lysis of adhesion for chronic pelvic pain in 2 patients. Following 1 year of medical suppression therapy, the patients requested a repeat of the fulguration for their recurrent pain. The number of sites of fulguration and adhesion lysis at the initial laparoscopy were evaluated at the second laparoscopy for the presence of adhesions.

Results: No adhesions were encountered at the level of the umbilicus or upper pelvis. At the sites of hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose slurry application, previous fulguration, and adhesion lysis, no adhesions were encountered.

Conclusion: Prevention of postoperative adhesions depends on many factors, and application of adhesion barriers provides a potential to decrease postoperative adhesion formation. Using a slurry of hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose extends the options for adhesion prevention in laparoscopic surgery. From these patients, there is no evidence that the hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose slurry increases adhesion formation.


9174 Gynecology
Dysautonomias Are Not Associated with Chronic Pelvic Pain
Andrea Crane, MD, Bradford W. Fenton, MD, PhD
Summa Health System, Pelvic Pain Specialty Center

Background:
Several studies have suggested that disorders of the autonomic nervous system are associated with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and interstitial cystitis (IC) in particular. Because diagnostic criteria are available for several dysautonomias, this association can be investigated with a survey.

Method: As part of an ongoing survey, 100 women in an urban, resident-run gynecology practice and 73 women in a CPP referral center (CPPrc) filled out identical surveys with the diagnostic criteria for postural orthostatic (POTS), vasodepressor syncope (VDS), chronic fatigue (CFS), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), migraines, and IC. IC was diagnosed by cystoscopy in the CPPrc. CPP patients also underwent orthostatic blood pressure and pulse testing.

Results: No patient met criteria for VDS or CFS in either group. In the general gynecology population, 21% had CPP, 16% had POTS, 24% had migraines, 5% had IC, and 4% had IBS. The presence of CPP was associated (chi square; P<0.001) with migraines, but not POTS, IC, or IBS. In the CPPrc, 32% had POTS, 36% had migraines, 16% had IC, and 33% had IBS. The presence of IC was associated with IBS (P=0.04), but not POTS or migraines. Hemodynamic parameters were not related to the presence of IC.

Conclusion: Although it has been suggested that chronic pain syndromes are associated with dysautonomias, no clear relationship was demonstrated by this data set. The lack of change in orthostatic blood pressure testing supports these conclusions. A larger series or more intensive testing may produce different results.


9175 Gynecology
Lifelong Dysmenorrhea is Associated with Other Muscle Tension Pain Syndromes
Andrea Crane, MD, Eileen Witten, MD, Bradford W. Fenton, MD, PhD
Summa Health System, Pelvic Pain Specialty Center

Background:
Dysmenorrhea is a significant problem that is one component of chronic pelvic pain (CPP), a standardly defined syndrome. Several other chronic pain disorders have similarly defined criteria, which can be used to construct diagnostic surveys. It is unknown whether a lifelong history of dysmenorrhea (painful menses from menarche onward) has any relationship to other chronic pain disorders. If so, it may suggest that these women have an inherent heightened sensitivity to pain.

Methods: As part of an ongoing survey, 100 women seen in an urban residency clinic filled out a survey containing the definitional criterion for chronic pelvic pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), interstitial cystitis (IC), migraines, and scales for traumatic stress, childhood trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, and fibromyalgia (FMS).

Results: Lifelong dysmenorrhea (LD) was present in 38% and was significantly more frequent (chi squared: P<0.05) in patients with any or all criteria for CPP, IC, and migraines, and was related to (t test: P<0.05) higher FMS scores. Neither a history of abuse nor IBS was more common in LD patients. LD patients were not significantly older (average age 34), of higher parity, nor had higher anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, or childhood trauma scores.

Conclusion: The association of LD with other muscle tension pain syndromes (migraines, FMS, and IC) suggests that these patients may have an inherent, possibly cerebral, hypersensitivity to pain. In this population of LD patients, psychiatric symptoms were not more pronounced, suggesting that centralized pain sensitivity may not be related to trauma, abuse, or other experiences.


9176 Gynecology
Limbic Brain Areas are Activated in Chronic Pelvic Pain
Bradford W. Fenton, MD, PhD
Summa Health System, Pelvic Pain Specialty Center

Introduction:
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is one of several entities commonly associated with chronic pelvic pain. Due to the association of IC with other chronic pain disorders, it has been suggested that some of these patients may have a heightened sensitivity to pain. If this is the case, then it is unknown whether the medial limbic pain pathway is more active, as has been suggested, or if the lateral nociceptive pathway is more active.

Methods: In this pilot study, 4 healthy controls and 2 patients with simple IC underwent localization of electroencephalographic (EEG) brain frequency analysis with their bladder empty. All patients underwent a visual evoked oscillations assessment using a fearful faces presentation. Comparison between groups was done using a nonparametric log f test.

Results: In IC patients, complexity of the EEG (omega), a global measure reflecting degree of spatial synchronization, was significantly increased in the anterior cingulate gyrus. Delta wave activity was also significantly increased in the anterior cingulate in IC patients. Other frequencies were variably different: IC patients had more alpha activity in the occiput, and controls had more diffuse beta activity, particularly middle temporal.

Conclusions: Interstitial cystitis patients, even immediately after voiding, continue to feel pain through an activated medial pain perception pathway, which terminates in the anterior cingulate gyrus. This occurs through theta wave activity, and is confirmed by the increase in omega in these areas, consistent with other studies of affective pain. This pilot study indicates that the limbic pain perception pathways are activated in IC.


9177 Gynecology
An Innovative Electric Converter (M/BAC*) for Laparoscopic Surgery
Youngse Park
CHA University, CHA General Hospital, Korea

Objective:
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new electric converter (M/BAC*: Monopolar/Bipolar Automatic Converter) for laparoscopic surgery.

Methods: This was a retrospective, comparative study reviewing DVDs of 40 women who underwent total laparoscopic hysterectomy from November 2006 to September 2008 due to benign pathology. Study populations were divided into 4 groups according to instruments used, and each group consisted of 10 women: conventional alternate bipolar/monopolar instruments (group 1), above instruments with both hands (group 2), combo-coagulator* using M/BAC* (group 3), and LigaSure* (group 4). The following were examined: (1) numbers of instrument changes per case and (2) elapsed time for controlling bleeders in each group. Exclusion criteria were women with any previous pelvic surgery, any concurrent surgeries, moderate to severe pelvic adhesions, ureteral, uterine artery dissection, any complications, RUMI system failure, and a uterus that was too small (<100g) or too large (>500g).

Results: Baseline characteristics were similar among the 4 groups (P>0.05). Median numbers of instrument changes per case were 40, 25, 7.5, and 29.5 (P=0.0000), respectively. Median elapsed time (seconds) for bleeding control was 17, 4, 3 (P=0.0000), but if blurring positive, 84 (group 1) vs. 28 (group 2). Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis test (a level of significance: P<0.05).

Conclusions: (1) Group 3 had the smallest number of instrument changes (1/5 of group 1), and the shortest in elapsed time for bleeding control. (2) M/BAC* decreased operation time, blood loss, costs, and no related problems occurred.



9178 General Surgery
Preliminary Results with Endoscopic Plication for Revision of Gastric Bypass
Dimitrios V. Avgerinos, MD, Chiranjiv Virk, MD, Omar H. Llaguna, MD, John L. Holup, DO, I. Michael Leitman, MD
Beth Israel Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York

Objective:
A new technique for endoscopic plication and revision of gastric pouch (EPRGP) for patients who underwent gastric bypass (RGB) surgery was evaluated in patients with severe GERD, dumping syndrome, and/or failure of weight loss.

Patients and Methods: Patients underwent EPRGP over an 8-month period. The StomaphyX device (Endogastric Solutions, Redmond, WA) was utilized over a standard flexible gastroscope. Patients were kept on a clear liquid diet for 1 week after the procedure.

Results: The study included 30 patients with a mean age of 46.3 years. EPRGP was performed an average of 4.9 years following RGB. The mean preoperative BMI was 41kg/m2. The indications were dumping syndrome (21), GERD (6), and failure of weight loss (3). The mean follow-up period was 4.3 months (range, 1 to 8). The average operative time was 57 minutes, with a significant reduction with increased operator experience. There was only one (3.3%) intraoperative complication during the early period (equipment failure), which did not result in any morbidity. All patients were discharged home after overnight observation. Postoperatively, all were free of symptoms from dumping syndrome or reflux, with no further operative-related complications. The mean weight loss was 9.2 lbs.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates the technical feasibility and safety of EPRGP. This is a valuable technique for the treatment of some of the gastrointestinal complications of RGB with modest early weight loss. Further studies and extended follow-up are necessary to determine the durability of weight loss.


9179 Gynecology
Laparoscopic Approach for Presacral Tumors: Early Experience of Initial 19 Cases
Huicheng Xu, MD, Yong Chen, MD, Yuyan Li, MD, Junnan Li, MD, PhD, Dan Wang, MD, Zhiqing Liang, MD, PhD
Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, PR China

Objective:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the complete surgical resection by a laparoscopic surgical technique normally undertaken for tumors under the sacral promontory.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of the clinical features and results of surgical treatment of 19 patients who had laparoscopic resection of presacral tumors between 2005 and 2008.

Results: All 19 patients underwent the laparoscopic procedure, and complete tumor resection was obtained. The mean operative time was 182 minutes (range, 115 to 328), with a mean blood loss of 180mL (range, 120 to 230), and the average hospital stay was 6.2 days (range, 6 to 9). Pathological findings included 6 teratomas, 6 dermoid cysts, 3 schwannoma, 2 tailgut cysts, 1 hamartoma, and 1 aggressive angiomyxoma. No complications occurred interoperatively. One patient has transitory left leg motor dysfunction. No postoperative mortality or complication was seen. In addition, no sensory or motor dysfunction of the bladder or rectum was observed postoperatively. The median follow-up was 16 months (range, 3 to 32). The postoperative course was uneventful, with one teratoma recurrence at 12 months and 1 aggressive angiomyxoma recurrence at 29 months.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic surgery for the removal of presacral tumors is feasible. The use of this new technical approach offers many advantages but requires extensive experience in pelvic surgery and laparoscopic skills. It is suggested that such laparoscopic procedures be reserved for select cases of benign tumors, and its application must be verified by further studies.


9180 Gynecology
Laparoscopic Gonadectomy for Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome with Serous Gonadal Cyst

Mineto Morita, MD, Takehiko Tsuchiya, MD, Ichiro Uchiide, MD, Masahito Nakakuma, MD, Yukiko Katagiri, MD
Toho University School of Medicine

Introduction:
Androgen insensitivity syndrome is caused by a mutation in the androgen receptor gene. The frequency varies from 1/10,000 to 1/62,400 women. We report on a patient with androgen insensitivity syndrome with a serous gonadal cyst who underwent laparoscopic surgery.

Case Report: The patient was a 15-year-old phenotypic woman with height 162.5cm and weight 63.0kg. Her breasts were Tanner stage III. Abdominal findings included bilateral inguinal scars consistent with hernia repair. Pelvic examination revealed normal external female genitalia with Tanner stage I pubic hair. The vaginal vault ended in a blind pouch and was approximately 8-cm deep. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging revealed the presence of a 36-mm cystic smooth mass close to the left external iliac vein and artery. Serum hormone concentrations were FSH 12.0mIU/mL, LH 30.5mIU/mL, E2 36.25pg/mL, T 10.12ng/mL, PRL 23.9ng/mL. The chromosome test revealed a normal 46,XY. The diagnosis of androgen insensitivity syndrome was made on these findings. Bilateral laparoscopic gonadectomy was performed with the patient under general anesthesia. Histopathological finding of the gonads was immature testis. Estrogen therapy was initiated postoperatively.

Conclusion: Due to the reduced morbidity, shorter hospital stay, and safety, laparoscopic gonadectomy can be considered the treatment of choice for removal of gonads in patients with androgen insensitivity syndrome.


9181 General Surgery
Resection of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor of the Rectum by Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery
Paul R. Sturrock, MD, John C. Fondran, MD, Adam A. Klipfel, MD, Jorge A. Lagares-Garcia
Rhode Island Colorectal Clinic, Pawtucket, Rhode Island

Objective
: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) involving the rectum represent a rare clinical entity. We propose that transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) may represent an acceptable option for surgical resection of rectal GIST.

Methods: Case report and review of the literature.

Results: This case represents a successful resection of a GIST of the rectum via TEM.

Conclusion: While currently little evidence exists in the literature regarding the application of TEM to GIST of the rectum, extrapolation from series in other areas of the gastrointestinal tract indicates complete resection of the lesion is the goal of surgery. TEM may allow a minimally invasive approach to these lesions in select patients.


9183 Multispecialty
Experimental Model in a Pig as a Training Tool in Endoscopic Axillary Dissection
María Eugenia Aponte-Rueda, MD, PhD, Ramón A. Saade Cárdenas, MD,
Rodolfo Miquilarena, MD
Caracas University Hospital, Central University of Venezuela, University City, Caracas-Venezuela

Background:
Endoscopic axillary lymphatic dissection is part of our surgical options, but its use has not been accepted with great enthusiasm. Several factors have accounted for this, including the lack of an effective experimental model that allows obtaining skills and abilities. The aim of this study was to develop a training tool for endoscopic axillary dissection and to evaluate its applicability in a pig model.

Methods: Twenty endoscopic dissections of the axilla were performed in 10 pigs of 4 to 6 months (weight, 25 to 35kg) by a single surgeon. Subcutaneous axillary space was dissected with blunt dissection and kept with CO2. Surgical workflow was segmented into temporal operative phases (space creation, trocar placement, dissection, and lymphadenectomy). Time necessary to perform this action was compared throughout the study.

Results: The mean dissection time was 26+7 minutes (range, 19 to 33). The axillary content was separated from the other anatomical elements under complete visualization (85% to 100% of the cases). Intraoperative complications happened in 2 dissections of 20 (10%) including uncontrollable bleeding and subcutaneous emphysema. Residual fibrofatty tissue was removed in 3 of 20 dissections.

Conclusion:
We defined a pig model for commencement of training in endoscopic axillary dissection. With this model, the surgeon can learn to handle the structures atraumatically, to remove nodes, and to use instruments in a close workspace with complicated anatomy, which allow the development of a valid model for obtaining advanced laparoscopic skill that may be applicable to other endoscopic axillary procedures.


9184 Urology
Median Lobe in Robotic Prostatectomy: Bladder Neck Reconstruction and Pelvic Drain Not Routinely Required



Humberto J. Martinez-Suarez, MD, Asha White, MD, Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center and James Cancer Hospital

Introduction:
A median lobe (ML) may affect the outcomes of robotic prostatectomy. We do not routinely perform cystoscopy prior to prostatectomy, use pelvic drainage, or bladder neck reconstruction. We assessed the incidence of ML among our patients and compared their outcomes, specifically addressing whether bladder neck reconstruction (BNR) or use of a drain was needed.

Methods: We reviewed 250 consecutive robotic prostatectomies to identify patients with a median lobe and their perioperative outcomes compared with those without ML.

Results: Forty patients had ML (16%). Mean operative time was 171.7 minutes and 165.5 minutes, respectively (P=0.36). Mean blood loss was 145mL (range, 50 to 500) in those with ML, which was higher than the 116mL (range, 20 to 500) in those without (P=0.02). No patients with ML required transfusion, while 1.4% of others did. Mean gland size of 73.5g (range, 35.9 to 148.1) was larger in those with ML compared with 51.7g (range, 25.5 to 151.7) in those without (P<0.005). There was no difference between those with and without ML in length of hospitalization (1.0 vs 1.0 days, P=0.56), catheterization time (5.08 vs 5.77 days, P=0.13), anastomotic leak on cystogram (2.6% vs 1.5%, P=0.15), drain use (2.5% vs 1.4%, P=0.42), or need for BNR (7.5% vs 3.3%, P=0.22).

Conclusion: Patients with ML had a greater gland size and blood loss but no additional need for transfusion, bladder neck reconstruction, or drain use and no additional catheterization time or risk of leak. With proper handling, ML can be addressed without adverse outcomes and without routine use of pelvic drainage or BNR.


9185 Urology
Results of Robotic Limited and Extended Pelvic Lymphadenectomy for Prostate Cancer
Hugh J. Lavery, MD, Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center and James Cancer Hospital, Columbus, Ohio


Objectives
: The optimal extent of pelvic lymphadenectomy (PLND) for prostate cancer is unknown. Some advocate selective lymphadenectomy; others advocate extended dissections in all. Concerns have been raised regarding the quality of PLND with robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). We reviewed our experience with extended and limited PLND to determine nodal yield, complications, and rate of node positivity.

Methods: We reviewed 250 consecutive RALPs with PLND from February 2008 to January 2009 by a single surgeon. “Low-risk” patients underwent limited PLND including external iliac and obturator nodes. “High-risk” patients with PSA >10ng/dL, cT3 disease, Gleason ≥8, or biopsy ≥50% cancer had ePLND adding nodes medial to the genitofemoral nerve including hypogastric and common iliac nodes up to the ureter.

Results: Of 250 patients, 173 underwent limited PLND and 77 ePLND. Mean yield was 11 nodes, with 8.6 and 16.5 nodes for limited and ePLND, respectively. Seventeen (7%) node-positive (N+) patients were identified, 2 (1.1%) in the limited and 15 (19.4%) in the ePLND group. Of 183 organ-confined (OC) tumors, only 1 was N+ (0.5%) compared with 16 of 67 (24%) non-OC tumors. Complications of PLND included 4 symptomatic lymphoceles, 1 ureteral injury requiring a temporary stent, and 1 obturator nerve palsy for a PLND complication rate of 2.4%.

Conclusions: Pelvic lymphadenectomy for prostate cancer can be safely and effectively performed robotically with nodal yields and rate of positivity comparable to that of open series. Given the low rate of nodal positivity in lower risk patients, the role of limited PLND needs further evaluation.


9186 Urology
Clinical Pathway for Early Discharge After Robotic Cystectomy

Asha D. White, MD, Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center and James Cancer Hospital


Objective
: Typical reported lengths of stay for open or laparoscopic cystectomy are 7 days to 8 days, with 5.1 days as the lowest reported mean for robotic cystectomy (RC). We developed a clinical pathway for early discharge after RC and analyzed our initial outcomes.

Methods: Twelve patients underwent RC by a single surgeon. All were placed on a clinical pathway developed at our institution with extraction incision of ≤3 inches, no ICU stay, and no NG tube. For pain, a continuous catheter-infused local anesthetic at the extraction site, oral analgesia, and intravenous ketorolac were used. Patients were required to ambulate on postoperative day (POD) zero or one, with clear liquids on POD#1 then regular food on POD#2 or #3 with discharge when tolerating food.


Results
: Mean age was 64.1 years (range, 46 to 86), and mean operative time was 420.5 minutes. All ambulated on POD#1. Seven had a regular diet on POD#2, 3 on PO#3, and 2 on POD#4. Four required any intravenous narcotics while 8 had none. Ten were discharged on POD#3 and 2 on POD#4 for a mean of 3.1 days. One returned to the emergency department on POD#6 for emesis resolving with promethazine. No others visited the emergency department or clinic or were readmitted within the first 7days after discharge.

Conclusion
: Our clinical pathway after RC allows shorter hospital stays than typical and is, to our knowledge, the shortest hospitalization time reported after cystectomy by any technique. Only one unplanned visit occurred during the first 10 days. Further experience will be necessary to confirm the initial success.


9187 Urology
Comparison of Intraoperative Outcomes with New and Old Generation da Vinci Robots for Robotic Prostatectomy

Ketul Shah, MD, Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio

Introduction:
Surgical technology continues to evolve. As robotic technology improves, the impact of new platforms on surgical procedures has not been evaluated.

Methods: We reviewed 100 robotic prostatectomy procedures and compared intraoperative outcomes for procedures using the da Vinci S robot versus the previous generation “standard” robot. Procedures where the S was specifically requested were excluded. Otherwise, procedures were randomly performed on one robot or the other.

Results: Mean operative time for robotic prostatectomy with lymphadenectomy was 191 minutes using the standard robot (range, 132 to 266) versus 169 minutes with the S robot (range, 98 to 230), representing a mean difference of 22 minutes (P=0.002). This was despite no difference in mean patient BMI of 30.6 (range, 19 to 51) for standard versus 29.3 (range, 21 to 37) for S (P=0.31), no difference in mean prostate size of 54.6g (range, 26 to 101) for standard versus 57.3g (range, 32 to 151) for S (P=0.55), no difference in frequency of nerve-sparing, and no difference in the portions performed by residents, which ranged from none to all of the procedure. The standard was more often used for the surgeon’s first case of the day than for the second, third, or fourth of the day (P=0.006). There was no difference in blood loss (P=0.08), positive margins (P=0.87), or mean lymph nodes removed (10.7 vs 10.6).

Conclusions: Both generations of da Vinci robotic technology are equally effective, but the S appears to allow shorter procedure times. This may be due to ease of docking or fewer arm-position changes needed to adjust for shorter arm length and less range of motion.


9188 Urology
Three-Port Robotic Urologic Surgery Without a Laparoscopic Bedside Assistant

Gregory Lowe, MD, Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center and James Cancer Hospital

Objective:
The role of robotics for upper tract urologic surgery has been questioned in part due to the perceived need for additional bedside-assistant ports beyond those for laparoscopy and for an experienced laparoscopist at the bedside. We review our experience with 3-port robotic renal, adrenal, and upper tract reconstructive surgery.

Methods: Between June 2008 and January 2009, 32 procedures were performed through 3 ports, one for the robotic scope and 2 robotic instrument ports. No assistant was needed beyond the scrub technician. Procedures included 4 simple nephrectomies, 14 pyeloplasties, 2 ureteral reimplantations, 1 ureteral reconstruction, 2 adrenalectomies, and 9 radical nephrectomies.

Results: Mean operative times from incision to dressing were 106 minutes for simple nephrectomy, 159 minutes for pyeloplasty, 122 minutes for ureteral reimplantation, 180 minutes for ureteral reconstruction, 70 minutes for adrenalectomy, and 170 minutes for radical nephrectomy including lymphadenectomy. During the same time period, 4 radical nephrectomies but no other procedures required a 4-port approach, including for a 19-cm renal mass, an enlarged liver, excessive intraabdominal fat, and one planned partial nephrectomy. Four patients were discharged the day of surgery, and all others the day after. Mean blood loss was difficult to measure because suction was not routinely used.

Conclusions: Three-port robotic urologic surgery is feasible. The ability to perform robotic upper-tract surgery without an assistant experienced in laparoscopy is encouraging, particularly as a potential transition to single-port or natural-orifice robotic surgery. Having developed intraoperative strategies to minimize reliance on an assistant, most but not all procedures can be performed without an assistant.


9189 Urology
Early Results of Robotic Lymphadenectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma
Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center and James Cancer Hospital

Introduction:
Laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma has gained acceptance in the urologic community, but lymphadenectomy is not uniformly performed during open or laparoscopic nephrectomy. With the advent of targeted medical therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma, lymphadenectomy for identification of micrometastatic disease may merit reconsideration. We sought to determine whether lymphadenectomy can be performed at the time of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy with the aid of robotic instrumentation and present the first such cases of robotic retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy for renal cell carcinoma.

Methods: Robotic radical nephrectomy with lymphadenectomy was performed in 13 patients. For right-sided tumors, the lymphadenectomy included paracaval, retrocaval, and interaortocaval nodes, and left-sided tumors included interaortocaval and paraaortic nodes.

Results: Mean tumor size was 6.7cm (range, 2.2 to 19), with all revealing renal cell carcinoma on pathology. Six were locally invasive with four T3a and two T3b tumors. Mean operative time was 198 minutes (range, 120 to 350). A mean of 9.8 lymph nodes was obtained (range, 4 to 24), and all were negative for carcinoma. Estimated blood loss was 65cc (range, 10 to 200). A total of 3 ports were used in 9 of 13 cases. No patient required intravenous narcotics postoperatively, and 11 of 13 patients were discharged on the first postoperative day with the other 2 on the second day. One patient had a cautery injury to the bowel due to a defect in the insulation on a robotic instrument, but there were no vascular injuries or other complications of the lymphadenectomy.

Conclusion: Robotic radical lymphadenectomy is feasible and safe, but the benefits are yet uncertain.


9190 Urology
Initial Report of Robotic Radical Nephrectomy with Vena Caval Tumor Thrombectomy
Ronney Abaza, MD
Ohio State University Medical Center & James Cancer Hospital

Objective:
Robotic surgery is increasingly being applied to complex urologic conditions. The first report of robot-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with caval tumor thrombus is presented.

Methods: A 70-year-old male was found to have a 7.5-cm mass consistent with renal cell carcinoma with renal vein involvement but equivocal for vena caval involvement. Thoracoscopy was consistent with low-volume, isolated metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Cytoreductive nephrectomy was recommended. Minimally invasive nephrectomy was offered to potentially reduce recovery time and allow institution of antineoplastic medical therapy.

Results: The procedure was performed through 3 ports without a bedside assistant port. The inferior vena cava (IVC) was dissected circumferentially at the level of the insertion of the right renal vein. It became apparent by visual palpation of the IVC with the robotic instruments that the tumor thrombus protruded at least midway into its lumen. The IVC was clamped with a curved laparoscopic Satinsky clamp introduced percutaneously and closed at a point approximately one-third of the way across the lumen. The wall of the IVC was then incised and the tumor thrombus delivered intact. The IVC was then closed with 2 layers of polypropylene suture maintaining more than half of its lumen. Estimated blood loss was <50cc. Total operative time from incision to dressing was 266 minutes. The patient was discharged on the second postoperative day and has achieved stability of disease with medical therapy now 4 months after surgery.

Conclusion: Robotic surgery was safely applied for RCC with IVC tumor thrombus.


9191 Gynecology
To Assess the Clinical Efficacy of Integrating Sacral Neuromodulator InterStim Implants in Gynecological Private Practice for Treatment of Intractable Urinary Urgency
Radha Syed, MD
Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, New York

Objective:
To assess the clinical feasibility of integrating sacral neuromodulation into a general gynecological practice for treatment of intractable and severe urge incontinence.

Methods: Five consecutive patients with refractory urinary urge incontinence whose ages ranged between 45 and 65 years old (mean age, 55) were selected from the private practice patient pool. Patients had already undergone clinical investigation, urodynamic testing, and urine culture. An evaluation by a urologist had been conducted. Patients were unresponsive to pharmacologic and behavioral therapy and pelvic floor reeducation. Minimally invasive screening test to assess the efficacy of InterStim therapy was performed in the office. The successful lead test led to the second stage, the implant procedure for the InterStim neurostimulator. InterStim II INS (Model 3058) was permanently implanted with the patient under anesthesia in an outpatient setting. Quantitative assessment was performed by preoperative and postoperative 3-day bladder diaries.

Results: The cure rate was associated with age–individuals younger than 55 years having a statistically significant greater cure (65% vs. 35%) than the older individuals. Having a chronic medical condition was associated with a lower cure rate as an independent factor. Minor complications were associated with permanent implantation including pain and infection at the site of implantation, technical problems with lead migration, and need for repositioning.

Conclusion: Sacral nerve stimulation is an effective therapy for decreasing the symptoms of urge incontinence that can be easily integrated into gynecological private practice. Adequate knowledge and training are necessary prior to undertaking this new modality.


9192 Urology
Comparing Diode Laser with KTP Laser
Manuel Ferreira Coelho, MD, Pedro Bargão Santos, MD
Hospital dos Lusíadas, Clínica São João de Deus, Lisboa, Portugal

Objective: The wavelength 980nm of a recently introduced diode laser system for treatment of benign prostatic enlargement and the potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) laser offer a high simultaneous absorption in water and hemoglobin and are postulated to combine high tissue ablative properties with good hemostasis.

Methods: The Ceralas HPD150 diode laser system was evaluated in 20 patients, and the KTP laser was evaluated in another 20 patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate tissue ablation capacity and hemostatic properties at different generator settings. A histological examination of the ablated tissue followed. The results were compared with the reference standards transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Results: The diode laser displays a higher tissue ablation capacity, reaching 7.25±1.50g after 10 minutes, compared with the KTP laser (3.90±0.46g; P<0.05). The corresponding depths of the coagulation zones are 295.1±47.0µm for the diode laser, 650.9±65.0µm for the KTP laser (P<0.05), and 289.1±28.5µm for TURP.

Conclusion: The 980-nm diode laser offers a higher tissue ablation capacity and similar hemostasis compared with the KTP laser. In comparison with TURP, both tissue ablation and bleeding are significantly reduced.


9193 General Surgery
Necessity for Improvement in Endoscopy Training During Surgical Residency

Aditya Gupta, MD, Gokulakkrishna Subhas, MD, Vijay K. Mittal, MD
Providence Hospital and Medical Centers, Southfield, Michigan

Background:
ACGME has increased requirements to ensure that surgical residents obtain adequate endoscopy skills. A survey questionnaire was sent to surgical program directors to look at residents’ endoscopic training.

Methods:
A 10-question survey was sent to all program directors in surgery. Endoscopic training patterns, facilities, their views, and performance of residents were examined. The national averages for the last 3 years for endoscopic procedures were collected.

Results: Seventy-one
directors (30%) responded to the questionnaire. Of these, 42% (n=30) had a program size of 3 to 4 residents. Ten percent (n=7) of programs could not fulfill the minimum ACGME requirements. Only 55% (n=39) of programs had a dedicated rotation in endoscopy, which ranged from 0.5 months to 3 months. Most program directors (82%, n=58) thought that their residents’ exposure to endoscopy was sufficient. Only 55% (n=39) had an endoscopic skills training laboratory in their program. The average numbers of staff surgeons in programs performing endoscopy were 5 for colonoscopy, 6 for gastroscopy, and only 0.2 for ERCP. Few programs had their residents performing more than 100 cases of gastroscopy (18%) and colonoscopy (21%). According to program directors, the average number of cases needed to achieve competency for colonoscopy (n=60), gastroscopy (n=41), and ERCP (n=56) were more than the national averages for the last 3 years (33, 25, and 0.3, respectively).

Conclusion:
Future endoscopy training for surgical residents needs to increase opportunities so that they are able to perform endoscopy with confidence. This would include provision of endoscopic skills laboratory, dedicated endoscopic postings, and hiring staff surgeons who perform endoscopic procedures.


9194 Gynecology
Laparoscopy: Gold Standard for Ovarian Tissue Banking (OTB) in Cancer Patients
Kazem Nouri
Medical University of Vienna

Objective: To analyze and give a summary of our experience with laparoscopic ovarian tissue banking for ovarian cryopreservation as a means of fertility preservation in cancer patients, comparing this method with more conservative methods like injection of Gn-RH analogue and antagonists or IVF with subsequent oocyte or embryo cryopreservation.

Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study performed at the Medical School of Vienna, Department of Gynaecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine. The study cohort comprised 87 patients with the wish of fertility preservation through ovarian tissue banking (OTB). Laparoscopic surgery was performed to take out one-third of one ovary for ovarian cryopreservation and banking.

Results: The operating time, major and minor complications, histological and microbiological results were analyzed. Eighty-five patients underwent cryopreservation of ovarian tissue, mostly for malignant diseases (78/85, 91.8%). The median operating time was 30 minutes (range, 10 to 75). The intraoperative course was uneventful in these patients. Histological examination revealed intact ovarian tissue with primordial follicles in 81/85 patients (95.3%).

Conclusion: The increasing life expectancy after chemo and ionization therapy brings about new aspects into the life of cancer patients. One of the new issues and challenges in this group of patients is to maintain fertility despite the cancer therapy. One of the most promising new therapy options is OTB. Laparoscopy is the method of choice for ovarian tissue harvesting. After chemo or ionization therapy, the reimplantation of the cryopreserved ovary would also be performed by laparoscopy. To date, worldwide 5 live births have resulted from this method of fertility preservation.


9196 Gynecology
The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Diagnosis and Treatment of Uterine Myoma Before IVF/ICSI Cycle
Kazem Nouri
Medical University of Vienna

Objective:
To give a summary of current indications for operative therapy of myoma before starting IVF, and to give an overview of the role of minimally invasive surgery in both diagnosis and treatment of myoma in assisted reproductive technology.

Methods: We performed a review of the current available literature on the relationship between fibroids and IVF/ICSI therapy with particular emphasis on the benefits of myomectomy performed by minimally invasive methods and present our data and experience in the reproductive surgery unit of the Medical School of Vienna. Approximately 20% to 40% of women of reproductive age are known to have uterine myomas. It has been estimated that only 5% to 10% of infertile women have fibroids, and when all other causes of infertility are excluded, myomas alone may be responsible for only 2% to 3% of infertility cases.

Results: Five to 10% of IVF patients have uterine myomas. Only in special cases is it necessary to intervene surgically. The proper diagnosis is to be done by hysteroscopy. The gold standard of therapy is the laparoscopic myomectomy.

Conclusion: Only in rare cases are myomas of the uteri the only presenting cause of infertility. Five to 10% of the patients for whom an IVF/ICSI cycle is indicated have fibroids. Whether these fibroids reduce the chances of pregnancy is dependent on many factors like their location and volume. Minimally invasive surgery measures like hysteroscopy and laparoscopy are the most important tools in both diagnosis and treatment of myomas in IVF/ICSI patients.


9197 General Surgery
Combined Open-Laparoscopic Technique for Difficult Incisional Hernias

K. Theodoropoulou, MBBS, A. Syed, MBBS, J. Hill, MBBS, H. Bradpiece, FRCS
Princess Alexandra Hospital, Essex, United Kingdom

Objective:
Despite the fact that laparoscopic incisional hernia repair is very popular among general surgeons, there is always a small percentage of patients in whom the laparoscopic approach is not feasible and conversion to an open technique is required. The purpose of this study was to describe the combined approach and to demonstrate that it is effective, realistic, and safe.

Methods: Three patients with incisional hernias were examined. All 3 patients had incarcerated or irreducible bowel in the hernia sac that could not be reduced safely, and conversion to an open technique was essential. Each of these cases was commenced with a combined laparoscopic approach. We always started the hernia repair laparoscopically and converted to open only when further dissection and adhesiolysis were not feasible. A smaller incision than usual was performed followed by safe dissection and reduction of hernia sac content. Composite polypropylene and ePTFE mesh was placed intraperitoneally and fixed in 4 sites with staples. The abdominal wall was closed, and the fixation of the mesh was completed laparoscopically.

Results: All 3 patients underwent successful repair without any intraoperative complications. Two had uneventful postoperative recovery. One patient developed superficial wound abscess that required drainage but not removal of the mesh, as the aponeurosis was intact. No recurrence has been recorded (follow-up, 2 to 7 months)

Conclusion: The combined approach can offer all the advantages of an open approach and preserve most of the advantages of the laparoscopic technique. We advocate it as an alternative to the open technique when conversion to open is essential for patient’s safety.


9198 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease
F. Obregon, MD, M. Vasallo, MD, H. Malave, MD, S. Navarrete, A MD
Hospital Universitario de Caracas, Caracas, Venezuela

Objective:
Since the development of proton pump inhibitors as a treatment for peptic ulcer disease, its complications and recurrence have decreased. However, for some rare cases of recurrence or complications such as stenosis, the role of laparoscopic surgery has been established. We present the results of our experience with these procedures.

Methods: From October 2004 to December 2008, we performed 6 laparoscopic procedures for peptic ulcer disease. Patients were 2 males and 6 females with a mean age of 51.16 years (range, 38 to 68). All patients were studied with upper digestive endoscopy and biopsy and signed an informed consent. Preoperative diagnoses were 3 duodenal stenoses and 3 ulcer recurrences on gastrojejunal anastomosis, one of them with atypias. We performed 2 distal gastrectomies with Billroth II reconstructions, 1 hemigastrectomy with posterior truncal vagotomy and anterior selective vagotomy Billroth II type with Brown’s anastomosis, and 3 regastrectomies with resection of previous gastrojejunal anastomosis and Roux en Y reconstruction. All the procedures were performed totally laparoscopically using lineal endostaplers and intracorporeal suture.

Results: The mean operative time was 145.83 minutes (range, 110 to 210). Blood loss was as high as 100cc on average. Postoperative oral intake in all patients was on the third day, and length of postoperative stay was 5 days on average (range, 4 to 6). We had no conversions. No morbidity or mortality related to these procedures has occurred. Final results of all biopsies were benign, and at 3-month follow-up, upper digestive endoscopy was perform without pathological findings.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic surgery for peptic ulcer disease and its complications is a feasible and safe procedure.


9199 General Surgery
A Novel Technique for Endoscopic Repair of Symptomatic Diastasis Recti With or Without Simultaneous Ventral Hernia
Richard P. Franklin, MD, Robert S. Baxt, MD
Northwest Hospital

Objectives:
To be able to repair symptomatic diastasis recti laparoscopically. The repair of a diastasis should address multiple issues: restoring normal anatomy by reapproximation of the muscles to midline, improving abdominal wall mechanics, resolution of the abdominal wall bulge, and low risk of recurrence.

Methods: We repaired 5 patients (3 men, 2 women) with symptomatic diastasis, 4 of which had concomitant ventral hernias either adjacent to or just inferior to the diastasis.
This study was performed at a single center community hospital, and is a 2-surgeon series of repairs. Patients were repaired laparoscopically with an intraabdominal mesh (CQUR Edge - Atrium) and transabdominal sutures that allowed reapproximation of the rectus abdominus muscles in the midline, with recreation of the linea alba, and transfascial fixation of the mesh to the abdominal wall. In addition, the mesh covered of all defects in the standard fashion for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with an overlap of at least 5cm using standard tacks Absorbatac (Covidian) or Protac (Autosuture) for lateral fixation of the mesh to the abdominal wall.

Results: All 5 repairs (follow-up 2 to 12 months) have excellent results without recurrence of symptoms or abdominal wall bulge. No clinical recurrences of hernia or diastasis bulge are apparent, and all patients are back to their normal occupations.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic repair of symptomatic diastasis recti is a feasible repair leading to loss of abdominal bulge, resolution of pain, better abdominal wall mechanics, and good cosmetic outcomes.


9200 General Surgery
Laparoscopic Repair of Bilateral Spigelian Hernias (TAPP)
Usman Jaffer, BSc (Hons), MB BS, MSc, MSc (Ultrasound), MRCS(Eng), FHEA, DIC, Periyathambi Jambulingam, FRCS
The Luton and Dunstable NHS Trust, Luton, United Kingdom.

Objectives: To demonstrate a technique of laparoscopic repair of bilateral Spigelian hernia.

Methods: A 3-port technique was used. The transabdominal preperitoneal approach (TAPP) was used. A right-sided direct inguinal hernia was also encountered. This was also repaired using the same peritoneal incision by deepening the preperitoneal plane appropriately. Two pieces of Prolene mesh were placed in the preperitoneal space and secured with metal tacks. The peritoneum was also closed similarly.

Results: A sound repair was achieved. The patient was discharged home the next day.

Conclusion: The laparoscopic TAPP approach can be performed safely and effectively for bilateral Spigelian hernias.


9201 Gynecology
A Multicenter Series of Over 1000 Laparoscopic Subtotal Hysterectomies in the UK and Greece: The New Approach to Hysterectomy
Stefanos Chandakas, MD, MBA, PhD

Background:
Minimally invasive surgery has influenced the techniques used in gynecology, with an overall minimization of complications and increased patient satisfaction. We sought to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomies in an outpatient setting.

Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, nonrandomized study performed at Princess Royal University Hospital, London, United Kingdom and Iaso Hospital, Athens Greece. For the patients who underwent a laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy in the last 60 months, data were collected from medical records on how the intervention was performed, followed for 18 months. Two surgeons performed 1008 subtotal hysterectomies. Indications included 21.6% for endometriosis, 68.2% for menorrhagia, and 11.2% for endometrial pathology.

Results: Duration of surgery and hospital stay, safety (morbidity and mortality), and patient satisfaction were assessed. Estimated blood loss was 75mL (range, 20 to 2300). Intraoperative complications were as follows: 0.4% had significant complications; 0% vascular injuries and 0% nerve or ureter injuries; 2.2% had cyclic bleeding. Early postoperative morbidity included 0.2% deep vein thrombosis, 0% pulmonary embolism, 1.1% bladder infection and dysfunction. The overall complication rate was 1.8%. Three patients required drainage for intraabdominal abscess. Regarding hospital stay of these 1008 patients, 91% were discharged home the same day with an average length of stay of 9 hours.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy can be safely performed as an outpatient procedure.


9202 Gynecology
Single-Port Laparoscopy in Gynecology: What Can We Perform?
A Series of 35 Cases
Stefanos Chandakas, MD, MBA, PhD

Background:
Minimally invasive surgery has influenced the techniques used in gynecology, with an overall minimization of complications and increased patient satisfaction. We sought to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of single-port laparoscopic (SPL) surgery in gynecology.

Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, nonrandomized study performed at Iaso Hospital and Attikon University Hospital, Athens, Greece. It included 35 patients who underwent SPL surgery between October 2008 and February 2009. Indications included 55% salpingo-oophorectomy, 26% diagnostic laparoscopy and treatment of stage 1/2 endometriosis, 19% cystectomy.

Results: Duration of surgery and hospital stay, safety (morbidity and mortality), and patient satisfaction were assessed. Estimated blood loss was 35mL (range, 10 to 230). Intraoperative complications were as follows: 0% vascular injuries and 0% nerve or ureter injuries. Early postoperative morbidity included no major complications, 0.1% bladder infection and dysfunction, and 0.3% incision infection. All patients were discharged home the same day with an average length of stay for these patients of 8