Closed-Wound Negative Pressure Therapy Dressing After Loop Ostomy Closure.

Purpose: Closed-wound negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) dressings were recently introduced with the purpose to reduce incisional surgical site infections (iSSI) in high-risk wounds.The aim of this study was to compare iSSI rates in patients after ostomy closure with and without additional application of a closed-wound NPWT dressing.Methods: Single-center retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing ileo- or colostomy closure over an 8-year period (January 2013 - January 2021). Intradermal absorbable sutures were used in all patients. Since November 2018, all patients (study group) received a NPWT device for a maximum of 5 days postoperatively (PICO® Smith and Nephew).Primary outcome was iSSI rate within 30 days of surgery. Data was retrieved from the institutional enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) database, with standardized complication assessment by trained abstractors.Results: In total, 85 patients (25%) in the study group were comparable with 252 (75%) patients in the control group regarding demographics (age, gender, body mass index, ASA score), ostomy type and anastomotic technique (all p>0.05). Median time to NPWT removal was 4 (IQR 3-5) days. Incisional SSI were observed in 4 patients (4.7%) in the study group and in 27 patients (10.7%) in the control group (p=0.097).Conclusion: These preliminary results suggest a potential benefit of systematic application of the NPWT device after loop ostomy closure. A randomized controlled study is needed to confirm these findings.

Lipogranulema of the hernia sac. Clinical case

Lipogranulomas in surgical practice, are the most often encountered in the mammary glands, penis and facial area associated with subcutaneous injections for cosmetic purposes of various types of fillers that cause chronic granulomatous inflammation. Atypical localization occurs due to the development of reactions to foreign bodies after traumatic injuries and reactions to suture material used in surgical interventions. The article presents a clinical case of revealing a large peritoneal lipogranuloma localized in the area of the hernial sac in a patient who 7 years ago suffered from endometrial cancer and underwent extirpation of the uterus using median incision access. Subsequently, the patient was treated for a long time in an outpatient care because of the ligature abscesses with the formation of fistulas; several rough ligatures were removed from the subcutaneous tissue. Lipogranuloma, found in the wall of the hernial sac measuring 15 × 6 × 5 cm, covered from all sides with an unaltered peritoneum, contained a cystic cavity with a light fluid, thick synthetic ligatures of a braided structure were present in the cyst wall. The use of large-diameter braided non-absorbable sutures for suturing the peritoneum does not meet modern requirements for the use of suture material and can cause complications.

Rotator cuff irreparability or failure of repair (re-tear): technical note on middle trapezius tendon transfer for reproduction of supraspinatus function

Purpose Based on its close anatomic features and nearly-collinear force vector to those of supraspinatus muscle, the current article describes a technique of middle trapezius tendon transfer for reproduction of supraspinatus function in the context of rotator cuff irreparability/re-tear management. Methods While seating the patient in beach-chair position, arthroscopic gleno-humeral examination and sub-acromial decompression are initially performed. Hamstring tendons are harvested and fashioned as flattened quadruple sheet. Through McKenzie approach, infraspinatus and subscapularis tendons are repaired. Then, medial half of middle trapezius insertion tendon is harvested from most medial 5-6 cm of the scapular spine. Through McKenzie approach, hamstring sheet is retrieved via a sub-trapezius/sub-acromial corridor from the scapular wound. Hamstring sheet is re-attached to cuff footprint by double row/suture bridge repair configuration. While retracting the scapula and placing gleno-humeral joint in 45O-abduction/45O-external rotation, hamstring sheet is re-attached to released middle trapezius tendon by non-absorbable sutures. Finally, tendon reconstruct is dynamically-tested in different positions of range of motion. Results Transfer of medial portion of middle trapezius insertion tendon (lengthened by interposition hamstring tendon sheet) to cuff footprint was technically feasible. Dynamic testing showed smooth sub-acromial gliding motion of the tendon reconstruct. Conclusion For reproduction of supraspinatus function, hamstring tendon augmented-middle trapezius tendon transfer to cuff footprint heralds a number of technical and biomechanical advantages; thus offering a potential effective modality of cuff irreparability/re-tear management in relatively young patients of high functional demands. However, current description should be investigated in further biomechanical and clinical studies to validate its long-term outcomes.

Ligamentum teres augmentation (LTA) for hiatal hernia repair after minimally invasive esophageal resection: a new use for an old structure

Purpose Hiatal hernias with intrathoracic migration of the intestines are serious complications after minimally invasive esophageal resection with gastric sleeve conduit. High recurrence rates have been reported for standard suture hiatoplasties. Additional mesh reinforcement is not generally recommended due to the serious risk of endangering the gastric sleeve. We propose a safe, simple, and effective method to close the hiatal defect with the ligamentum teres. Methods After laparoscopic repositioning the migrated intestines, the ligamentum teres is dissected from the ligamentum falciforme and the anterior abdominal wall. It is then positioned behind the left lobe of the liver and swung toward the hiatal orifice. Across the anterior aspect of the hiatal defect it is semi-circularly fixated with non-absorbable sutures. Care should be taken not to endanger the blood supply of the gastric sleeve. Results We have used this technique for a total of 6 patients with hiatal hernias after hybrid minimally invasive esophageal resection in the elective (n = 4) and emergency setting (n = 2). No intraoperative or postoperative complications have been observed. No recurrence has been reported for 3 patients after 3 months. Conclusion Primary suture hiatoplasties for hiatal hernias after minimally invasive esophageal resection can be technically challenging, and high postoperative recurrence rates are reported. An alternative, safe method is needed to close the hiatal defect. Our promising preliminary experience should stimulate further studies regarding the durability and efficacy of using the ligamentum teres hepatis to cover the hiatal defect.

Laparoscopic surgery for strangulated diaphragmatic hernia after radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report

Background Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but delayed thermal damage can cause diaphragmatic hernia (DH). Surgery is recommended for DH, and open surgery is widely accepted. This report presents a case of laparoscopic surgery for strangulated DH that occurred after RFA. Case presentation An 80-year-old woman with a history of hepatitis C-induced liver cirrhosis and HCC was admitted to our institution owing to sudden-onset intense epigastric pain. Twenty-two months earlier, she received RFA treatment for HCC located in segment 6/7. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed herniation of the small intestine into the thoracic cavity, with mesenteric fat haziness. Emergency laparoscopic surgery was performed, and the patient was diagnosed with strangulated DH associated with the prior RFA. The defect was closed using absorbable sutures, and the ischaemic small intestine was resected via mini-laparotomy. The patient was discharged on the 10th postoperative day without complications, and no evidence of DH recurrence 15 months after surgery was noted. Conclusions Laparoscopic surgery seems useful and feasible for strangulated DH.

766 PROPHYLAXIS OF POST-FUNDOPLICATION SIDE EFFECTS AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC NISSEN EXTRA SOFT FUNDOPLICATION.

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication (LNF) is well-established surgical treatment of GERD with best long-term postoperative outcomes in controlling reflux. Usually it is associated with a high risk of dysphagia, flatulence, inability to belch, bloating, which appear due to total over-tight wrap around esophagus. Partial fundoplication can avoid these effects, but unfortunately does not have the same long-term postoperative reflux control. So, new approach to prophylaxis of post-fundoplication side effects during LNF is needed. Methods Modified extra-soft LNF for GERD during 2016–2020 years were proposed in 75 patients. Prior to the fundoplication wrap formation the operation was performed according to the standard procedure. The proposed surgical techniques were: performing of an extra mobilization of the stomach (mandatory fundus and more ½ part of a large curvature) by crossing the gastro-splenic ligament completely and the gastro-colonic ligament partially and formation of a short extra-soft fundoplication wrap around the esophagus less 1.5 cm in the length with no more than 3 non-absorbable sutures with obligatory fixation to the esophagus. We examined twelve months follow-up. Results Along with the disappearance of GERD symptoms, no post-fundoplication dysphagia, flatulence, inability to belch and bloating were marked in any patient. Routine application of the above-described techniques allowed us to perform a modified LNF in all 75 patients by the extra mobilization of the stomach and formation of an extra-soft total fundoplication wrap with obligatory fixation to the esophagus without mandatory use of a thick (56–60 Fr) gastric fundoplication tube. Conclusion According to our study, in comparison with standard LNF, the proposed surgical techniques is effective in the prevention of post-fundoplication complications (dysphagia, flatulence, inability to belch, bloating) and support routine use of this modified Laparoscopic Nissen Extra Soft Fundoplication in treatment of GERD.

1271 The Management of Acutely Symptomatic Hernia (MASH): A UK Wide Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction Acutely symptomatic abdominal wall and groin hernias (ASH) are a common presentation, accounting for approximately 25% of acute surgical admissions in the UK. There is limited data to guide the treatment of such presentations. This study aimed to assess outcomes of emergency hernia surgery, and identify common management strategies, to improve care for these high-risk patients. Method A 12 week, UK-based, multi-centre, collaborative, prospective cohort study (NCT04197271) recruited adults with ASH. Data on inpatient management, specific surgical intervention, in-hospital morbidity and mortality and quality of life (EQ-5D-5L) was measured. 30 and 90-day follow-up phone calls collected complications and quality of life. Descriptive analyses were performed to describe population and outcomes. Results Twenty-three acute trusts recruited 264 patients. Inguinal (37.9%) and umbilical (37.1%) hernias were most common. 17% were awaiting elective surgery and 17% had been previously declined intervention. 46% were incarcerated at presentation, and 31% symptomatic (painful/irreducible). 82% of patients had operations within 48 hours, with 95% performed open. Mesh was used in 55%, the majority (86%) being synthetic non-absorbable. Sutures used for suture repair varied widely. Complications were infrequent; 2% developed pneumonia or delirium. Surgical site infection occurred in 3% and mortality was 1.2%. Quality of life improved between baseline and 30-days following repair. Conclusions There is variation in the management of ASH in the UK, particularly with repair techniques, use of mesh and laparoscopy. One in five patients was awaiting repair; this might indicate a need for expedited pathways and reprioritising elective hernia repair.

784 TRANSHIATAL HERNIA: AN UNDERDIAGNOSED BUT OVER-TREATED COMPLICATION AFTER MINIMALLY INVASIVE ESOPHAGECTOMY

Postoperative transhiatal hernia is a possible life-threatening complication following esophagectomy. The incidence and indications to treat remain open to debate with apparently an increase after minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE). The aim of this study is to analyze a large series of patients after MIE in a single high-volume center with a transhiatal herniation after minimally invasive esophagectomy (THAMIE) and obtain new insights in this pathology. Methods We included all patients who underwent a MIE (Ivor Lewis and McKeown procedure) in our hospital between 2015 and 2020. Retrospective analysis of demographic, clinical and surgical data was performed. Outcomes of measure were incidence, initial clinical presentation, treatment of choice, postoperative complications and symptoms, herniation recurrence. Results In 341 MIE 25 (7.3%) patients were diagnosed with a THAMIE postoperatively. 4 patients (16.0%) were asymptomatic at the time of presentation. 5 patients (20%) were treated conservatively because of recurrent carcinoma. 20 patients received a laparoscopic reduction of the transhiatal hernia and cruraplasty (19 non-absorbable sutures, 1 mesh) regardless whether they were symptomatic or not. 25.0%(5/20) of the patients were operated in emergency settings and 5.0% (1/20) was converted to a laparotomy. Postoperatively 6 of the 18 symptomatic patients (33.3%) experienced no relief of symptoms and 40.0% (8/20) of the THAMIE recurred. 35% had serious postoperative complications (clavien-dindo IIIa or more) and mortality was 0.0%. Conclusion The incidence of 7.33% found in our data suggests that THAMIE is a common complication after MIE. We almost exclusively (95.0%) treated patients in a laparoscopic way. Due to the high percentage of morbidity (35.0% ≥ CD IIIa), recurrence (40.0%) and patients with unrelieved symptoms(33.3%) we recommend a conservative treatment for the asymptomatic patients, and further analysis of predictive symptoms associated with a THAMIE to evolve to a shared decision making algorithm for elective symptomatic patients.

421 USE OF BIOABSORBABLE MESH TO REINFORCE HIATAL CLOSURE—EARLY RESULTS

The hiatoplasty is one of the keypoints of hiatal hernia surgery. Reherniation is known to be a frequent reason for recurrence and reoperation. Biodegradable materials for reinforcement have been. shown in some series to reduce these outcomes with very low risks of mesh-related complications. Long term reports, however, have shown conflicting results. This may be because meshes have been used in complicated cases, in which other variables can be involved in unfavourable outcomes. Methods Based on the safe profile of absorbable meshes, we have used meshes to reinforce the hiatoplasty in patients with theoretical higher risks of hernia recurrence. Twenty four patients were operated using bioabsorbable mesh (Gore Bio A®), implanted as an onlay inverted C over a completely closed hiatus. Two surgeons were responsible for all the surgeries. There were 16 (66,6%) women and 8 (33,3%) men. The main reasons for using a mesh were: primary large hiatal hernias (4 cm or more)—14 cases; redo hiatal hernias—8 cases; increased abdominal pressure—2 cases. Results All surgeries were performed between April 2018 and January 2020. Meshes were fixed to the diaphragm using absorbable sutures, fibrin sealant or cyanoacrylate. In all cases, a Nissen fundoplication was performed. There were no conversions. Two (8,3%) patients complained of troublesome dysphagia requiring intervention. One had to be operated within the first 48 hours after surgery: 2 stitches of the hiatus were removed and the fundoplication was converted into a Toupet. The other patient was submitted to endoscopic dilatation and still referes mild dysphagia. In a short follow up period (1–19 months), 23 patients (95,8%) are asymptomatic. Conclusion The use of bioabsorbable mesh in the hiatus is safe and have shown good symptomatic outcomes in the short follow up period. Objective results and longer follow up are needed to see if additional reinforcement of hiatoplasty contributes to reduce recurrence and reoperation rates.

The Effect of Absorbable and Non-Absorbable Sutures on Nasal Width Following Cinch Sutures in Orthognathic Surgery

Background: Non-absorbable materials (nylon) are always used in cinch sutures to maintain nasal width and to improve harmonious facial symmetry in orthognathic surgery. However, a few drawbacks of nylon materials have been clinically reported following orthognathic surgery, such as nasal irritation and exposure of the sutures. An absorbable material (PDS) has been proposed in cinch sutures, not only to avoid the complications of nylon but also to stabilize the nasal width for a long-term follow-up. Methods: Fifty-seven patients with Angle’s malocclusion classification III receiving orthognathic surgery were enrolled in this study. A non-absorbable material (nylon) and an absorbable material (PDS) were utilized for the cinch sutures. Pre-operative (T1) and post-operative six-month (T2) craniofacial 3D images were collected for all patients to measure the alar curvature (Ac) width and the alar base (Al) width. A significance level of p < 0.05 was applied in the statistical analysis. Results: With the approval of IRB, cinch suturing was performed with nylon in 29 patients and with PDS in 28 patients. Pre-operative Ac and Al distances showed no significant difference between these two groups. There were also no significant differences between the suture materials in the peri-operative change in nasal width, including Ac (nylon: 1.999 ± 1.40; PDS: 1.484 ± 0.97; p = 0.112) and Al (nylon: 1.861 ± 1.66; PDS: 1.115 ± 0.92; p = 0.056). Conclusions: For cinch sutures in orthognathic surgery, PDS can maintain the peri-operative nasal width similarly to nylon; additionally, it can be absorbed in a timely manner without the drawbacks of non-absorbable materials.