Clipless laparoscopic cholecystectomy by ultrasonic dissection

Comparative Effectiveness of Different Cystic Duct Ligation Techniques in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures. Several techniques of ligating the cystic duct have been compared in randomized trials, but data on comparative effectiveness are missing. Our aim was to systematically review the literature and, if appropriate, synthesize the available evidence. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, and Cochrane Library was conducted to identify randomized studies comparing different ligation techniques of the cystic duct in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Network meta-analysis synthesized evidence from all available techniques. Techniques compared were metal (MC), absorbable (AC), or polymer clips (PC), suture ligation (SL), and ultrasonic shears (US). Results: Twenty-three randomized studies with 2851 patients were included in our study. A well-connected network was formed for bile leak and a star-shaped network for operative time, with MC as the common comparator. No difference was found when SL, AC, US, or PC were compared for bile leak. Operative time was statistically significantly reduced when US were compared to MC (mean difference [MD] = -14.32 [-19.37, -9.28]), SL MD = -20.16 (-10.84, -29.47), and AC MD = -18.32 (-1.25, -35.39). The remaining techniques had similar operative times. PC had the highest probability of being the best technique P = 41.8, and SL had the highest probability P = 46.1 of being the second best for bile leak. US had a 98.1% chance of being the best technique for operative time. Conclusions: Given that all techniques demonstrate similar efficacy, the decision should be based on cost, familiarity with the technique, and environmental factors.

Comparison of Current Techniques for Securing the Cystic Duct in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a widely performed procedure, with securing the cystic duct being a critical step to prevent bile leakage. Traditional metal clips are commonly used, but alternative methods, such as non-absorbable polymer clips, absorbable clips, sutures, and ultrasonic shears, are also utilized. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the safety and efficacy of various cystic duct securing techniques. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases without date restrictions. Eligible studies compared different techniques for cystic duct closure in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, focusing on bile leakage as a primary outcome. Data extraction and synthesis were performed using a binary random-effects model. Meta-analyses were conducted for absorbable clips, sutures, hem-o-lok clips, and ultrasonic devices compared to standard metal clips. A total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Absorbable polymer clips demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in postoperative bile leakage compared to metal clips (OR 0.159; 95% CI 0.031-0.818; P=0.028). In contrast, no significant differences were observed when comparing metal clips with suture ties (OR 0.459, 95% CI 0.139-1.522, P=0.203), non-absorbable clips (OR 0.166, 95% CI 0.025-1.109, P=0.064), or the clipless technique with a harmonic device (OR 1.332, 95% CI 0.425-4.169, P=0.623).

Ultrasonic dissection versus electrocautery dissection in laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis: a randomized controlled trial (SONOCHOL-trial)

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy with ultrasonic dissection presents a compelling alternative to conventional electrocautery. The evidence for elective cholecystectomy supports the adoption of ultrasonic dissection, citing advantages such as reduced operating time, diminished bleeding, shorter hospital stays and decreased postoperative pain and nausea. However, the efficacy of this procedure in emergency surgery and patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of electrocautery and ultrasonic dissection in patients with acute cholecystitis.

METHODS

A randomized, parallel, double-blinded, multicentre controlled trial was conducted across eight Swedish hospitals. Eligible participants were individuals aged ≥ 18 years with acute cholecystitis lasting ≤ 7 days. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed in the emergency setting as soon as local circumstances permitted. Random allocation to electrocautery or ultrasonic dissection was performed in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint was the total complication rate, analysed using an intention-to-treat approach. The primary outcome was analysed using logistic generalized estimated equations. Patients, postoperative caregivers, and follow-up personnel were blinded to group assignment.

RESULTS

From September 2019 to March 2023, 300 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to electrocautery dissection (n = 148) and ultrasonic dissection (n = 152). No significant difference in complication rate was observed between the groups (risk difference [RD] 1.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI], - 7.2% to 10.4%, P = 0.720). No significant disparities in operating time, conversion rate, hospital stay or readmission rates between the groups were noted. Haemostatic agents were more frequently used in electrocautery dissection (RD 10.6%, 95% CI, 1.3% to 19.8%, P = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonic dissection and electrocautery dissection demonstrate comparable risks for complications in emergency surgery for patients with acute cholecystitis. Ultrasonic dissection is a viable alternative to electrocautery dissection or can be used as a complementary method in laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered prior to conducting the research on http://clinical.

TRIALS

gov , NCT03014817.

Use of High Energy Devices (HEDs) versus electrocautery for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

According to the literature, there is no clear definition of a High Energy Devices (HEDs), and their proper indications for use are also unclear. Nevertheless, the flourishing market of HEDs could make their choice in daily clinical practice arduous, possibly increasing the risk of improper use for a lack of specific training. At the same time, the diffusion of HEDs impacts the economic asset of the healthcare systems. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of HEDs compared to electrocautery devices while performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

On behalf of the Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery and New Technologies, experts performed a systematic review and meta-analysis and synthesised the evidence assessing the efficacy and safety of HEDs compared to electrocautery devices while performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and comparative observational studies were included. Outcomes were: operating time, bleeding, intra-operative and post-operative complications, length of hospital stay, costs, and exposition to surgical smoke. The review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021250447).

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies were included: 21 RCTs, one prospective parallel arm comparative non-RCT, and one retrospective cohort study, while three were prospective comparative studies. Most of the studies included laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed in an elective setting. All the studies but three analysed the outcomes deriving from the utilisation of US sources of energy compared to electrocautery. Operative time was significantly shorter in the HED group compared to the electrocautery group (15 studies, 1938 patients; SMD - 1.33; 95% CI - 1.89 to 0.78; I2 = 97%, Random-effect). No other statistically significant differences were found in the other examined variables.

CONCLUSIONS

HEDs seem to have a superiority over Electrocautery while performing LC in terms of operative time, while no difference was observed in terms of length of hospitalisation and blood loss. No concerns about safety were raised.

High-energy devices in different surgical settings: lessons learnt from a full health technology assessment report developed by SICE (Società Italiana di Chirurgia Endoscopica)

BACKGROUND

The present paper aims at evaluating the potential benefits of high-energy devices (HEDs) in the Italian surgical practice, defining the comparative efficacy and safety profiles, as well as the potential economic and organizational advantages for hospitals and patients, with respect to standard monopolar or bipolar devices.

METHODS

A Health Technology Assessment was conducted in 2021 assuming the hospital perspective, comparing HEDs and standard monopolar/bipolar devices, within eleven surgical settings: appendectomy, hepatic resections, colorectal resections, cholecystectomy, splenectomy, hemorrhoidectomy, thyroidectomy, esophago-gastrectomy, breast surgery, adrenalectomy, and pancreatectomy. The nine EUnetHTA Core Model dimensions were deployed considering a multi-methods approach. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used: (1) a systematic literature review for the definition of the comparative efficacy and safety data; (2) administration of qualitative questionnaires, completed by 23 healthcare professionals (according to 7-item Likert scale, ranging from - 3 to + 3); and (3) health-economics tools, useful for the economic evaluation of the clinical pathway and budget impact analysis, and for the definition of the organizational and accessibility advantages, in terms of time or procedures' savings.

RESULTS

The literature declared a decrease in operating time and length of stay in using HEDs in most surgical settings. While HEDs would lead to a marginal investment for the conduction of 178,619 surgeries on annual basis, their routinely implementation would generate significant organizational savings. A decrease equal to - 5.25/-9.02% of operating room time and to - 5.03/-30.73% of length of stay emerged. An advantage in accessibility to surgery could be hypothesized in a 9% of increase, due to the gaining in operatory slots. Professionals' perceptions crystallized and confirmed literature evidence, declaring a better safety and effectiveness profile. An improvement in both patients and caregivers' quality-of-life emerged.

CONCLUSIONS

The results have demonstrated the strategic relevance related to HEDs introduction, their economic sustainability, and feasibility, as well as the potentialities in process improvement.

Harmonic Scalpel Versus Clips for Ligation of Cystic Duct in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review

The gold standard treatment for benign gallbladder disease is laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). LC is commonly performed using monopolar diathermy with ligation of the cystic duct and artery with clips. The aim of the current systematic review was to compare harmonic scalpel (HS) with clips in LC. Eligible studies were identified from PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase and Medline and meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4. The primary outcome evaluated was bile leak while secondary outcomes evaluated were overall postoperative complications, operative time, conversion to open surgery and gall bladder perforation. Eight randomized control trials met the eligibility criteria which included a total of 1,205 patients. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of bile leak (p = 0.56, I²=0%). With respect to the operative time (p = 0.004, I²=97%), conversion to open surgery (p = 0.02, I²=0%) and gall bladder perforation (p = 0.0001, I²=26%) HS was superior to clips. HS is an acceptable alternative to the use of clips when ligating the cystic duct.

Evaluation of the safety of using harmonic scalpel during laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children: A preliminary report

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

In spite of being one of the most common surgical procedures performed in adults, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is relatively uncommon in the pediatric age group. Most surgeons prefer to dissect the cystic duct using a monopolar electrosurgical hook and occlude it with simple metal clips. Although the safety of using the ultrasonically-activated shears, e.g., harmonic scalpel for dissection of the gallbladder is confirmed in many studies, its efficacy in the closure of the cystic artery and duct in adults is still debatable. Furthermore, very few reports studied its safety in children during LC. The aim of our work is to study the safety and efficacy of ultrasonic shears in controlling the cystic duct and artery during LC in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted from May 2017 to April 2020, where all children having symptomatic gallbladder stone disease were included in the study. HS was used as a sole instrument in gallbladder dissection as well as in controlling cystic duct and artery. No metal clips or sutures were used throughout the procedure.

RESULTS

A total of forty-two children having symptomatic gallstone disease were included in the study. The main indication for LC was hemolytic anemia. Their age ranged from 3 to 13 years with a mean of 8.4 ± 3.25 years. All operations were completed laparoscopically, i.e., no conversion to open surgery was needed. The mean operative time was 40 ± 10.42 min. There were no intraoperative complications apart from gall bladder perforation in two cases during dissection from the liver bed while the postoperative recovery was smooth in all patients. Patients started oral feeding after 11.30 ± 3.01 h. The mean time for discharge was 25.47 ± 7.49 h, ranging from 14 to 48 h. Postoperative ultrasound for all cases showed no evidence of minor or major bile leaks or CBD injuries.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report to evaluate the use of HS as a sole instrument during LC in the pediatric age group. HS is a safe and efficient instrument that can be used alone in gallbladder dissection as well as in controlling cystic duct and artery during LC in children.

The Outcomes of the Patients Undergoing Harmonic Scalpel Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has replaced conventional open cholecystectomy and has become the gold standard surgery for gall bladder pathologies. The harmonic scalpel is one of the instruments used to dissect and coagulate. Most surgeons accept the usage of the harmonic scalpel in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The other standard method is electrocoagulation by electrocautery. The harmonic scalpel cholecystectomy has several advantages over other methods of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Electrocoagulation by electrocautery produces smoke which can result in damage to lateral tissues, including the gall bladder. The clips are used along with electrocoagulation to seal cystic duct and cystic artery before dissection. There are various studies about bile leakage in the case of clip application. The harmonic scalpel uses ultrasonic energy to achieve hemostasis without bleeding, dissection, and gallbladder removal from the liver bed during laparoscopic surgery by causing coagulation of proteins. The patient outcome variables such as postoperative pain, duration of hospital stay, postoperative nausea and vomiting, surgical site infections, and other complications have not been compared in review articles. In this review, we collected the information from previously published studies and reviewed the outcomes of patients undergoing harmonic scalpel cholecystectomy. Harmonic scalpel cholecystectomy reduces the duration of hospital stay, duration of operation, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and postoperative pain. Thus the harmonic scalpel can be used instead of other instruments as it has better patient outcomes.

Is the rate of bile leak higher in clipless laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to conventional cholecystectomy?

A best evidence topic has been constructed using a described protocol. The three-part question addressed was: In patients undergoing cholecystectomy is the clipless laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with higher risk of bile leak compared to conventional cholecystectomy?

The search has been devised and 6 studies were deemed to be suitable to answer the question. The outcome assessed was the rate of bile leak in clipless cholecystectomy compared to conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Authors found that the rates of bile leak in clipless laparoscopic cholecystectomy is comparable to conventional technique. Clipless cholecystectomy is feasible and safe.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with liver cirrhosis: 8 years experience in a tertiary center. A retrospective cohort study

With improved laparoscopic techniques, experience, and availability of newer tools and instruments like ultrasonic shears; laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) became a feasible option in cirrhotic patients, the aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of LC in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 213 cirrhotic patients underwent LC, in the period from 2011 to 2019; the overall male/female ratio was 114/99.

RESULTS

The most frequent Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score was A, The most frequent cause of cirrhosis was hepatitis C virus (HCV), while biliary colic was the most frequent presentation. The harmonic device was used in 39.9% of patients, with a significant correlation between it and lower operative bleeding, lower blood and plasma transfusion rates, higher operative adhesions rates, lower conversion to open surgery and 30-day complication rates, shorter operative time and post-operative hospital stays where operative adhesions and times were independently correlated. The 30-day morbidity and mortality were 22.1% and 2.3% respectively while overall survival was 91.5%, higher CTP, and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores, higher mean international normalization ratio (INR) value, lower mean platelet count, higher operative bleeding, higher blood, and plasma transfusion rates, longer mean operative time and postoperative hospital stays were significantly correlated with all conversion to open surgery, 30-day morbidities and mortalities.

CONCLUSION

LC can be safely performed in cirrhotic patients. However, higher CTP and MELD scores, operative bleeding, more blood and plasma transfusion units, longer operative time, lower platelet count, and higher INR values are predictors of poor outcome that can be improved by proper patient selection and meticulous peri-operative care and by using Harmonic scalpel shears.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with liver cirrhosis: 8 years experience in a tertiary center. A retrospective cohort study

With improved laparoscopic techniques, experience, and availability of newer tools and instruments like ultrasonic shears; laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) became a feasible option in cirrhotic patients, the aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of LC in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 213 cirrhotic patients underwent LC, in the period from 2011 to 2019; the overall male/female ratio was 114/99.

RESULTS

The most frequent Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score was A, The most frequent cause of cirrhosis was hepatitis C virus (HCV), while biliary colic was the most frequent presentation. The harmonic device was used in 39.9% of patients, with a significant correlation between it and lower operative bleeding, lower blood and plasma transfusion rates, higher operative adhesions rates, lower conversion to open surgery and 30-day complication rates, shorter operative time and post-operative hospital stays where operative adhesions and times were independently correlated. The 30-day morbidity and mortality were 22.1% and 2.3% respectively while overall survival was 91.5%, higher CTP, and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores, higher mean international normalization ratio (INR) value, lower mean platelet count, higher operative bleeding, higher blood, and plasma transfusion rates, longer mean operative time and postoperative hospital stays were significantly correlated with all conversion to open surgery, 30-day morbidities and mortalities.

CONCLUSION

LC can be safely performed in cirrhotic patients. However, higher CTP and MELD scores, operative bleeding, more blood and plasma transfusion units, longer operative time, lower platelet count, and higher INR values are predictors of poor outcome that can be improved by proper patient selection and meticulous peri-operative care and by using Harmonic scalpel shears.

Harmonic Scalpel Versus Coblation Tonsillectomy A Comparative Study

Tonsillectomy is an age old procedure in ENT practice. Though traditional dissection method is gold standard, we surgeons are trying different techniques like electrocautery, coblation, harmonic scalpel (HS) mainly to improve surgical convenience, to decrease operative time, post operative pain, intra and post operative bleeding and fast return to normal life. In this particular study we are comparing coblation and HS as surgical tool in tonsillectomy. It is a prospective double-blind randomized controlled trial where information was compared between two groups of coblation and HS tonsillectomy. A total number of 128 patients were compared over operation time, intra-operative blood loss, postoperative pain, time needed to regain the normal diet and activity and postoperative haemorrhage. We found statistically significant differences in operation time (p < 0.001) and intra operative blood loss (p < 0.001). Secondary haemorrhage rate was far better in HS (1.5%) group compared to coblation (7.8%). Whereas postoperative pain, time needed to go back to the normal diet and activity were better in HS group but the difference is not significant. This study revealed a significantly less operative time and intra-operative and post operative blood loss in harmonic scalpel tonsillectomy in comparison with coblation method. These findings addressed HS tonsillectomy as an advanced method.

A comparative study of ultrasonic scalpel (US) versus conventional metal clips for closure of the cystic duct in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC): A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become the gold standard surgery for benign gallbladder diseases. Metal clips are conventionally used to secure the cystic duct and artery, while monopolar electrocautery (ME) predominates during laparoscopic dissection. ultrasonic scalpel (US) has already been explored for sealing the cystic duct and artery as a sole instrument, which has been regarded as a reasonable alternative to clips. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and effectiveness of US versus clips for securing the cystic duct during LC.

METHODS

We identified eligible studies in PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, and SpringerLink up to 1st May 2018, together with the reference lists of original studies. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 14.0. Q-based chi-square test and the I statistics were utilized to assess heterogeneity among the included studies. A P-value below .05 was set for statistical significance. Forest plots of combined Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were also generated.

RESULTS

Eight studies met eligibility criteria in this meta-analysis eventually. A total of 1131 patients were included, of whom 529 were contained in the US group, compared to 602 in the clips group, which showed a significant difference (P = .025) without substantial statistical heterogeneity (I = 0.0%). No statistical significance was revealed regarding age (I = 0.0%, P = .957), and sex (I = 0.0%, P = .578) between both groups. The operative time and hospital stay in the US group were significantly shorter than that in the clips group, with I = 95.0%, P = .000 and I = 72.8%, P = .005, respectively. Concerning conversion (I = 48.6%, P = .084), perforation (I = 12.0%, P = .338), along with bile leakage (I = 0.0% P = .594), and overall morbidity (I = 19.1%, P = .289), comparison between both groups exhibited no statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

US enabled shorter operative time and hospital stay during LC, compared with clips. Additionally, US was comparable to clips regarding conversion, perforation, along with bile leakage and overall morbidity. Therefore, our meta-analysis concluded that US is clinically superior to the conventional clips in some aspects, or is at least as safe and effective as them, concerning closure of the cystic duct and artery.

Systematic review of cystic duct closure techniques in relation to prevention of bile duct leakage after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

AIM

To study the effect of different techniques of cystic duct closure on bile leakage after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for biliary disease.

METHODS

A systematic search of MEDLINE, Cochrane and EMBASE was performed. Rate of cystic duct leakage (CDL) was the primary outcome. Risk of bias was evaluated. Odds ratios were analyzed for comparison of techniques and pooled event rates for non-comparative analyses. Pooled event rates were compared for each of included techniques.

RESULTS

Out of 1491 articles, 38 studies were included. A total of 47491 patients were included, of which 38683 (81.5%) underwent cystic duct closure with non-locking (metal) clips. All studies were of low-moderate methodological quality. Only two studies reported separate data on uncomplicated and complicated gallbladder disease. For overall CDL, an odds ratio of 0.4 (95%CI: 0.06-2.48) was found for harmonic energy vs clip closure and an odds ratio of 0.17 (95%CI: 0.03-0.93) for locking vs non-locking clips. Pooled CDL rate was around 1% for harmonic energy and metal clips, and 0% for locking clips and ligatures.

CONCLUSION

Based on available evidence it is not possible to either recommend or discourage any of the techniques for cystic duct closure during LC with respects to CDL, although data point out a slight preference for locking clips and ligatures vs other techniques. No separate recommendation can be made for complicated gallbladder disease.

Harmonic Scalpel-Assisted Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy vs. Conventional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy - A Non-randomized Control Trial

Introduction

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the most commonly done, minimally invasive surgical procedure. Routinely used electrocautery produces more smoke, which masks the operating field, thereby prolongs the surgery and posing an increased risk of gallbladder (GB) perforation. The titanium clips used for clipping the cystic artery and cystic duct have a risk of slippage, which may lead to bleeding, and an increased risk for bile leakage. In addition, it may act as a nidus for stone formation. Advanced energy sources, such as the harmonic scalpel, though expensive, may provide the advantage of shorter operating time by reducing smoke, bloodless dissection in the GB bed, lower risk of bleeding from the cystic artery due to secure vessel sealing, and avoiding the use of a larger number of titanium clips. However, evidence to substantiate this advantage is limited.

Aim

To compare the operating time and perioperative complications between conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC) and harmonic scalpel assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomy (HLC).

Methodology

All consecutive patients who underwent elective LC were included. Patients with acute infection, impaired liver function tests, concomitant common bile duct calculi, chronic liver disease/cirrhosis, suspected GB carcinoma, and pregnant women were excluded from the study. Patients were allocated into two groups. In the CLC group, both the cystic duct and the cystic artery were divided after conventional titanium clip application and electrocautery was used for thermal energy. In the HLC group, the cystic duct was clipped with a titanium clip and the rest of the procedure was carried out using Harmonic Ace (Ethicon, New Jersey, United States) and Harmonic Hook (Ethicon, New Jersey, United States). Outcome parameters analyzed were operating time in minutes, post-operative pain using visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring, frequency and route of analgesic requirement after 24 hours, and intraoperative complications, including bleeding, bile duct injury, GB perforation, and surgical site infection (SSI) in the postoperative period, per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) criteria.

Results

Both the groups were comparable with respect to age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and the presence of comorbidity and an indication of cholecystectomy. The duration of surgery did not significantly differ between the groups (67.3 vs. 64.3 mins; p = 0.30). Other parameters, such as analgesic required on postoperative Day 1 (3.2 vs. 3; p = 0.67), VAS scores on Day 0 (4.55 vs. 4.65; p = 0.59), VAS scores on Day 1 (2.3 vs. 2.2; p = 0.84), superficial SSI (15% vs. 10%; p = 0.63), intraoperative GB perforation (30% vs. 20%; p = 0.71), and intraperitoneal drain (30% vs. 20%; p = 0.71) did not significantly differ between the groups.

Conclusion

HLC has no significant advantage over CLC with respect to operating time, postoperative pain, and perioperative complications.

Ultrasonic versus electrosurgical device for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonic and electrosurgical energy dissectors are main dissecting devices widely used for the laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Trial sequential analyses can establish whether firm evidence favoring a specific device has been reached from accumulated literature. To explore this, we performed a meta-analysis and trial sequential analyses.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to October 2016. The primary outcome was operative time. The secondary outcomes included adverse events during operation, postoperative complications, intra-abdominal collection, hospital stay, hospital costs, and sick leave or time to full recovery. Relative risks (RRs) were calculated for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MDs) for continuous outcomes. Finally, we calculated numbers needed to treat to examine benefits of the ultrasonic device.

RESULTS

We identified 19 studies. Compared with the electrosurgical device, the ultrasonic device led to shorter operative time (MD, -14.86; 95% confidence interval (CI), -21.45 to -8.27; P < 0.00001), less blood loss (MD, -47.24; 95% CI, -79.57 to -14.90; P = 0.004), fewer gallbladder perforations (RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.57; P < 0.00001), shorter hospital stay (MD, -0.37; 95% CI, -0.61 to -0.14; P = 0.002), and fewer abdominal pains (MD, -0.95; 95% CI, -1.40 to -0.50; P < 0.0001). The trial sequential analysis demonstrated that the cumulative z-curve crossed the trial sequential monitoring and reached the required information size of the operative time. The numbers needed to treat to avoid one gallbladder perforation and postoperative nausea, respectively, were 7 and 15.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the electrosurgery device, the ultrasonic device could be superior with more clinical effectiveness. The trial sequential analysis demonstrated that further studies about the operative time were not needed.

A randomized multicenter study of minilaparotomy cholecystectomy versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy with ultrasonic dissection in both groups

OBJECTIVE

Ultrasonic dissection (UsD) has been used in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), though it is not the golden standard technique. Applying UsD to cholecystectomy by minilaparotomy (MC) is less common and there are no prospective randomized trials comparing these two techniques. Therefore, we conducted the present study to investigate the use of the UsD in the MC versus the LC procedure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Initially 104 patients with non-complicated symptomatic gallstone disease were randomized into MC (n = 53) or LC (n = 51) groups, both groups using UsD, over a period of 2 years (2013-2015). The study groups were similar in terms of age and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status score.

RESULTS

The demographic variables and the surgical data were similar in the study groups. Similar low postoperative pain scores were reported in the two study groups during the first four hours after surgery. The incidence of nausea/vomiting was similar between the two study groups, 47% in the MC group versus 42% in the LC group. However, the patients in the MC group were treated more frequently with antiemetics, the incidence being 39% in the MC group versus 21% in the LC group (p = 0.02). The pain at rest at 24h after the surgery was similar in the two study groups, but the LC patients reported less pain at the normal activity, the mean of numerical rating scale (NRS) of 0-10 score being 3.9 in the MC group versus 2.9 in the LC group (p = 0.05), and the pain at the quick movement/coughing, the mean NRS being 4.9 in the MC group versus 3.2 in the LC group (p = 0.005). The length of sick leave was 17.4 days in the MC group and 14.4 days in the LC group (p = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that both MC and LC are feasible and safe options for mini-invasive cholecystectomy. A new finding with clinical relevance in the present work is a relatively similar short-term outcome in the MC and LC although the LC patients reported significantly lower pain score 24 hours postoperatively and a shorter convalescence.

Total clipless cholecystectomy by means of harmonic sealing

Background

In traditional laparoscopic cholecistectomy, the cystic duct and artery are commonly closed by metallic clips just before their division. Although the placement of these clips for occluding cystic artery and duct can be considered safe, biliary leaks and bleeding may occur especially by its dislodgement.

Aim

To report a prospective case-series in total clipless cholecystectomy by means of harmonic shears for closure and division of the artery and cystic duct as well removal of the gallbladder from the liver.

Methods

Was evaluate a series of 125 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy where the sealing and division of cystic artery and duct was carried out only by harmonic shears. The intact extracted gallbladder was submitted to a reverse pressure test for assessment of the technique safety by means of CO₂ insuflation.

Results

The most common indication for surgery was gallstones. The mean operative time was 26 min and all gallbladders were dissected intact from the liver bed. There was no mortality and the overall morbidity rate was 0.8% with no hemorrhage or leaks. The reverse pressure test showed that all specimens support at least 36-mmHg of pressure without leaking.

Conclusions

The harmonic shears is effective and safe in laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a sole instrument for sealing and division of the artery and cystic duct. The main advantages could be related to the safety and decreased operative time.

Electrosurgical devices: are we closer to finding the ideal appliance? A critical review of current evidence for the use of electrosurgical devices in general surgery

Over the last decade, the use of electrosurgical devices has become commonplace across all surgical specialities. The current market is large enough to warrant a comparative review of each device. This has even more impetus given the budgetary constraints of NHS organisations. This review aims to compare the benefits and drawbacks of the most popular electrosurgical devices, whilst conducting a critical review of the literature. Structured searches using databases Medline and EMBASE were conducted. The search was restricted to English language papers only. Due to the abundance of literature, this review will focus on common general surgical procedures alone. Despite a plethora of available devices, individual preference still dictates use. Conventional diathermy may always have its place, but may see a decline in use if costs improve. Newer devices have shown comparable precision and added advantages.

Using a Harmonic Scalpel "Drilling and Clamping" Method to Implement Zero Ischemic Robotic-assisted Partial Nephrectomy: An Observation Case Report Study

Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has gradually become a popular minimally invasive nephron-sparing surgical option for small renal tumors. Ischemic injury should be minimized because it impacts renal function outcomes following partial nephrectomy. Herein, the authors detail the technique and present initial perioperative outcomes of our novel harmonic scalpel "drilling and clamping" method to implement zero-ischemic RAPN. The authors prospectively collected baseline and perioperative data of patients who underwent zero ischemic RAPN performed by our harmonic scalpel "drilling and clamping" method. From April 2012 to December 2014, a total of 19 consecutive zero ischemic RAPN procedures were performed by a single surgeon. For 18 of the 19 patients, RAPN using our harmonic scalpel "Drilling and Clamping" method was successfully completed without the need for hilar clamping. The median tumor size was 3.4 cm (range: 1.8-6.2); operative time was 3.2 hours (range: 1.9-4.5); blood loss was 100 mL (range: 30-950); and postoperative hospital stay was 4 days (3-26). One patient required intraoperative blood transfusion. Two patients had intra or postoperative complications: 1 was converted to traditional laparotomy because of massive bleeding, whereas another had postoperative stress ulcer. Pathology confirmed renal cell carcinoma in 13 patients (63.2%), angiomyolipoma in 6 patients: (31.5%), and oncocytoma in 1 patient (5.3%). Mean pre- and postoperative serum creatinine (0.82 mg/dL and 0.85 mg/dL, respectively), estimated glomerular filtration rate (84.12 and 82.18, respectively), and hemoglobin (13.27 g/dL and 12.71 g/dL, respectively) were comparable. The authors present a novel zero-ischemic technique for RAPN. They believe that this technique is feasible and reproducible.

Tripartite comparison of single-incision and conventional laparoscopy in cholecystectomy: A multicenter trial

AIM: To compare the characteristics of two single-incision methods, and conventional laparoscopy in cholecystectomy, and demonstrate the safety and feasibility.

METHODS: Three hundred patients with gallstones or gallbladder polyps were admitted to two clinical centers from January 2013 to January 2014 and were randomized into three groups of 100: single-incision three-device group, X-Cone group, and conventional group. The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, complications, postoperative pain, cosmetic score, length of hospitalization, and hospital costs were compared, with a follow-up duration of 1 mo.

RESULTS: A total of 142 males (47%) and 158 females (53%) were enrolled in this study. The population characteristics of these three groups is no significant differences exist in terms of age, sex, body mass index and American Society of Anesthesiology (P > 0.05). In results, there were no significant differences in blood loss, length of hospitalization, postoperative complications.The operative time in X-Cone group was significantly longer than other groups.There were significant differences in postoperative pain scores and cosmetic scores at diffent times after surgery (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: This study shows that this two single-incision methods are safe and feasible. Both methods are superior to the conventional procedure in cosmetic and pain scores.

The HAC trial (harmonic for acute cholecystitis): a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial comparing the use of harmonic scalpel to monopolar diathermy for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in cases of acute cholecystitis

BACKGROUND

The HARMONIC SCALPEL (H) is an advanced ultrasonic cutting and coagulating surgical device with important clinical advantages, such as: reduced ligature demand; greater precision due to minimal lateral thermal tissue damage; minimal smoke production; absence of electric corrents running through the patient. However, there are no prospective RCTs demonstrating the advantages of H compared to the conventional monopolar diathermy (MD) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in cases of acute cholecystitis (AC).

METHODS

This study was a prospective, single-center, randomized trial (Trial Registration Number: NCT00746850) designed to investigate whether the use of H can reduce the incidence of intra-operative conversion during LC in cases of AC, compared to the use of MD. Patients were divided into two groups: both groups underwent early LC, within 72 hours of diagnosis, using H and MD respectively (H = experimental/study group, MD = control group). The study was designed and conducted in accordance with the regulations of Good Clinical Practice.

RESULTS

42 patients were randomly assigned the use of H (21 patients) or MD (21 patients) during LC. The two groups were comparable in terms of basic patient characteristics. Mean operating time in the H group was 101.3 minutes compared to 106.4 minutes in the control group (p=ns); overall blood loss was significantly lower in the H group. Conversion rate was 4.7% for the H group, which was significantly lower than the 33% conversion rate for the control group (p<0.05). Post-operative morbidity rates differed slightly: 19% and 23% in the H and control groups, respectively (p=ns). Average post-operative hospitalization lasted 5.2 days in the H group compared to 5.4 days in the control group (p=ns).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of H appears to correlate with reduced rates of laparoscopic-open conversion. Given this evidence, H may be more suitable than MD for technically demanding cases of AC.

Use of stapling devices for safe cholecystectomy in acute cholecystitis

Many techniques are described for the ligation of a difficult cystic duct (CD). The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness and safety of stapling of a difficult CD in acute cholecystitis using Endo-GIA. From January 2008 to June 2012, 1441 patients with cholelithiasis underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) at the Department of General Surgery, Haydarpasa Numune Education and Research Hospital. Of these, 19 (0.62%) were identified as having a difficult CD and were ligated using an Endo-GIA stapler. All patients were successfully treated with a laparoscopic approach. The length of hospital stay was 3.4 days. There were umbilical wound infections in 4 patients (21%). The length of follow-up ranged from 1.0 to 50.4 months. In conclusion, Endo-GIA is a safe and easy treatment method for patients with a dilated and difficult CD. The cystic artery should be isolated and ligated if possible before firing the Endo-GIA stapler. If isolation and stapling are not possible, fibrin sealant can be applied to avoid bleeding. The vascular Endo-GIA can be applied in a large CD, but for acute cholecystitis with an edematous CD, the Endo-GIA roticulator 4.8 or 3.5 stapler is preferred.

Efficacy of electrocoagulation in sealing the cystic artery and cystic duct occluded with only one absorbable clip during laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Even though laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) emerged over 20 years ago, controversies persist with regard to the best method to ligate the cystic duct and artery. We proposed to assess the effectiveness and safety of electrocoagulation to seal the cystic artery and cystic duct after their occlusion with only one absorbable clip.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively compared the clinical data for 635 patients undergoing LC using electrocoagulation to seal the cystic artery and cystic duct that were occluded with only one absorbable clip (Group 1) and 728 patients undergoing LC using titanium clips (Group 2). In parallel, 30 rabbits randomized into six groups underwent cholecystectomy. After cystic duct ligation with absorbable or titanium clips, the animals were sacrificed 1, 3, or 6 months later, and intraabdominal adhesions were assessed after celiotomy.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was significantly shorter (41.6 versus 58.9 minutes, P<.01) in Group 1 than in Group 2. No cystic duct leaks occurred in any patients from Group 1, compared with seven leaks among the 728 (0.96%) patients from Group 2 (P<.05). The morbidity was significantly higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 (3.43% versus 1.58%). Mean intraoperative blood loss and hospitalization length were not significantly different between the two groups, and no deaths occurred in either group. In animal experiments, adhesion was tighter for absorbable than for titanium clips, but fibrous tissue encapsulation was thinner at the site of titanium clips.

CONCLUSIONS

Electrocoagulation of the cystic artery and cystic duct that were occluded with only one absorbable clip is safe and effective during LC. This approach is associated with shortened operative times and reduced leakage, compared with the standard method using metal clips.

Minilaparotomy cholecystectomy with ultrasonic dissection versus conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Cholecystectomy by minilaparotomy (MC) or by laparoscopy (LC) has been shown to have equal results of both early and late recovery. Although, the ultrasonic dissection (UsD) technique has seen used in LC, the technique is rarely used in MC.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Initially, 88 patients with uncomplicated symptomatic gallstones were randomized into MC with UsD (n = 44) or conventional LC (n = 44) over a 2-year period (2010-2012). The two groups were similar in terms of age and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status score. Results. Both groups were similar in terms of the operative time and the time in the operation theatre, the success of day-surgery and satisfaction with the procedure. The MC group had significantly less postoperative pain than the LC group, p = 0.002, and the MC group used less analgesics doses during the first 24 h: 2.8 (1.2) doses vs. 3.8 (1.4) doses, p = 0.003. The convalescence needed was 3 days shorter in the MC group, 7 (3) days, than that in the LC-group, 10 (8) days, p = 0.024. In the MC group 4 patients and in the LC group 11 (p = 0.046) required more than 14 days of sick leave. In the MC group there was one and in the LC group two conversions to open surgery.

CONCLUSION

The patients in the MC group had less early postoperative pain and had a shorter convalescence than the patients in the LC group.

Clipless minilaparoscopic cholecystectomy: a study of 1,096 cases

PURPOSE

Low conversion rate, high safety, and good cosmetic result with less medical cost are chased by all laparoscopic surgeons. We used general laparoscopic instruments and combined with absorbable thread trying to perform a clipless minilaparoscopic cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder patients and got all the above-mentioned results.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

From January 2008 to February 2011, 1096 minilaparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed for patients with uncomplicated or complicated benign gallbladder disease by our treatment team. The three-port technique with the help of an electrocautery hook, forceps, and suction was applied for laparoscopy cholecystectomy, and the cystic duct and vessels were ligated by absorbable thread rather than hemostasis clips and Harmonic(®) scalpels (Ethicon, Cincinnati, OH). The operative time, blood loss, subhepatic drain, conversion rate, drainage time, and hospital stay were reviewed and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Our conversion rate was 0.18%, which was much lower than those reported by many studies. The mean operating time was 28 minutes (range, 11-70 minutes). Mean blood loss was 12 mL (range, 5-200 mL). A subhepatic drain was placed in 63 patients, with a mean drainage time of 1.7 days (range, 1-6 days). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.5 days (range, 2-7 days). No postoperative bleeding, biliary leakage, intraabdominal infection, umbilical site infection, umbilical incision herniation, biliary duct or bowel injury, or mortality occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Minilaparoscopic cholecystectomy using absorbable thread instead of clips and Harmonic scalpels offers a safe, effective, and economical surgical alternative for benign gallbladder patients.

Monopolar electrocautery versus ultrasonic dissection of the gallbladder from the gallbladder bed in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonic dissection has been suggested as an alternative to monopolar electrocautery in laparoscopic cholecystectomy because it generates less tissue damage and may have a lower incidence of gallbladder perforation. We compared the 2 methods to determine the incidence of gallbladder perforation and its intraoperative consequences.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial between July 2008 and December 2009 involving adult patients with symptomatic gall stone disease who were eligible for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients were randomly assigned before administration of anesthesia to electrocautery or ultrasonic dissection. Both groups were compared for incidence of gallbladder perforation during dissection, bile leak, stones spillage, lens cleaning, duration of surgery and estimation of risk of gallbladder in the presence of complicating factors.

RESULTS

We included 60 adult patients in our study. The groups were comparable with respect to demographic characteristics, symptomatology, comorbidities, previous abdominal surgeries, preoperative ultrasonography findings and intraoperative complications. The overall incidence of gallbladder perforation was 28.3% (40.0% in the electrocautery v. 16.7% in the ultrasonic dissection group, p = 0.045). Bile leak occurred in 40.0% of patients in the electrocautery group and 16.7% of patients in ultrasonic group (p = 0.045). Lens cleaning time (p = 0.015) and duration of surgery (p = 0.001) were longer in the electrocautery than the ultrasonic dissection group. There was no statistical difference in stone spillage between the groups (p = 0.62).

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonic dissection is safe and effective, and it improves the operative course of laparoscopic cholecystectomy by reducing the incidence of gallbladder perforation.

Prevention and treatment of bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy: the clinical practice guidelines of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES)

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures in Europe (and the world) and has become the standard procedure for the management of symptomatic cholelithiasis or acute cholecystitis in patients without specific contraindications. Bile duct injuries (BDI) are rare but serious complications that can occur during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Prevention and management of BDI has given rise to a host of publications but very few recommendations, especially in Europe.

METHODS

A systematic research of the literature was performed. An international expert panel was invited to appraise the current literature and to develop evidence-based recommendations. Statements and recommendations were drafted after a consensus development conference in May 2011, followed by presentation and discussion at the annual congress of the EAES held in Torino in June 2011. Finally, full guidelines were consented and adopted by the expert panel via e-mail and web conference.

RESULTS

A total of 1,765 publications were identified through the systematic literature search and additional submission by panellists; 671 publications were selected as potentially relevant. Only 46 publications fulfilled minimal methodological criteria to support Clinical Practice Guidelines recommendations. Because the level of evidence was low for most of the studies, most statements or recommendations had to be based on consensus of opinion among the panel members. A total of 15 statements and recommendations were developed covering the following topics: classification of injuries, epidemiology, prevention, diagnosis, and management of BDI.

CONCLUSIONS

Because BDI is a rare event, it is difficult to generate evidence for prevention, diagnosis, or the management of BDI from clinical studies. Nevertheless, the panel has formulated recommendations. Due to the currently limited evidence, a European registry should be considered to collect and analyze more valid data on BDI upon which recommendations can be based.

A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials that compared ultrasonic energy and monopolar electrosurgical energy in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Currently, monopolar electrical energy is still widely used as the main source of energy for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, some studies have suggested that the use of ultrasonic energy is more advantageous. This meta-analysis pooled the currently published randomized controlled trials comparing the safety and efficacy of ultrasonic energy and monopolar electrical energy in LC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index Expanded, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for relevant articles published between January 1985 to February 2012 by using the search terms "laparoscopic cholecystectomy," "electrocoagulation," "electrosurgery," "ultrasonics," "ultrasonic therapy," and "dissection." Intraoperative and postoperative measures and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Eight high-quality randomized controlled trials with 1056 patients were included. Differences in mean operation time, mean blood loss, mean hospital stay, gallbladder perforation, and postoperative abdominal pain score at 24 hours were statistically significant between the two groups, in favor of the use of ultrasonic energy. However, there were no differences in operation conversion, bile leakage, intra-abdominal collections, and postoperative nausea at 24 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonic energy is as safe and effective as electrosurgical energy and potentially might be safer in LC. However, the financial implications of this technical modality need to be established in cost-effectiveness analysis.

Predictors of incidental gallbladder cancer in patients undergoing cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Discovery of incidental gallbladder cancer (IGC) has become more frequent due to adoption of laparoscopy. Gallbladder spillage during operation can disseminate cancer and worsen the prognosis.

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic or open cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder disease January 1996 to August 2011 at two tertiary care facilities were reviewed. Unmatched controls were randomly selected in 2:1 ratio. Preoperative variables were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven patients with IGC were identified and compared to 134 controls. Mean age was 68 for index cases and 49 for controls; 70% of cases and 75% of controls were female. Multivariate analysis showed that higher risk of IGC was significantly associated with age ≥ 65 (OR = 10.61, P < 0.0001), dilated bile ducts (OR = 4.76, P = 0.0028), and presence of gallbladder wall thickening (OR = 4.39, P = 0.0003). This model yielded a very good area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic (AUC = 0.83) for discriminating the patients with IGC from controls.

CONCLUSIONS

IGC is more likely to be found in patients when age is ≥65, with dilated bile ducts and gallbladder wall thickening. Preoperative suspicion of gallbladder cancer should prompt the surgeon to be more careful not to perforate the gallbladder during laparoscopic approach, and to have a lower threshold for conversion if necessary.

Thoracic empyema due to migrated endoclips after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

We describe the case of a patient who developed right thoracic empyema 1 year after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The patient experienced right chest pain and swelling; radiography and CT showed an intrathoracic abscess penetrating the extrathoracic space and the presence of metal clips over the diaphragm. After drainage of the subcutaneous abscess, fluid accumulation decreased; bacterial examination showed no positive findings. Another year later, the patient's condition relapsed. We thought that the empyema may have been caused by endoclips that had migrated. We performed thoracoplasty and retrieved three endoclips from the intrathoracic empyema cavity. The patient showed good recovery after the operation.

Clipless cholecystectomy: which sealer should be used?

BACKGROUND

The use of the Harmonic Scalpel (HS) for cystic duct ligation began with little data about its efficacy or safety. On the other hand, there is not any literature available about the use of PlasmaKinetic Sealer (PK) for closing the cystic duct in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Therefore, this study was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of HS and PK for achieving safe closure of the cystic ducts after LC.

METHODS

Ninety patients with symptomatic gallstone disease were enrolled in this prospective case control study. The patients were operated with laparoscopic technic and divided into three groups (n = 30) randomly. After the dissection of Calot's triangle, proximal cystic ducts on common bile ducts were sealed with single surgical clips (SC) in all groups, and in the first group, distal of the cystic ducts also was sealed with single SC and the gallbladders were removed with SC. In the second and third groups, distal of the cystic ducts were sealed with HS and PK, respectively. The gallbladders were removed as sealed cystic ducts with HS and PK. Then, gallbladders were connected to a transducer set and increasing pressure with saline was applied. The bursting pressures of gallbladders were measured and differences between the groups were calculated by using Student's t test. The value of P < 0.05 was accepted as significant.

RESULTS

In this study, the mean cystic duct bursting pressures were 332.46 ± 4.62 mmHg with SC, 326.56 ± 4.53 mmHg with PK, and 343.06 ± 4.28 mmHg with HS. Differences of the mean cystic duct bursting pressures between the groups were indicated the superior results of HS.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicated that HS is more effective than PK and as safe and effective as SC for cystic duct closure.

A prospective, randomized study of comparison of clipless cholecystectomy with conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become a gold standard in the treatment of symptomatic gallstone disease. Amalgamation with upcoming technology makes the present-day procedure faster and safer. Ultrasonic shears, which perform dissection and ligation by cavitation and coaptation of vessels, are the latest addition to the armamentarium of laparoscopic surgeons. Acceptance of its safety and efficacy awaits its use as the sole instrument in the widely accepted procedure.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized control trial was conducted in 200 patients with symptomatic gallstone disease, who were randomly divided into two comparable groups, one undergoing cholecystectomy using ultrasonically activated shears and the other using conventional clip and electrocautery. Various parameters such as duration of surgery, removal of gallbladder, blood loss, postoperative pain scores, analgesic requirement, duration of stay, and complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy using ultrasonic shears had a faster surgery (64.7 versus 50 minutes; P < .002) and removal of gallbladder from gallbladder bed (3.94 versus 7.46 minutes; P < .001) with less blood loss and pain scores (1.86 versus 3.01; P < .002). They had a shorter duration of hospital stay (1.89 versus 2.52 days; P < .001) and decreased risk of gallbladder perforation (9 versus 18; P < .005). The analgesic requirement was also less on the first postoperative day. There was no incidence of any major complication or bile leak during a 6-month follow-up period in either of the groups.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonically activated scalpel can be used safely in laparoscopic cholecystectomy without risk of major injuries or leaks. It fairs better than electrocautery in terms of faster and safer surgery with decreased associated morbidity, less pain, and early return back home.

The dangers of using stapling devices for cystic duct closure in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic stapling devices are used widely in laparoscopic surgery, for division of vessels and creation of anastomoses. Their use in the division of a widened cystic duct at laparoscopic cholecystectomy has been reported earlier. We present 3 different complications occurring after division of the cystic duct using the EndoGIA stapling device. A review of the literature has been performed and safe alternative techniques for laparoscopic ligation of the cystic duct are proposed.

Verification of clipless closure of cystic duct by harmonic scalpel

INTRODUCTION

The excellent results of harmonic scalpel (HS) for closure of blood vessels encouraged surgeons to use these instruments for cystic ducts. The use of HS on tissues other than blood vessels was started with little data about its efficacy or safety. Therefore, this study was designed to verify the safety and efficacy of HS for achieving safe closure of the cystic ducts after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty patients with symptomatic gallstone disease were enrolled in this prospective case control study. The patients were operated with laparoscopic technic and divided into two groups (n = 30). After the dissection of Calot's triangle, proximal cystic ducts on common bile ducts were sealed with single surgical clips (SC) in both groups. In the first group, distal of the cystic ducts was sealed with single SC and the gallbladders were removed with SC. In the second group, distal of the cystic ducts was sealed with HS and the gallbladders were removed as sealed cystic ducts with HS. Twenty-gauge catheters were inserted into the fundus of gallbladders in vitro and connected to the arterial line transducer set. A gradually increasing pressure was applied through a sphygmomanometer. The bursting pressures of the gallbladders were measured, and differences between HS and single SC groups were calculated with independent samples t-test. The value of P < 0.05 was accepted as significant.

RESULTS

The mean cystic duct bursting pressures in single SC and HS groups were 332.46 +/- 4.62 and 343.06 +/-4.28 mmHg, respectively. The mean values between the groups were found significant and indicated the superior results of HS.

CONCLUSIONS

HS sealer could be an alternative method for cystic duct closure, especially for avoiding the clip displacement and migration of the clip. Results of this study indicated that HS sealer was as reliable as single SC and it could be accepted as a standard closure technic.

Single-working-instrument, double-trocar, clipless cholecystectomy using harmonic scalpel: a feasible, safe, and less invasive technique

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Harmonic scalpel (Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Cincinnati, OH) in the closure/division of the cystic duct and artery, and bladder dissection in laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a single working instrument, with the use of a two-working-trocar technique, compared with the regular laparoscopic clip/cautery, three-trocar technique.

METHODS

This prospective study included 160 patients with symptomatic gallstone disease who were randomly assigned for laparoscopic cholecystectomy by either Harmonic shear as a single working instrument, with the two-trocar technique (group 1 = 80 patients) or group 2 (regular clip/cautery, three-trocar technique) comprising 80 patients.

RESULTS

No significant complications were encountered in either group; however, 1 case in the regular laparoscopy group suffered mild leakage that was treated conservatively. Intraoperative bile spillage was insignificantly comparable in both groups (10 versus 13%; P = 0.46). The median operative time was statistically significantly shorter in the Harmonic group (20 versus 45 minutes; P = 0.0001). Also, hospital stay was significantly shorter in the Harmonic group (1 versus 1.5 days, respectively; P = 0.001), but no statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of postoperative complications. The overall cosmetic results and patient satisfaction was better in the Harmonic group.

CONCLUSIONS

The Harmonic shear is as safe and effective as the clip/cautery technique in laparoscopic cholecystectomy in achieving hemobiliary stasis, with shorter operative time, especially if used solely as a working instrument. The two-trocar technique is safe, feasible, and provides better cosmetic results and patient satisfaction.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in cirrhotics: a prospective randomized study comparing the conventional diathermy and the harmonic scalpel for gallbladder dissection

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonically activated devices have been used for gallbladder dissection in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with encouraging results. The aim of the present study was to compare the surgical outcome of LC performed by the harmonic shears to that performed by the conventional diathermy in patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

In this prospective randomized study, 40 cirrhotic Child-Pugh's classes A and B patients with symptomatic uncomplicated gallstones disease were randomly assigned to either the Harmonic scalpel LC group (20 patients) or the conventional diathermy LC group (20 patients).

RESULTS

The use of the harmonic shears was associated with a statistically significant shorter median operative time (55 vs. 82.5 minutes, P = .000), less median estimated intraoperative blood loss (50 vs. 120 mL, P = .000), and lower incidence of gallbladder perforation (10% vs. 70%, P = .000). In the Harmonic scalpel LC group, Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy was resorted to in eight patients (40%) compared with six patients (30%) in the conventional diathermy LC group. No statistically significant difference was found between both groups as regards the conversion rate, the median hospital stay, and the incidence of postoperative complications. Neither bile leaks nor Bile duct injuries were encountered in either group. Similarly, no mortalities were encountered in the present study.

CONCLUSIONS

The Harmonic shears achieved complete hemobiliary stasis. Further, it provided a superior alternative to the conventional diathermy in terms of shorter operative time, less intraoperative blood loss, and lower incidence of gallbladder perforation partly through facilitating the performance of laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy.

An evaluation of electrosurgical vessel-sealing devices in biliary tract surgery in a porcine model

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate two electrosurgical vessel-sealing devices in biliary surgery.

METHODS

Porcine common bile ducts (CBDs) were sealed with two electrosurgical devices, an electrothermal bipolar vessel-sealing device (EBVS) and ultrasonic coagulation shears. Acute study animals underwent surgical bile duct sealing followed by immediate burst pressure testing. Chronic study animals were maintained for 1 week postoperatively and then tested.

RESULTS

The seal failure rate in the acute study was 50% for both the EBVS device and shears, and 0% for the laparoscopic surgical clip device used as a control. The latter had significantly higher burst pressures (646.2 ± 281.8 mmHg; P = 0.006) than the EBVS device (97.6 ± 86.6 mmHg) and shears (71.7 ± 89.3 mmHg). No significant difference in burst pressures was noted between the EBVS device and shears (97.6 ± 86.6 mmHg vs. 71.7 ± 89.3 mmHg). In the chronic study, obvious bile leaks occurred in one of four pigs (25%) in the EBVS device subgroup and two of four pigs (50%) in the shears subgroup. The average proximal CBD pressure in seven pigs was 16.1 ± 4.1 mmHg. The average chronic burst pressure in the control subgroup was 1088.0 ± 922.6 mmHg.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the high rates of failure of the EBVS device and the shears in consistently sealing biliary ducts, we do not recommend their routine use in biliary surgery.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy with Harmonic scalpel

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the "gold standard" in the treatment of symptomatic gallbladder lithiasis. Nevertheless, some pitfalls are associated with the use of the monopolar hook, such as the risk of thermal injuries and biliary complications. By contrast, the ultrasonically activated scalpel, ie, Harmonic (Ethicon Endo Surgery INC - Johnson & Johnson Medical SPA, Somerville, NJ) in laparoscopic cholecystectomies has been increasingly used for dissection of the gallbladder and for division of vessels and the cystic duct, because it reduces the risk of thermal injuries.

METHODS

During a 2-year period, in a personal series of 95 consecutive patients, the Harmonic scalpel was used as the sole instrument for both division and dissection of the cystic artery and duct. The average length of inpatient stay, procedure duration, and complications were compared with the data of a homogenous control group of patients who were treated using monopolar electrosurgery and clips.

RESULTS

Neither major complications nor bile duct injuries were detected in either group, and no statistically significant difference was found between the 2 in terms of the incidence of postoperative complications. However, the mean operative time was significantly shorter in patients treated with the Harmonic scalpel.

CONCLUSION

The Harmonic scalpel is not only a safe and effective instrument but also a reliable substitute for clips because it provides complete hemobiliary stasis. Even if the study revealed no differences with regard to postoperative complications, the Harmonic scalpel represents a viable alternative because of the shorter operation time and cost savings that are inherent in a procedure using it as a single instrument.

Cystic duct closure by sealing with bipolar electrocoagulation

A bipolar electrosurgical device was found to provide safe division and effective closure of the cystic duct during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Background:

Cystic duct leakage after cholecystectomy is not uncommon and is a potentially serious complication. The aim of this study was to assess a bipolar sealing system (LigaSure^®) for closure of the cystic duct.

Methods:

The records from consecutive laparoscopic cholecystectomies performed in 2 hospitals with closure of the cystic duct with LigaSure after informed consent were recorded and complications and morbidity registered. The records were compared with those of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy with closure of the cystic duct with clips during the same period.

Results:

During the study period, 218 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed; 102 of these were performed with the LigaSure. One patient was excluded due to violation of the protocol. We experienced no cases of cystic duct leakage, but in one patient, bile leakage from the gallbladder bed was observed probably due to a small aberrant duct.

Conclusion:

The LigaSure system was safe and effective for closure and division of the cystic duct in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Clipless laparoscopic cholecystectomy using the Harmonic scalpel for cirrhotic patients: a prospective randomized study

BACKGROUND

Improved laparoscopic experiences have made laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) feasible options for cirrhotic patients. This study aimed to compare the traditional method for LC with LC using the Harmonic scalpel in terms of safety and efficacy for cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

In this study, group A (60 patients) underwent LC by the traditional method (TM) with clipping of both the cystic duct and artery and dissection of the gallbladder by diathermy, and group B (60 patients) had LC performed using Harmonic scalpel (HS) closure and division of both the cystic duct and artery with dissection of the gallbladder by the HS. The perioperative data were recorded.

RESULTS

The operation with the Harmonic scalpel was performed in less time than TM (45.17 ± 10.54 vs. 69.71 ± 13.01 min; p = 0.0001). The intraoperative blood loss was significantly more with TM (133 ± 131.13 l vs. 70.13 ± 80.79 ml; p = 0.002). The conversion rate was 5% with TM and 3.3% with HS (p = 0.65). The incidence of gallbladder peroration was lower in the HS group (10% vs. 18.3%; p = 0.03). Bile leak was encountered in 1.7% with HS and 3.3% with TM (p = 0.45). The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain with HS on postoperative day 1 was (3.07 ± 2.02 vs. 4.4 ± 2.11 (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

For cirrhotic patients, LC still is more complicated and difficult than for patients without cirrhosis. The Harmonic scalpel provides complete hemobiliary stasis and is a safe alternative to the standard clipping of the cystic duct and artery for cirrhotic patients. It offers a shorter operative duration and less blood loss.

Biliary complications secondary to post-cholecystectomy clip migration: a review of 69 cases

INTRODUCTION

Post-cholecystectomy clip migration (PCCM) is rare and can lead to complications which include clip-related biliary stones. Most have been reported as case reports. This study reviews cases of clip migration reported in the literatures.

METHOD

Searches and reviews of the literatures from "PubMed," "EMBASE," and "Google Scholar" search engines using the keywords "clip migration" and "bile duct stones" were carried out. Eighty cases from 69 publications were identified but details for only 69 cases were available for the study.

RESULTS

The median age at presentations of PCCM was 60 years old (range, 31 to 88 years; female, 61.8%) and the median time from the initial cholecystectomy to clinical presentations was 26 months (range, 11 days to 20 years). Of primary surgeries, 23.2% was for complicated gallstones disease. The median number of clips placed during surgery was six (range, two to more than ten clips). Common diagnoses at presentations of PCCM were obstructive jaundice (37.7%), cholangitis (27.5%), biliary colic (18.8%), and acute pancreatitis (8.7%). The median number of migrated clip was one (range, one to six). Biliary dilatation and strictures were encountered in 74.1% and 28.6%, respectively. Of the 69 cases of PCCM-associated complications, 53 (77%) were successfully treated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), 14 (20.2%) with surgery, and one (1.4%) with successful percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography treatment. One patient had spontaneous clearance of PCCM. There was no reported mortality related to PCCM.

CONCLUSION

PCCM can occur at any time but typically occur at a median of 2 years after cholecystectomy. Clinical presentations are similar to those with primary or secondary choledocholithiasis. Most can be managed successfully with ERCP.

Harmonic scalpel compared to conventional hemostasis in thyroid surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Background. The study's aim was to determine whether conventional hemostasis (CH) or the Harmonic Scalpel (HS) results in shorter operative times for thyroidectomy and to evaluate the incidence of postoperative complications with each approach. Methods. A literature search was conducted from study inception to September 30, 2008. Included studies randomized thyroidectomy patients to either CH or HS and reported the incidence of postoperative transient recurrent laryngeal nerve dysfunction (RLND) and hypocalcemia. Results. Nine RCTs were included. Use of the HS reduced operative time by 23.1 minutes (95% CI = 13.8, 32.33). There was no difference in the incidence of transient RLND (RR = 1.25, 95% CI = .56, 2.76), but a lower rate of transient hypocalcemia with the use of the HS (RR = .69, 95% CI = .51, .92). Conclusions. The use of HS in thyroidectomy significantly reduces operative time and is associated with a reduction in postoperative hypocalcemia compared to CH.

Dissection by ultrasonic energy versus monopolar electrosurgical energy in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for management of symptomatic gallstones. Electrocautery remains the main energy form used during laparoscopic dissection. However, due to its risks, search is continuous for safer and more efficient forms of energy. This review assesses the effects of dissection using ultrasonic energy compared with monopolar electrocautery during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHODS

A literature search of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and EMBASE was performed. Studies included were trials that prospectively randomized adult patients with symptomatic gallstone disease to either ultrasonic or monopolar electrocautery dissection during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Data were collected regarding the characteristics and methodological quality of each trial. Outcome measures included operating time, gallbladder perforation rate, bleeding, bile leak, conversion rate, length of hospital stay and sick leave, postoperative pain and nausea scores, and influence on systemic immune and inflammatory responses. For metaanalysis, the statistical package RevMan version 4.2 was used. For continuous data, Weighted Mean Difference (WMD) was calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI) using the fixed effects model. For Categorical data, the Odds Ratio (OR) was calculated with 95% confidence interval using fixed effects model.

RESULTS

Seven trials were included in this review, with a total number of 695 patients randomized to 2 dissection methods: 340 in the electrocautery group and 355 in the ultrasonic group. No mortality was recorded in any of the trials. With ultrasonic dissection, operating time is significantly shorter in elective surgery (WMD -8.19, 95% CI -10.36 to -6.02, P<0.0001), acute cholecystitis (WMD -17, 95% CI -28.68 to -5.32, P=0.004), complicated cases (WMD -15, 95% CI -28.15 to -1.85, P=0.03), or if surgery was performed by trainee surgeons who had performed <10 procedures (P=0.043). Gallbladder perforation risk with bile leak or stone loss is lower (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.42, P<0.0001 and OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.47, P=0.002 respectively), particularly in the subgroup of complicated cases (OR 0.24 95% CI 0.09 to 0.61, P=0.003). Mean durations of hospital stay and sick leave were shorter with ultrasonic dissection (WMD -0.3, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.09, P=0.005 and WMD -3.8, 95% CI -6.21 to -1.39, P=0.002 respectively), with a smaller mean number of patients who stayed overnight in the hospital (OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.89, P=0.04). Postoperative abdominal pain scores at 1, 4, and 24 hours were significantly lower with ultrasonic dissection as were postoperative nausea scores at 2, 4, and 24 hours.

CONCLUSION

Based on a few trials with relatively small patient samples, this review does not attempt to advocate the use of a single-dissection technology but rather to elucidate results that could be used in future trials and analyses. It demonstrates, with statistical significance, a shorter operating time, hospital stay and sick leave, lower gallbladder perforation risk especially in complicated cases, and lower pain and nausea scores at different postoperative time points. However, many of these potential benefits are subjective, and prone to selection, and expectation bias because most included trials are unblinded. Also the clinical significance of these statistical results has yet to be proved. The main disadvantages are the difficulty in Harmonic scalpel handling, and cost. Appropriate training programs may be implemented to overcome the first disadvantage. Cost remains the main universal issue with current ultrasonic devices, which outweighs the potential clinical benefits (if any), indicating the need for further cost-benefit analysis.

Prospective analysis of 101 consecutive cases of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis operated with harmonic scalpel

BACKGROUND

Videolaparocholecystectomy (VLC) for acute cholecystitis (AC) is a technically demanding procedure, feasible by experienced surgeons, still affected by high conversion rate. Aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate whether the use of harmonic scalpel (HA) during VLC for AC, allowing a potentially better hemostasis and biliostasis, can decrease the conversion rate.

METHODS

Hundred and one patients, with the mean age of 61.2+/-8.2 years (range: 39 to 81 y), admitted for AC, have been submitted to early VLC with HA within 6 years (from January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2008) at the Department of General, Emergency, and Transplant Surgery of St Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital in Bologna, Italy. The design of the study was prospective observational non-randomized. The control group consisted of 100 patients who underwent VLC for AC without HA at the same department in the same period.

RESULTS

Mean operative time in VLC group with HA has been 71.4+/-14.3 minutes (range: 42 to 112 min) versus 87.4+/-10.8 minutes in the control group (P<0.001). Blood losses were significantly lower with the use of HA. Conversion rate has been 4.9%, mortality was 1%, and postoperative morbidity 7.9% in HA treated group, versus 12% conversion rate, 1% and 9% mortality and morbidity, respectively in the control group (P value not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of HA seems to be associated with lower conversion rate in VLC for AC, without any significant increase of morbidity. HA might be even more useful in the most technically demanding cases but further investigations are required. A prospective randomized trial comparing harmonic versus monopolar diathermy in laparoscopic cholecystectomy for AC in adults (Harmonic for Acute Cholecystitis Trial, NCT00746850) is currently enrolling patients and will clarify these observations.