OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to examine the clinical profile, surgical management, and outcomes of patients admitted for ectopic pregnancy.

A five-year retrospective study of ectopic pregnancies admitted in a tertiary training hospital in the Philippines was performed. Data from admission and operating room records were used to obtain the annual cumulative incidence of ectopic pregnancy. Subjects were divided into laparotomy versus laparoscopy groups, and salpingostomy versus salpingectomy groups; differences in the means/medians/mean-ranks and proportions of the different clinical and outcome variables of interest were compared by Student t test/Mann-Whitney U test and chisquare/Fisher exact test of homogeneity, respectively.

The cumulative incidence of ectopic pregnancy ranged from 2.30% to 4.01% from 2017 to 2021. A total of 128 patients were included in the final analysis with a mean age of 27.8 ± 5.73 years. The most common identified risk factors were smoking (17.97%), previous ectopic pregnancy (17.19%), and previous tubal surgery (15.62%). The ampulla was the most common site of tubal involvement. Of the 128 patients, 45.31% underwent laparotomy while 54.69% underwent laparoscopy. Salpingectomy was performed in 76.56% of patients. Tubal rupture was noted in 42.97% of cases. Patients with abdominal pain, back pain, shoulder pain, and dizziness were more likely to undergo laparotomy than laparoscopy (p < 0.05). A lower β-hCG value was noted in patients who underwent salpingostomy compared to salpingectomy (5,569.80 mIU/mL vs 10,555.47, p < 0.05). Salpingostomy was more likely to be performed on patients with previous ectopic pregnancy (p < 0.05) and previous tubal surgery (p < 0.05) than salpingectomy.

The cumulative incidence of ectopic pregnancy in our institution was higher than global estimates. Risk factors and anatomic site of tubal involvement were similar to those reported in literature. Laparoscopy seemed to be underutilized for cases of ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Training on minimally invasive procedures should be provided to point-ofcare trainees or residents for patients to be afforded the benefits of laparoscopy.

Urethral stricture disease is a common urological condition that can lead to obstructive voiding symptoms, urinary retention, and recurrent infections. Strictures are caused by trauma, infections, or iatrogenic factors like prolonged catheterization. The mucosal-sparing augmented non-transected anastomotic (MsANTA) urethroplasty aims to preserve urethral mucosa and vascular integrity, reducing complications such as fibrosis and restenosis. This report presents the first MsANTA urethroplasty performed in the Philippines.

A 19-year-old male with irritative lower urinary tract symptoms and acute urinary retention following ventriculostomy developed a 1.5 cm bulbar urethral stricture. He underwent MsANTA urethroplasty, involving perineal dissection, dorsal urethrotomy, and mucosal reapproximation with a buccal mucosal graft. The patient had an uncomplicated recovery, improved urinary flow, and no recurrence at 6-month follow-up.

MsANTA urethroplasty presents a novel technique for managing short-segment, non-traumatic bulbar strictures by preserving native vascularity and minimizing surgical trauma. This case highlights its potential as a safer alternative to traditional approaches, with fewer complications.

MsANTA urethroplasty is a promising and effective technique for bulbar strictures. Further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and potential role as a standard of care.

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has progressed beyond diagnostic imaging to include EUS-guided tissue acquisition and EUS-directed therapies. This review provides an update on EUS-guided drainage and anastomotic procedures, and other therapeutic procedures. Today, EUS-guided drainage of symptomatic walled-off pancreatic fluid collections is the norm, with endoscopic necrosectomy as an adjunct. For high-risk surgical patients unsuitable for cholecystectomy, EUS-guided gallbladder drainage of acute cholecystitis is an option. Additionally, EUS-guided drainage of obstructed biliary and pancreatic ductal system can be performed as salvage procedures after unsuccessful endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Bariatric procedures such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass alter the gastric anatomy, hindering access to the major papilla. This can be overcome by creating a conduit through the excluded stomach using EUS-directed transgastric ERCP. Gastric outlet obstruction and afferent loop syndrome can be treated using EUS-guided gastrojejunostomy. These therapeutic interventions are a major advancement in the field of interventional EUS, achieving significant clinical impact.
Humans ; Endosonography/methods* ; Drainage/methods* ; Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde/methods* ; Ultrasonography, Interventional/methods* ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods*

OBJECTIVE: To review the latest research advancements in surgical techniques for the treatment of limb lymphedema. METHODS: The relevant literature at home and abroad in recent years was extensively reviewed, and the research on the treatment of limb lymphedema by surgical techniques were summarized and analyzed. RESULTS: Lymphovenous anastomosis has demonstrated good effectiveness for early to mid-stage limb lymphedema, however its long-term effectiveness and applicability for late-stage limb lymphedema still require further validation. Autologous lymphatic/venous grafting has shown clinical feasibility in the treatment of secondary limb lymphedema. Research on tissue-engineered lymphatic scaffolds remains insufficient, primarily due to the complexity of lymphatic anatomical structures and the technical challenges involved. Nevertheless, its potential application is promising. Vascularized lymph node flap transplantation has shown significant effectiveness in treating limb lymphedema, particularly yielding good outcomes in upper limb cases. However, it can not guarantee a complete cure for the condition. Charles' operation is the most effective treatment option for patients with late-stage limb lymphedema, but its extensive incision and severe postoperative complications limit its application. Liposuction has the advantages such as minimal invasiveness, high safety, and repeatability. It is suitable for patients with late-stage limb lymphedema who have failed conservative treatment or developed adiposity. However, its effectiveness is limited in patients with significant limb fibrosis. CONCLUSION Current treatments for limb lymphedema require further improvement, and there is considerable debate regarding treatment strategies for different stages of the condition. Future high-quality, multi-system combined treatment approaches are anticipated to guide clinical practice.
Humans ; Lymphedema/surgery* ; Surgical Flaps/blood supply* ; Lymphatic Vessels/surgery* ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods* ; Lymph Nodes/transplantation* ; Lipectomy/methods* ; Extremities/surgery* ; Treatment Outcome ; Tissue Engineering ; Tissue Scaffolds ; Veins/transplantation*

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of combined platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and arterial supercharging technique on the survival rate and functional restoration of cross-body region skin flaps in rabbits. METHODS: Twelve healthy 6-month-old New Zealand White rabbits were randomly assigned to 4 groups ( n=3): sham group, PRP group, anastomosis group, and combined treatment group. An axial skin flap with an area of 12 cm×6 cm on the inner side of the hind limbs of all animals were prepared, with the saphenous artery as the main blood supply. Following the ligation of both the proximal and distal ends of the saphenous artery across all groups, the sham group received no further intervention, the PRP group was subjected to PRP injection, the anastomosis group underwent in situ end-to-end anastomosis of the distal saphenous artery, and the combined treatment group received both in situ distal saphenous artery anastomosis and PRP administration. Flap survival was evaluated and recorded on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7, with survival rates calculated accordingly. On day 7, flap tissue samples were harvested for HE staining to assess basal tissue morphology. Additionally, immunohistochemical staining was conducted to detect the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and CD31 in the flap tissues. RESULTS: At postoperative day 1, no significant difference in flap survival rates were observed among the 4 groups ( P>0.05). At day 3, the PRP group showed no significant difference compared to the sham group ( P>0.05); however, both the anastomosis and combined treatment groups exhibited significantly higher survival rates than the sham group ( P<0.05), the combined treatment group further demonstrated superior survival rates compared to both the PRP and anastomosis groups ( P<0.05). At day 7, the combined treatment group maintained significantly higher survival rates than all other groups ( P<0.05), while both the PRP and anastomosis groups exceeded the sham group ( P<0.05). HE staining at day 7 revealed persistent inflammatory cell infiltration, sheet-like erythrocyte deposition, and disordered collagen fibers in the sham group. The PRP group showed nascent microvessel formation and early collagen reorganization, whereas the anastomosis group displayed mature microvasculature with resolved interstitial edema. The combined treatment group exhibited differentiated microvessels with densely packed collagen bundles. Immunohistochemical analysis at day 7 demonstrated significantly larger relative area percentages of α-SMA, VEGF, and CD31 positive cells in the combined treatment group compared to all other groups ( P<0.05). Both the PRP and anastomosis groups also showed significantly higher values than the sham group ( P<0.05). CONCLUSION The combination of PRP and arterial supercharging techniques significantly enhances flap healing, potentially through mechanisms involving augmented angiogenesis and improved blood supply.
Animals ; Rabbits ; Platelet-Rich Plasma ; Surgical Flaps/blood supply* ; Graft Survival ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods* ; Ischemia/surgery* ; Arteries/surgery* ; Skin/blood supply* ; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/metabolism* ; Male ; Skin Transplantation/methods*

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of single-stage vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) combined with lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) and liposuction (LS) (3L) versus LVA combined with LS (2L) for the treatment of moderate-to-late stage upper limb lymphedema following breast cancer surgery. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 16 patients with moderate-to-late stage upper limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery, treated between June 2022 and June 2024, who met the selection criteria. Patients were divided into 3L group (n=7) and 2L group (n=9) based on the surgical approach. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in baseline data between the groups, including age, body mass index, duration of edema, volume of liposuction, International Society of Lymphology (ISL) stage, preoperative affected limb volume, preoperative circumferences of the affected limb at 12 levels (from 4 cm distal to the wrist to 42 cm proximal to the wrist), preoperative Lymphoedema Quality of Life (LYMQoL) score, and frequency of cellulitis episodes. The 2L group underwent LS on the upper arm and proximal forearm and LVA on the middle and distal forearm. The 3L group received additional VLNT in the axilla, with the groin serving as the donor site. Outcomes were assessed included the change in affected limb volume at 12 months postoperatively, and comparisons of limb circumferences, LYMQoL score, and frequency of cellulitis episodes between preoperative and 12-month postoperative. Ultrasound evaluation was performed at 12 months in the 3L group to assess lymph node viability. RESULTS: Both groups were followed up 12-20 months, with an average of 15.13 months. There was no significant difference in the follow-up time between the groups (t=-1.115, P=0.284). All surgical incisions healed by first intention. No adverse events, such as flap infection or necrosis, occurred in the 3L group. At 12 months after operation, ultrasound confirmed good viability of the transferred lymph nodes in the 3L group. Palpation revealed significant improvement in skin fibrosis and improved skin softness in both groups. Affected limb volume significantly decreased in both groups postoperatively (P<0.05). The reduction in limb volume significantly greater in the 3L group compared to the 2L group (P<0.05). Circumferences at all 12 measured levels significantly decreased in both groups compared to preoperative values (P<0.05). The reduction in circumference at all 12 levels was better in the 3L group than in the 2L group, with significant differences observed at 7 levels (8, 12, 16, 30, 34, 38, and 42 cm) proximal to the wrist (P<0.05). Both groups showed significant improvement in the frequency of cellulitis episodes and LYMQoL scores postoperatively (P<0.05). While the improvement in LYMQoL scores at 12 months did not differ significantly between groups (P>0.05), the reduction in cellulitis episodes was significantly greater in the 3L group compared to the 2L group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION The combination of VLNT+LVA+LS provides more durable and comprehensive outcomes for moderate-to-late stage upper limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery compared to LVA+LS, offering an improved therapeutic solution for patients.
Humans ; Female ; Lipectomy/methods* ; Retrospective Studies ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods* ; Lymphedema/etiology* ; Middle Aged ; Upper Extremity/surgery* ; Breast Neoplasms/surgery* ; Lymph Nodes/blood supply* ; Adult ; Lymphatic Vessels/surgery* ; Iliac Artery/surgery* ; Postoperative Complications/surgery* ; Perforator Flap/blood supply* ; Treatment Outcome ; Mastectomy/adverse effects* ; Quality of Life ; Aged

PURPOSE: Hand-sewn anastomosis as the gold standard of vascular anastomosis cannot fully meet the requirements of vascular anastomosis in speed and quality. Various vascular couplers have been developed to ameliorate this situation. Most of them are mainly used for venous anastomosis rather than arterial anastomosis. Although it is generally acknowledged that in almost all operations involving vascular reconstruction, it is the arteries that need to be anastomosed faster and more accurately and not the veins. A dedicated device is needed for creating arterial anastomosis in an easy, timesaving, less damaging but reliable procedure. Therefore, we plan to develop a novel arterial coupler device and test pre-clinical safety and effectiveness. METHODS: In this cohort study, the rationality of this novel arterial coupler was preliminarily tested by finite element analysis before it was manufactured. Several factors restrict the use of vascular couplers in arterial anastomosis, such as arterial eversion, fixation, etc. The manufactured arterial couplers underwent in vitro and in vivo experiments. In vitro, isolated arteries of beagles were anastomosed with the assistance of an arterial coupler, and the anastomosed arteries were evaluated through anti-traction tests. In animal experiments, the bilateral femoral arteries of 5 beagles served as a control group. After dissection, the femoral artery on one side was randomly selected to be anastomosed with a quick arterial coupler (QAC) (QAC group), and the femoral artery on the other side was anastomosed by the same person using an end-to-end suture technique with a 6-0 Prolene suture (suture group). The bilateral femoral arteries of 5 beagles were used for coupler-assisted anastomosis and hand-sewn anastomosis in vivo, respectively. Success rate, blood loss, anastomotic time, clamp time, total operation time, and patency rate were recorded. The patency of anastomosed arteries was assessed using vascular Doppler ultrasound, electromagnetic flowmeter, and pathological examination (6 weeks after surgery). RESULTS: As a novel arterial coupler, QAC was successfully designed and manufactured by using poly lactic-co-glycolic acid raw materials and 3-dimensions printing technology. Its rationality was preliminarily tested through finite element analysis and related mechanical analysis methods. The isolated arteries were successfully anastomosed with the assistance of QAC in vitro testing, which showed good anti-traction properties. In animal studies, QAC-assisted arterial anastomosis has superior profiles compared to hand-sewn anastomosis in anastomotic time (7.80 ± 1.41 vs. 16.38 ± 1.04 min), clamp time (8.80 ± 1.41 vs. 14.14 ± 1.57 min), and total operation time (46.64 ± 2.38 vs. 51.96 ± 3.65 min). The results of electromagnetic flowmeter, vascular Doppler ultrasound, and pathological examination showed that QAC-assisted anastomotic arteries were superior to hand-sewn arteries in terms of postoperative blood flow (16.86 ± 3.93 vs. 10.36 ± 0.92 mL/min) and vascular patency in 6 weeks after surgery. CONCLUSION QAC is a well-designed and easily maneuverable device specialized for end-to-end arterial anastomosis. Application of this device may decrease thermal ischemia time and improve the patency of anastomotic arteries, thus, improving outcomes.
Animals ; Anastomosis, Surgical/instrumentation* ; Dogs ; Femoral Artery/surgery* ; Vascular Surgical Procedures/instrumentation* ; Finite Element Analysis

Tianhe procedure^® is a functional sphincter-preserving surgical approach developed for rectal cancer patients following radiotherapy. This technique involves extended proximal resection of the colon beyond the pelvic cavity, followed by anastomosis of the non-irradiated proximal colon to the distal rectum or anal canal. This strategy aims to reduce the incidence of anastomotic complications and postoperative bowel dysfunction. However, there is currently a lack of standardized practice guideline for implementing Tianhe procedure^® in China. Therefore, the Chinese Radiation Intestinal Injury Research Group, the Colorectal Surgery Group of Surgery Branch of the Chinese Medical Association, the Anorectal Branch of Chinese Medical Doctor Association, the Colorectal Cancer Committee of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association, and the Colorectal Cancer Committee of China Anti-cancer Association, and the Gastrointestinal Surgical Branch of Guangdong Medical Doctor Association, have jointly convened a panel of national experts to discuss and establish this standardized surgical procedure. This standard, based on the latest evidence from literature, research advancements, and expert experience, focuses on key aspects of the Tianhe procedure^®, including its precise definition, indications, critical procedural steps, postoperative complications, and functional rehabilitation strategies. It aims to promote standardized implementation and broader clinical adoption of this innovative surgical technique.
Humans ; Rectal Neoplasms/radiotherapy* ; Anal Canal/surgery* ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods* ; Organ Sparing Treatments/methods* ; Rectum/surgery* ; Postoperative Complications/prevention & control* ; Digestive System Surgical Procedures/methods*

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and safety of modified interposed jejunal anastomosis following total laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy. Methods: The modification in the digestive tract reconstruction involves transecting the small intestine 2-3 cm below the gastrojejunostomy site and relocating the enteroenterostomy cranially, based on the double-tract anastomosis technique. Specifically, the jejunum and its mesenteric vessels are transected 20-25 cm from the ligament of Treitz. An overlap anastomosis is performed between the esophagus and the distal jejunum, with the common opening closed using a 15 cm barbed suture in a buried manner. A side-to-side gastrojejunostomy is completed under natural anatomical alignment, and the common opening is closed similarly. A side-to-side anastomosis is then created between the small intestine approximately 10 cm below the gastrojejunal anastomosis and the small intestine distal to the ligament of Treitz. Finally, the small intestine is transected 2-3 cm below the gastrojejunal anastomosis without dividing the mesenteric vessels. Results: From April to December 2024, a total of five patients with adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction underwent modified interposed jejunum anastomosis following totally laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy at the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. The median age of the group was 56 (53-74) years, including four males and one female, with a median body mass index of 24 (21-29) kg/m². Three cases were classified as Siewert type II and two as type III. All five patients successfully completed the totally laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified interposed jejunum anastomosis. The median operative time was 215 (165-240) minutes, the digestive tract reconstruction time was 75 (65-93) minutes, and the intraoperative blood loss was 50 (30-100) ml. The median time to postoperative flatus was 71 (68-88) hours, with no severe complications occurring in any case. The median postoperative hospital stay was 8 (8-9) days. Within three months after surgery, none of the patients reported reflux symptoms such as acid regurgitation or heartburn. Conclusions: Total laparoscopic modified interposed jejunal anastomosis is safe and feasible, with relatively simple operative steps. It effectively prevents reflux while ensuring the passage of food through the remnant stomach and duodenal loop.
Humans ; Gastrectomy/methods* ; Jejunum/surgery* ; Laparoscopy/methods* ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods* ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Stomach Neoplasms/surgery* ; Plastic Surgery Procedures/methods*

Bariatric and metabolic surgery has become a primary treatment for decompensated obesity, with the number of procedures rapidly increasing in China in recent years. Various improved and novel surgical techniques have emerged. Given the characteristics of the Chinese obese population lower body mass index compared to Western populations and frequent pancreatic islet dysfunction laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass remains one of the mainstream procedures in China. Although the Procedural Guideline for Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (2019 Edition) has provided standardized surgical steps, mastering and routinely implementing the procedure in clinical practice continues to pose significant challenges. Compared to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is more technically demanding and requires a longer learning curve. To avoid suboptimal weight loss or severe postoperative complications resulting from non-standardized techniques, this article summarizes the authors' clinical experience, emphasizing key technical steps: creation of the gastric pouch, standardization of gastrojejunal and jejunojejunal anastomoses, hiatal closure, and full serosalization. These insights aim to improve procedural safety and therapeutic efficacy by offering a set of practical process optimization strategies.
Humans ; Gastric Bypass/methods* ; Laparoscopy/methods* ; Obesity, Morbid/surgery* ; Postoperative Complications/prevention & control* ; China ; Jejunum/surgery* ; Gastrectomy/methods* ; Anastomosis, Surgical/methods* ; Weight Loss