ObjectiveTo explore the therapeutic effect of gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy via axillary posterior approach for unilateral papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. MethodsThe clinicopathologic data of patients with unilateral papillary thyroid microcarcinoma who were treated by gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy via axillary posterior approach (observation group) or breast approach (control group) in the Xuzhou Central Hospital from January 2020 to February 2022 were collected. The operation time, accidental intraoperative bleeding, exposure time of recurrent laryngeal nerve, number of lymph node dissection, total hospital stay, and postoperative complications such as superior laryngeal nerve injury, cough due to drinking, temporary hoarseness, transient hypocalcemia, tunnel hematoma, and neck discomfort were compared between the two groups. Meanwhile, the cosmetic effects of the two groups were evaluated. ResultsA total of 87 patients who met the study conditions were enrolled in this study, including 47 cases in the observation group and 40 cases in the control group. There were no statistical differences in the baseline data such as gende, age, maximum tumor diameter, location of tumor, etc. between the two groups (P>0.05). Compared with the control group, the exposure time of recurrent laryngeal nerve was shorter (P<0.001) and the number of lymph node dissection was more (P=0.034), but the accidental intraoperative bleeding during operation was more (P=0.015) in the observation group. There were no statistical differences in the operation time and total hospital stay between the two groups (P>0.05). There were no superior laryngeal nerve injury and cough due to drinking in the two groups after operation, and there were no statistical differences between the two groups in the terms of postoperative temporary hoarseness, transient hypocalcemia, and tunnel hematoma (P>0.05), but it was found that the incidence of postoperative neck discomfort in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (P=0.043), and the postoperative cosmetic satisfaction score was also higher than that in the control group (P<0.001). ConclusionsFrom the results of this study, gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy via axillary posterior approach for unilateral papillary thyroid microcarcinoma is safe and feasible. It can quickly expose the recurrent laryngeal nerve and greatly improve the efficiency of lymph node dissection, as well as the cosmetic effect is better.
The capsule endoscope swallowed from the mouth into the digestive system can capture the images of important gastrointestinal tract regions. It can compensate for the blind spot of traditional endoscopic techniques. It enables inspection of the digestive system without discomfort or need for sedation. However, currently available clinical capsule endoscope has some limitations such as the diagnostic information being not able to correspond to the orientation in the body, since the doctor is unable to control the capsule motion and orientation. To solve the problem, it is significant to track the position and orientation of the capsule in the human body. This study presents an AC excitation wireless tracking method in the capsule endoscope, and the sensor embedded in the capsule can measure the magnetic field generated by excitation coil. And then the position and orientation of the capsule can be obtained by solving a magnetic field inverse problem. Since the magnetic field decays with distance dramatically, the dynamic range of the received signal spans three orders of magnitude, we designed an adjustable alternating magnetic field generating device. The device can adjust the strength of the alternating magnetic field automatically through the feedback signal from the sensor. The prototype experiment showed that the adjustable magnetic field generating device was feasible. It could realize the automatic adjustment of the magnetic field strength successfully, and improve the tracking accuracy.
Due to the special structure and material of the flexible gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopes, it is difficult to reprocess endoscopes. Infections caused by endoscope reprocessing failure often occur. Strict implementation of the guidelines/relevant national standards and manufacturer's instructions is essential to prevent the occurrence of endoscopy-related infections and ensure patient safety. In 2020, ASGE (American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) released the "multisociety guideline on reprocessing flexible GI endoscopes and accessories". This paper aimed to promote the understanding of the reprocessing process of flexible GI endoscopes by the endoscope decontamination staff, and to provide references for clinical practice.
ObjectivesTo explore the efficacy and prognostic factors of neuroendoscopic intracerebral hematoma evacuation in the treatment of hypertension-related intracerebral hemorrhage.MethodsA total of 122 patients with hypertension-related intracerebral hemorrhage treated in our hospital from October 2015 to May 2019 were categorized into experimental group (n=62) and control group (n=60). The experimental group was treated with endoscopic intracerebral hematoma removal, while the control group was treated with traditional craniotomy. The operative indexes, postoperative recovery, serum endothelin, IL-6, CRP levels and the incidence of postoperative complications were observed and compared between the two groups, and the relevant factors affecting the prognosis of patients undergoing neuroendoscopic intracerebral hematoma evacuation were analyzed.ResultsThe operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hematoma clearance rate, ICU treatment time, the volume of brain edema 7 days after operation, the postoperative intracranial pressure, NIHSS score and ADL score in experimental group were significantly superior to those in control group. The levels of serum endothelin, IL-6 and CRP in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group after operation. The incidence of complications in the experimental group was lower than that in control group. Univariate analysis showed that the prognosis of patients undergoing neuroendoscopic evacuation of intracerebral hematoma was significantly correlated with the history of hypertension, preoperative GCS score, the amount of bleeding and whether been broken into the ventricle (P<0.05), but not with age, sex and location of hemorrhage (P>0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the history of hypertension above 10 years, blood loss above 50 mL, intraventricular rupture and preoperative GCS score were the risk factors affecting the prognosis of patients undergoing neuroendoscopic intracerebral hematoma evacuation.ConclusionsCompared with traditional craniotomy, neuroendoscopic evacuation of intracerebral hematoma has the advantages of better curative effect and lower incidence of postoperative complications in the treatment of hypertension-related intracerebral hemorrhage. The history of hypertension above 10 years, bleeding volume above 50 mL, breaking into the ventricle and preoperative GCS score are the risk factors affecting the prognosis of patients undergoing neuroendoscopic intracerebral hematoma evacuation.
ObjectiveTo review the research progress of total endoscopic minimally invasive technique in treating cervical nerve root canal stenosis (CNRCS).MethodsThe related literature at home and abroad was extensively reviewed. The research history, current situation, research progress, advantages and disadvantages of minimally invasive treatment of CNRCS under total endoscope were summarized.ResultsIn recent years, with the continuous development of minimally invasive technique of total endoscope in spine surgery, the surgical treatment methods are also constantly innovated. Compared with the traditional open surgery, minimally invasive treatment of CNRCS under total endoscope can obtain better effectiveness, keep the stability of the cervical segment to the maximum extent, reduce the impact on the activity of the cervical spine and the occurrence of related surgical complications, which is an effective minimally invasive technology.ConclusionThe minimally invasive treatment of CNRCS under total endoscope has achieved some results, which is expected to be one of the indispensable means to treat CNRCS, but it still needs to be improved.
Objective To analyze the medium and long-term effectiveness of microendoscope-assisted minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) for lumbar degenerative diseases in comparison with conventional tubular retractor-assisted MIS-TLIF. Methods Between November 2008 and March 2013, 53 patients with single segment lumbar degenerative diseases were enrolled. According to the different working channel performed, 28 patients were treated by microendoscope-assisted MIS-TLIF (observation group), while the remaining cases received conventional tubular retractor-assisted MIS-TLIF via Wiltse approach (control group). Preoperative baseline data, including age, gender, body mass index, disease etiology, operated level, the ration for requiring bilateral canal decompression, and preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) socre of low back pain and leg pain, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, showed no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopy time, postoperative analgesic drug dose, postoperation in-bed time, and perioperative complication incidence were recorded respectively and compared between the two groups. Radiographic evaluation of interbody fusion was performed based on Bridwell grading system at 2 years after operation. VAS scores of low back pain and leg pain, JOA score, and ODI score were assessed before operation, at 2 years after operation, and at last follow-up respectively. Surgical outcome satisfaction was assessed by modified MacNab criteria at last follow-up. Results When compared with those in control group, both intraoperative blood loss and postoperative analgesic drug dose were significantly decreased in observation group (P<0.05); similarly, the operation time and intraoperative fluoroscopy time were also significantly increased in observation group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference of postoperative in-bed time between the two groups (t=–0.812, P=0.420). Both groups were followed up 6-10.3 years, with an average of 7.9 years. Regarding perioperative complication, its incidence was 14.3% and 20.0% in observation group and control group, respectively, showing no significant difference between both groups (χ2=0.306, P=0.580). Specifically, there were intraspinal hematoma formation in 1 case, incision infection in 1 case, urinary infection in 1 case, transient delirium in 1 case in observation group. By contrast, there were dural tear and cerebrospinal fluid leakage in 1 case, urinary infection in 1 case, pneumonia in 1 case, transient delirium in 2 cases in control group. Bridwell criterion was used to judge the intervertebral fusion at 2 years after operation, the fusion rates of observation group and control group were 92.9% and 92.0%, respectively, showing no significant difference (χ2=0.162, P=0.687). At both 2-year postoperatively and last follow-up, the VAS scores of low back pain and leg pain, JOA score, and ODI score were significantly improved when compared with those before operation (P<0.01), whereas no significant difference between the two groups at either time point was found (P>0.05). At last follow-up, the results of patients’ satisfaction with surgery evaluated by modified MacNab criteria, and the excellent and good rates of the observation group and the control group were 96.4% and 92.0%, respectively, showing no significant difference (χ2=0.485, P=0.486). Conclusion The medium and long-term effectiveness of microendoscope-assisted MIS-TLIF are similar to those of conventional tubular retractor-assisted MIS-TLIF for lumbar degenerative diseases. The former operation has the additional advantages in terms of more clear surgical site visually, less intraoperative blood loss, and reduced postoperative analgesic dose, all of which seem more feasible to clinical teaching.
Endoscopic technology can reduce the surgical incision, and on the basis of ensuring tumor safety, effectively improve aesthetic outcomes and enhance patient satisfaction. Endoscopic breast-conserving surgery can offer benefits to scar appearance for patients with early breast cancer; however, for patients with tumors in the lower quadrant, the trauma of surgery should be carefully considered. Endoscopic breast reconstruction provides a preferred option for the patients underwent total mastectomy by reshaping a scarless breast. The choice of surgery should be considered by oncological safety, postoperative aesthetic effects, patient’s willingness, and medical conditions. The more high-quality clinical studies are needed to provide reference for decision-making. The development of endoscopic technology will provide better treatment options for patients with breast cancer.
ObjectiveTo investigate the difference between four transforaminal endoscopic approaches in the treatment of serious lumbar disc herniation.MethodsBetween October 2010 and February 2015, a total of 122 patients with serious lumbar disc herniation were enrolled and treated with discectomy under transforaminal endoscope. The patients were divided into 4 groups according to the different approaches. The transforaminal endoscopic spine system (TESSYS) technology was used in group A (31 cases), Yeung endoscopic spine system (YESS) technology was used in group B (30 cases), improved transforaminal endoscopic access (ITEA) technology was used in group C (31 cases), and interlaminar dorsal access (IDA) technology was used in group D (30 cases). There was no significant difference in gender, age, disease duration, lesion segment, and preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score of low back pain, VAS score of bilateral lower extremities pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI), intervertebral height, lumbar curvature index (LCI), and disc degeneration grading between groups (P>0.05). The removal volume of nucleus pulposus was compared; after operation, VAS score, ODI score, LCI, intervertebral height, and disc degeneration grading were used to evaluate the effectiveness.ResultsThe removal volumes of nucleus pulposus in groups A, B, C, and D were (3.6±0.9), (3.5±0.7), (4.6±1.0), (3.1±1.1) cm3, respectively. There were significant differences between groups (P<0.05). All incisions healed by first intention, and no early postoperative complications was found. All cases were followed up 12-35 months, with an average of 24 months. During follow-up, there was no recurrence of nucleus pulposus herniation, infection of intervertebral space, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, epidural hematoma, or other complications. At last follow-up, the VAS scores of low back pain and bilateral lower extremities pain, and ODI scores in each group significantly improved when compared with those before operation (P<0.05); there was no significant difference in the scores and improvements between groups after operation (P>0.05). At last follow-up, the disc degeneration grading in group B significantly improved when compared with that before operation (P<0.05); there was no significant difference between groups (P>0.05). At last follow-up, there was no significant difference in LCI of each group when compared with that before operation (P>0.05); and there was no significant difference in LCI and loss value between groups (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in the intervertebral height of the 4 groups at immediate after operation and last follow-up when compared with preoperative value (P>0.05), and there was no significant difference between groups at immediate after operation and last follow-up (P>0.05).ConclusionApplication of transforaminal endoscope in the treatment of serious lumbar disc herniation has great clinical outcomes. The ITEA technology can obtain a wider field of view and be more convenient to find and remove the degenerative nucleus pulposus. However, the appropriate approach should be selected according to the symptoms and characteristics of lumbar disc herniation.
Considering the problems such as reposition limited, easily detached and singly fired of the existing clip products, we developed an endoscopic multiple-clip applier which can apply 4 clips fired successively at a time. The instrument also equipped with an independent grasper which can be used to clamp target tissues. In order to explore its feasibility and effectiveness of endoluminal closure of gastric perforation, 22 pig stomachs were making a 1 cm full-thickness incision from outside and closed by multiple-clip applier (n=12) in vitro. Outcome was measured by bursting pressure and compared with negative control (n=5) and hand suture (n=5). We set a threshold pressure value (10 mm Hg) for a secure closure. Except 2 cases of invalid data, the mean bursting pressures of negative control, multiple-clip applier, hand suture were (1.5±0.3) mm Hg, (46.0±7.1) mm Hg, and (72.5±7.7) mm Hg, respectively. The results showed that bursting pressure of multiple-clip applier was significantly higher than that of negative control (P＜0.05) and threshold value. Multiple-clip applier can be served as an effective and safe device to perform the endoluminal closure of gastric perforation.
ObjectiveTo investigate clinical efficacy and advantages and disadvantages of primary closure with two endoscopes (1aparoscope+choledochoscope) or three endoscopes (laparoscope+choledochoscope+duodenoscope) through the cystic duct for treatment of gallbladder stone with secondary common bile duct (CBD) stones.MethodsThe clinical data of 83 patients with gallbladder stones with secondary CBD stones treated by two or three endoscopes combined with CBD exploration and lithotomy and primary closure through cystic duct from January 2017 to December 2018 in the Chengdu Second People’s Hospital were collected retrospectively. Among them, 41 patients were treated by two endoscopes mode (two endoscopes group), 42 cases were treated by three endoscopes mode (three endoscopes group).ResultsThere were no significant differences in the general conditions such as the gender, age, preoperative diameter of CBD, chronic diseases, etc. between the two and three endoscopes group (P>0.05). All 83 cases underwent the operations successfully and recovered well. The success rate of operation, stone clearance rate, drainage volume of abdominal drainage tube on day 1 after the operation, time of abdominal drainage tube removal after the operation, and hospitalization time had no significant differences between these two groups (P>0.05). The time of operation, intraoperative bleeding volume, and the postoperative pancreatitis rate in the three endoscopes group were significantly more (or higher) than those in the two endoscopes group (P<0.05), but the condition of liver function recovered after the operation was better than that in the two endoscopes group (P<0.05).ConclusionsWith the strict control of the operation indications, it is safe and feasible to use two or three endoscopes through the cystic duct pathway and primary closure of CBD for treatment of gallbladder stone with secondary CBD stones. However, the choice of operative methods of two or three endoscopes should be based on the general situation of the patients before and during the operation.