BACKGROUND This study critically reviews sigmoid colon resection for diverticulitis comparing open and laparoscopic techniques. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of all open and laparoscopic cases of diverticulitis between 1992 and 2001. Data analyzed included the following: indications for operation, postoperative complications, and incidence of laparoscopic conversion to laparotom...

The precise role of laparoscopic assessment of biliary tract malignancy is yet to be defined. The evidence for its use has been reviewed to establish the role of laparoscopy for preoperative staging of cholangiocarcinoma. Published papers were reviewed for the evidence relevant to intrahepatic, proximal intrahepatic and distal biliary carcinoma. There is no randomized trial evaluating staging l...

BACKGROUND Roux-en-Y gastric bypass performed laparoscopically remains the gold standard in bariatric surgery. The role of robot-assisted laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has not been clearly defined. METHODS We present 80 consecutive cases of robot-assisted laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass performed at a single institution. Mechanics, early outcomes, and learning curve are evaluate...

INTRODUCTION The introduction of laparoscopic techniques has caused the dispute between supporters of routine or elective intraoperative cholangiography to continue, but at present most authors recommend its elective practice on the basis of well-established preoperative and / or intraoperative indications, thus avoiding to carry out a large number of unnecessary procedures, with their inherent...

OBJECTIVE To compare the results of laparoscopic adrenalectomy with those of open adrenalectomy in Ramathibodi Hospital. MATERIAL AND METHOD Medical charts of 41 laparoscopic and 39 open adrenalectomy patients were reviewed Baseline characteristics and outcomes of treatment were compared between these two patient groups, using univariable statistical tests and multivariable statistical proced...

Introduction: Retroperitoneum is the third most common extragonadal site for occurrence of teratoma in children, after sacrococcygeal region and gonadal sites. Although many authors have previously reported laparoscopic removal of benign retroperitoneal teratoma in adults, the experience in pediatric setting is extremely limited. Material and methods: We report our experience with laparoscopic ...