Publications by authors named "A Karatassas"

Minimally invasive extended totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) technique is revolutionising ventral hernia repairs. Robotic-assisted eTEP has been gaining popularity due to better visual clarity and greater dexterity provided by the robotic systems, compared to laparoscopy. Despite growing number of papers being published each year, so far, no study has explored intraoperative complications in robotic-assisted eTEP.

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Background: In the era of minimally invasive surgery, it is clear that a robust simulation model is required for the training of surgeons in advanced abdominal wall reconstruction. The purpose of this experimentation was to evaluate whether a porcine model could be used to teach advanced minimally invasive abdominal wall dissection techniques to novice surgeons. Secondary objectives included: time to completion, identification of various anatomical landmarks, to note the difference in porcine and human models and finally, the ability to dock a Da Vinci Xi robotic platform on the porcine model.

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Robot-assisted general surgery has become increasingly common in the Australian public sector since 2003. It provides significant technical advantages compared to laparoscopic surgery. Currently, it is estimated that the learning curve for surgeons starting off with robotic surgery is complete after 15 cases.

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Introduction: The burden of complex abdominal wall hernia (CAWH) is increasing, with associated high morbidity and healthcare costs. This study evaluates current evidenoptce regarding multidisciplinary care for CAWH patients to improve patient outcomes.

Methods: A systematic review of Scopus, MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Web of Knowledge and Cochrane Library was conducted to identify proposed or established multidisciplinary team (MDT) pathways, necessary MDT constituents, and to evaluate patient outcomes.

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