Randomized comparison of Limberg flap versus modified primary closure for the treatment of pilonidal disease.

Background: The best surgical technique for sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease is still controversial. The aim of this randomized prospective trial was to compare both the results of Limberg flap procedure and primary closure.

Methods: A total of 260 patients with sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease were assigned randomly to undergo Limberg flap procedure or tension-free primary closure.

A dry lab for medical engineers?

Introduction: We describe a teaching and training method with objective evaluation to improve medical engineering students' knowledge and analysis skills about Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) instrumentation and techniques through hands-on experience. Training has been scheduled during a three-month course.

Methods: Twenty medical engineering students were trained to perform three times on a pelvic trainer a sequence of standardized drills connected with the selected MIS techniques, in order to improve their dexterity.

Haemorrhoidectomy with Ligasure vs conventional excisional techniques: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Objective: To compare the use of LigaSure devices with conventional excisional techniques, circular stapling and use of Harmonic Scalpel in patients with symptomatic haemorrhoids and to review literature on LigaSure technology (Valleylab Inc. USA).

Method: A literature review was performed using the National Library of Medicine's Pubmed Database using the keywords Ligasure, haemorrhoidectomy, vessel sealing technology.