Robotic single port cholecystectomy: current data and future perspectives.

Introduction: Minimally invasive techniques are used more and more frequently. Since conventional laparoscopic approach has been the gold standard, surgeons in their effort to further reduce the invasiveness of conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy have adopted Single Incision approach. The widespread adoption of robotics has led to the inevitable hybridization of robotic technology with laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS).

Microwave versus saline-linked radiofrequency (Aquamantys) assisted liver resection in a porcine liver resection model. A safety and feasibility pilot study.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the feasibility, efficacy and safety of microwave ablation and saline-linked radiofrequency (Aquamantys) in liver resection.

Methods: Sixteen domestic pigs (8 per group) underwent thermoablations. Group A consisted of 8 pigs in which microwave left lateral liver resection was performed.

Comparison Between Minimally Invasive and Open Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer in Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Aims: We compared laparoscopic and robotic gastrectomies with open gastrectomies and with each other that were held for gastric cancer in Europe.

Methods: We searched for studies conducted in Europe and published up to 20 February 2015 in the PubMed database that compared laparoscopic or robotic with open gastrectomies for gastric cancer and with each other.

Results: We found 18 original studies (laparoscopic vs open: 13; robotic vs open: 3; laparoscopic vs robotic: 2).

Virtual reality simulators and training in laparoscopic surgery.

Virtual reality simulators provide basic skills training without supervision in a controlled environment, free of pressure of operating on patients. Skills obtained through virtual reality simulation training can be transferred on the operating room. However, relative evidence is limited with data available only for basic surgical skills and for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

The incidence of HPV infection in anal cancer patients in Greece.

Background And Aim Of The Study: Although anal cancer represents a relatively uncommon malignancy, its incidence over the last five decades, has been reported as increased for both sexes, worldwide. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been shown to be a major cause for its development. The aim of the present study is to report on clinical, epidemiological and virological data of squamous anal cancer in Greek patients.