Using three-dimensional laparoscopy as a novel training tool for novice trainees compared with two-dimensional laparoscopy.

Background: Laparoscopic skills training is an essential component of general surgery training. This study proposes the use of three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopy as the initial training tool for beginners to shorten the learning curve.

Methods: This study evaluates the surgical performance and subjective experience of junior and senior trainees with 3D versus two-dimensional laparoscopy.

Best single time point correlations with AUC for cyclosporine and tacrolimus in HIV-infected kidney and liver transplant recipients.

Background: Interactions between antiretrovirals (ARVs) and transplant immunosuppressant agents (IS) among HIV-infected transplant recipients may lead to lack of efficacy or toxicity. In transplant recipients not infected with HIV, tacrolimus (TAC) trough levels (C0) or cyclosporine (CsA) drawn at C0 or 2 hours after dosing (C2) correlate with drug exposure (area under the curve [AUC]/dose) and outcomes. Because of ARV-IS interactions in HIV-infected individuals, and the high rate of rejection in these subjects, this study investigated the correlations between IS concentrations and exposure to determine the best method to monitor immunosuppressant levels.

Liver and kidney transplantation in HIV-infected patients.

HIV infection has evolved into a chronic condition as a result of improvements in therapeutic options. Chronic exposure with HIV and associated co-pathogens as well as toxicities from prolonged therapy with antiviral medications has resulted in increased morbidity and mortality rates from end-stage liver and kidney disease in the HIV-infected population. Since the definitive treatment for end-stage organ failure is transplantation, demand has increased among HIV-infected patients.