A survey of European-African surgeons' management of common bile duct stones.

Background: Common bile duct (CBD) stones can be managed by either endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE). The aim of this survey was to document the management of CBD stones by European-African HPB Association (E-AHPBA) members.

Methods: All 331 members of the E-AHPBA were invited by personal email to participate to an online survey.

Transanal endoscopic total mesorectal excision: technical aspects of approaching the mesorectal plane from below--a preliminary report.

Background: Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) for low rectal cancer can be technically challenging. This report describes our initial experience with a hybrid laparoscopic and transanal endoscopic technique for TME in low rectal cancer.

Methods: Between December 2012 and October 2013, we identified patients with rectal cancer < 5 cm from the anorectal junction (ARJ) who underwent laparoscopic-assisted TME with a transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) technique.

Laparoscopic mobilization of the splenic flexure: the use of color-grading as a unique teaching tool.

This video shows submesocolic medial-to-lateral laparoscopic mobilization of the splenic flexure in which embryologically-derived planes are highlighted using colorized parts in a black and white background. The concept of traction and counter-traction is used to create a tissue "bridge" to work beneath, making efficient use of both of the surgeon's hands. To our knowledge, the color-grading technique has not been previously used to edit a video of a laparoscopic procedure, thus creating a new method of teaching.

Pelvic actinomycosis: a malignant appearing mass. A case report.

Pelvic actinomycosis is a rare complication of a long-term intrauterine contraceptive device. Early diagnosis is important, as clinical and radiological imaging may mimic a malignant pathology and lead to radical and unnecessary surgery. We report a case of pelvic actinomycosis in a woman who had used an intrauterine contraceptive device for the last 13 years.