Gastric surgery.

Most significant research relating to gastric surgery in the past year has centered on surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Antireflux surgery has become more popular with advanced laparoscopic technology. Two previously accepted surgical principles have been challenged by current studies: the importance of division of the short gastrics and the dictum that partial fundoplication is preferred for patients at risk for dysphagia.

The spectrum of colovesical fistula and diagnostic paradigm.

Background: Our experience with colovesical fistula (CVF) over a 12-year period was reviewed to clarify its clinical presentation and diagnostic confirmation.

Methods: Twelve patients with CVF were identified. Presenting symptoms, etiologic factors, diagnostic investigations, and subsequent treatment were reviewed.

Regional anesthesia as an alternative to general anesthesia for abdominal surgery in patients with severe pulmonary impairment.

Background: It is known that smokers and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experience a higher rate of pulmonary-related complications following abdominal surgery. The impact of anesthetic technique (regional [RA] versus general [GA] versus combination of both) on the complication rate has not been established. This study examined the outcomes of abdominal surgery performed using RA (epidural or continuous spinal) as the sole anesthetic technique in patients with severe pulmonary impairment (SPI).