Serum VEGF and VEGF-C values before surgery and after postoperative treatment in gastric cancer.

Introduction: Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are essential processes for the formation of blood and lymphatic vessels that allow tumour growth and spread. The binding of VEGF and VEGF-C factors with their receptors (VEGFR2, VEGFR3) in endothelial cells triggers signals that regulate these processes. We compared preoperative serum VEGF and VEGF-C levels with samples obtained after completion of surgery and adjuvant treatment in patients with gastric cancer.

[Negative pressure therapy in wounds with enteric fistulas].

Objective: Negative pressure therapy (VAC, vacuum assisted closure) is a method used still in our country. It consists of a system of aspirating a wound by means of a piece of foam and a few adhesive films. It allows the treatment of complex wounds, included (although this is still controversial) those with intestinal fistulas.

Calibrated portacaval H-graft shunt in variceal hemorrhage. Long-term results.

Background/aims: To analyze the long-term outcome of the calibrated portacaval shunt in the treatment of portal hypertension.

Methodology: Between 1991 and 1996 we undertook a prospective non-randomized study, including 37 cirrhotic patients who underwent small diameter portacaval shunt with polytetrafluoroethylene H-graft, 24 cases with 8 mm and 13 cases with 10 mm. Early and late complications, and survival were analyzed.