[Conceptual reformulation of the double mesh repair technique: a simple solution for highly complex abdominal wall defects].

Introduction: Repair of complex abdominal wall defects remains a challenge for the general surgeon. The aim of the present study was to validate the double mesh repair technique in complex hernias.

Material And Method: We performed a prospective study of 15 patients with complex abdominal wall defects who underwent surgery in a university hospital.

[Clinical pathway for the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in a general surgery department].

Introduction: Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is a common entity. Treatment varies widely across different health systems and even among doctors in the same department. In our general surgery department 30 to 40 patients with PSP are treated each year and there is significant variability in care delivery.

[Laparoscopic repair of secondary lumbar hernias: open vs. laparoscopic surgery. A prospective, nonrandomized study].

Introduction: Lumbar hernia is an uncommon defect of the posterior abdominal wall and its surgical treatment remains controversial. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the utility of laparoscopy versus open surgery.

Patients And Method: We performed a prospective, nonrandomized study of 16 patients with secondary lumbar hernias who underwent surgery between January 1997 and January 2003.

Clinical pathway for the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in a general surgery department.

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax is a common abnormality for which there is a variety of treatments. This study presents the results of a year's evaluation of a clinical pathway (CP). A series of 34 patients treated during 1 year before CP development was analyzed to identify the weak points.

Immediate, early, and late morbidity with laparoscopic ventral hernia repair and tolerance to composite mesh.

The laparoscopic repair of ventral hernias is still a controversial therapeutic option, and little is known of its medium- and long-term morbidity. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the postoperative morbidity of laparoscopic ventral hernia repair and analyze the clinical factors that might be related to it. 86 consecutive patients who had ventral hernia and underwent endoscopic surgery in a Universitary teaching hospital.