Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal laser procedure for the treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids: experimental background and short-term clinical results of a new mini-invasive treatment.

Background: According to the "vascular" theory, arterial overflow in the superior hemorrhoidal arteries would lead to dilatation of the hemorrhoidal venous plexus. A 980-nm diode laser-pulsed shot causes shrinkage of tissue. The depth of shrinkage can be regulated by the power and duration of the laser beam.

[Giant mucocele of appendix. Case report].

Appendiceal mucocele is an uncommon disorder caused by accumulation of mucus within the appendiceal lumen. Mucoceles represent a heterogeneous group comprising various histopathologic lesions including mucosal hyperplasia, cystoadenomas, and cystoadenocarcinomas and prognosis is related to these subtypes. The most common symptom is pain or a palpable mass in the right lower quadrant on physical examination.

Combined endoscopic treatment for cholelithiasis associated with choledocholithiasis.

Background: The advent of endoscopic techniques changed surgery in many ways. For the management of cholelithiasis, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the treatment of choice. This has created a dilemma in the management of choledocholithiasis.

New technique for optical control of the first trocar insertion.

Background: In laparoscopic surgery serious complications caused by the blind insertion of the first trocar have been reported even after the pneumoperitoneum is established by means of a Veress needle. As a consequence, some techniques to safely insert the first port have been developed. Many surgeons advocate a minilaparotomy to position the first port.