Transumbilical laparoscopic-assisted appendectomy in children and adolescents: what have we learnt in more than 1200 cases?

Purpose: TULAA combines the laparoscopic and open technique and is considered to be a safe, fast and cost-effective procedure. On the other hand, preparation is limited due to the single instrument, especially in complicated appendicitis. In this study we analyze the outcome of our TULAA patients, focusing on conversion and complication rates.

Cadaveric analysis of surgical techniques and working space for retroperitoneal tumors as model for improving resection of neuroblastoma.

Purpose: Neuroblastoma, the most common extracranial solid tumor in children under 5 years, often surrounds visceral arteries. This study aimed to analyze the working space provided by standardized surgical techniques at key arterial landmarks in adult cadavers.

Methods: We assessed in eight adult cadavers the mobilization of the left colon, spleen and pancreas, right colon, duodenum and mesenteric root, access to the bursa omentalis.

Increasing the efficiency of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) by combination with a photosensitive drug in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma in an animal model.

Background: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in combination with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an option in advanced peritoneal sarcomatosis. Nevertheless, CRS and HIPEC are not successful in all patients. An enhancement of HIPEC using photodynamic therapy (PDT) might be beneficial.

Establishment of a new valid animal model for the evaluation of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma.

Background: Cytoreductive surgery in combination with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy has been established as a novel treatment approach for peritoneal sarcomatosis. Despite promising clinical reports, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding optimal drug usage and local effects. Therefore, we intended to establish a murine animal model for further evaluation.