Reduction of the complication rate in Liechtenstein hernia repair.

Background: Inguinal hernia is one of the most common pathologies in the surgical setting. The introduction of the Lichtenstein technique in 1989 (tension-free hernioplasty with polypropylene mesh) represented one of the most significant breakthroughs in the treatment of this condition since Bassini's hernia repair. The aim of this study was to know the most significant predictive variables of complications in Lichtenstein hernioplasty and if some changes introduced in the technique could reduce these complications.

A new knot technique for vessel ligatures.

A new technique for ligating vessels and similar structures that offers more security is described. The aim of the study was to test whether this hypothesis was correct. Six different types of knots, including the one described in this article were compared by a strength-testing study.

Efficacy of PdB in preventing intraoperative risk of infectious diseases.

The objectives of this study were to (1) determine the number of punctures surgeons and assistants suffer during operations involving a laparotomy during the intraabdominal and closure phases; and (2) determine if the number of puncture injuries during wound closure can be reduced using a new surgical instrument (PdB) that protects the surgeon's hands and the patient's viscera against needlesticks. For the first objective, all laparotomies performed during 1 month (n = 52) were controlled, collecting the gloves used and determining the number of perforations. For the second objective, a randomized prospective controlled study, involving two series of 100 medial laparotomies, was carried out.