[25 years of laparoscopic surgery in Spain].

Introduction: The introduction of laparoscopic surgery (LS) can be considered the most important advancement in our specialty in the past 25 years. Despite its advantages, implementation and consolidation has not been homogenous, especially for advanced techniques. The aim of this study was to analyse the level of development and use of laparoscopic surgery in Spain at the present time and its evolution in recent years.

[Prospective study of procalcitonin as a diagnostic marker of the severity of secondary peritonitis].

Introduction: It has been shown that procalcitonin (PCT) is a good marker for sepsis as the more severe the infection the higher the plasma levels. The Mannheim peritonitis index (MPI) is very effective in assessing the prognosis of secondary peritonitis. The aim of this study is to find out whether there is any correlation between preoperative PCT levels and the postoperative MPI, as well as the prognostic value of preoperative PCT levels.

[Laparoscopic treatment of perforated duodenal ulcer].

Objective: To analyze the results obtained in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for perforated duodenal ulcer.

Patients And Method: From January 2000 to August 2006, 15 consecutive patients with perforated duodenal ulcer underwent laparoscopic surgery after preoperative selection (ASA scores, time since onset of the perforation).

Results: The mean age was 44.

[Laparoscopic gastrectomy in the treatment of gastric cancer].

Objective: To present our initial results in the laparoscopic treatment of gastric cancer.

Material And Method: Between March 2002 and June 2005, 12 selected patients with resectable distal gastric cancer and oncological indication for radical treatment underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy.

Result: There were 9 men and 3 women.