Introduction: Plasma VEGF levels are increased after minimally invasive colorectal resection (MICR) and likely stimulate angiogenesis in the wound and in residual tumor deposits. Angiopoetin (Ang) 1, via binding to endothelial cell (EC) bound Tie-2 receptor (Tie2) inhibits VEGF mediated angiogenesis while Ang 2 encourages VEGF-related angiogenesis by preventing Ang-1’s effects via competitive binding of […]
Introduction: Esophagogastric anastomosis ischemic events have a reported incidence of 3.2% resulting in leaks and necrosis. Gastric Conditioning (GC) has been proposed to reduce such morbidity. Unfortunately this exposes a debilitated patient to 2 operative procedures and is carried out 2-3 weeks prior to esophagectomy. We propose that with meticulous laparoscopic dissection, GC is not […]
Introduction: As techniques of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) improve, the safe performance of totally translumenal surgery is becoming more feasible. In a previous report of a hybrid approach to natural orifice transvaginal cholecsytectomy we noted difficulty with gallbladder retraction and could only accomplish this transabdominally.We present a novel technique and instrument that allows […]
Background: Laparoscopy requires a reliable light source to provide adequate visualization. However, thermal energy is produced as a by product from the optical cable. This study attempts to quantify the degree of thermal damage secondary to the fiber optic light source. Temperature variation at the tip of the optical cable was examined also. Methods: Using […]
Introduction: Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) is a promoter of endothelial cell growth and angiogenesis and, thus, plays a role in both wound healing and tumor growth. Elevated blood levels have been reported in cancer (CRC) patients prior to colorectal resection (CR) and some investigators have noted decreased levels 1 month postop. Surgery’s early impact on […]