Surgery

intra-Peritoneal Gallstone Leading to Chronic Sinus Formation Following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Common Bile Duct Exploration - Rare Case Report (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Lakshmipathy G.; *Parampalli U.; *Pattar J.;

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: AUGIS Annual Scientific Meeting. Glasgow United Kingdom. 112(Supplement17) (pp xvii23-xvii24), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Dec 2025.

Abstract:

Background: Dropped gallstones can be a common occurrence during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. However, only 3% patients develop abscess secondary to intra-peritoneal spilled gallstone. We report the case of a 41-year-old woman who suffered with persistent intra-abdominal collections and sinus tract discharge following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Case Presentation: Our patient originally underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct (CBD) exploration for CBD stones. Two weeks later, she underwent incision and drainage procedure for port site abscess. Three years later, she re-presents with right upper quadrant pain, discharge through the umbilical wound and raised inflammatory markers. Computed Tomography (CT) scan revealed a collection postero-lateral to the right lobe of the liver, which was then drained through interventional radiology. Despite drainage, patient re-attends with recurrence of pain, a repeat CT scan confirmed a persistent peri-hepatic collection likely secondary to retained intra-peritoneal gallstone. Patient underwent diagnostic laparoscopy, in which, the collection was tracked by flushing radiological drain and then the stone was retrieved. Patient recovered well. Discussion(s): Diagnosis of an intra-peritoneal gallstone following cholecystectomy and CBD exploration can be hampered by unusual clinical presentations, radiologically occult nature of stones and the vast area they can settle into. Whilst rare, retained intra-peritoneal gallstones have the potential to cause economic burden to the health service, in addition to, the physical and psychological impact on the patient. Our case demonstrates that it is imperative to be meticulous in clearance of bile and stone spillage all cases of cholecystectomy with CBD exploration.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf270.088

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Audit of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Operative Notes in a DGH (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Ramesh S.; *Magalong J.A.; *Parampalli U.

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: AUGIS Annual Scientific Meeting. Glasgow United Kingdom. 112(Supplement17) (pp xvii60), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Dec 2025.

Abstract:

Introduction: Operation notes are essential documents in patient care. The use of standardized guidelines, such as those endorsed by recognized organizations, is crucial to ensure consistent and detailed record-keeping. Documenting parameters specific to laparoscopic cholecystectomy provides valuable information for management in the event of complications and it also provides direction for follow-up care. Aim(s): This audit aims to assess the quality of laparoscopic cholecystectomy operative notes in our trust by comparing them against NHS England's GIRFT (Getting It Right Rirst-Time) recommendations. It also aims to Identify areas for improvement and implement targeted interventions. Method(s): A retrospective audit of 78 laparoscopic cholecystectomy operative notes conducted in 2024 were selected by systematic random sampling. Data were compared against GIRFT recommendations. After intervention, a re-audit of 78 laparoscopic cholecystectomy operative notes from 2025 was done using the same methodology and compared against initial audit. Result(s): Significant improvement was observed in the re-audit compared to the initial audit, after intervention in the form of surgeon education and use of modified operation note proforma specific to laparoscopic cholecystectomy was implemented. Documenting significant steps involved in Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for example, details of calot's triangle dissection, details of bile/gallstone spill and its management and mention of port used to extract gallbladder increased by 13%, 42%, and 48%, respectively. Conclusion(s): This audit demonstrates a significant improvement in operative note quality by implementing interventions from an initial audit, emphasising the importance of use of recommendations issued by GIRFT. Audits should be conducted at regular intervals to sustain improvements.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf270.230

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Lesser Omental Infarction: A Rare Cause of Intraperitoneal Focal Fat Infarction (IFFI) (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Ramesh S.; *Jayaramegowda A.K.

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: AUGIS Annual Scientific Meeting. Glasgow United Kingdom. 112(Supplement17) (pp xvii18), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Dec 2025.

Abstract:

Lesser Omental Infarction is a rare type of Intraperitoneal Focal Fat Infarction (IFFI) caused by the cut-off of blood supply to the fat tissue in the lesser omentum. Patients typically present with symptoms and signs mimicking more serious conditions such as perforated gastric ulcer, pancreatitis, or cholecystitis. This report aims to share insights into the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies for patients with this condition. A 29-year-old gentleman presented with complaints of upper abdominal pain for two days, radiating to the right side. On abdominal examination, there was a soft but tender right hypochondrium. The patient was admitted with a provisional diagnosis of cholecystitis. Blood investigations were unremarkable, except for an elevated C-reactive protein (CRP). Ultrasound abdomen study was normal and ruled out gallbladder pathology. A CT scan of the abdomen suggested lesser omental infarction secondary to torsion. The patient was managed conservatively with analgesics and discharged after resolution of symptoms. Radiological imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing lesser omental infarction. If missed, the patient may undergo unnecessary investigations and Interventions. When accurately diagnosed, most cases can be managed conservatively with analgesia. Surgical intervention is rarely required and is reserved for cases where devitalized tissue forms an abscess that does not resolve with conservative management.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf270.065

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Is robotic surgery ready for emergency cholecystectomy? A systematic review and meta-analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic approach in acute cholecystitis (2026)

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Type of publication:

Systematic Review

Author(s):

Jamal, Zohaib; Talal, Muhammad Anza; Saeed, Jahanzaib; Siddiqui, Asher; Haider, Muhammad Ijlal; Zafar, Khizra; Zaidi, Hammad.

Citation:

Journal of Robotic Surgery. 20(1):166, 2026 Jan 12.

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Acute cholecystitis is typically managed with laparoscopic cholecystectomy, though inflammation and distorted anatomy can increase operative difficulty. Robotic cholecystectomy may offer technical advantages through improved visualisation and instrument dexterity, yet current evidence is limited, heterogeneous, and entirely observational, with no randomized trials comparing the two approaches in the emergency setting. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesises existing comparative data to determine whether robotic assistance confers meaningful operative or postoperative benefits over standard laparoscopy in acute cholecystitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Comprehensive searches of major databases (2015-2025) identified comparative studies of robotic versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute/emergency cholecystitis in adults. Eligible studies reported at least one perioperative or postoperative outcome; elective, paediatric, single-incision, and non-comparative designs were excluded. Outcomes included operative time, conversion, intra-operative complications, bile duct injury, length of stay, readmission, reoperation, and mortality. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I. Meta-analyses were conducted in RevMan using random-effects models, with heterogeneity assessed by I2 and standard continuity corrections applied for zero-event studies.

RESULTS: Seven observational studies comprising 143,717 patients met the inclusion criteria. Operative time and length of stay could not be meta-analysed due to inconsistent reporting and were therefore summarised narratively, with both outcomes appearing broadly comparable between robotic and laparoscopic groups. Meta-analysis demonstrated a significantly lower risk of conversion to open surgery with robotic cholecystectomy (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.50-0.75; I2 = 44%). No significant differences were observed between robotic and laparoscopic approaches for intra-operative complications (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.38-1.36; I2 = 40%), bile duct injury (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.77-1.21; I2 = 0%), overall postoperative complications (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.80-1.52; I2 = 95%), 30-day readmission (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.50-1.54; I2 = 18%), reintervention or return to theatre (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.04-2.48; I2 = 78%), or 30-day mortality (OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.86-1.90; I2 = 0%). Event rates for bile duct injury, major complications, reintervention, and mortality were uniformly low across all cohorts, limiting the precision of pooled estimates. Risk-of-bias assessment using ROBINS-I indicated a moderate to serious overall risk of bias in six of the seven studies, primarily due to residual confounding, non-random treatment allocation, and incomplete reporting of disease severity and operative complexity.

CONCLUSION: Robotic cholecystectomy is a safe and feasible alternative to laparoscopy for acute cholecystitis, demonstrating a consistent reduction in conversion to open surgery and comparable intra-operative and postoperative safety outcomes. However, as current evidence is limited to heterogeneous observational studies with incomplete clinical detail, robust prospective research-with detailed severity grading, surgeon-experience assessment, workflow evaluation, and cost-effectiveness analysis-is needed to more clearly define its role in emergency biliary surgery.

DOI: 10.1007/s11701-026-03145-7

Triple line stapled jejunojejunal anastomosis does not completely prevent post-operative bowel obstruction following laparoscopic Rouxen- Y gastric bypass (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Gungadin P.; *Bhandari M.; *Riera M.;

Citation:

Obesity Surgery. Conference: BOMSS 2024 Congress. Harrogate . 34(Supplement 1) (pp S26), 2024. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2024.

Abstract:

Introduction: Small bowel obstruction following jejunojejunal anastomosis (JJ) during a gastric bypass is a recognised complication. Common causes include strictures, intussusception, internal herniae and bowel kinking, thus preventing passage of bowel contents into the common limb (CL). Bidirectional jejunal stapled anastomosis, or triple line anastomosis is meant to decrease the risk of obstruction. However, this risk may not completely be avoided. Case presentation: A patient with history of gastroesophageal reflux, after a sleeve gastrectomy, underwent a conversion to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The JJ anastomosis was successfully tested intraoperatively for leak and patency with methylene blue. The patient still developed post-operative bilious vomiting after 24 hours. Abdominal CT confirmed obstruction at the JJ anastomosis. Subsequent laparoscopy demonstrated collapsed CL and dilated both alimentary (AL) and biliopancreatic (BP) limbs. There was no stricture or narrowing. Upon straightening the limbs, bowel contents successfully emptied into the common limb. However, the common limb would appear kinked again when the anastomosis was released, thus causing obstruction. A further stapled anastomosis was performed between CL and BP which straightened the kinked CL. This solved the obstruction. The patient was discharged home three days later. Discussion(s): Small bowel obstruction secondary to kinking despite a triple stapler approach is uncommon. Unfortunately, anastomotic leak and patency test may not completely preclude this complication. Awareness and careful intraoperative inspection of the anastomosis may help to detect probable obstruction.

DOI: 10.1007/s11695-024-07287-1

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Magtrace Can Sustainably Improve Theatre Efficiency, Operative Capacity, and Patient Experience (2024)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Lake B.; *Wilson M.; *Appleton D.

Citation:

Annals of Surgical Oncology. Conference: 25th American Society of Breast Surgeons Annual Meeting, ASBrS 2024. Orlando, FL United States. 31(Supplement 2) (pp S498), 2024. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2024.

Abstract:

Background/Objective: Magtrace is an iron oxide liquid which has revolutionized sentinel lymph node biopsy treatment for breast cancer. It has a flexible injection window which allows patients to have the injection prior to the day of surgery at a convenient time for both the patient and the provider and removes the need for nuclear medicine completely. Magtrace was reviewed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in October 2022 (MTG72) and they highlighted that Magtrace has the potential to reduce cost based on an expectation that its usage would enable hospitals to perform additional sentinel node biopsies due to improved operating room utilization. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides national guidance and advice to improve health and social care in the UK. This guidance is the gold standard for advice for breast cancer treatment. Our team designed a study to investigate the "additive effect" of Magtrace in improving theatre efficiency, operative capacity, and patient experience (Presented at European Society of Surgical Oncology, to be published in European Journal of Surgical Oncology early 2025). The aim of this study was to assess if these previously described benefits of Magtrace by NICE are sustained in a hospital system. Method(s): All Magtrace cases for sentinel node biopsy at the Shrewsbury & Telford NHS Trust were prospectively recorded. The outcomes measured were operating room utilization, number of sentinel node biopsies performed per week, and patient satisfaction. Result(s): 150 patients undergoing a wide local excision or mastectomy received Magtrace as the sole technique for SLNB. Operating room utilization improved from 77% to 84% (with peak utilisation at 96%) due to a reduction in OR delays and improved OR flow. Previous delays were caused by patients waiting to have radioisotope injections. Significantly more sentinel node biopsies were performed per week, increasing from 6.48 per week (Pre Magtrace 2022) to 8.57 per week (Post Magtrace ) (t-value = 3.53057, p-value < 0.00041). This resulted in a net increase of 2 additional patients per week. The t-value is 3.53057. The p-value is .00041. The result is significant at p < 0.05. The study showed high patient satisfaction with 100% of patients finding injection more convenient on the day of surgery and 100% of patients would recommend Magtrace to a friend or relative. Conclusion(s): Utilising Magtrace for sentinel lymph node biopsy creates a sustained "additive effect" by improving operating room utilization, operating room capacity and demonstrates a high patient satisfaction.

DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-15410-w

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The robotic platform is the minimally invasive tool of choice- Improving techniques and outcomes (2024)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

Mohamedahmed A.; Abdalla H.E.; *Ismail A.; Yassin N.A.

Citation:

Colorectal Disease. Conference: 19th Scientific and Annual Conference of the European Society of Coloproctology, ESCP 2024. Thessaloniki Greece. 26(Supplement 2) (pp 239), 2024. Date of Publication: 01 Sep 2024.

Abstract:

Aim: This study aimed to assess the clinical outcomes of robotic compared with laparoscopic surgery within a transformation of minimally invasive total surgical practice. Method(s): A series of 201 consecutive patients relating to a single surgeon's experience when transforming total minimal invasive practice from laparoscopic to robotic surgery were included. Patients underwent laparoscopic and robotic surgery between 2018 and 2023. Short-term and long-term outcomes were evaluated and compared between the Laparoscopy (LG) and robotic (RG) with subgroup analyses according to procedure. Result(s): The median age and length of hospital stay (LOS) were 64 years and 6 days, respectively. Indications for surgery were CRC (62.2%), IBD (27.4%) and other general surgery conditions (hernia, appendicectomy, de-functioning loop colostomy, complex diverticular disease and rectal prolapse) (10.4%). The surgical approach was laparoscopic in 62 patients (30.8%) and Robotic in 139 patients (69.2%). Conversion to open was 12.9% in the LG versus 0% in the RG (p = 0.001). Regarding postoperative complications, the RG showed lower rate of overall complications [CD>=2 complications 14.3% in RG versus 16.1% in LG, p = 0.02], paralytic ileus [p = 0.03] and shorter LOS (p = 0.001) in comparison to LG. Moreover, both groups showed no difference in anastomosis leak [RG 1.3% vs LG 0%, p = 0.3], abdominal collection [RG 2.8% vs LG 2.5%, p = 0.5], re-operation [RG 1.4% vs LG 1.6%, p = 0.9], 30-day re-admission [RG 7.9% vs LG 8%, p = 0.9] and 30-day mortality [RG 0.7% vs LG 0%, p = 0.5]. Moreover, the RG remained superior when subgroup analyses were applied for anterior resection (39.3%), Right hemicolectomy (28.4%) and subtotal colectomy (13.4%). Conclusion(s): Robotic colorectal surgery improves clinical and surgical outcomes. This minimally invasive approach is the choice in a total transformation of practice from laparoscopic to robotic surgery, leading to significant reductions in LOS, rapid postoperative recovery, and an earlier return of gut function.

DOI: 10.1111/codi.17125

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Factors associated with conversion from day-case to in-patient elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery across England: an observational study using administrative data (2025)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

*Olagunju, Naomi; *Cheetham, Mark; Savage, Katrein; Briggs, Tim W R; Gray, William K.

Citation:

Surgical Endoscopy.  2025 Dec 18. [epub ahead of print]

Abstract:

PURPOSE: Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy is increasingly being conducted as a day-case procedure. However, some patients planned for day-case surgery stay in hospital for at least one night. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with conversion from planned day-case to in-patient management for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHODS: This was an exploratory retrospective analysis of observational data from the Hospital Episode Statistics dataset for England. All patients aged >= 17 years undergoing a planned elective day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy between 1st April 2017 and 31st March 2024 were identified. The exposure of interest was discharge on the day of admission (day-case) or requiring overnight stay. For reporting, providers were aggregated to an Integrated Care Board (ICB) level.

RESULTS: A total of 286,754 elective LCs planned as day-case were identified over the seven-year study period. Of these, 74,957 (26.1%) stayed in hospital for at least one night and were classed as day-case to in-patient stay conversions. In multilevel, multivariable modelling, conversion to in-patient stay was associated with great age (odds ratio (OR) 2.54 for 17-29 vs >= 70 years, p < 0.001), male sex (OR = 1.11, p < 0.001), deprivation (OR 1.14, first vs fifth quintile, p < 0.001), open surgery (46.93, p < 0.001), and low annual surgeon volume (OR 1.73, < 10 vs >= 80 LCs per year, p < 0.001). Comorbidities and post-procedural complications were also strongly associated with conversion. Across the 42 ICBs in England, model-adjusted conversion rates varied from 14.5% to 39.0%, 18 (42.9%) ICBs had conversion rates above the 99.8% control limit.

CONCLUSIONS: Conversion from day-case to in-patient stay was associated with increasing age, male sex, deprivation, open surgery, low surgeon volume, comorbidity and post-procedural complication. Our findings will help surgical team identify patients suitable for day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

DOI: 10.1007/s00464-025-12480-z

Endoscopic Follow-up after Acute Diverticulitis (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Sultana E.; *Chakrabarty A.; *Ball W.

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: Annual Congress of the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland. Edinburgh United Kingdom. 112(Supplement 13) (pp xiii59), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Aug 2025.

Abstract:

Introduction: Acute diverticulitis is one of the most common causes for surgical emergency hospital admissions in the UK. The guidelines for endoscopic follow-up for patients with diverticulitis has changed over the last few years. This study aimed to assess the local follow-up of patients who present with diverticulitis. The objective was to identify the outcome of patients with diverticulitis and establish the new local guidelines for endoscopic follow-up. Method(s): A single-centre retrospective study was done for all patients who had CT proven diverticulitis at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital in 2022. Data was collected about the patient demographics, vital statistics on presentation, Hinchey Classification, mode of management, previous admissions with diverticulitis, readmissions in one year, surgery in one year, and their follow-up results. Result(s): There were 193 patients in the study with a median age of 61 (IQR: 51-73) and 37.8% were male. Follow-up endoscopy was done in 45.6% (87/193) of the patients, amongst which 85.1% (74) had uncomplicated diverticulitis. There was one cancer detected in colonoscopy and one in flexible sigmoidoscopy both of which were suspicious on the initial CT scan. 13 patients had a follow-up CT scan within 1 year, of which 2 confirmed cancer. Median time for endoscopy and CT scan was 10 and 26 weeks from discharge, respectively. Conclusion(s): Diagnosis of cancer on an isolated follow-up colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy after uncomplicated diverticulitis is rare. These investigations should be reserved for patients with complicated diverticulitis or suspicious features of cancer on the initial CT scan.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf166.222