We analyzed perioperative outcome of distal pancreatectomies with or without splenic preservation both in laparoscopic and open method to determine best approach. Retrospective data was collected from 1999 to 2013. We divided all distal pancreatectomies into four groups. Group 1-laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP). Group 2-laparoscopic splenectomy + distal pancreatectomy (LSDP). Group 3-open spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy. Group 4-open splenectomy + distal pancreatectomy. We recorded demographic data, intra and post operative complications, operative time, estimated blood loss, length of stay, pancreatic leak rate, and final pathology result. A total of 38 distal pancreatectomies were included. In group 1, patients were significantly younger (mean 29 vs 47 to 50 in other groups, p=0.014). Tumor size (average 2.5 vs 5 to 9.5 cm in other groups, p=0.023) and operative time (average 98 min vs 125 to 141 in other groups, p=0.004) and hospital stay (average 6 vs 8 to 19 days in other groups, p=0.009) in LSPDP were all significantly less than other groups taken together. However, intra-operative blood loss was equivalent. We further analyzed that between LSPDP and LSDP, age and tumor size were significantly less in LSPDP. Further we analyzed between spleen-preserving (groups 1+3) vs spleensacrificing (groups 2+4) distal pancreatectomies and between overall laparoscopic (groups 1+2) vs open (groups 3+4). Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy has all the advantages of minimal access surgery especially in small lesions and low-grade malignancy.

Intestinal malrotation is rare in adults. Patients may present with acute obstruction or chronic abdominal pain. These symptoms are caused by Ladd's bands and narrow mesentery resulting from incomplete gut rotation. Barium, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), angiography and sometimes explorative laparotomy are used for diagnosis. Ladd's procedure is the treatment of choice but data about laparoscopic approach in adult is scarce. We report three cases of laparoscopic correction of adult malrotation presenting with chronic abdominal pain. The diagnosis is made by CT/MRI. Laparoscopic Ladd's procedure (release of bands, broadening of mesentery and appendicectomy) was performed via three ports. Procedure time 25-45 min. All patients were discharged on postoperative day 2. At 6 month follow-up, all are symptom free. Laparoscopic Ladd's procedure is an acceptable alternative to the open technique in treating chronic symptoms of intestinal malrotation in adults.

The results of cardiomyotomy in patients of achalasic megaesophagus with axis deviation are not satisfactory. Usually, an esophagectomy is advocated. We describe the technical details and outcomes of laparoscopic esophagogastroplasty for end-stage achalasia. The patient had end-stage achalasia, characterized by tortuous megaesophagus with axis deviation. The surgery was performed in supine position using four abdominal ports. The steps included mobilization of the gastroesophageal junction and lower intrathoracic esophagus, straightening the pulled intrathoracic esophagus into the abdomen, and a side-side esophagogastroplasty using purple Endo GIA Articulating Tri-Staple load, two firings. Duration of surgery was 52 min. The patient was ambulated on the first postoperative day. Oral feeding was initiated by the third postoperative day. The patients had significant improvements of dysphagia. At 3 months of follow-up, the patient is euphagic without significant symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Laparoscopic esophagogastroplasty is an effective option for relieving dysphagia in megaesophagus due to achalasia with axis deviation. It is a reasonable alternative before subjecting to a major and potentially morbid esophagectomy. It creates a large gastroesophageal (GE) junction, which, with the help of gravity, helps food transit. By dividing the muscles of the GE junction completely, it also achieves a complete cardiomyotomy. Less operative time and blood loss, quicker recovery, and better cosmesis make it an attractive option. While potential reflux is a possibility, the reported case has not shown significant GERD symptoms.