The aim of this study is to assess outcomes of a lateral surgical approach for proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty with NeuFlex(®) silicone implants for primary degenerative osteoarthritis. We reviewed 51 arthroplasties performed on 43 patients. The mean follow up period was 36 months (range 18-42). The average preoperative range of motion (ROM) was 38°. The average postoperative ROM was 63°. In 21/51 (41%) cases, there was an average axial deviation of 17° (range 10-30°). VAS and Quick DASH scores improved. In 5/51 (10%) cases, further surgery was required. Our lateral approach seems to be effective and minimally invasive, providing adequate exposure. Contralateral incision and contralateral ligament reinforcement should be performed, whenever necessary, to improve lateral stability.

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In this paper, we comment on a patient who consulted us because of his "lower backpain" together with the appearance of a small swelling at the left side. Anamnesis and clinical examination were suggestive and further simple diagnostic methods confirmed the exceptional diagnosis of a "lumbar hernia of Petit". We describe the retroperitoneoscopic approach of this hernia, its reduction and the fixation of a polypropylene mesh at the surrounding structures with a Tacker. This approach provided a good postoperative comfort, a shorter hospital stay and an early recovery of autonomy and activity. Furthermore, we give a review of the literature concerning lumbar hernias and the evolution of the different reconstruction techniques.

We present a case of a leiomyoma of the seminal vesicle that occurred in a 52-year-old man who presented with symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction. Prostate-specific antigen was within normal limit. Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass in the patient's right seminal vesicle. Laparoscopic excision of the seminal vesicle tumor was performed successfully. The patient was discharged from the hospital on the fourth postoperative day.

Emphysematous cholecystitis is a relatively rare variant of acute cholecystitis with infection by gas-producing organisms. Diagnosis involves the demonstration of gas within the lumen or wall of the gallbladder by ultrasound or CT scan. In contrast to acute cholecystitis, emphysematous cholecystitis occurs more commonly in elderly and diabetic patients, and is frequently associated with perforation and death. We report here a case of a 75-year old man who developed emphysematous cholecystitis.