André Toupet is best known for the posterior fundoplication that bears his name, currently used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or completing Heller's myotomy and subject today to intense discussions. This was not different in 1963, when Toupet proposed his technique at a time when the Nissen fundoplication was emerging as the treatment of choice for GERD. Behind the procedure, we discover a man with great surgical talent and meticulous attention to technical details who opposed criticism with hard work and strong family values.

Laparoscopic splenectomy can be performed safely and effectively in a teaching institution. LS in comparison with open surgery offers the same efficacy in the control of hematologic disease with the additional benefits of a minimally invasive approach. Laparoscopic splenectomy should therefore be considered the technique of choice and should prompt earlier consideration of surgery for patients with selected hematologic disorders.

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