Evaluation of Veress Needle as a Liver Retraction Technique in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Liver retraction management in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is challenging for surgeons, especially in patients with enlarged livers. Traditional methods, such as the Nathanson retractor (NR), often necessitate additional incisions, potentially increasing liver enzymes and increasing the risk of complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the use of a Veress needle (VN), an alternative liver retraction technique, in LSG surgery compared with NR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted at a university-affiliated hospital between May 2022 and December 2022. Patients who underwent LSG were divided into two groups: one utilizing the NR and the other employing the VN for liver retraction. Parameters such as operation duration, retraction time, liver laceration, trocar-induced hemorrhage, subxiphoid trocar site infections, pain scores measured via the visual analog scale (VAS) at various time points, pre- and postoperative liver enzyme levels (AST, ALT, GGT, ALP) and CRP levels were analyzed.

RESULTS

Data from 151 patients were analyzed. The AST/ALT elevations (P < 0.001) were significantly lower in the VN group (73 patients) than in the NR group (78 patients), while there was no significant difference in GGT/ALP levels. Retraction-related bleeding was significantly greater in the NR group than in the VN group (6.4% vs 0%, P = 0.035). Postoperative infection rate was lower in the VN group but not statistically significant (0% vs 3.8%, P = 0.135). CRP differences were significant on the first postoperative day (P < 0.001). Postoperative VAS scores were significantly lower in the VN group at all measured time points except at the 48th hour and 10th day.

CONCLUSIONS

The VN technique in LSG significantly reduces liver enzyme elevation and the need for an extra trocar and incision, potentially lowering complication risk and enhancing patient outcomes.

Safety, Efficacy, and Cost-effectiveness of Organ Suspension in Laparoscopic Gynecologic Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study to Validate an Innovative Technique: Laparoscopic Organ Suspension sec. Angioni

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of the Laparoscopic Organ Suspension (OS) sec. Angioni, an innovative approach to transient OS in laparoscopic gynecological procedures. Recognizing the need to enhance surgical site access and overcome limitations of existing organ retraction methods, the study investigates a novel, in-theater constructed OS device.

DESIGN

This retrospective observational study was conducted from March 2019 to May 2021 and included 330 patients who underwent multiport or single-site-port laparoscopic surgery employing Angioni's technique for transient pelvic OS.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Participants included individuals undergoing surgery for conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, pelvic prolapse, and benign ovarian cysts. The Laparoscopic OS sec. Angioni utilizes a segment of a Foley catheter connected to a Polyglactin suture to provide adjustable tension, minimizing the need for reconfiguration during surgery.

RESULTS

The application of this OS technique resulted in an average suspension time of 1.9 min, with no significant difference between senior and junior surgeons. The method proved more time-efficient for posterior peritoneum suspension than other published methods and showed no additional risks of organ damage, bleeding, conversion to laparotomy, or OS-related complications. The secondary outcomes revealed reduced hospital stays and minimal blood loss, highlighting the procedure's overall efficiency.

LIMITATIONS

Given its retrospective and single-center nature, the study's results may not be widely generalizable. Prospective multicentric comparative studies are recommended to further validate Angioni's technique.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic OS sec. Angioni is introduced as a straightforward, safe, and cost-effective method that significantly streamlines the surgical process. Its adaptability and ease of use suggest that it could be a valuable addition to current gynecological surgical practices, with potential implications for increasing efficiency and reducing procedural costs. Future studies are required to confirm these results across diverse clinical environments.

Robotic Magnetic Surgery: Results From the First Prospective Clinical Trial

To evaluate a novel Magnetic Robotic Platform during reduced-port laparoscopic surgery in a prospective, multicenter clinical trial.

Background

Magnetic surgery has been developed to increase the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, with prior studies demonstrating its clinical benefits. Robotic-assisted surgery increases the surgeon's control over the instruments, offering less dependency on an assistant. The synergism of both techniques may escalate these individual benefits.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter, single-arm, open-label study was performed to assess the safety and performance of a robotic magnetic surgical system (Levita Robotic Platform). The investigational device was used during reduced-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic bariatric surgery. The primary endpoints evaluated were safety and feasibility. Patients were followed for 30 days post-procedure.

Results

Between May 2021 and December 2021, 30 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery were recruited. There were 22 females and 8 males with a mean age of 39 years (22-69 years) and median body mass index of 33 kg/m2 (21.6-50.4 kg/m2). Procedures included 15 gastric sleeves, 14 cholecystectomies, and 1 Roux en-Y gastric bypass. The procedures were successfully performed by utilizing the robotic magnetic surgical system and a reduced-port technique in all 30 patients. No device-related serious adverse events were reported. The device provided adequate visualization and retraction in all cases.

Conclusions

This clinical trial shows for the first time that this novel Magnetic Robotic Platform is safe and feasible in reduced-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic bariatric surgery. This robotic platform brings the benefits of magnetic surgery in terms of reduction of incisions plus increasing the control for the surgeon.

Is It Possible to Estimate the Liver Left Lobe Volume Using Preoperative Data Before Bariatric Surgery?

PURPOSE

Retraction of the left lobe of the liver (LLL) is an important step in bariatric surgical procedures. A good liver retraction will both facilitate the operation and reduce complications. The aim of the study is to identify patients with large LLL with preoperative anthropometric and laboratory data, and to reveal complications due to large LLL.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of 245 patients who underwent bariatric surgery in our department between April 2019 and March 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the visibility of the caudate lobe of the liver, the left diaphragmatic artery-vein, and the fat pad on the esophagus after liver retraction.

RESULTS

Univariate analyses revealed significant differences in BMI, waist and hip circumferences, TG, DM, and HbA1c values, but only BMI (p = 0.001) and the presence of DM (p = 0.017) were found to be independent predictors of LLL size. BMI ≥ 42.1 kg/m² indicates the size of LLL with 83% sensitivity and 49% specificity. Retractor-related complications were significantly higher in the large LLL group (p = 0.036). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of complications related to trocar insertion (p = 0.014) and postoperative liver enzyme levels (p = 0.714). The operation time (laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy [LSG]; p = 0.021) (laparoscopic Roux-N-Y gastric bypass [LRYGB]; p = 0.020) and the amount of bleeding (LSG; p < 0.001) (LRYGB; p = 0.011) are higher in patients with large LLL.

CONCLUSION

Large LLL can be predicted and complications may be reduced with the help of preoperative data.

A New Silicon Sling Device for Traction During Robotic Gynecologic Surgery

Background:

One of the challenges of robotic gynecologic surgery is the appropriate traction of the organs and other structures surrounding the surgical field.

Methods:

We developed a novel traction device, VESOPASTA, that can be used for organ traction during robotic gynecologic surgery. This study describes the utility and the safety of the use of VESOPASTA for ureteral traction during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomy in five cervical cancer patients.

Results:

Ureteral suspension was successfully and safely performed using VESOPASTA during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomy in cervical cancer patients without causing any complications. The average time required for this procedure was less than 5 min.

Conclusions:

We have developed a novel device, VESOPASTA, which can be used for organ traction during robotic surgery. This new device allows easy ureteral traction, facilitate the identification of ureter and prevent ureteral injuries during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomy.

Magnetic Liver Retraction Decreases Postoperative Pain and Length of Stay in Bariatric Surgery Compared to Nathanson Device

Objective: Retrospective case-matched comparison of magnetic liver retraction to a bedrail-mounted liver retractor in bariatric surgery specifically targeting short-term postoperative outcomes, including pain and resource utilization. Background: Retraction of the liver is essential to ensure appropriate visualization of the hiatus in bariatric surgery. Externally mounted retractors require a dedicated port or an additional incision. Magnetic devices provide effective liver retraction without the need of an incision. Methods: The sample consisted of primary and revisional bariatric surgery patients, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) operations. Propensity score analysis was used to match patients with magnetic retraction to patients with a bedrail-mounted retractor with a 1:2 ratio using preoperative characteristics. Baseline characteristics and postprocedure outcomes were compared using two-sample t-tests or Wilcoxon rank sum tests and chi-square or Fisher's exact test as appropriate. Results: One hundred patients met inclusion criteria for the use of magnetic liver retraction (45 RYGB, 35 SG, 20 BPD-DS) with 196 suitable matched external retractor patients identified. Patients were matched and comparable for all preoperative characteristics except for transversus abdominus plane block (27% versus 47%). Patients in the magnet cohort had significantly decreased mean 12-hour postoperative pain scores (2.9 versus 4.2, P = .004) and decreased hospital length of stay (LOS) (1.5 versus 1.9 days, P = .005) while operating room supply were higher in the magnet cohort ($4600 versus $4213, P = .0001). Conclusions: Magnetic liver retraction in bariatric surgery is associated with decreased postoperative pain scores, decreased hospital LOS, and increased operating supply costs.

New Peritoneal Traction Device for Laparoscopic Paraaortic Lymphadenectomy

Background

The development of devices that can be used to tract organs or other structures and secure an appropriate surgical field during laparoscopic surgery is clinically important.

Methods

We developed a novel traction stitch, the Laptraction, which can be used to achieve peritoneal traction during laparoscopic surgery. This study examines the utility and safety of using the Laptraction to achieve peritoneal traction during laparoscopic transperitoneal paraaortic lymphadenectomy (as part of comprehensive staging surgery) in seven endometrial cancer patients.

Results

Peritoneal traction was successfully and safely achieved using the Laptraction in all cases, without causing any complications. In all cases, time to deploy Laptraction was <5 min.

Conclusions

Laptraction, a newly developed stitch, allows peritoneal traction to be achieved easily and facilitates the identification of essential landmarks during robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy, which helps to save time and prevent surgical complications.

Use of endoloop in video-assisted thoracoscopic enucleation of a very rare esophageal tumor

A gastrointestinal stromal tumor is an infrequent tumor of the gastrointestinal tract with very rare involvement of the esophagus. We present a case of a patient with dysphagia and a 4 cm submucosal mass. The patient underwent thoracoscopic enucleation with complete resection of the mass. We present case details and operative video highlighting the important surgical steps of exposure and retraction. We believe that the Endoloop is a very useful tool in providing countertraction needed during minimally invasive resection of such lesions.

Low-Cost Incisionless Liver Retraction for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Prospective Controlled Trial

Background: Laparoscopic bariatric surgery has been performed safely since 1991. In a persistent search for fewer and smaller scars, single port, needlescopic surgery, and other approaches have been implemented. Our goal was to analyze the safety and feasibility of using incisionless autostatic liver retraction for sleeve gastrectomy. Materials and Methods: Candidates for sleeve gastrectomy were selected, excluding those <18 and having had prior upper left quadrant surgery. Patients were randomized 1:1 to either a standard five-port technique with a fan-type liver retractor (Group A); or a four-port technique with the liver retracted using a polypropylene 1 suture passed through the right crura and retrieved at the epigastrium employing a fascial closure needle (Group B). All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. The primary endpoint was surgery duration. Secondary outcomes were quality of surgical-field visualization, complications inherent to liver retraction, and postoperative morbidity. Results: One hundred patients were recruited (n = 50/group). The groups (both 90% females) were demographically and anthropomorphically comparable. Surgery duration was 30.4 ± 4.6 and 29.6 ± 4.7 minutes for Groups A and B, respectively (P = .41). Visualization was considered very good in 80% versus 82%, good in 16% versus 12%, and poor in 4% versus 6% (P = NS). Two patients from each group (4%) had self-limited minor bleeding from the liver attributed to the retraction technique. No 30-day morbidity was observed. Conclusions: Liver retraction using a polypropylene suture was both effective and inexpensive. Visualization and the duration of surgery were comparable to a standard liver retractor. This low-cost alternative may diminish the need for expensive instruments and reduce the number of scars without jeopardizing the safety and quality of sleeve gastrectomy.

Hepatic retractor in an ex vivo model1

PURPOSE

To discuss the use of models of hepatic retraction by laparoscopy, to present a new Hepatic Retractor (HR) and to evaluate its practicality, efficacy and safety in Esophageal Hiatus Exposure (EHE).

METHODS

Experimental cross - sectional study with a quantitative character. It was carried out in the Laboratory of Health Training of Christus University Center. The sample consisted of 12 livers of adult pigs weighing between 30 and 45 kg. A circular-shaped HR, 5 cm diameter and deformable materials was developed with a polypropylene cloth, metallic guide wire, epidural needle plastic guide and nylon string. The practicality of HR management was measured by the time required to use the instrument, efficacy by exposure to the operative field and safety by macroscopic assessment of liver damage.

RESULTS

The average time to complete the procedure was 3.24 minutes and reached less than 2 minutes after 12 repetitions. In eight experiments the maximum degree of EHE was obtained. No macroscopic lesions were observed.

CONCLUSION

The use of HR described can broaden the operative field, without causing macroscopic liver lesions and prolonging the surgical time.

An atraumatic retractor for interdisciplinary use in conventional laparoscopy and robotic surgery

BACKGROUND

The removal of obstacles from the surgical field is a crucial aspect of any procedure in gynecological, urological or visceral laparoscopic surgery. Reliable instruments and skilled assistance are essential for the smooth execution of procedures. Blunt forceps are commonly used to keep tissue away from the operating field. The range of existing instruments has been enhanced by the introduction of laparoscopic retractors. However, no laparoscopic retractor can be used without causing tissue damage.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We describe the ALKATOUT retractor, an innovative laparoscopic retractor designed for atraumatic assistance in any laparoscopic procedure including robotic surgery. The advantages of this laparoscopic instrument were evaluated in a single-center study.

RESULTS

The retractor has been used successfully in a variety of gynecological procedures and tested in laparoscopic procedures on human body donors.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of a single-center questionnaire completed by 25 operating room staff (surgical nurses, residents, and specialists) confirm the advantages of the ALKATOUT retractor.